Fun Activities for Fall Camping Trips

For some, camping is the end goal. Fair enough. For me, camping is mainly about establishing a kind of base camp. That’s right. I see camping as an accommodation that enables me to partake in the outdoor activities I love.

If you enjoy sitting around the fire, sipping on a beverage, telling stories, and connecting with friends, that’s cool. (And I totally get it.) However, if you’re looking for additional activities you can enjoy while camping in autumn, this post is for you.

Move your body

As I’ve mentioned over and over and over and over and over again in this fall camping guide: off-season camping can be cold. One of the best ways to warm up is to get some exercise. In my opinion, workouts are best when had outside, instead of at a stinky gym.

Trail running in the fall is fantastic—especially if it’s a dry day. The temperatures are a little more forgiving than during those hot summer ones. Plus, the views can be remarkable. If you’ve never run trails before, buy some dedicated trail runners. These offer more support and a sturdier sole. You’ll also want to bring a running pack with water, food, an extra layer, a first aid kit, and emergency supplies.

Not into running? Mountain biking is so much fun. You can check Trail Forks to suss out trails in the area. I don’t climb, but my friends build their summers around it. Check out Mountain Project for climbs and routes. Admittedly, these are higher-risk activities. So, outfit yourself adequately and know your limits.

My favorite part about long workouts in colder months is that they leave me in a happy place. I feel relaxed once they’re over. I then crack a beer, devour any snacks in sight, and take a glorious nap. It’s the part I like most about camping.

Go for a stroll

Not quite ready to push your body that far? I get it. Some days I don’t want to, either. That said, my wife is good at nudging me into family hikes. These are a tremendous opportunity to see the area first-hand and have real conversations with your kids.

If you’re unsure of where to start, download Alltrails. This app offers trail information, maps, images, location notes, and reviews. It’s a great resource, and I recommend upgrading to their Pro account. (It’s inexpensive and helps support the development of their product.)

As with any fall activity, start your hike early and err on the side of safety. Pick a slightly shorter route that means returning to camp before dark. Check what time the sun sets, and plan around that time. Pack headlamps, extra food, clothing, and safety items in case you take a wrong turn.

Take to the water

You’re less likely to overheat in the fall or have to fight bugs. Meanwhile, water-based pursuits are still possible—if you practice caution.

Fall canoeing and kayaking are blissful once the colder waters start to repel motorboats and weekend party people. Those cold waters demand that you practice some caution. Always wear a life vest and stay closer to shore. If something goes awry, you have less time to act before hypothermia sets in and puts you in danger.

If you enjoy fishing, the fall is a good time for it. There are fewer crowds to contend with, making the activity more peaceful. That said, you might want to sleep in a bit and take a little longer with your morning coffee. That way, you can bask in the afternoon sun while casting at the water’s edge.

Immerse yourself in nature

It’s strange, but nature seems most vital before the winter falls. Are you looking to witness autumn in all of its glory? Consult this foliage map that predicts color changes in different areas. It uses spring and summer weather conditions to help you determine when a particular region is most vibrant.

Want to see some wildlife? Perhaps start with bird watching. As leaves fall, birds are easier to spot. Bring some binoculars and a bird field guide book or smartphone app to help identify the ones you see.

My kids love berry picking, and the late summer months and early fall offer a great time to do so. (Raspberries and blackberries persist later into the season.) If your cooler is good, you might even bring some ice cream with you. Freshly picked berries and ice cream make for a delicious campfire snack.

Check the surrounding area

You know, setting up camp doesn’t limit you from leaving it. Fall is festival season in many areas, which allows you to support local farmers, artisans, and merchants—while having a good time! Get lost in a corn maze, go to the cranberry festival, or buy some pumpkins.

Closer to town? Check out some food trucks, farmers’ markets, and bakeries. Keep your eyes peeled for roadside egg and produce stands for fresh eats! Visit local brewpubs and stock up with treats for when you return home.

On a wet day, consider visiting a local museum or heritage site. Some of these include both indoor and outdoor displays. These attractions allow you to take refuge indoors during a storm and explore outside when the rain abates. If you’re near Fort St. James, be sure to visit the National Historic Site. It’s a lovely spot, and they even welcome dogs in the museum.

Take time for playtime

When was the last time you just played? It’s been, like, forever, right? I know. Same here. The days get packed so full that there’s little time for anything other than work, chores, and sleep. I consider this a shame, as a casual game offers a unique opportunity for family members to connect.

Ladder toss (or “testicle toss”, as I’ve heard it called) is as addictive as it is infuriating. If you have balance, which I certainly don’t, you might try your skills at slacklining. Frisbee golf is wicked-fun, but if you’re more old school, you could just throw a frisbee. A hacky sack gets your blood flowing and reminds you how badly you need to attend a yoga class.

Do you like the idea of a treasure hunt? Consider geocaching, which brings people together to hunt for stashes of objects worldwide. Are you starting to feel pooped? Bring a deck of cards and some board games for when you want to take it a little easier.

Take your campfire to the next level

Want to try a different kind of campfire? Make a Swedish fire log to cook on, marvel at, and probably post an image of to your Instagram feed 😉. Perhaps tell some ghost stories around it, and watch your kids’ eyes light up at the spooky parts!

Journaling in a notebook offers a nice time to reflect calmly. Others prefer to sketch or fill in adult coloring books. If none of the above works for you, grab a book (the paper kind, not one that relies on a screen) and fall into a good story.

A Bundle of Tips for Staying Warm at Camp is the next installment in our Fall Camping Guide.

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Love that image? It comes courtesy of photographer Mariah Krafft. Beauty, eh?

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