Fun Adult Outdoor and Camping Games

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It’s finally that time of year when people start to fix up their yards and spend their spare time outside. The grill comes out, the patio furniture emerges, and the neighbors stop by. Which means it’s also time to get creative and find some fun things to do out there in the backyard.

Participating in outdoor games is beneficial for physical health, socialization, mental wellness, and allows for a break from technology and a chance to reconnect with nature.

Outdoor games and do-it-yourself (DIY) entertainment ideas for adults offer a great way to embrace the outdoors, unwind, and have a blast with friends and family. 

Although outdoor games are typically associated with children, adults can also reap the benefits of these activities.

This blog post is all about fun outdoor games and DIY entertainment ideas that are specifically designed for adults. If you’re organizing a backyard get-together, going on a camping trip, or just want to make the most of your time outside, this article has everything you need.

Classic Outdoor Games

When it comes to outdoor games, classic favorites never go out of style. 

Games are loved for a reason – they provide both familiarity and excitement.

Here, we’ll dive into some of the most popular classic outdoor games that adults can enjoy:

Volleyball

Set up a net and get ready for some friendly competition. Teams volley a ball back and forth over the net, aiming to score points by grounding it on the opposing team’s side.

Badminton

Grab a racket and shuttlecock and engage in a fast-paced game of badminton. Players hit the shuttlecock back and forth, aiming to keep it in the air and prevent it from hitting the ground on their side of the net.

Cornhole

A popular tailgating game, cornhole, involves tossing bean bags onto a raised platform with a hole in it. Players aim for the hole or try to land their bags on the platform for points.

Organizing Tournaments

These games are often enjoyed in a tournament style.  This brings about a different level of competition.  Here are a few tips for organizing tournaments or friendly competitions:

• Create a tournament bracket.  Divide participants into teams or pairs, and organize a tournament with multiple rounds to determine the ultimate winner.
• Establish rules and a scoring system.  Clearly define the game’s rules and establish a scoring system to ensure fair play and keep track of points.
• Provide prizes or incentives.  Add an extra element of excitement by offering prizes or incentives for the winners, such as customized trophies or small gifts.

Adding A Twist

Nighttime glow-in-the-dark variations

Use glow sticks, LED lights, or reflective tape to make the game playable in the dark, creating a unique and exhilarating experience.

Team-themed variations

Team colors

Encourage participants to dress up in team colors or costumes to add a fun and competitive edge to the games.

Obstacle course integration

Incorporate an obstacle course into classic games to make them more challenging and engaging, requiring players to navigate hurdles while playing.

Classic outdoor games provide a fantastic foundation for entertaining adults outdoors. They are easy to set up, can be enjoyed by players of varying skill levels, and offer an opportunity for friendly competition and camaraderie. 

Gather your friends, dust off those sports equipment, and have some nostalgic fun with these classic outdoor games!

Unique Outdoor Games

While classic outdoor games are enjoyable, sometimes it’s exciting to explore lesser-known games that can add a fresh twist to your outdoor entertainment. This section introduces you to some unique outdoor games perfect for adults.

Spikeball

This fast-paced game combines elements of volleyball and foursquare. Players form teams of two and try to bounce a small ball off a circular net, aiming to make it difficult for the opposing team to return the ball.

How to play Spikeball:

• Set up the circular net in an open space
• Form teams of two and take turns hitting the ball off the net. 
• The opposing team has three hits to return the ball. 
• Play continues until a team fails to return the ball properly.

KanJam

KanJam is a disc game where teams of two compete to score points by throwing and deflecting a frisbee into a goal. It requires accuracy, teamwork, and strategic positioning.

How to play KanJam:

• Set up two goals on opposite ends of a playing area and form teams of two. 
• Teams take turns throwing and deflecting the frisbee, aiming to score points by hitting the goal directly, deflecting the frisbee into the goal, or having their partner deflect it into the goal.

Kubb

Originating from Sweden, Kubb is a strategic outdoor game that involves knocking over wooden blocks (kubbs) by throwing wooden batons. The objective is to topple the kubbs and then the king to claim victory.

How to play Kubb:

• Arrange the kubbs in a specific pattern on the playing field, and divide them into two teams. 
• Teams take turns throwing batons to knock over the kubbs of the opposing team. 
• Once all kubbs are toppled, teams aim to knock over the king without hitting any other kubbs.

Adaptations

Modify playing area

Adjust the size of the playing area to accommodate the available space, creating a safe and enjoyable experience.

Alternative equipment options

If you don’t have the specific game equipment, consider using substitutes that can replicate the gameplay. 

For example, use a volleyball net and a light ball for Spikeball, or repurpose items like buckets or trash cans for a makeshift KanJam goal.

