Outdoor Blog

15 Fun Camping Activities for Teenagers

Published

4 years ago

February 17, 2021

So you have finally carved out some time to hit the open road and explore some of the wonderful scenery of The Great Outdoors. While you may be relishing the idea of some time to disconnect from the world and enjoy the peace and quiet, your teen might very well be thinking, “Why on Earth did Mom and Dad bring me to this deserted wasteland when I could be partying with my friends in Miami?”

Actually, that deserted wasteland often represents Nature at its finest, and one day, your teen is sure to look back on those happy days of camping with really fond memories. But that doesn’t always help at the actual time! Dealing with sullen, resentful teens on a family vacation can be no fun at all.

When you are preparing for your next camping trip, it is a good idea to have a few interesting things planned that can really get your teen excited about the trip and help the entire family enjoy the whole vacation a little more. Our selection of camping activities is meant for kids of every age and ability level, but especially for teens, perhaps at summer camp.

Choosing fun camping activities and camping games for teens is kind of tricky, but if you focus on active games, you’ll reduce the risk of boredom. Many of these types of activities are challenging and they can lead to a lot of laughter and intergenerational camaraderie. We’ll take a look at some active outdoor activities as well as some indoor ones for those rainy days that will inevitably arise. Some activities might require a little more preparation and equipment, but some can be played at any time and almost anywhere.

Team Camping Activities

Competition between small groups of teenage boys or girls can create a great deal of fun in the campground, and also allow your teen to meet and mingle with other people of their own age. One interesting idea is to rent a tent that your teen can use on their own for the entire duration of the trip. Giving your teen a little more space is a great strategy. Here are a few other helpful suggestions for some enjoyable indoor and outdoor games that bring in an element of competition, but still allow for great group camaraderie.

Colorful water balloons in an orange bucket.

A water balloon fight is a fun way for teens to exercise and cool off when it’s hot outdoors.

1. Water Balloon Challenge

This game can be especially fun on really hot days. Simply fill a bunch of balloons with cold water. Get a group of teens together and divide them into teams, and then provide each person with a few filled balloons. The team with the driest members when the balloons are all dry wins the challenge. If you don’t have a large enough group for teams, then the person who stays the driest after all the balloons are gone wins the challenge.

2. Balloon Basketball

Set up two rows of chairs about three feet apart. Assign each team a basket at one end of the facing rows. Divide everybody into two teams and get them to sit with alternating players from each team. Put a large basket, box, or bin at each end of the facing rows. The object is to hit the balloon down the “court” and score a basket. If any of the players hit the balloon out of bounds, the leader awards the other team the ball to begin play again. Set either a score to be reached or a maximum time length to win.

3. Campground Ambush

Try to select a wooded area for this activity, which can work especially well for older kids. Establish a starting point, and divide everybody into two teams. Provide the first team with something to leave a trail, such as a bag of popcorn. All of the team members head off into the woods to set up an ambush point. The second team waits a few minutes and then sets off to find the first team. When they arrive at the ambush spot, the first team’s members jump out and tag all of the members of the second team before they can return to the campground. Those who are tagged join the first team. When everyone is back at the campground, players can switch sides, with team two doing the ambushing. Eventually, all the players will end up on the first team. The last player who remains untagged wins.

4. Catch the Cane

For this activity, you will need a cane, a broomstick, or a wooden baseball bat. Give a number to each player without any of the players knowing which numbers the other players have. Everybody then forms a circle around the player in the center, who holds the cane and releases it without warning, while calling out a number. The person assigned the called number runs forward and tries to catch the released object before it can hit the ground. If the player succeeds, he or she becomes the person in the center of the circle.

5. Bump, Set, and Spike

Get everybody to form a circle and pass around a beach ball or some other light type of ball. Players can only touch the ball once in a row. If they touch it twice, they are out. If a player is not able to keep the ball in play, they are out. If players touch the ball and then the ball hits the ground, they sit in the middle of the circle. If players spike the ball, and the players in the middle of the circle catch it, the player who spiked the ball sits in the middle of the circle. The object is to be the last one standing.

Group of young Friends Playing Volleyball outdoors.

Outdoor volleyball is a fantastic way to build strength and endurance…and in fresh air to boot!

6. Other Outdoor Games like Volleyball or Dodgeball

If the campground has a volleyball court, then this activity is a no-brainer. For dodgeball, you can throw a single ball into the air. Players must allow the ball to bounce three times, after which any player can grab the ball. Players may only take three steps and then must throw the ball at another player. Anyone hit by the ball is out and must leave the playing field. However, if a player successfully catches a ball thrown at them, the thrower is out. Every time a new player is eliminated, anyone eliminated by them can return to the activity. The winner is the player left when everyone else is out. This activity can take a long time, so you can shorten it by having those players eliminated permanently from the activity.

7. Campfire Activities

By the time the sun goes down, lots of campers can often be physically exhausted. But having a few evening activities around the fire can help keep everyone entertained for a few hours. Once you have a good fire going, it doesn’t take long to cook up some mouthwatering recipes that will keep everyone satisfied for many meals. If you are looking for more inspiration in your recipes, take a look at some of our helpful tips for cooking around a campfire.

Many campgrounds have a pavilion or other safe outdoor gathering area if you’d like to meet up with other campers in the evening. There are several activities that your teen might enjoy and these will help make your time around the campfire as fun and memorable as possible.

