Each type of camping or hiking has its own set of essentials and must-haves. Sometimes, it’s the facilities that the tent includes (Glamping), a GPS and comfortable shoes (hiking), or a map, water purification system, and a first aid kit (wilderness survival). In family camping and, to a similar extent, camping with a group of friends, especially those that are not hardcore, games are without a doubt essential. One of the best parts of camping is playing fun campfire games. In this article, we’ll share 15 games to play around the campfire that are perfect for both kids and adults. From classic favorites like charades and ghost stories to creative challenges like a campfire cooking competition and marshmallow roast-off, these games will keep everyone entertained.
1. Charades
Charades is a one of the classic campfire games that brings laughter and excitement to the whole family. Without uttering a single word, players act out different scenarios, using gestures and facial expressions to convey their message. It’s a perfect opportunity for bonding and creating memories together. Just remember, in charades, actions speak louder than words!
Materials needed
- Campfire
- Chairs or blankets for seating
- Flashlights
- Paper and pens for games that require writing
- Music player and speakers (optional)
- Props or costumes for themed games (optional)
2. Ghost Stories
Spine-tingling tales around the campfire send shivers down your spine, as shadows dance and whispers fill the night air. Beware of haunted houses, restless spirits, and mysterious apparitions lurking in every corner.
Ghostly encounters bring a thrilling twist to campfire games—share chilling personal experiences or craft your own supernatural stories that will keep everyone on edge long after the fire burns out. Don’t forget to pack extra marshmallows for comfort!
Materials needed
- Campfire or fire pit
- Firewood and matches
- Camping chairs or blankets for seating
3. Sing-along
Gather around the campfire and ignite your vocal chords with a lively sing-along session. From classic folk tunes to beloved pop hits, this activity is sure to bring joy and create lasting memories for the whole family. Choose songs that everyone can participate in and let the melodies carry you into an enchanting night under the stars.
Materials needed
- Campfire
- Firewood or charcoal
- Lighter or matches
- Campfire seating (chairs, logs, blankets)
- Flashlights or headlamps for nighttime games
4. Stargazing
Stargazing is a timeless activity that can be enjoyed by the whole family. With clear skies and minimal light pollution, it provides the perfect opportunity to marvel at the vastness of the universe. Find a comfortable spot away from city lights, lie back on blankets, and let your imagination soar as you identify constellations and shooting stars.
To enhance your stargazing experience, consider using a star chart or mobile app to help locate different celestial bodies. You can also challenge each other to find specific constellations or create your own stories inspired by the patterns in the night sky. Remember to bring binoculars or a telescope for an even closer look at planets and galaxies that are millions of light-years away. Stargazing not only offers entertainment but also fosters curiosity about our place in the cosmos.
Materials needed
Materials Needed:
- Firewood or fire starter
- Matches or lighter
- Campfire ring or pit
5. Would You Rather?
Would you rather sing your favorite song in front of a crowd or dance like nobody’s watching? This is also one of classic campfire games, it’s perfect for a night of laughter and friendly competition. Get ready to make tough choices and share hilarious stories while bonding with your loved ones around the fire.
Would you rather spend a day at the beach building sandcastles or exploring the forest on an epic treasure hunt? With this imaginative game, let your family’s creativity run wild as you dream up exciting scenarios and debate which adventure would be more thrilling. Get ready for endless possibilities and unforgettable memories under the stars.
Materials needed
- Firewood or fire starter
- Matches or a lighter
- Camping chairs or blankets to sit on
- Flashlights (optional)
- Paper and pencils for keeping score
6. 20 Questions
Twenty Questions is a one more of the classic campfire games that can entertain the whole family. One person thinks of an object, and the others take turns asking yes or no questions to try and guess what it is. The game continues until someone guesses correctly or all twenty questions have been asked. It’s a great way to pass the time and challenge everyone’s deductive skills.
Another variation of Twenty Questions is Animal, Vegetable, Mineral. In this version, players have to determine whether the chosen object belongs to one of those categories. This adds an extra layer of complexity and makes for even more engaging gameplay around the campfire.
