Summer Fun for the Young at Heart

About Katie Neal

Content Manager

Katie Neal is a former Parade magazine editor who was lucky enough to interview two of her idols — Jimmy Carter and Taylor Swift —before pivoting to a career in marketing. Now she leads content strategy and engagement for Brookdale Senior Living.

We all loved going to summer camps as kids. And maybe you’re watching your grandkids partake in similar activities and are living vicariously through their adventures. But why should you miss out on all the fun? While you might not be ready to pack up and head back to summer camp anytime soon, there are many ways in which you can enjoy the same experiences you had at camp yourself back in the day at this current phase of your life.

Planning fun things to do with your friends or family can be a great way to get out for some physical and mental stimulation. And summer camp activities don’t always need to be physically demanding. Here are some fun ideas for summer camp-like activities that you can participate in this summer:

Go for a hike or take a nature walks: Getting out into nature is an excellent way to get some fresh air and exercise. And certain studies have indicated that spending time in the great outdoors is good for the brain. Just find a nearby park or nature trail on a nice day, invite your hiking buddies and don’t forget to bring your sunscreen!

Try kayaking or canoeing: If you’re up for something a little more adventurous and are a fan of water sports, consider trying out kayaking. Many lakes and marinas offer kayak or canoe rentals by the hour for affordable prices. You can also sign up for group kayaking or canoeing excursions where an instructor will accompany you on the water. Kayaking in calm water is generally safe, even if you aren’t the best swimmer, and can be a great lower-impact strength and cardio exercise.

Get your arts and crafts on: It wouldn’t be summer camp without some fun arts and crafts. Depending on your interests and DIY skills, try your hand at things like rock painting, making birdhouses, knitting, origami, homemade jewelry, or something as simple as adult coloring. You can find just about any instructions and materials online or how-to videos on YouTube for help. And you can head to your local craft store to pick up supplies. Don’t be afraid to try something new and get creative!

Plan a game night: There’s nothing wrong with a little competition among friends. Plan a game night with 3-4 fun games such as Taboo, charades, cards, or dominoes. This is also a fun activity to do on a rainy day when going outside isn’t an option.

Listen to your favorite tunes: Make a playlist of songs that you and your friends like. Plan a get-together to sing or dance to your favorite songs. You can even print out the words, as lyrics to just about any song can be found online. Some studies have shown that music can have cognitive benefits for older adults and can also elevate your mood and evoke positive emotions and memories.

Plan a picnic: Who doesn’t love a picnic? “It’s easy to put one together – as long as you bring a nice blanket to sit on and a parasol or umbrella for either shade or rain protection,” says Michael Sawyer, a tour coordinator with Ultimate Kilimanjaro. “Then all you have to worry about is the food.” Pack some sandwiches, head to your local park or even just plop down at an outdoor table in your own backyard!

Go to a local archery range: If you’ve never shot a bow and arrow, you may want to give it a try. “A lot of people think that archery takes a lot of skill, but it’s all about having fun,” says Sawyer. Most cities have indoor or outdoor archery ranges that provide everything you need and some even offer lessons to help keep you safe.

Play some outdoor games: Light sports activities such as golf putting, cornhole, bocce ball, or croquet are excellent summer camp activities for people of any age. “There are many easy and fun outdoor games that don't require much cardio but are fun to play while having refreshments and spending time outdoors with friends,” says Caroline Grainger, an ISSA-certified personal trainer.

Unwind with some yoga and meditation: Pick out a yoga or meditation session tailored to seniors' abilities and needs. Yoga can help improve balance, strength, and flexibility as well as help relieve back pain and arthritis for some. Meditation may help to decrease stress and improve memory and focus.

Host a campfire gathering: Nothing beats storytelling or singing around a campfire. Just be sure your fire is in a fire-safe location or use a designated fire pit. You can also roast marshmallows and make some s’mores. Don’t want to light a fire and go through all the effort? You can purchase gas firepits at your local Home Depot or patio furniture store.

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