Camping can be fun at any time of year; it just takes some good planning to make sure you’re comfortable and entertained. For teens, it can be a great excuse to get away from the pressures of school and spend some time with friends, getting some fresh air and exercise. It can also be a good way to practice or learn about some hobbies, such as hiking or rock collecting, and share them with friends.
Whether you choose to go hiking in the woods or head to the beach for a campout under the stars, there are tons of ways you can have fun and get active. Just remember the rules of safety, and you’ll have a blast.
Here are some of the best ways to have fun while you’re on a camping trip.
Unplug
It may sound inconceivable to put down your phone or tablet for a weekend, but once you do it, it’s strangely liberating. Bring along an old-school camera to snap some great shots, but don’t feel you have to view the entire trip through a lens or update your friends back home about every sunset. Unplugging from the rest of the world can help you to get in touch with yourself and find new things you enjoy.
Bring your dog
Pets make everything more fun; seeing the pure joy on your dog’s face when he gets to run through an open field or go for a swim will make your time camping even more enjoyable. Just make sure you remember to bring provisions for him, keep him hydrated, and keep him on a harness if there are wild animals nearby.
Choose the right location
Location is everything when it comes to having a good time, so think carefully about where you want to go. The beach is a fun place for teens, but if you’re not a great swimmer, you may want to think about heading to the woods instead. Think about the time of year and what the weather will be like so that you’re comfortable.
Play some games
Since you’re unplugging for a while, take this time to get active and play some fun games with your friends or loved ones. Bean bag toss and water balloon volleyball are just a couple of the awesome ways to pass the time on a hot day. Read here for more fun camping activities.
Learn survival skills
Camping is the time to hone your survival skills, such as learning to build a campfire, cooking from scratch, and identifying plants and animals. Learning these skills can not only help you stay safe on this trip, but on future trips as well. Turn it into a game with your friends. Map out a scavenger hunt and see which team makes it to the end the fastest.
Remember that safety is key during any camping trip, whether you’re with adults or with your friends. Pack smart and bring plenty of water, snacks, blankets, appropriate clothing, matches or a lighter, a good knife, and waterproof boots, especially if you plan to go hiking.