15 Activity Ideas to Attract Campers

Attracting guests to your campsite is all about capturing their interest. Whether you’re open all year long or just for the season, there’s a lot you can do to get people excited about spending a few cozy nights at your campsite. By doing just a bit of research on the best local activities, you can turn your campsite into a top destination. Not sure what activities to include? Here are a few favorites to get you started.

Hiking

Hiking is an ideal pastime for many a camper, as it offers up the chance to spend the day outdoors and burn off a few much-needed s’more calories. To get your guests excited about the nearby trails, make a short list of the best hikes in the area and include their distance and level of difficulty.

Stargazing

Have a wild space that’s perfect for looking up at the stars? Then this should definitely be on your radar. Fewer things are as inspiring as an hour admiring the night sky, and bonus points if you leave out a bit of cocoa or tea for guests to sip while they take in the brisk night air.

Swimming

Nothing is quite as glorious as a cool dip on a hot day— or, a hot dip on a cool night. Does your campsite have a nearby pool, lake, or hot spring? If so, be sure to mention it.

Beach Bumming

If you find yourself lucky enough to have outdoor space near the water, this is definitely worth sharing. Since “swimming” is often just code for lazing about in the sun, be sure your guests know where they can go to do just that.

Cycling

Whether it’s over the river and through the woods, or just a pristine stretch of forest roads, cycling is a great way to attract more campers to your place. Contact your local biking coalition to get info on the best routes, and where guests can rent bikes and helmets nearby.

Climbing

If you live in an area with world-class climbing (or even just some average cragging— teaching you some lingo here), it’s definitely worth telling guests about it. Many climbing spots have at least one professional guide available for hire, but keep in mind that even experienced climbers will appreciate any information you can provide about the more practical aspects of the sport— like access and weather conditions.

Water sports

If you live near the water, take some time to figure out what’s worth doing in the area. Is the fishing or kayaking particularly good? What about paddle-boarding or surfing? Is there a place people can rent canoes? These are all activities your guests will want to know about— and they might just be the reason they keep coming back.

Skiing

If you’re up in the mountains with nearby slopes, this is a solid way to attract a crowd of winter campers. Be sure to provide information on nearby resorts and cross-country trails, and include details on where they can rent gear.

Snowshoeing

Even if your campsite isn’t next to a world-class ski resort, there’s no reason your guests can’t get out in the powder. Snowshoes are a relatively cheap investment if your campsite gets lots of fresh snow during the winter months. Invest in a few pairs guests can borrow, or find a nearby shop that offers rentals.

Eating

Yes, this is an activity, and if you live near some amazing eats your guests will want to know about it. While nothing is quite as nostalgic as cooking over an open fire, there’s something to be said for an epic burger and beer post-hike. Make a list of top local spots your guests can enjoy a cup of coffee or an afternoon meal, and they’ll be even more impressed with your hosting prowess.

Board games

This may not be the first thing that comes to mind during a camping weekend, but it’s certainly a good option for a rainy day. If you have a great library or a collection of board games, be sure to mention it. Your guests (and their restless kids) will thank you later.

Photography

Even if your backyard isn’t Yellowstone (but especially if it is) photography is one of those activities people just love. Tell your guests about the local flora and fauna, and get the name of a few scenic hikes nearby. Living in the Northeast? Be sure to include the best places to see fall foliage.

Visiting the sites

If you’re one of the lucky few to live near a national park or some other spectacular landmark, you’ll want to have some of that info ready for your guests. Chances are you’ve noticed a trend by now in what people are interested in seeing, so anything you can do to make it easier— even just by knowing the hours or prices, they’ll be grateful.

BBQ

Even if your campsite is a bonafide theme park of activities, some people are just happy to hang out and cook a good meal. Be sure to include some fire-safe spaces where guests can build campfires and BBQ some eats. Let them know where they can buy wood, and be ready with a few recommendations for nearby markets and grocery stores.

What’s unique in your area?

Is your neck of the woods known for something special? Share it with your guests. Whether it’s a tour of the local vineyard, a guided hike up one of the peaks, or even just a regional dish they’re sure to enjoy— these are all the kinds of experiences that people remember, and the type of thing that makes you stand out as a great host.

Giving campers activities to enjoy during their stay will highlight your property, making it stand out from other campsites in your area. If you have some unique features you are already offering at your Hipcamp site, be sure to let us know by tagging us on Instagram.

For more ideas about how to make the most of your Hipcamp site, check out these creative ways to pay your land taxes or get ideas from these different campsites you can set up to make money.