Unique outdoor games offer an opportunity to try something new and engage in friendly competition. These games often require teamwork, strategy, and coordination, providing a refreshing change from traditional outdoor activities. 

Gather your friends, discover these unique games, and unleash your competitive spirit as you embark on an exciting adventure with these outdoor game options for adults.

DIY Yard Games

DIY yard games are a way to add a personal touch to your outdoor entertainment. 

Creating your own games not only allows for customization but also offers a fun and rewarding experience. This section provides step-by-step guides for creating DIY yard games that adults can enjoy.

Giant Jenga

Build a larger-than-life version of the classic Jenga game using wooden blocks. Cut the blocks to size, sand them for smoothness, and stack them in a tower. Players take turns removing blocks and placing them on top without causing the tower to tumble.

Materials Needed:

• Wooden blocks
• Saw
• Sandpaper
• measuring tape
• marker for numbering the blocks

Lawn Twister

Transform your lawn into a giant Twister board by painting circles in different colors. Use stencils or create your own templates, and paint the circles directly on the grass. Players spin a wheel or draw cards to determine which color and body part to place on each circle.

Materials Needed:

• Stencils or templates
• non-toxic spray paint
• measuring tape
• spinner or deck of cards

Bean Bag Toss (Cornhole)

Construct your own cornhole boards using plywood, nails, and paint. Cut the boards to the desired measurements, attach legs, and paint them with creative designs. Then create bean bags filled with corn or synthetic pellets for tossing.

Materials Needed:

• Plywood
• nails or screws
• Paint
• Paintbrushes
• measuring tape
• bean bags

Personalizing The Games With Creative Designs Or Themes

Decorative painting

Add artistic flair to your DIY games by painting them with vibrant colors, patterns, or themes that match your personal style or the occasion.

Customized decals or stencils

Use decals or stencils to add logos, monograms, or fun graphics to your game boards or blocks.

Themed decorations

Incorporate decorations like ribbons, streamers, or fairy lights to enhance the overall aesthetic and create a festive atmosphere.

DIY yard games offer a fantastic opportunity to showcase your creativity and craftsmanship while providing hours of entertainment for your friends and family. 

Roll up your sleeves, gather the necessary materials, and embark on a DIY adventure to create personalized yard games that will elevate your outdoor gatherings to a whole new level of fun.

Themed Outdoor Events

Hosting a themed outdoor event adds extra excitement and creates a memorable experience for adults. 

Incorporating a specific theme into your outdoor entertainment can transport your guests to a different world and provide an immersive atmosphere. 

In this section, we’ll explore ideas for organizing themed outdoor events that will captivate your guests.

Beach Party

Transform your backyard into a tropical oasis by setting up a sand area, beach umbrellas, and colorful beach towels. Provide beach games like beach volleyball, frisbee, or sandcastle building. Serve refreshing tropical drinks and tropical-themed snacks.

Use beach-themed decorations like seashells, beach balls, and inflatable palm trees. Encourage guests to dress in Hawaiian shirts, swimsuits, and flip flops. Play tropical music and create a playlist featuring reggae, calypso, or beach-themed songs.

Set up a limbo station, organize a beach volleyball tournament, or have a sandcastle-building competition.

Backyard Carnival

Bring the fun of a carnival to your backyard with classic carnival games like ring toss, duck pond, or balloon darts. Set up booths with prizes, decorate with colorful banners, and offer carnival treats such as popcorn, cotton candy, and snow cones.

Decorate the area with colorful streamers, balloons, and carnival signs. Encourage guests to dress in circus or carnival attire. Play lively music like circus tunes or carnival soundtracks to create a festive ambiance.

Offer classic carnival games like ring toss, bean bag toss, or knock-down. Provide a photo booth with props for guests to capture memories.

Sports Extravaganza

Celebrate the love of sports by organizing a sports-themed outdoor event. Create different stations for various sports activities like basketball shooting, soccer penalty kicks, or baseball pitching. Set up a viewing area with a big screen to watch live games or sporting events.

Decorate with sports-themed banners, team colors, and sports equipment. Encourage guests to dress in their favorite team jerseys or athletic attire. Play upbeat sports anthems and stadium music to energize the atmosphere.

Arrange stations for various sports challenges like target shooting, obstacle courses, or relay races. Create a friendly competition with scoreboards and prizes for winners.

Themed outdoor events provide a unique and immersive experience for adults. 

You can create a vibrant and engaging atmosphere by incorporating decorations, costumes, and music that align with the theme. 

Whether you’re longing for a day at the beach, the excitement of a carnival, or the thrill of a sports extravaganza, hosting a themed outdoor event will leave your guests with unforgettable memories.

Camping Games for Adults

Camping trips offer an excellent opportunity to reconnect with nature and enjoy outdoor activities. 

Incorporating fun and engaging games is a must to make your camping experience even more enjoyable. 