Materials needed
Materials needed for playing campfire games are simple and easily accessible. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, gather the following items:
- Paper and pens: These will be used for writing down answers or keeping score.
- Timer or stopwatch: A timer is essential for setting time limits during timed games.
By the way, Twenty Questions is one of my favorite fun campfire games.
7. Campfire Cooking Challenge
Gather around the campfire and put your culinary skills to the test with a thrilling Campfire Cooking Challenge. Divide into teams, choose ingredients from a limited selection, and race against the clock to create delicious dishes over an open flame. The best part? You get to devour your creations afterwards, adding a tasty twist to this unforgettable camping experience.
Prepare for some intense competition as you and your family or friends showcase your ingenuity, teamwork, and ability to think on your feet. With limited resources available in the great outdoors, improvisation becomes key as you whip up delectable masterpieces under challenging conditions.
Materials needed
Materials needed for campfire games can vary depending on the specific game, but here are a few common items to have on hand:
- Flashlights
- Blankets or camping chairs
- Playing cards
- Dice
- Paper and pens for keeping score or writing down clues
Here’s how to get started:
1. Gather your team: Divide your camping group into teams. This could be family members, friends, or a mix of both. Make sure each team has enough members to handle the cooking tasks.
2. Choose ingredients: Set up a limited selection of ingredients that teams can use to create their dishes. This can be as simple or as complex as you like, depending on the resources available to you. Consider using ingredients that are easy to cook over an open flame, such as vegetables, meats, and canned goods.
3. Get creative: Once the ingredients are chosen, teams must brainstorm and come up with a delicious recipe using only the items they have. This is where improvisation and teamwork come into play. Encourage each team to think outside the box and experiment with different combinations.
4. Time to cook: Start the clock and let the cooking begin! Each team will need to set up their cooking area and start preparing their dishes. Remember, they will be cooking over an open flame, so safety should always be a top priority. Make sure each team has the necessary tools and equipment, such as pots, pans, utensils, and fireproof gloves.
8. I Spy
I Spy is a classic campfire game that requires no materials and can be enjoyed by all. One player begins by choosing an object in their surroundings and saying, “I spy with my little eye something…” followed by a clue about the object’s color or shape. The other players then take turns guessing the object until someone correctly identifies it. This game encourages observation skills and can spark lively discussions about the natural world around us.
Another variation of I Spy involves using specific categories instead of clues, such as “I spy something beginning with the letter ‘C'” or “I spy something that makes noise.” This adds an extra challenge to the game and keeps everyone engaged in searching for objects within their environment. Whether played during daylight hours or under a starry night sky, I Spy is sure to bring laughter and friendly competition to any campfire gathering.
Materials needed
Materials needed for campfire games:
- Marshmallows
- Roasting sticks
- Flashlights
- Playing cards
- Paper and pencils
Fun Fact: The origine of the game “I spy” can be traced back to the 16th century. It was originally called “I spy with my little eye” and was a popular pastime among children and adults alike. The game has since evolved and been adapted into different variations, but the basic concept of guessing an object based on a clue remains the same.
One fun variation of I Spy involves using specific categories instead of clues. For example, players can say, “I spy something beginning with the letter ‘C'” or “I spy something that makes noise.” This adds an extra challenge to the game and keeps everyone engaged in searching for objects within their environment.
9. Simon Says
Simon Says is a classic campfire game that requires no materials and can be enjoyed by all ages. To play, one person takes on the role of “Simon” and gives commands to the other players, starting each command with “Simon says.” Players must only follow commands when “Simon says” is stated; if they follow a command without hearing those magic words, they’re out! The last player remaining becomes the new Simon.
In this exciting game of listening and quick reflexes, players will have a blast trying to stay in the game while following Simon’s instructions. It’s an excellent way to engage everyone around the campfire and create lasting memories together as a family. So gather round, choose your first Simon, and get ready for some action-packed fun!
Materials needed
- Firewood or a portable campfire
- Matches or a lighter
- Camping chairs or blankets for seating
- Flashlights or headlamps for nighttime play
- Props specific to certain games (e.g., playing cards, dice)
10. Marshmallow Roast-Off
Gather around the campfire for a sweet and sticky competition. Each player takes turns roasting their marshmallow to golden perfection. The winner is determined by who can achieve the perfect balance of crispiness and gooeyness in their treat.
