Camping trips are about more than just enjoying the beauty of nature—they’re also an opportunity to bond with friends and family while having some fun. One of the best ways to keep everyone entertained at the campsite is by playing camping yard games. These games are perfect for outdoor settings, require minimal setup, and bring people together for friendly competition and laughs. Whether you’re camping with kids, teens, or adults, yard games are a fantastic way to pass the time and create lasting memories.
1. Cornhole
Cornhole is one of the most popular outdoor games, especially for camping. It’s simple to set up and can be played by people of all ages. Cornhole boards and bean bags are typically easy to transport, making it a great choice for any camping trip.
How to Play:
- Players take turns tossing bean bags onto a raised board, aiming to land the bags in the hole.
- Each bag that lands on the board earns 1 point, and a bag in the hole scores 3 points.
- The first player or team to reach 21 points wins.
| Players | 2-4 |
|---|---|
| Age Group | All ages |
| Equipment | Cornhole boards and bean bags |
| Best For | Family camping trips, group competitions |
2. Ladder Toss (Ladder Ball)
Ladder Toss, also known as Ladder Ball, is another fantastic yard game that’s perfect for camping. It’s portable, lightweight, and simple to set up.
How to Play:
- The game involves tossing bolas (two balls connected by a string) toward a ladder-shaped target with three rungs.
- The goal is to land the bolas on the rungs. Each rung scores a different number of points, with the highest points awarded for the top rung.
- The game continues until one player or team reaches the predetermined point total, usually 21.
| Players | 2+ |
|---|---|
| Age Group | Kids, teens, adults |
| Equipment | Ladder and bolas |
| Best For | Friendly competition, all age groups |
3. Bocce Ball
Bocce Ball is a timeless yard game that can be played on various surfaces, making it perfect for campsites. The game is similar to bowling and can be played casually or competitively.
How to Play:
- A small ball (called the pallino) is tossed onto the playing field, and players take turns throwing larger balls as close to the pallino as possible.
- Points are awarded based on how close the balls land to the pallino.
- The game can be played individually or in teams, with the winner being the player or team with the most points after several rounds.
| Players | 2-8 |
|---|---|
| Age Group | All ages |
| Equipment | Bocce ball set |
| Best For | Large groups, relaxed games |
4. Frisbee
Frisbee is one of the simplest and most enjoyable games you can bring to a campsite. It’s lightweight, easy to pack, and offers endless possibilities for fun.
How to Play:
- You can play a traditional game of catch, or if you’re looking for something more competitive, organize a game of Ultimate Frisbee.
- Other variations include disc golf, where players throw the Frisbee toward a specific target or tree, trying to complete the course in the fewest throws.
| Players | 2+ |
|---|---|
| Age Group | Kids, teens, adults |
| Equipment | Frisbee disc |
| Best For | Active campers, beach or open spaces |
5. Giant Jenga
For campers who want a game that requires some strategy and finesse, Giant Jenga is a great choice. This oversized version of the classic game is perfect for playing on uneven ground or at a picnic table.
How to Play:
- Players take turns removing one block at a time from a tower and stacking it on top.
- The goal is to build the tower as high as possible without it falling.
- The game continues until the tower collapses, and the player who caused the fall loses.
| Players | 2+ |
|---|---|
| Age Group | Kids, teens, adults |
| Equipment | Giant wooden Jenga blocks |
| Best For | Group play, camping competitions |
6. Spikeball
Spikeball has gained massive popularity in recent years and is ideal for campers who love fast-paced, action-packed games. It’s a game that combines elements of volleyball and four-square and is played with a small trampoline-like net.
How to Play:
- Players stand around a round net placed on the ground, and the ball is served into the net.
- Teams of two hit the ball back and forth off the net, aiming to prevent the opposing team from returning it.
- The game ends when a team reaches a set number of points, usually 21.
| Players | 4 (2 per team) |
|---|---|
| Age Group | Teens, adults |
| Equipment | Spikeball net and ball |
| Best For | Active, competitive campers |
7. Horseshoes
Horseshoes is a classic outdoor game that’s simple yet competitive, making it an excellent choice for camping trips.
How to Play:
- Players take turns tossing horseshoes toward a stake in the ground.
- Points are awarded based on how close the horseshoes land to the stake, with the highest points for ringing the horseshoe around the stake.
- The first player or team to reach a set number of points, usually 15 or 21, wins.
| Players | 2-4 |
|---|---|
| Age Group | All ages |
| Equipment | Horseshoes, stakes |
| Best For | Family gatherings, casual play |
8. KanJam
KanJam is a fun and active yard game that involves a frisbee and two large cans (or goals). It’s easy to set up and perfect for camping, as it encourages teamwork and friendly competition.
How to Play:
- Players stand opposite each other and throw a frisbee toward a can, trying to either hit it or land the disc inside.
- Points are awarded based on where the frisbee hits the can or if it’s deflected by the teammate.
- The game ends when a team reaches exactly 21 points or if a player makes a direct “instant win” by getting the frisbee into the slot at the front of the can.
| Players | 4 (2 per team) |
|---|---|
| Age Group | Teens, adults |
| Equipment | Frisbee, KanJam cans |
| Best For | Active campers, beach settings |
9. Ring Toss
Ring Toss is another simple and portable camping yard game that can be enjoyed by all ages. It’s a great way to practice hand-eye coordination while having fun.
How to Play:
- Players toss rings toward pegs or stakes, aiming to land them on the target.
- Points are awarded based on how many rings successfully land on the pegs.
- The game continues until one player or team reaches a pre-set number of points.
| Players | 2-6 |
|---|---|
| Age Group | Kids, adults |
| Equipment | Rings, pegs |
| Best For | Family camping trips, easy setup |
10. Scavenger Hunt
Scavenger hunts can be adapted to any age group and are perfect for camping trips where there’s plenty of nature to explore. It’s a great way to engage campers with their surroundings while adding an element of adventure.
How to Play:
- Create a list of items for players to find around the campsite or hiking trail.
- Players can work individually or in teams to locate as many items as possible within a set time limit.
- The player or team with the most items found wins.
| Players | 2+ |
|---|---|
| Age Group | All ages |
| Equipment | Scavenger list |
| Best For | Exploration, nature immersion |
Conclusion on Camping Yard Games
Choosing the right camping yard games ensures that everyone stays entertained during your camping trip. Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back game like cornhole or an active one like Spikeball, there’s something for every group and age. These games not only bring fun but also create lasting memories and strengthen bonds with your fellow campers. Pack a few of these classic yard games on your next trip and enjoy endless fun in the great outdoors!