In this section, we’ll explore the best outdoor games specifically tailored for adults that can be played during camping trips.

Horseshoes

A classic camping game that involves tossing horseshoes toward a stake in the ground. Players aim to land the horseshoes around the stake or earn points based on proximity.

How to play:

• Set up two stakes in the ground, a specific distance apart
• take turns tossing horseshoes toward the opposing stake
• Points are awarded based on how close the horseshoes land to the stake

Scavenger Hunts

Organize a scavenger hunt where participants search for specific items or complete tasks within the campsite or surrounding area.

How to play:

• Create a list of items or tasks for participants to find or complete
• Provide each participant or team with the list
• Award points or prizes based on successful completion

Campfire Charades

Play a camping-themed version of charades, where players act out words or phrases related to camping activities, wildlife, or nature.

How to play:

• Have players take turns acting out camping-themed words or phrases without speaking
• The rest of the group tries to guess the correct answer within a time limit

Adaptations

Consider space limitations

Ensure your chosen games can be comfortably played within the available campsite space. Modify the distance or size of game setups accordingly.

Make use of natural surroundings

Incorporate elements of the camping environment into the games. For example, scavenger hunts include items specific to the natural surroundings, like leaves, rocks, or animal tracks.

Camping games provide a fantastic way to bond with fellow campers, create lasting memories, and make the most out of your camping adventure. 

Whether you prefer the competitive nature of horseshoes, the thrill of a scavenger hunt, or the laughter-inducing charades around a campfire, these games will keep you entertained while enjoying the great outdoors. 

So pack your camping gear, gather around the campfire, and let the camping games begin!

Outdoor Movie Nights

Outdoor movie nights combine the joy of watching films with the beauty of being surrounded by nature. It’s a perfect way to unwind, relax, and enjoy quality time with friends and family. 

This section guides you on creating a memorable outdoor movie night experience for adults.

Setting up the outdoor movie area

Choose the right location

Find a spacious area in your backyard or outdoor space where you can set up a comfortable seating arrangement facing a screen or a blank wall.

Create seating options

Arrange blankets, pillows, or comfortable outdoor chairs for guests to sit and relax during the movie.

Ensure proper lighting

Set up ambient lighting, such as string lights or lanterns, to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Equipment and movie screening

Movie screen options

Invest in a portable projector screen or utilize a white wall or a large white sheet as a makeshift screen.

Audio equipment

Connect your projector to external speakers or use a portable Bluetooth speaker for clear and immersive sound.

Projector setup

Position the projector at an appropriate distance from the screen, ensuring a clear and focused image. Test the projection before the event to adjust brightness and image quality if needed.

Enhancing the movie night experience

Theme selection

Choose a movie theme or genre that suits the preferences of your guests. Consider classics, recent releases, or films that align with the season or occasion.

Comfort and ambiance

Provide cozy blankets, cushions, or even outdoor rugs for guests to sit on. Consider adding fire pits or torches to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Snacks and beverages

Offer a variety of movie-themed snacks such as popcorn, nachos, candy, and a selection of refreshing beverages. Consider setting up a concession stand or a snack table for guests to help themselves.

Extra entertainment options

Pre-movie games

Engage your guests with outdoor games or trivia related to the movie theme or genre. This will help create a lively atmosphere before the movie starts.

Intermission activities

Plan short breaks between movies or during longer films, and provide activities like a photo booth, board games, or a DIY s’mores station to keep guests entertained.

Outdoor movie nights provide a unique and enjoyable experience for adults to relax and enjoy their favorite films under the stars. With the right setup, equipment, and thoughtful touches, you can create a magical atmosphere that will leave your guests longing for more movie nights. 

So grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready for an unforgettable outdoor movie experience! Need more movie night inspo? Check out this Guide to having the ultimate movie night.

Picnic and Potluck Games

Picnics and potlucks are fantastic opportunities to gather with friends and family while enjoying delicious food in an outdoor setting. 

Incorporating games that everyone can participate in is a great idea to add an extra layer of fun and entertainment to these social gatherings. 

This section explores picnic and potluck games that engage guests and create a lively atmosphere.

Classic picnic and potluck games

Three-Legged Race

Pair up guests and have them tie one leg to their partner’s leg. Participants must work together to race to the finish line.

Egg and Spoon Race

Give each participant a spoon and an egg. They must balance the egg on the spoon while racing to the finish line without dropping it.

Potato Sack Race

Provide each participant with a burlap sack or large pillowcase. They must hop inside the sack and race to the finish line.

Interactive group games

Charades

Divide guests into teams and have them act out words or phrases while their team members guess within a time limit.

Pictionary

Similar to charades, participants draw pictures to represent words or phrases for their team members to guess instead of acting.