Materials needed
Materials needed for campfire games:
- Campfire or fire pit
- Firewood or charcoal
- Matches or lighter
Here’s how to play:
1. Gather the Materials: To play the Marshmallow Roast-Off, you will need a campfire or fire pit, firewood or charcoal, and matches or a lighter.
2. Set Up the Fire: Start by setting up the campfire or fire pit. Make sure you have enough firewood or charcoal to keep the fire going throughout the game. Use matches or a lighter to ignite the fire and let it burn until you have a nice bed of hot coals.
3. Prepare the Marshmallows: Give each player a roasting stick and a marshmallow. Make sure the marshmallows are fresh and ready for roasting.
4. Start Roasting: Once the fire is ready and the marshmallows are in hand, it’s time to start roasting! Each player takes turns holding their marshmallow over the hot coals. The goal is to achieve the perfect balance of crispiness and gooeyness in their treat.
5. Determine the Winner: After everyone has roasted their marshmallow, it’s time to determine the winner. This can be done in a couple of ways. You can have a designated judge who assesses each marshmallow based on its appearance and taste.
11. Name that tune
Name That Tune is a classic campfire game that is sure to bring out the music lover in everyone. In this game, players take turns humming or singing a few bars of a well-known song, and the other players try to guess the name of the song. It’s a great way to test your musical knowledge and have fun with friends and family around the campfire.
Materials needed
1. A campfire or fire pit: Creating a cozy atmosphere is essential for a campfire game like Name That Tune. Gather around the warm fire and get ready to enjoy some music.
2. Firewood or charcoal: You’ll need fuel to keep the fire going throughout the game. Make sure you have enough firewood or charcoal to last the duration of the game.
3. Matches or a lighter: These are essential for starting the campfire. Make sure to have a safe and reliable method of starting your fire.
4. Flashlights or headlamps: Depending on the time of day or night, you may need extra light to see the players’ faces and keep the game going smoothly.
5. Music knowledge: This game requires a good understanding of popular songs from various genres and eras. The players should have a diverse range of musical knowledge to make the game interesting and challenging.
To play Name That Tune, follow these steps:
1. Choose a designated “hummer” or “singer” to start the game. This person will hum or sing
To play Name That Tune, follow these steps:
1. Choose a designated “hummer” or “singer” to start the game. This person will hum or sing a few bars of a well-known song without using any lyrics.
2. The other players will then try to guess the name of the song. They can shout out their guesses or write them down on a piece of paper.
3. The first player to correctly guess the name of the song earns a point. If no one guesses correctly, the “hummer” or “singer” can give another hint or move on to a different song.
4. Continue rotating the role of the “hummer” or “singer” among the players, allowing everyone to have a chance to showcase their musical knowledge.
5. Keep track of each player’s points on a scoreboard or piece of paper. The player with the most points at the end of the game is the winner.
6. To add an extra challenge, you can also play a timed version of the game. Set a timer for a certain amount of time, and each player will have that time limit to guess the name of the song. This can make the game more fast-paced and exciting.
Remember, the key to a successful game of Name That Tune is to choose songs that are well-known and varied in genre and era. This will ensure that everyone has a fair chance to guess the songs and keep the game interesting. Have fun and enjoy the musical entertainment.
12. S’mores Scramble
Put your memory skills to the test with this twist on a classic game. Before roasting marshmallows, lay out all the ingredients for s’mores on a tray. After everyone has had their turn at the fire, cover up one ingredient and players must guess which item is missing from the lineup. Here’s how to play:
1. Prepare the Game:
– Create a list of camping or s’mores-related words that can be easily scrambled.
– Write each word on a small piece of paper or index card.
– Fold the papers or cards and place them in a bowl or hat.
2. Gather the Players:
– Gather your family or friends around the campfire.
– Make sure everyone has a clear view of the person holding the bowl or hat with the scrambled words.
3. Start the Game:
– The first player picks a folded paper or card from the bowl or hat without looking at the word.
