Are you planning a camping trip with a large group of friends or family? One of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors is by playing fun and engaging camp games that everyone can participate in.
In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of 15 unique outdoor camp games that are perfect for large groups. From classic favorites to new and exciting games, you’ll find something for everyone on this list.
What Makes a Good Outdoor Camp Game?
Before we dive into the list of games, let’s talk about what makes a good outdoor camp game. First and foremost, it should be fun and engaging for everyone involved. It should also be easy to understand and play, with simple rules that don’t require a lot of setup or equipment.
Additionally, a good outdoor camp game should encourage teamwork and cooperation, rather than competition and conflict.
Outdoor Camp Classic Games with a Twist
If you’re looking for some tried-and-true games that have been around for decades, but with a unique twist, these games are for you.
1. Capture the Flag with Glow Sticks
Capture the Flag is a classic camp game that has been enjoyed by generations. However, you can make it more exciting by using glow sticks instead of traditional flags. This makes it more challenging and fun at night.
2. Ultimate Frisbee with a Twist
Ultimate Frisbee is another classic camp game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Add a fun twist to the game by playing with a glow-in-the-dark frisbee. This will make it more challenging and fun to play at night.
3. Human Knot
This classic team-building game is perfect for large groups. Divide players into teams of 10-15 people and have them stand in a circle, facing each other. They then reach across the circle and take the hand of someone who is not next to them. The goal is to untangle the knot without letting go of each other’s hands.
Large Group Games
When you have a large group of people, it can be challenging to find games that everyone can participate in. These games are perfect for groups of 20 or more.
1. Giant Jenga
Use oversized blocks to create a giant Jenga tower. Players take turns removing a block and placing it on top of the tower without making it fall. This game is great for large groups because it can be played by multiple players at once.
2. Human Hungry Hungry Hippos
This game is a hilarious twist on the classic board game, Hungry Hungry Hippos. Divide players into teams of four and have each team designate one player as the “hippo.” The other team members push their “hippo” around the playing area to collect as many balls as possible. This game is a great way to get everyone laughing and having fun together.
3. Sardines
Similar to hide and seek, one player hides while the others try to find them. But, instead of everyone seeking, once a player finds the hider, they join them in their hiding spot. The game continues until there is only one seeker left. This game is perfect for large groups because everyone can play together.
Outdoor Camp Water Games
If you’re camping near a lake or river, these water games are perfect for cooling off and having fun.
1. Water Balloon Toss
Divide players into pairs and have them toss a water balloon back and forth, taking a step back after each successful toss. The last pair with an unbroken balloon wins. This game is a great way to cool off on a hot day and can be played by multiple pairs at once.
2. Water Relay Race
Divide players into two teams and have them line up behind a bucket of water. The first player on each team dips a sponge into the water, then runs to a bucket at the other end of the playing area to squeeze the water out into the bucket. The first team to fill their bucket wins.
3. Watermelon Push Relay
Divide players into two teams and give each team a watermelon. The first player on each team pushes the watermelon with their nose to a designated point and then runs back to tag the next player. The first team to finish wins.
Outdoor Camp Active Games
If you have a group that loves to stay active, these games are perfect for you.
1. Obstacle Course
Set up an obstacle course with various challenges, such as crawling under ropes, jumping over cones, and balancing on logs. Divide players into teams and have them race through the course. The team with the fastest time wins.
2. Kickball
A classic playground game, kickball is easy to set up and can be played by players of all ages. Divide players into teams and have them take turns kicking and fielding.
3. Ninja Warrior Course
Create your own ninja warrior course with various obstacles, such as a balance beam, rope swing, and cargo net. Divide players into teams and have them race through the course. The team with the fastest time wins.
Outdoor Camp Cooperative Games
If you want to encourage teamwork and cooperation, these games are perfect for your group.
1. Group Juggle
In this game, players stand in a circle and toss a ball or object to each other. The goal is to keep the object moving without dropping it. As the game progresses, players can add more objects to the mix.
2. Human Bridge
In this game, players work together to create a bridge using their bodies. Divide players into teams of four or five and have them lay on their backs, feet facing up. The first player puts their feet on the second player’s shoulders, and so on, until the last player’s feet touch the ground on the other side. The team that creates the longest bridge wins.
3. Giant Marble Run
Create a giant marble run using PVC pipes and other materials. Divide players into teams and have them work together to create the longest and most creative marble run.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What equipment do I need for these games?
Most of these games can be played with items you already have, such as frisbees, balls, and water balloons. For games that require special equipment, such as Giant Jenga or a ninja warrior course, you may need to purchase or rent the equipment beforehand.
Q: Can these games be played with children?
Yes! Many of these games are perfect for children, especially water games and cooperative games like group juggle and human bridge.
Q: Can these games be played at night?
Yes! Many of these games can be played at night with the addition of glow sticks or other light-up equipment.
Q: How many players do I need for these games?
Most of these games can be played with at least 10 players, with some games accommodating up to 50 or more players.
Q: Can I modify the rules of these games to make them easier or harder?
Absolutely! These games are meant to be adaptable, so feel free to modify the rules to fit the skill level of your group.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, playing outdoor camp games is a fun and engaging way to enjoy the great outdoors with a large group. Whether you’re looking for classic games with a twist or new and exciting games, there’s something for everyone on this list. Don’t forget to have