Tug of War

Create a friendly competition by dividing guests into two teams and having them pull opposite ends of a rope. The team that successfully pulls the rope past a designated marker wins.

Mind and word games

Trivia

Prepare a list of trivia questions related to various topics such as movies, music, sports, or history. Divide guests into teams and award points for correct answers.

Word Association

Start with a random word and have each participant take turns saying a word associated with the previous word. The game continues until someone can’t think of a related word within a given time limit.

20 Questions

One person thinks of an object or person, and other participants ask yes or no questions to try and guess the answer within 20 questions.

Improvised games

Outdoor Bowling

Create a makeshift bowling alley using empty plastic bottles or cans as pins, and use a ball to knock them down.

Giant Tic Tac Toe

Draw a large tic-tac-toe grid on the ground using chalk or rope, and use large X’s and O’s as the game pieces.

Bean Bag Toss

Set up targets with different point values and have participants toss bean bags to score points.

Adding these games to your picnic or potluck will entertain your guests, encourage friendly competition, and create lasting memories. 

Remember to consider your participants’ space and age group when selecting games, and have prizes or small rewards to make the experience even more exciting. 

So pack your picnic basket, prepare your potluck dish, and get ready for a day filled with delicious food and thrilling games!

Safety and Considerations

When engaging in outdoor games and entertainment, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and consider certain factors to ensure an enjoyable and risk-free experience for everyone involved. 

This section will cover important safety guidelines and considerations to keep in mind.

General safety guidelines

Provide clear instructions

Before starting any game, explain the rules and guidelines to all participants to ensure they understand how to play safely.

Proper equipment usage

Ensure that all equipment, such as sports gear or DIY game materials, is used correctly and following their intended purpose.

Be mindful of surroundings

Take note of potential hazards in the outdoor space, such as uneven ground, obstacles, or low-hanging branches. Clear the area or modify game setups to minimize risks.

Weather considerations

Check weather conditions

Before planning any outdoor activities, monitor weather forecasts to ensure safe conditions. Avoid playing games during severe weather, including thunderstorms, high winds, or extreme heat.

Sun protection

Encourage participants to wear sunscreen and hats and seek shade during peak sun hours to prevent sunburn and heat-related illnesses. Provide ample access to water to stay hydrated.

Injury prevention

Warm-up exercises

Encourage participants to perform light warm-up exercises or stretches before engaging in physically demanding games to prevent muscle strains or injuries.

First aid kit

Keep a well-stocked first aid kit readily available in case of minor injuries, such as cuts, scrapes, or sprains.

Supervision for certain games

Depending on a game’s complexity or physical nature, consider assigning a designated supervisor or referee to ensure fair play and safety.

Consider participants’ abilities

Accommodate varying skill levels

Choose games that can be enjoyed by individuals of different skill levels, ensuring inclusivity and avoiding unnecessary frustration or accidents.

Physical limitations

Be mindful of participants’ physical limitations or health conditions and adapt games or activities accordingly. Provide alternative options or modifications to ensure everyone can participate comfortably.

Cleanliness and hygiene

Sanitary practices

Encourage participants to maintain proper hygiene, such as washing hands before and after games and using hand sanitizers when necessary.

Food safety

Ensure food items brought to potlucks or picnics are appropriately handled, stored, and prepared to prevent foodborne illnesses. Remind participants to follow food safety guidelines and avoid leaving perishable items out in warm temperatures for extended periods.

You can create a safe and enjoyable environment for outdoor games and entertainment by prioritizing safety and considering these essential factors. 

Remember to communicate any safety guidelines to participants and be prepared to address any potential risks that may arise. 

With proper precautions in place, everyone can fully immerse themselves in the fun and excitement of outdoor activities.

Adult Games and Entertainment:  A Few Final Thoughts 

For adults, outdoor games and DIY entertainment ideas offer a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors, bond with friends and family, and create lasting memories. 

Whether hosting a backyard gathering, going on a camping trip, or planning a picnic or potluck, incorporating these fun and engaging activities will enhance the overall experience. While there are things like other games like card games, hiking, or beer pong, these are some great things to get your wheels turning.

While indulging in outdoor games and entertainment, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and consider various factors. 

Following general safety guidelines, being mindful of weather conditions, preventing injuries, accommodating participants’ abilities, and practicing cleanliness and hygiene will ensure everyone involved has a safe and enjoyable experience.

Tailor these suggestions to suit your preferences and the occasion at hand. Whether competing in a friendly game, immersing yourself in a themed event, enjoying a movie under the stars, or engaging in interactive potluck games, embrace the joy, laughter, and camaraderie these activities bring.

Remember, the ultimate goal is to have fun, create cherished memories, and strengthen the bonds with your loved ones while embracing the beauty of the great outdoors. So, get out there, embrace the sunshine, breathe in the fresh air, and let the games begin!