As I watch the orange leaves rain down from my favorite tree in our yard, I am trying to figure out where the summer went. Can you believe it’s already time to say goodbye to another camping season? I know that it’s such a bummer that most campgrounds close up for the winter, but let’s be real: would you really want to camp in freezing temps with frozen water lines and a foot of snow on the camper roof? (My answer would be an emphatic “NO!”) So let’s make the most of our last camping hurrah before we tuck our campers in for their winter nap.
Ideas for Activities During Your Last Camping Trip of the Season
Check out the suggestions below for some perfect “end of camping season” activities to try. Any of these themes would be a great way to close out the season before you head home to clean out the camper and winterize it.
Campfire Extravaganza
One last time, let’s get that fire cracklin’! A camping trip is never complete without a campfire, s’mores, and some good old storytelling or music. Why not make it an event? Gather around with your family, throw on some extra marshmallows, and go all out. Make it a gourmet s’mores night—try dark chocolate or caramel-filled chocolates to switch things up! Share your favorite camping memories of the season, or even bust out a guitar for a sing-along session. We love making s’mores dessert boards on campfire nights for the perfect DIY snacks.
Fishing Frenzy
Been fishing all summer? Then, it’s only right to cast your line one last time! Late-season fishing gives you some quiet time to kick back and enjoy the foliage and cooler temps. Pack up your fishing gear, bait, and patience, and go catch that trophy fish you’ve been dreaming of all season.
Nature Scavenger Hunt
Let the kids take the lead in a nature scavenger hunt! It’s educational and exciting. Make a list of things they should find—a pinecone, a feather, a pretty rock, you name it. Whoever finds all the items first gets a prize! (Hint: A super-sized s’more would make an excellent reward). Use our free printable scavenger hunt for an easy and fun activity.
Movie Night Under the Stars
Since it’s the last trip of the season, why not go all out? Set up a projector and hang a white sheet on one side of the RV for an epic outdoor movie night. Pop some popcorn, grab your coziest blankets, and enjoy a family movie right under the canopy of stars. Check out our campground movie night tips for a full supply list and tips! Oh! And this post has our favorite CAMPING/ROAD TRIP MOVIES if you need some inspiration!
Fall Foliage Hike
Autumn means the leaves are changing into vibrant hues of orange, yellow, and red. There’s no better way to appreciate nature’s artwork than by taking a hike. Choose an easy trail so the whole family can enjoy it and take some amazing fall photos. You might even luck out and snap the perfect pic for this year’s holiday cards!
DIY Craft Day
Ever thought of making your own camping memento? Collect leaves, twigs, and other nature bits to create DIY crafts. You could make a leaf-printed bandana or a twig picture frame! It’s not just a fun activity but also a fantastic way to remember this year’s camping adventures. Have you browsed our craft section lately? You really should! We have been busy little crafters over the last few months and have added a BUNCH of great camping and outdoor themed craft tutorials.
The Great Outdoor Feast
Last but certainly not least, prepare a camping feast for the family! Think beyond the hot dogs and burgers. How about a shrimp boil or grilled steak? Or maybe even a pizza cooked over the campfire? Eating a special meal is a great way to end the camping season on a high note!
Wrapping Up
As we bid our goodbyes to another amazing camping season, these activities will make sure you send it out with a bang! Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures, laugh a lot, and savor these moments because, before you know it, the snow will melt, the flowers will bloom, and it’ll be time to hit the road for another season of camping adventures.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and make your final camping trip of the season one for the memory books!
