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16 Fun Rainy Day Camping Activities

16 Fun Rainy Day Camping Activities

Camping can be a great way to spend time with friends and family, but sometimes the weather outside is frightful. If you’re prepared, there are a few indoor activities you can do when the weather is bad. Here are fifteen fun things to do when the weather is rainy.

Reading a good camping book.

Reading is one of the most enjoyable activities that can be done on a rainy day while camping. Curl up in your tent with a good book and enjoy the sound of raindrops hitting the canvas. Many campgrounds have libraries where you can borrow books to read during your stay. If you don’t have a book with you, there’s no need to worry.

Reading a book

Watching a good camping movie

Why curl up with a good camping movie if you’re stuck inside on a rainy day? Plenty of great films out there capture the spirit of camping, whether it’s the adventure, camaraderie, or the beauty of nature. Here are a few of our favorites:

1. Into the Wild: This film tells the true story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who decides to abandon civilization and live off the land in Alaska.

2. The Way: This film follows a father and son who embark on a journey to walk the El Camino de Santiago, an ancient pilgrimage route in Spain.

happy multiracial women with popcorn watching film together in movie theater

Playing cards

There’s nothing like spending a rainy day huddled around a campfire, playing cards with friends. Whether you’re playing your favorite card game or teaching someone new how to play, passing the time with a deck of cards is always enjoyable. So, next time you find yourself stuck inside on a rainy day, break out the card games and enjoy some quality time with your camping buddies.

Playing cards

Playing dab a dot

One of the best things about rainy-day camping is that you can get really creative with your activities. One fun activity to do is dab a dot. This game is played by choosing one person to be the “dabber.” The dabber will put a dot of paint on each player’s forehead. Then, everyone has to try and guess what color they are.

Young multiracial friends holding hands and laughing together

Playing board games

Playing board games is a great way to spend a rainy day at the campsite. They’re portable and durable, making them easy to pack and play without bringing many supplies. Board games are also a great way to teach kids about different parts of the world. Plus, some board games can be turned into drinking games for adults!

Playing board game

Crafting

There’s nothing quite like spending a rainy day indoors, getting cozy with some crafts. Whether you’re making your own rain gear or just whipping up some decorations for your campsite, there are plenty of ways to get creative on a rainy day. Here are some fun ideas to get you started:

1. Make your own rain poncho or jacket out of a garbage bag and some duct tape.

2. Use old newspapers and a glue stick to make papier-mâché rain gear.

3. Make a fort out of blankets and pillows, then spend the day reading inside it.

Crafting

Hiking in the rain

Hiking in the rain can be an excellent activity for rainy-day camping because it is both fun and provides a physical activity. However, taking care when hiking in the rain is crucial, as trails can become slippery when wet. Therefore, proper rain gear is essential for protection from the elements and potential injuries.

A hike in the rain forest

Singing

Singing is a great way to spend a rainy day camping with friends because it’s a fun activity everyone can enjoy. You can use a projector and screen to host karaoke-style parties, which are perfect for getting everyone involved and having a good time.

Singing with friends in tent

Dancing

Dancing in the rain is one of the most fun and romantic things you can do on a rainy day. It’s also a great way to get some exercise. Just be sure to stay safe and not slip on the wet ground.

Group of friends dancing in the rain

Tell Stories

Telling stories is an excellent activity for a rainy-day camping trip because it gets everyone involved and helps pass the time. Cliffhangers are a great way to keep people engaged in the story, so make sure to end each story on a suspenseful note!

In a tent

Listening to music

Listening to music is an excellent rainy-day camping activity for adults because it can help them relax and take time for themselves. Music has a relaxing effect that can be enjoyed during any moment of the day, and playing music outdoors can be a great way to pass the time when the weather is terrible.

Girlfriends listening to music outdoors

Cook something delicious

What’s more fun than cooking a delicious meal over a campfire on a rainy day? So many great recipes can be made this way, and it’s always fun to experiment and try something new. If you’re looking for some inspiration, here are some great ideas for campfire cooking on a rainy day:

1. S’mores: of course! What’s a campfire without s’mores?

2. Grilled cheese: a classic that’s always delicious.

3. Pizza: you can either make your dough or buy pre-made dough at the store.

Travelers cooking near tents in rainy mountains

Exploring a nearby town

Exploring a nearby town can be fun on a rainy day, especially if you don’t mind getting a little wet. There’s something about the rain that makes everything feel more exciting, and it can be an excellent opportunity to check out new places.

If you’re camping with a group, split up so you can cover more ground. Check out local shops, restaurants, and attractions, and see what makes the town tick. Just be sure to stay safe and bring an umbrella!

Man with dog in heavy rain

Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt can be a fun way to spend a rainy day camping. You can hide things around the campsite for people to find, or you can hike and look for things along the way. Either way, it’s a great way to get people moving and exploring.

Father and Son Bonding during Camping by Lake

Nature Photography

Although rainy days can be a pain, they present the perfect opportunity to get out and explore nature photography. There are so many beautiful things to capture when the rain falls, and the world is quiet.

Butterfly nature photography

Go bird watching

Bird watching is a great camping activity on a rainy day. You can either bring binoculars and look for birds in the area, or you can go on a hike and look for birds along the way. Either way, you’ll see some interesting birds and maybe even learn something new about them.

A young girl with bird watching binoculars.

Tips for Rainy day Camping

If you’re camping on a rainy day, try reorganizing your supplies and planning your day around what you’re most interested in. If you’re new to camping, visit a nearby town to stay dry. Keep a dry sleeping bag and clothes ready. Bring plenty of food and water. And don’t forget your rain gear!

FAQs

What are some ways to stay entertained on a rainy-day camping trip?

One way to keep campers entertained on a rainy day is to take them on a hike. This will help them stay active and involved in the trip. Another way to entertain campers is to have them participate in activities like bird watching or coloring.

Offering different prizes to groups with the best stories or cards can also be a fun way to pass the time. For those who prefer more relaxed activities, bracelets and necklaces can provide some enjoyment.

What are some activities you can do on a rainy day camping trip?

Some activities you can do on a rainy day while camping is playing games, reading, taking naps, making crafts, studying maps, visiting nearby landmarks, and packing up your gear more orderly fashion. If it’s not too cold and there’s a body of water nearby, you could also go kayaking or canoeing.

What are some things you should pack for a rainy-day camping trip?

When packing for a camping trip, it is essential to consider the possibility of rain. While some campers might see rain as a damper on their fun, plenty of activities can still be enjoyed even when the weather isn’t ideal. Here are a few things to pack for a rainy-day camping trip:

1. Rain gear – This is obvious, but make sure you have a good raincoat and waterproof shoes.
2. Games – Cards, dice, and other small games are perfect for indoor rainy days.
3. Movies – Bring along a few of your favorite films to watch when the weather keeps you from exploring.
4. Books – A good book can be just as enjoyable as a movie and is perfect for curling up when the rain is coming down.
5. Crafts – Bring some supplies for arts and crafts projects if you’re feeling creative.

What are some things to consider when planning a rainy-day camping trip?

When planning a rainy day camping trip, it is essential to be prepared for possible wet weather. This means bringing camping gear, clothing designed to work in the rain, and things to keep you entertained when inside the tent or undercover.

Some other things to consider include stocking up on supplies and games, taking a nap when things get too hectic, and making plans for the next camping trip while it’s still raining outside.