8. Campfire Story Contest

We’ve found that scary stories can often be a lot of fun, but be sure not to make them so scary that nobody can get to sleep! Try getting your teens to make up some stories or tell old ones with a new twist. Also, lots of teens love hearing about the “good old days” when the adults were their age, so it can be useful to think about some funny stories from your youth that you’d like to share around the campfire.

9. Storytelling Chain

If no one has a story to share, try a storytelling chain. You can get an adult to begin with a sentence that sets the scene and acts as an icebreaker. For example, “One night, not too long ago, right here in this campground, something strange happened.” Each camper adds a sentence until the story ends. If the stories are short, you can always encourage the telling of more than one.

10. Songs Around the Fire

If your campers do not know many traditional campfire songs, you may need to teach them. Try easy things at first, such as “Row, Row, Row Your Boat”, with singers joining in after each line is sung. For extra fun, you can add “instruments” such as a can filled with pebbles, pot lids, and “drum sticks” (a long-handled spoon) and pans. Another idea is to choose contemporary songs that the teens might all know, and after hearing the chorus a few times, the adults can try to join in a little too.

11. Acting and Miming (Charades)

In this activity, you can imagine yourselves being at another location and then acting as if you were there. Some suggestions are a sunny beach, another country, a state park, another planet, a cafeteria, or a restaurant. A good way to start this activity is for everyone to line up behind one another. The first person acts out an action appropriate to the chosen location in about fifteen seconds. The others try to guess what the person is doing and where they are. If those guesses are correct, the person goes to the end of the line. If the action cannot be guessed, the person is out and must sit down. The next person can then also put on a show.Everybody continues until there is a winner.

12. Obstacle Course

An obstacle course can provide a real challenge for your teens. If you have enough time and space, you can leave the obstacle course set up for a few days or for your entire camping session, and everybody can keep using it to improve their skills and scores. Using camp items and creativity, your obstacle course could possibly include:

Collecting ten pieces of wood and place them on the campfire woodpile
Crawling under the picnic table
Finding 5 pieces of trash and throw them away
Doing x number of jumping jacks or push-ups
Hanging from a tree branch for 15 seconds
Walking (or running) around the campground perimeter twice (or more)
Leap-frogging over a stationary item (something soft)

Scavenger hunt this way sign post in a forest.

A scavenger hunt is a great physical and mental challenge for teens that also teaches them teamwork.

13. Scavenger Hunt

There are two different types of scavenger hunts you can try with your teens: 1) a wide-ranging nature walk with a list for teens to check off as they find items, and 2) a scavenger hunt with parameters within the camp area. The list of items to find can certainly vary according to your circumstances, but either option can be a great deal of fun. If you decide on the nature-walk scavenger hunt, it is probably better for your teens not to pick up their finds, but simply check them off their list. Here is a list of possible items you might want to include:

A bird’s nest
Crawling insects
Wild animals like deer or squirrel
Feathers
Fish or frogs
Flowers
A worm
A piece of trash
A toadstool
A pinecone
A rock with an unusual shape
A slug or snail
A snake
Animal tracks
A bug
Moss or lichen

It might be a good idea to get all of the campers to work in pairs or teams if you have a very large group.

14. Camp Olympics

Other good camp games might include a kind of “Camp Olympics”. This is a great camp experience if you intend to include a wide variety of skills and allow all of your teens to make selections based upon their abilities. A good way to do this is to divide all of the camp activities into sets and let the teens pick from each set. Give points for the more difficult skills in each set and decide upon the total points necessary to complete each activity. If you do not force people to compete for the highest score, the activity becomes more fun and inclusive. Many fun camp activities can work for your Olympics. Try the following suggestions:

Balancing on one leg, with a point for every 10 seconds
Jump roping
Skipping stones
Long jump
Tug of war
Relay races
Shooting basketballs
Swimming competitions

15. Rainy Day Camp Activities

The weather does not always cooperate during camp sessions, so be prepared with some indoor and outdoor rainy day activities. If the rain is warm and there is no thunder and lightning, encourage everyone to simply get out and play in the rain. But if the conditions are too bad, try some of the acting and miming games we discussed earlier. Cards and board games are also some excellent ways to pass the time on rainy days in the campground.

A Few More Tips for Fun and Effective Camp Activities

Camping can be great fun with a group of people of all age levels. Nature enthusiasts can really get into greater knowledge about everything from the local bugs in the area or even the types of trees that are most commonly found. With teens, it is especially important to have a lot of planned activities to help them enjoy themselves and not feel so bored. To make your camp activities as fun and effective as possible, always consider these simple rules and guidelines. Choose the kinds of activities where everyone can participate and have fun.

Choose the kinds of activities that fit the age and ability level of your teens. Adults should participate with the teens. Give clear instructions and make sure all participants understand the activity rules. Encourage sportsmanship and discourage name-calling, rough playing, and any other behaviors that may hurt anybody physically or emotionally. One final idea is to have a few rewards, like ice cream or other treats like nuts or trail mix, to give to everybody after they have finished for the day. There is nothing like cold ice cream to enjoy at the end of a long day at the campground!

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

2 months ago

September 25, 2024

Caleb Cole

Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

3 months ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

5 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.