Suggested Activity for Youth During a Canoe Trip

Canoe trips are an ideal way to experience nature and spend time with friends and family. Canoeing can be fun for youth and adults alike, but it is often necessary to have other activities to keep youth's entertained on multiple day and overnight trips. Plan your trip activities according to the ages, hobbies and interest in nature of the youth involved to ensure an enjoyable canoe trip.

  1. Campfire

    • A river side campfire is an ideal interactive activity for youths of all ages. It can be at nighttime, before bed or during the afternoon during lunch. Choose a safe area to stop and have the youth collect dry firewood and sticks. Clear an area and arrange the wood for a small efficient fire. Cooking over the fire is a fun and interactive activity that allows the youth to cook their own meal. Ideas include hot dogs, smores and sealed aluminum foil meals where individuals select from items to make their own recipe.

    Fishing

    • Fishing allows the youth an activity that takes their attention away from paddling and the surroundings. Bring fishing poles for all the kids and the necessary gear for the body of water your navigating. Check local and state regulations before the trip and plan accordingly with the necessary licenses and bait. This is an ideal time to teach a newcomer fishing, as you will have long periods of time on the water.

    Exploring the Wilderness

    • Canoeing rivers and streams often means having access to remote properties with unspoiled nature. Stop and plan nature walks for the youth to experience the sights, sounds and smells of nature. You can give them books with information on local animals and plants for them to try to find. Bring a camera along for them to document the animals and sights they see while navigating the waterway.

    Games

    • Bring along games that can be played on the shoreline or in the water to entertain the kids and adults. Games that are suitable for on the shore and in the water include Frisbee, volleyball and playing catch with a baseball. Board games and crossword puzzles are ideal for playing within a tent during foul weather. Water toys such as squirt guns and water balloons allow kids to have fun and keep cool during hot weather.