Easy Camping Skills for Squirrels

Camping does not have to be complicated. Squirrels can learn a range of simple camping skills through short, fun activities that help them become more confident outdoors.

Good beginner skills include putting up a tent with help, packing a rucksack, rolling a sleeping bag, using a torch, choosing suitable clothing and keeping a campsite safe and tidy.

What You’ll Learn

In this activity, Squirrels can learn how to:

Equipment

You will need:

Prerequisites

No previous camping experience is required.

For younger Squirrels, leaders should demonstrate each skill first and provide help where necessary.

The aim is to build confidence rather than expect children to complete every task independently.

Instructions

1. Pack the Camping Bag

Lay out a selection of camping equipment and ask the Squirrels to decide what they would need for a night outdoors.

Turn it into a game by mixing useful items with a few silly choices.

Talk about why each item might be useful.

For example, a waterproof jacket is useful if it rains, while a large toy might take up valuable space.

2. Roll a Sleeping Bag

Show the Squirrels how to lay out a sleeping bag and roll it up neatly.

Let them have a go in pairs.

You can turn this into a team challenge, but focus on learning the skill rather than speed.

3. Help Put Up a Tent

Choose a simple tent and demonstrate how it works.

Let the Squirrels help with suitable jobs such as laying out the groundsheet, finding the tent poles or helping to position the tent.

Adults should handle anything that requires significant force or could cause injury.

Explain why tents should be placed on suitable, level ground and kept away from obvious hazards.

4. Torch Challenge

Give each Squirrel a torch or headtorch and let them practise using it safely.

Try a simple activity where they have to find objects around the activity area using their torches.

Remind them not to shine bright lights directly into somebody else’s eyes.

5. What Would You Wear?

Place different items of clothing on the floor.

Ask the Squirrels what they would choose for different camping conditions.

For example:

Rainy: waterproof jacket.

Cold: warm layers and a hat.

Sunny: sun hat and suitable clothing.

Explain that staying comfortable outdoors often starts with choosing the right clothing.

6. Keep Your Campsite Tidy

Give the group a pretend campsite with equipment scattered around it.

Challenge them to make it safe and tidy.

Talk about why equipment should have a place, rubbish should be collected and walking areas should be kept clear.

7. The Camping Skills Challenge

Finish with a quick challenge.

Give the Squirrels several tasks such as:

Celebrate everyone who has a go.

Final Tip

Keep camping skills simple, practical and fun.

Squirrels do not need to master everything in one session. Learning one small skill, such as packing their own bag or rolling a sleeping bag, can give them a real sense of achievement and help prepare them for future camping adventures.