10 Best Campground Games for Your Family

Let the Games Begin: Must-Try Campground Activities

In today’s tech-obsessed world, it’s easy to feel like true family time is slipping away. Even during family outings, it’s hard to escape the constant ping of notifications and the pull of glowing screens. That’s what makes camping so special—there’s something refreshing and almost magical about being off the grid, surrounded by nature, and enjoying uninterrupted time with the people who matter most.

But once you’ve escaped Wi-Fi and cell signals, how do you keep everyone entertained? Enter campground games—the perfect way to fill your days with laughter, teamwork, and a bit of friendly competition. These games don’t require screens, apps, or Wi-Fi—just your imagination, a few simple materials, and a sense of adventure.

Horseshoes

Horseshoes is a tried-and-true classic that generations of campers have enjoyed. All you need are two stakes and a few horseshoes. Place the stakes in soft ground about 40 feet apart (or closer for younger players), and take turns tossing the horseshoes to see who can land closest—or even get a “ringer.” It’s a great game for all ages and perfect for the wide-open spaces found at most campgrounds.

Ring Toss (Ladder Toss)

Ring toss, or ladder toss, brings a new twist to the concept of tossing games. Instead of metal horseshoes, players throw bolas (two balls connected by a rope) at a small ladder with three horizontal rungs. Each rung is worth a different number of points. It’s easy to set up, fun for all skill levels, and ideal for evening games at the campsite.

Cornhole

Cornhole is a tailgate favorite that’s become a campground staple. Players or teams take turns tossing bean bags at a slanted board with a hole in it. Bags that land on the board earn 1 point, while bags that go through the hole are worth 3. First to 21 wins! Portable cornhole sets are easy to bring along in your RV and can provide hours of competitive fun.

Scavenger Hunt

Add some exploration to your camping trip with a campground scavenger hunt. Create a list of items for family members to find, such as pinecones, animal tracks, specific leaves, a red rock, or something soft. You can tailor the difficulty based on the players’ ages. For added excitement, include time limits or small prizes. This is a wonderful way to help kids engage with nature and learn about their surroundings.

Flashlight Tag

When the sun goes down, the fun doesn’t have to stop. Flashlight tag is a nighttime twist on the classic game of tag. One person is “it” and tries to find the other players using only a flashlight. Once someone is spotted in the beam, they’re caught! This game is a favorite among kids and teens and keeps everyone active long after dark.

Nature Bingo

Print or make bingo cards that include things you might find around your campground: a squirrel, a campfire, someone fishing, a hiking boot, etc. The first person to complete a row shouts “Bingo!” and wins. You can even laminate the cards and use dry-erase markers so you can reuse them during future trips.

Capture the Flag

If you have a big group, Capture the Flag is a must. Split into two teams, each with a “flag” (a bandana or scarf works great), and hide it on your side of the campground. The goal is to steal the other team’s flag and return to your base without being tagged. This game encourages teamwork, strategy, and physical activity.

Campground Olympics

If you’re on a long trip and in need of some entertainment, Campground Olympics will make for a great pastime. Set up a series of mini challenges—think sack races, frisbee throws, jump rope contests, or even who can make the best s’more. Keep score and crown a campsite champion at the end. It’s a fun way to keep everyone engaged throughout the day.

Story Circle

While not a game in the traditional sense, a story circle is a fun, creative activity the whole family can enjoy around the fire. Each person adds a sentence or two to a story, building off what the last person said. You’ll be amazed at how silly, spooky, or imaginative things can get!

Make Up Your Own Games!

Some of the best campground games aren’t found in a rulebook—they’re invented on the spot. Encourage your kids (and yourself!) to come up with your own games using sticks, stones, pinecones, or whatever’s nearby. Whether it’s an obstacle course or a new variation of tag, creating your own game can be a memory-maker in itself.

The next time you’re out in nature and free from the distractions of screens and stress, lean into the fun with these campground games. Whether you’re playing a competitive round of cornhole or inventing a game with your kids, these moments will become the stories your family retells for years to come.

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