Did you know that a study by the American Psychological Association found that spending time in nature can seriously reduce stress and boost your overall well-being? Now, picture combining that with fall’s fresh air, the peaceful quiet, and the comforting crackle of a campfire.
What more reason do you need for a rejuvenating weekend camping trip with the family?
If you’re looking for fun fall activities you all can enjoy together, then keep reading for some great ideas!
12 Family-Friendly Fall Camping Activities
Hiking
Trails that might seem ordinary in summer are transformed into vibrant tapestries of reds, oranges, and yellows during fall. It’s impossible not to feel a little awestruck as you crunch through leaves underfoot and gaze up at the canopy overhead.
If you’re planning a hike, look for trails that are known for their fall foliage. National and state parks often have the best spots, with scenic routes that wind through forests and along rivers, offering plenty of opportunities to snap that perfect fall photo.
Nature Walks
Fall is a great time to learn about different species of plants and trees, especially those that show off their colors this time of year. Grab a guidebook or use an app to identify the trees you pass—whether it’s the fiery red of a sugar maple or the golden leaves of an aspen.
And don’t forget to look down occasionally; the forest floor in fall is often dotted with mushrooms and other interesting flora.
Wildlife Photography
Wildlife spotting is another great fall camping activity.
With the cooler weather, animals are more active, preparing for winter. You might catch a glimpse of deer, squirrels busily gathering nuts, or even birds migrating south.
If you’re into photography, this is your moment. The soft, diffused light of fall days, combined with the rich colors of the foliage, creates perfect conditions for capturing nature at its finest.
Fishing
If you prefer your outdoor activities a little more water-based, fall is an excellent time for fishing and boating.
The cooler temperatures mean fish are more active, making them easier to catch. Depending on where you’re camping, you could be fishing for trout, bass, or even salmon, which often spawn in the fall.
A good tip is to fish during the warmer parts of the day, as fish are more likely to be feeding in the shallows when the sun is higher. Don’t forget to check local regulations—some fish species may have specific rules about catch-and-release during this season.
Boating
Boating in the fall has its own charm. The water is often calm, reflecting the vibrant fall colors of the surrounding trees.
Whether you’re paddling a canoe, kayaking, or taking a small motorboat out, the peacefulness of being on the water in autumn is unmatched.
Just remember that water temperatures can be quite cold, so it’s important to wear appropriate gear and always have a life jacket. Safety first, but fun is a close second!
Outdoor Games and Sports
Outdoor games are a great way to burn off energy and have fun together. Think of classic games like frisbee, tag, and hide-and-seek.
They can be enjoyed by people of all ages, especially when the great wide outdoors serve as your own personal playground!
For a more competitive edge, organize a family camp Olympics with events like egg tosses, sack races, and tug-of-war.
Nature Scavenger hunt
For nature lovers and adventurers, this is the perfect activity! Create a list of natural items for your family to find, such as different types of leaves with distinct shapes or colors, unique rocks, or specific bird calls. You can even add a challenge by requiring them to identify certain tree species or collect items based on color.
The Nature Scavenger hunt not only keeps everyone entertained but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Create Crafts with Nature
One of the simplest and most enjoyable activities is making nature crafts. Leaf pressing is always a winner—just gather some colorful leaves, place them between sheets of wax paper, and press them with a heavy book. Once they’re dry, you can use them to create artwork, cards, or even bookmarks.
Pinecone bird feeders are another fun and easy craft. Spread some peanut butter on a pinecone, roll it in birdseed, and hang it up near your campsite. It’s a great way to attract and observe birds, and it’s an activity that kids love.
If you’re feeling more artistic, bring along some paints and brushes and try your hand at sketching or painting the fall landscape. The colors and textures of the season provide endless inspiration.
Campfire Cooking
Camping in the fall means the chance to cook up some hearty, warming meals over the campfire. There’s something incredibly satisfying about roasting vegetables or simmering a pot of stew as the smell of wood smoke fills the air. Think roasted sweet potatoes, grilled corn, or a big pot of chili bubbling away. It’s comfort food at its finest, and it tastes even better when you’re eating it under the stars.
Dessert is where you can really get creative. Sure, s’mores are a classic, but why not put a fall twist on them? Try adding a slice of apple or a sprinkle of cinnamon to your marshmallow chocolate-graham cracker sandwich. Or, if you’re feeling ambitious, wrap some apples in foil with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, and bake them in the coals. The result? A warm, gooey, caramelized treat that’s pure fall in every bite.
Storytelling and Campfire Games
Once everyone’s fed and cozy, it’s time to settle in for some storytelling. The flicker of the campfire is the perfect backdrop for a good ghost story or folktale. If you’re camping with kids, consider letting them take turns making up their own stories—it’s a great way to spark creativity and laughter.
Campfire games are another great way to keep the fun going. Classics like charades or 20 Questions are easy to play with just a few people, and they don’t require any special equipment.
If you’re musically inclined, bring along a guitar for some campfire songs. Even if you’re not, singing together (no matter how off-key) is a wonderful way to end the day.
