Bushcraft Woods/Campsite adventure

A night in the Woods

Parents/Gardians’ permission

The idea of having a mini adventure is that it’s designed to be fun, safe, and inspiring, but they must always be done with adult permission or supervision. All campouts, outdoor and bushcraft activities should be planned and carried out with the permission and support of a responsible adult.

You should never construct shelters, light fires, or use tools such as knives or stoves without adult supervision. Safety must always come first, and learning together enhances the experience even more. Every garden and woodland is unique, so ensure an adult assists in checking the area, setting up safely, and agreeing on what is acceptable to do.

Let’s make these adventures unforgettable for all the right reasons!

A First Real Bushcraft Sleepout for youth

Heading out for a night in the woods or a proper campsite? This is a brilliant next step after a garden sleepout—giving young adventurers a taste of the wild while staying safe and supported. Whether it’s in a forest, a family campsite, or a scout site, this overnight bushcraft camp is all about fun, confidence, and connection with nature.

🏕️ What You’ll Need

Shelter & Bedding

  • Tent or tarp setup with groundsheet

  • Sleeping bag (season-appropriate)

  • Roll mat or inflatable camping mattress

  • Pillow or stuff-sack jumper

Lighting & Safety

  • Headtorch or torch

  • Batteries or power bank

  • First aid kit (basic)

  • Phone or whistle for emergencies

  • Let someone know your location and plan

Food & Cooking

  • Camp stove, BBQ, or fire pit (check site rules)

  • Easy meals: pasta, sausages, baked beans, wraps

  • Water bottles or water container

  • Cups, plates, spork, and pan

Bushcraft Fun

  • Fire lighting (with flint and steel or matches)

  • Safe knife use: whittle a peg, chopsticks or butter spreader

  • Rope and tarp for shelter building

  • Bushcraft bracelet, cordage, or feather sticks

  • Tracking animals, tree ID, or foraging (with a guide)

Clothing

  • Warm layers—even in summer

  • Waterproofs and spare clothes

  • Boots or strong trainers

  • *Check the weather forecast

Extras

  • Notebook and pencil for observations or journaling

  • Playing cards, simple games

  • Hammock or camp chairs

  • Bin bag for rubbish

🌟 How to Set It Up

  1. Pick a Safe Spot: Use a campsite or designated wild camping area. Flat ground, no overhanging branches.

  2. Pitch Camp Together: Involve the young campers in setting up—learning how to pitch, peg, and create a cosy space.

  3. Bushcraft Activities: Try simple skills like knot tying, fire lighting, or campfire cooking. Let kids lead where they can.

  4. Explore: Walk the area, look for animal tracks, or do a nature scavenger hunt.

  5. Evening Campfire: Cook something tasty, share stories, and enjoy the sounds of the woods at night.

  6. Sleep Under the Stars: If it’s warm and dry, try leaving the flysheet off or using a tarp to stargaze from bed.

✅ Safety Tips

  • Adult supervision is essential (even from a nearby tent).

  • Teach knife and fire safety before using tools.

  • Keep a small first aid kit handy.

  • Know your location and have a plan in case of bad weather.

  • Pack out what you pack in—leave no trace.

🎉 Why It’s Worth It

A night in the woods is a memory-maker. Kids get a real taste of bushcraft, time away from screens, and the chance to challenge themselves in a safe, supported way. Whether it’s toasting marshmallows or watching the stars, this kind of mini adventure builds confidence and a love for the outdoors that can last a lifetime.

You’re not just going camping, you’re getting familiar with nature and the outdoors. 🏞️