Camping can be a great way to get out of the house and enjoy nature, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re guaranteed to have a good time. Whether camping really isn’t your thing or you’re so used to camping that the routine is starting to get old, there are things you can do to make your next camping trip more exciting.
Ride a Motorcycle
Your camping experience starts well before you pitch your tent. Getting to and from your campsite is part of the experience. Skip driving a car and consider riding a motorcycle instead.
Many people avoid riding a motorcycle when going camping because figuring out where to put all your stuff can be a nightmare! The truth is, there is plenty of room to put your essential camping gear on your motorcycle as long as you only bring the essentials, and you pack them carefully. For example, you may want to consider a backpackers tent instead of a regular tent, as they take up less space, and you should consider doing your grocery shopping once you get closer to your destination instead of shopping ahead of time to skip the cooler.
Don’t have a motorcycle? Rent one! If you’re camping with others, encourage them to rent motorcycles too. That way the trip is just as exciting and memorable as the destination.
Hike to a Hard to Reach Spot
There are a lot of scenic campgrounds to choose from, and nearly all of them provide campers with quick and easy places to put up tents or park RVs. This can be a fun and convenient way to camp, but it’s not the most exciting way to camp.
If you really want to challenge yourself and feel like you’re out in the middle of nowhere, skip the designated campground and hike to a hard to reach spot. It will require you to pack carefully since everything will have to be carried, but it will encourage you to spend more time outdoors. When you reach your campground, you’ll feel like you’re the only person left in the world, which can make for a unique camping experience.
Do Something You Have Never Done Before
When you think about camping, what kind of activities come to mind? Chances are, you think of fishing, hiking, and swimming. Those activities are fun, but they aren’t exactly exciting.
Instead, do something you have never done before. The more adventurous, the better! Just a few things you may be able to do, depending on where you’re camping include:
- Skydiving
- Ziplining
- Rafting
- Rappelling
- Caving
- Paragliding
- Rock climbing
- Hang gliding
Activities don’t have to be so scary if you’re looking for something a little safer to do. Hop in a kayak if you’ve never been in one, go mountain biking on a dirt trail, or try driving an ATV. When you step outside your comfort zone, you’re sure to have an experience you will never forget.
Have Fun at Night
There is no shortage of fun camping games and activities you can do while you’re camping, but nighttime activities are arguably the most fun!
Skip getting up early and sleep in a little bit so you can stay out at night. Sitting around the fire and making smores is fun, but you should also make time to do things that are a little more adventurous. For example, go on a nighttime hike or go skinny dipping under the stars. Flashlight tag and glow-in-the-dark Frisbee are fun games to play after the sun goes down if you’re camping with others.
Sleep a Little Different
Most people who go camping sleep in a tent, a camper, or an RV, but if you’re looking for a different kind of experience, try sleeping a little differently.
If you’re camping in the middle of the trees, consider hanging a hammock. When camping with others, you may want to consider sleeping far apart instead of close together for a slightly different experience. If you’re feeling brave, consider sleeping under the stars. Just make sure you think ahead for your comfort. For example, a bedroll or inflatable mattress can make sleeping on the ground more comfortable.
Camping is a fun activity whether you’re going alone, you’re going with family, or you’re heading out into nature with friends. However, you should think more deeply about what kind of experience you want. If you’re looking for a camping trip that’s a little more exciting, or if you want to make memories that will stick, consider one or more of the tips on this list.