Stargazing
After the stories and songs have wound down, take a moment to look up. Fall skies are often clear and crisp, making for excellent stargazing. The constellations visible in fall include favorites like Cassiopeia, Pegasus, and Andromeda. If you’re not familiar with them, there are plenty of stargazing apps that can help you identify what you’re seeing.
For a closer look, bring along a telescope or even a pair of binoculars. You’ll be amazed at what you can see—planets, star clusters, and maybe even a glimpse of the Andromeda Galaxy, if you’re lucky. And if you’re into photography, fall nights are perfect for capturing the night sky. With the right settings, your camera can pick up the stars, the moon, and even the Milky Way.
Educational Programs and Workshops
Many campgrounds and parks offer ranger-led programs or workshops, especially during the fall. These can be a great way to learn more about the environment and pick up some new skills.
Whether it’s a talk on local wildlife, a demonstration of survival skills, or a hands-on workshop in fire-building or shelter construction, these programs add an educational dimension to your camping experience.
If you’re more of a DIY learner, bring along a book or download some resources on topics like wilderness navigation or identifying animal tracks. Practicing these skills in the field not only makes you a more competent camper but also deepens your connection to the natural world.
Overnight Considerations
Staying Warm
Let’s face it—fall nights can get downright cold. But with the right gear and a few smart tricks, you’ll stay toasty all night long. First up: your sleeping bag. Not all sleeping bags are created equal, so you’ll want to choose one that’s rated for the lowest temperatures you might encounter. Look for a bag that’s snug without being restrictive, and if you’re a cold sleeper, consider a mummy-style bag that wraps around your head for extra warmth.
But a good sleeping bag is only half the battle. Insulation is key to keeping the cold ground from sapping your body heat. A sleeping pad or inflatable mattress adds a layer of cushioning and insulation between you and the earth, making a huge difference in comfort. You can also add a liner inside your sleeping bag for an extra warmth boost—think of it as an extra blanket, but way more effective.
To maintain body heat overnight, keep these tips in mind: wear a hat to bed, layer up with thermal clothing, and stuff any extra clothing into your bag to minimize empty space. If you’re really feeling the chill, a hot water bottle tucked at the bottom of your sleeping bag works wonders.
Nighttime Safety
As you drift off to sleep, it’s important to know that you’re safe from curious critters and other nighttime hazards. Wildlife like raccoons and bears can be particularly active in the fall as they forage for food before winter.
To keep a safe distance, make sure your campsite is well-managed. Store food in bear-proof containers or hang it from a tree at least 100 feet from your sleeping area. The same goes for trash—keep it sealed and away from your tent.
And remember, the scent of food isn’t just in your groceries; anything that’s been used to cook or eat should be stored safely, too.
Campfire Safety
Nothing beats the glow of a campfire on a crisp fall night, but it’s crucial to practice good campfire safety. When building your fire, make sure it’s in a designated fire pit or a cleared area away from tents, trees, and flammable materials. Use only the wood you’ve gathered or purchased, and never leave your fire unattended, even for a short time.
When it’s time to call it a night, be diligent about extinguishing your campfire. Pour water over the fire, stir the ashes, and then pour more water until everything is cool to the touch. This ensures that no embers are left smoldering, which could reignite later.
Also, check the local regulations—some areas may have restrictions on campfires in the fall due to dry conditions, so it’s important to follow the rules to keep everyone safe.
Why Fall is The Best Time For Camping
The Perfect Temperature
One of the best things about fall camping is the weather. It’s the perfect middle ground between the sweltering heat of summer and the biting cold of winter.
The cooler weather means you’re not sweating through your clothes on a hike, and you can actually enjoy the warmth of a campfire without overheating.
Fewer Crowds, More Peace
As kids head back to school and the summer crowds dwindle, campsites become less crowded. You can score that prime spot by the lake or nestled in the woods without having to fight off other campers.
This also means more peace and quiet, letting you truly connect with nature.
Nature’s Color Palette
When fall arrives, the trees transform into a breathtaking canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. It’s the perfect backdrop for your camping photos, and it’s just plain mesmerizing to watch as the sun sets and casts a golden glow on the leaves.
Basically, nature goes full-on Monet and it’s absolutely stunning.
Fewer Insects
Let’s not forget about the bugs—or rather, the lack thereof.
Mosquitoes are mostly gone by fall, leaving you to enjoy the outdoors without incessant buzzing and biting.
The Joy of a Campfire
Nothing beats the comfort of a campfire on a cool autumn evening. The warmth of the flames, the smell of burning wood, and the cozy atmosphere are quintessential parts of the camping experience.
Fall is also an excellent time for cooking over an open fire. The cooler temperatures make it enjoyable to linger around the fire, preparing meals that are both hearty and delicious. Think stews, roasted vegetables, and warm, comforting dishes that are perfect for the season. Cooking becomes a delightful part of your camping routine rather than a necessity.
Leslie is a travel writer, copywriter, and web designer who gets butterflies from telling stories through words and visuals.
Her voice comes from a place filled with passion, dreams, and lots of sugar. “Cake over steak” is her go-to motto.
With over 10 years of experience in crafting words, and years of embarking on travels that have taken this Montana girl to some incredible places, Leslie loves the adventures of both body and mind her writing takes her on.
To see what Leslie’s up to in the writing and design world, visit her website here.
