Camping is one of my favorite ways to unplug from screens and connect with my family, and one of the easiest ways to make evenings magical is by playing flashlight games. If you’ve ever camped with kids, you know that once the sun goes down, they still have plenty of energy to burn. Having a list of fun games with flashlights ready means you’ll not only keep them entertained but also create lasting memories under the stars.
But it’s not just the games that make camping nights so memorable. For me, it’s the little comforts—sitting by the fire, stargazing, and yes, pulling on a warm pair of socks once the air cools—that make the outdoors feel cozy and fun. Camping is about more than just activities; it’s about the simple details that turn a night outside into a family tradition. And of course, safety matters too—these National Park Service camping tips are worth keeping in mind before you head out.
In this post, I’ll share some of the best flashlight games that my family and I love to play while camping (or even at home in the backyard). These are easy, low-prep, and perfect for kids of all ages. If you’re planning a trip soon, here are some tips to make your family camping trip stress-free so you can focus on the fun instead of the hassle.
Why Flashlight Games Are Great for Camping
When you’re out in nature, evenings can feel long—especially for younger kids who might feel nervous about the dark. Flashlight games make the night less scary and a lot more exciting. They also encourage movement, imagination, and teamwork, which is exactly what you want when you’re looking for ways to bond as a family.
I’ll never forget our first camping trip when my kids were little. They were bouncing off the walls of the tent, and bedtime seemed impossible. We handed them a flashlight and invented a game of “shadow charades” on the spot. Suddenly, they were giggling instead of fussing, and bedtime became something we all looked forward to. That’s the magic of a simple flashlight.
If you’re new to camping, you’ll find these family camping tips for first-timers helpful. Trust me, the more prepared you are, the smoother everything goes.
The Best Flashlight Games for Kids and Families
Flashlight Tag
Think of this as hide-and-seek with a twist. One player is “it” and carries the flashlight, while everyone else hides in the dark. Instead of tagging someone with a hand, you tag them with the flashlight beam. The person caught becomes “it.”
This game is perfect for larger groups, especially if you have cousins or friends camping with you. Just set clear boundaries around your campsite so no one wanders too far.
Shadow Charades
This one’s calmer and works great when you’re winding down before bed. Shine a flashlight at the side of a tent or a flat wall, then use your hands to make shadow puppets. Everyone else guesses what the shape is supposed to be. You can also act out animals or objects like you would in regular charades.
Shadow games are surprisingly addictive—you’ll find adults getting just as competitive as the kids.
Flashlight Scavenger Hunt
Hide objects around your campsite before it gets dark, then hand out flashlights and a list of items to find. Whoever collects everything first wins.
You can make it nature-themed by asking kids to find pinecones, certain leaves, or rocks that sparkle. It’s a great way to help kids explore their surroundings safely. For ideas on what snacks to pack for scavenger hunts or late-night play, check out my list of kid-friendly camping recipes.
Firefly
One player is the firefly and holds a flashlight, turning it on and off as they move around. Everyone else tries to catch the “firefly.” The first person to tag them becomes the new firefly.
This game is fun in open fields where the light flickers are easy to see but tricky to chase. My kids love this one because it feels like they’re chasing real fireflies.
Catch the Light
If your kids are full of energy, this game is perfect for wearing them out. One person shines a flashlight beam on the ground and moves it quickly while the others chase it. Stop the light at random moments—whoever gets there first and “catches” the light wins.
We’ve played this for what feels like hours, and it’s amazing how something so simple can bring so much laughter.
Flashlight Limbo
Shine two flashlights in a straight line to form a “limbo bar.” Players take turns leaning back and trying to pass underneath without touching the beam. After each round, lower the “bar” until there’s only one winner left.
This game always ends with lots of giggles (and sometimes dramatic falls onto the grass).
Glow Stick Hide-and-Seek (with Flashlights)
Hand out glow sticks to all the hiders. The seeker uses a flashlight to find them. It’s more challenging than it sounds because the glow sticks give away just enough light to keep the game moving, but they make it safer since you can always spot where kids are.
The Best Flashlights for Flashlight Games
Not all flashlights are created equal, especially when kids are involved. For camping games, I recommend lightweight flashlights that are easy for little hands to hold, with a durable design that can handle a few drops. Look for models with adjustable beams so you can switch from a wide glow to a focused spotlight depending on the game. Headlamps are also a great option because they free up kids’ hands while they run, climb, or search during scavenger hunts. Rechargeable flashlights are eco-friendly and save money in the long run, but having a backup that runs on regular batteries is always smart when you’re outdoors.
