Create a fun game by drawing out a map of your campsite or backyard. Have someone hide several "treasures" around the location, then go out and collect them!

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What you'll need:

How to make it:

1. First survey the campground area  or backyard that you would like to use for your treasure hunt.
2. Take a piece of paper and a pencil with you to jot down notes so you can create your map.
3. Draw out your map and decide where the "treasures" will be hidden.
4. Mark hiding spots with a red or pink "X". (See photo 1, photo 2.)
5. Age your map by carefully crumpling it up in your hands. Open it back up then crumple it again.
6. Tear the edges of the paper to give it a worn look.
7. Add a small amount of brown paint (about the size of a dime) to 2 tablespoon of water. Mix together and use the watered down paint to darken the edges of your map. Water the mixture down even more and paint the entire map. Let dry in the sun.
8. Go and hide your treasures. Some ideas might include a small stuffed toy, a plastic fork, a stick with a scrap of material tied to it, and so on.
9. Make a list of the treasure that need to be found and any additional instructions. For example, in addition to finding the treasures, one instruction may by to stop at the big rocks by the water and use a bucket (that you placed there) to collect some water. Use the water in the bucket to water a tree.
10. To play the game, you can either tell the player what they are looking for or give them a list. Hand them the map and paper bag. They are to use the pink or red X's to find their treasures. Start the stopwatch and end it when they return with all the treasures. The player with the best time wins!

 

Tips:

• Be careful what you use as treasures. Be sure you remember where you put them so that they can be removed. You want to leave nature as you found it!
• Do not use food as a treasure. This can attract ants, bugs and even other animals.
• Roll up your treasure map and tie it with a piece or cord or string to save it for next time!