One of the best parts of camping is the freedom to unwind and reconnect with nature. But let’s face it—there’s always downtime. Whether it’s too hot to hike, the kids are getting antsy, or you just want to take a break from the usual campfire routine, having a few fun, creative projects on hand can make your campsite feel more like a home away from home. DIY camping crafts are not only entertaining, they can be functional, too.
This guide is all about easy, enjoyable, and practical projects you can do with your family or camping buddies. Most of them use items you likely already packed or can collect in the great outdoors. From decorative lanterns to hand-crafted fire starters, there’s something here for every kind of camper.
1. Nature-Inspired Lanterns
If you enjoy collecting leaves, twigs, and flowers during your hikes, put those finds to good use by creating nature lanterns. All you need is a clean glass jar, some glue, and a small LED light or tealight candle.
How to make it:
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Coat the outside of the jar with a thin layer of clear glue.
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Arrange leaves or flowers around the jar while the glue is still wet.
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Once dry, place the light inside and watch it glow.
These lanterns not only add a soft, magical ambiance to your evening but also become a memorable souvenir from your camping trip.
2. Paracord Utility Bracelets
Paracord bracelets are a classic camping DIY project. They’re not just stylish—they’re incredibly useful. If you ever find yourself needing a strong rope, you can unravel your bracelet and use it to secure gear, set up a shelter, or even make a clothesline.
What you’ll need:
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About 8–10 feet of paracord
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A buckle or knot to fasten it
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Scissors and a lighter (to seal the ends)
There are dozens of tutorials online for different weaving styles, but the cobra weave is one of the simplest and most durable. Plus, kids and adults alike love the process of making them.
3. DIY Camping Flags or Banners
Adding a touch of personality to your tent or campsite is easy with custom-made flags or banners. This is a fun activity for kids, especially on longer camping trips when they might be craving creative outlets.
Materials:
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Fabric scraps or an old pillowcase
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Fabric markers or paint
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String or twine
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Safety pins or clothespins
Cut out triangle or rectangle shapes and decorate them with nature-themed drawings, campsite names, or fun slogans. String them together and hang them near your tent or on a tree for a festive vibe.
4. Handmade Fire Starters
If you’ve ever struggled to start a fire with damp wood, you’ll appreciate this next project. Homemade fire starters are not only satisfying to make, they’re incredibly effective.
You’ll need:
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Empty egg cartons
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Dryer lint or cotton balls
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Wax (from old candles or store-bought)
Fill each egg cup with lint, then pour melted wax over each one until fully coated. Once cooled, break them into individual pods. These are great to bring to your next camping trip and save time and frustration when you’re trying to get a fire going quickly.
5. Painted Rock Markers
Painting rocks is an enjoyable, meditative activity that doubles as a practical way to label parts of your campsite. You can create markers for your tent, cooking area, or even turn them into a mini trail guide for young explorers.
What to do:
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Gather smooth rocks
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Use acrylic paint or permanent markers
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Add symbols, names, or simple artwork
You can also turn these into a fun scavenger hunt by hiding them around the campsite for kids to find.
6. DIY Camp Kitchen Organizer
Nothing is more annoying than rummaging through a bin of supplies just to find a spoon. Create your own camp kitchen organizer to keep things neat and accessible.
What you need:
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Hanging shoe organizer (the kind with clear pockets)
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Hooks or rope to hang it on a tree or your tent pole
Fill the pockets with utensils, spices, napkins, and other small essentials. You’ll save time cooking and cleaning, and your camp kitchen will instantly feel more organized.
7. Stick Picture Frames
A crafty way to frame your memories, stick picture frames are simple to create and look great displayed around your campsite or brought home as keepsakes.
To make them:
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Collect four small, straight sticks
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Use twine or hot glue to attach the corners
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Add a photo or drawing using clips or tape
You can even weave in some flowers or leaves around the edges for extra flair.
8. DIY Bug-Repellent Candles
Keeping bugs at bay can be challenging, especially at dusk. Try making your own natural bug-repellent candles using citronella essential oil and soy wax.
How to make it:
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Melt soy wax in a tin can or pot
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Add a few drops of citronella, lavender, or eucalyptus oil
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Pour into a jar with a wick
Let it cool completely before lighting. These candles are safe, non-toxic, and add a cozy glow to your evenings while keeping pesky insects away.
9. Camp Journal Kit
A camp journal is a creative way to document your outdoor adventures. Kids especially enjoy drawing what they saw or writing about the day’s events.
Supplies to pack:
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Blank notebook
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Pens, crayons, or colored pencils
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Small envelope for keepsakes like leaves or photos
Encourage everyone to spend a few minutes each evening reflecting on the day. It not only builds writing skills but also preserves memories that might otherwise fade.
10. Solar Charging Station Setup
Modern campers often rely on electronics for maps, photos, and even stargazing apps. If you’re planning to use devices, having a way to keep them charged is crucial. Creating a compact charging station can be a game changer, especially during multi-day trips.
Using a Nitecore power station, for example, allows you to charge multiple devices at once while staying off the grid. You can keep it organized by placing it in a small plastic bin or crate along with your cords and a small label for each slot. Position it in a spot where it can charge during the day and stay protected from the elements.
Wrapping Up
Crafting at the campsite might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a trip, but these DIY projects offer more than just entertainment. They bring people together, add personality to your setup, and can even solve practical problems you didn’t know you had.
The best part is, none of these ideas require fancy supplies or loads of experience. Whether you’re camping in the mountains, near a lake, or at a beachside site, taking the time to slow down and create something with your hands adds a whole new layer of joy to the outdoor experience.
So next time you’re packing your gear, throw in a few extra supplies and try one or two of these crafts. You might find that your favorite moments aren’t just around the fire but in the quiet creativity of a slow afternoon at camp.