| Flashlight | What Makes It Great for Flashlight Games |
|---|---|
| GearLight LED Mini Flashlight (5-mode, zoomable) | Small, lightweight, and handy. The zoomable beam lets you switch from wide to focused light. Great for games like Catch the Light or Flashlight Scavenger Hunt, because sometimes you want a broad glow, other times a sharp spot. (Often includes flood & spotlight modes.) |
| Headlamp (Waterproof, Adjustable Strap) | Hands-free is a game changer. When kids are playing tag, running, climbing, or crawling, a headlamp means no dangling light — just bright beams wherever they look. Plus good waterproof rating helps if evening dew sets in. |
| Rechargeable LED Flashlight, USB-C Input | Keeps things simpler — no need to carry tons of spare batteries. For camping trips, especially long ones, a rechargeable light saves space and worry. Also some models have moonlight or low-light modes so you don’t blind everyone playing Shadow Charades. |
| Tactical Flashlight with Multiple Brightness Settings | Useful when you need a burst of brightness (searching or high visibility) but also want dimmer settings. Tactical switch designs are nice for fast on/off or changing light levels, which works well when switching between games like Firefly and Flashlight Tag. |
| Glow / Lantern-Style Flashlight (Wide Spread / Flood Beam) | When you want ambient light — for hanging around the fire, telling stories, or just creating mood — flood-beam styles help. These are less about pointing beams and more about setting a cozy scene. Great for the “simple joys of camping nights” kind of moments. |
Safety Tips for Flashlight Games
Because these games happen in the dark, a few safety rules go a long way:
- Set clear boundaries around the campsite.
- Keep extra flashlights and batteries handy.
- Remind kids never to shine lights directly in someone’s eyes.
- Supervise younger kids, especially when playing near uneven ground.
For more outdoor safety guidelines, you can also check the National Park Service’s camping safety tips.
Adding Food and Fun to Your Evening
One of my favorite things about camping is how the fun continues after the games are over. Once we finish flashlight tag, we usually gather around the fire to roast marshmallows. If you’re looking for something a little different, you have to try my banana s’mores recipe. It’s now a tradition in our family, and the kids ask for it every single trip.
Playing games, telling stories, and then ending the night with a sweet treat—it doesn’t get much better.
Why You Should Try Flashlight Games
Flashlight games don’t require expensive equipment or lots of planning, but they create memories your kids will talk about for years. They’re also a great way to help children feel more comfortable outdoors and to make nighttime less intimidating.
The best part? You can play them anywhere: on a camping trip, in your backyard, or even indoors during a power outage.
FAQs About Flashlight Games
What age group are flashlight games best for?
Kids between 4 and 12 usually enjoy them the most, but teens and even adults often join in.
Can flashlight games be played indoors?
Absolutely! Darkened rooms work great for shadow charades, scavenger hunts, and even catch the light.
What do you need for flashlight games?
A flashlight (or several), extra batteries, and optional glow sticks. That’s it!
Are these games safe at night?
Yes, as long as you establish rules and keep a close eye on younger children. Stick to safe, open areas.
Can flashlight games replace screen time?
Yes! They’re a fun, active way to keep kids entertained without phones or tablets, especially when camping.
Flashlight games are one of those simple joys that bring families together. Whether you’re camping in the woods, spending time in your backyard, or just looking for something fun to do on a summer night, these games are guaranteed to add laughter and adventure.
So pack your flashlights, set some ground rules, and get ready to make nighttime one of the best parts of your camping trip. And if you’re still planning your adventure, don’t miss these family camping tips for first-timers—they’ll help you get started on the right foot.
For even more inspiration, REI has a great beginner’s guide to camping that’s packed with ideas to make your trip a success. Combine those tips with these flashlight games, and you’ll be set for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Paula studied architecture and now makes a living as a freelance writer,traveler and amateur photographer.She started her writing & publishing career as the editor of Bebé y Mamá, the first parenting magazine in Guatemala.She is the founder of www.GrowingUpBilingual.com and www.365thingsswfl.com and writes articles in Spanish and English for both magazines and the web on travel,food and bicultural and bilingual parenting .
When she is not on a plane or road trip she likes to create recipes inspired in the flavors of her native Guatemala.
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How cool! My kids would have a blast with these games. We’ll have to try them out.
My boys are going camping this weekend. I forgot about batteries so thanks for the reminder.
The right batteries are a must. Nothing worse than them going dead while having fun.
oh these are really easy and super fun games. Very creative! Have no idea how you came up with these. Thanks a lot.
i love when kids get a chance to go camp because it makes them learn they can have fun in so many easy ways. Energizer batteries are definitely still my favorite brand of batteries.
I haven’t done camping in my life but this is what I really wish to do with kids. Flashlight game would be big fun for kids.
I am a loyal user of Energizer battery. It lasts longer I always have stocks of them.
The games sound like great fun. I’m trying to reduce screen time for my children so something like this would be a fun alternative for them to entertain themselves.
I’ve never thought of playing flashlight games! This would have been so fun as a mod camping. L have to try them with my kids.
I prefer Energizer batteries too. 12 pack is good price at Walmart.
Great ideas! I can’t wait for the next family outing, so we can try shadow charades!
The child in me is itching to play some of these games. Would love to have a bunch of adult friends get together and try these!!!
I think it’s great and a very responsible thing you’re doing by disengaging your son from technology for a while. Kids need to learn how to think and use their imagination.
these games are all so fun. my two are smaller so we love shadow puppets!
These games are real fun, Camping in the backyard will be great. Yes with flashlight games it will be fun.
I never thought you can do many fun thing with a flashlight. The kids are going to love this.