– They have a set amount of time (e.g., 30 seconds) to unscramble the word and announce their answer to the group.
4. Guessing and Scoring:
– After the player announces their answer, other players can shout out their guesses as well.
– If the first player correctly unscrambles the word, they earn a point.
– If another player guesses correctly before the first player, they steal the point.
5. Repeat and Rotate:
– Continue playing in clockwise order, with each player taking turns picking a scrambled word and unscrambling it.
13. Tug-of-War
Tug-of-War is a timeless game that has been enjoyed for generations. It’s a great way to bring people together, promote teamwork, and showcase strength and strategy. If you’re looking for a fun outdoor activity for your next gathering, Tug-of-War is the perfect choice. Here’s how to play:
1. Gather Your Players:
– Divide your group into two teams of equal size.
– Make sure the teams are evenly matched in terms of strength and size.
2. Set Up the Game:
– Find a flat and open area where you can firmly secure the rope.
– Mark a center line on the ground and position the rope across it.
– Place a marker on the ground, equidistant from the center line, as a reference point for both teams.
3. Position Your Players:
– Each team should stand on opposite sides of the center line, facing each other.
– Instruct each player to grab a section of the rope, ensuring a firm grip.
4. Start the Game:
– The game begins when a referee shouts, “Go!”
– Both teams should start pulling the rope with all their strength, trying to drag the opposing team over the center line.
5. Play Fairly and Safely:
– Encourage players to use strategy and teamwork to gain an advantage.
14. Telephone Wink Murder
Telephone Wink Murder is an entertaining game that combines elements of communication, observation, and deception. It’s perfect for a group of friends or family looking to have some fun and test their sleuthing skills. Here’s how to play:
1. Gather Your Players:
– Gather a group of at least five players and have them sit in a circle or around a table.
– Choose one player to be the “murderer” and another player to be the “detective”. The rest of the players will be “witnesses”.
2. Assign Roles:
– Whisper to each player their assigned role without revealing it to the others.
– The murderer’s goal is to wink discretely at the witnesses without getting caught by the detective.
– The detective’s goal is to observe the players and guess who the murderer is.
-The witnesses’ goal is to try and figure out who the murderer is without being winked at.
3. Start the Game:
– Once everyone knows their roles, the game can begin.
– The players should start conversing and moving around the table, making it easier for the murderer to wink at the witnesses.
– The detective should pay close attention to the players’ actions and try to catch the murderer in the act of winking.
4. Guessing the Murderer:
– After a designated amount of time, the detective can make their guess on who they think the murderer is.
– The detective can only make one guess, so they must choose carefully.
– If the detective guesses correctly, they win the game. If not, the murderer wins.
5. Optional Variations:
– To add more challenge and excitement to the game, you can introduce additional roles such as “protector” or “accomplice”.
– The protector’s goal is to prevent the witnesses from being winked at by standing in front of them, while the accomplice’s goal is to help the murderer by diverting the detective’s attention.
– These additional roles can make the game more complex and require even more strategy and observation skills.
Telephone Wink Murder is a game that can be played indoors or outdoors and is suitable for players of all ages. It’s a great choice for parties, family gatherings, or team-building activities. Give it a try and see
15. Truths or dare
is a classic game that has been played for generations. It’s a game that can be played with friends, family, or even strangers, and it’s a great way to break the ice and get to know each other better. The rules of the game are simple: one player is chosen to be the “truths” person, and another player is chosen to be the “dare” person. The truths person asks a question, and the dare person must answer truthfully. If the dare person refuses to answer, they must perform a dare. The game continues in this way, with players taking turns being the truths person and the dare person.
There are many variations of truths or dare, and each one can be tailored to fit the preferences of the players. For example, you can play a version where the questions and dares are silly and lighthearted, or you can play a version where the questions and dares are deeper and more personal. You can also add a competitive element to the game by keeping score and awarding points for each completed dare or truthful answer.
Regardless of which games you choose to spend your time camping with your family, the most important thing is to remember to enjoy and cherish this moment when the whole family is around the campfire and everyone is in each other’s company.
