One of the easiest ways to turn an ordinary camping day into an adventure is with a scavenger hunt. These hunts keep kids engaged with the natural world around them, building observation skills and adding excitement to your trip.
Start by making a simple list of things they’re likely to find: pinecones, a feather, a Y-shaped stick, a cool rock, or animal tracks. For older kids, include challenges like spotting a specific bird or identifying a type of leaf. Give each child a bag or basket to collect their treasures.
To make it even more fun, turn it into a competition — see who can find everything first, or add “bonus points” for unusual items. Remind them to be gentle and leave living plants where they are. This game can last an hour or even an afternoon, and it always leads to interesting conversations around the campfire later!
