Thirty-five intriguing winter camping experiences we love

Brace yourself for the ultimate frosty adventure, my friends, because we're diving deep into the world of winter camping, a realm worthy of comparison to a riveting Game of Thrones episode - it's epic, unexpected, and downright chilly (pun intended).

As a veteran camper who's pitched a tent more times than I can count amidst snowy forests and frozen lakes, I've got the lowdown on how to make the most of these icy escapades. While summer campers are sweating their butts off in the sun, we winter warriors are busy building snow forts that would make John Snow envious.

Now, let's delve into our favorite activities that turn a winter wonderland into our personal playground. From snowball fights that'd make a sitcom star proud to moments that evoke a Zen garden in the snow, it's time to discover why braving the cold might just be the hottest thing in camping.

Winter is coming, and it's bringing a sled-load of fun with it!

Beginner-friendly Winter Camping Activities

Let's kick things off with some chill winter camping activities that'll make every beginner go YASSSS! Trust me, you're gonna love 'em!

Campfire

Gather 'round a giant campfire! (Assuming you don't get burned, you yolo-ing hooligans!) Having a cozy blaze is simply our numero uno thing to do in the winter months. The warmth and ambiance of a campfire is one of our favorite parts of camping, and we could sit by it for HOURS staring into the flames and poking at the logs, you flame-obsessed heathens!

Snowshoeing

Strap on a pair of snowshoes, and you'll feel like the love-child of Santa and Charlie Kirkland, the winter wilderness explorer extraordinaire. It's one of our favorite ways to breeze through deep snow, and we adore seeing the woods in their serene winter light.

Cross-Country Skiing

Gliding through the snow on skis is not only an excellent workout but also a peaceful way to unwind. We find that the rhythmic motion and quiet of a snowy forest is soothing, and the way the silence wraps you up like a winter blanket is truly enchanting.

Ice Fishing

There's a tranquil calmness to ice fishing, perched by a hole in the ice, waiting for a catch. It's a Zen-like experience, and you might just get a delicious fresh fish for dinner! Plus, ice fishing is a fantastic excuse to drink beer and hang out, so there's that.

Sledding or Tobogganing

When it comes to snow-based fun, nothing rivals the pure childlike joy of hurtling down a snowy hill on a sled or toboggan. I mean, who doesn't love to grab a handful of snow and shove it down their pants before sliding down the hill, freezing their buttocks off in the process?

Stargazing

Embrace the dark side (no pun intended) and step out of the campsite on a clear winter night to marvel at the vast canvas of stars stretching across the sky. The stars and constellations are more pronounced in the winter months, and if you're far enough north, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights. (Pro tip: use this tracker https://www.timeanddate.com/astronomy/northern-lights/prediction.html to see the possibility of catching the aurora borealis near you!)

Campfire Cooking

Cooking over an open fire adds an extra layer of flavor and adventure to your meals. And there's something deeply satisfying about warming your innards with a hearty stew while surrounded by snow and cold. Plus, a good meal never fails to remind you of that one time when you got food poisoning and almost died a slow, painful death.

Photography

Channel your inner Ansel Adams and capture winter landscapes' stark beauty through the lens of your camera. The way the light plays off the snow and ice creates breathtaking scenes, and, let's be honest, it's a great excuse to avoid conversations with your fellow campers.

Snowball Fight or Snowman Building

During our most recent snowstorm, I had just enough snow to build a miniature snowman army. Behold the magnificent sight! Your snowman doesn't have to win any major snow sculpture competitions, but it should at least serve as an adequate tombstone for your victims in the snowball fight to come.

Bird Watching

Did you know some birds stay put in the winter months? And they've got to get creative to stay warm, which is honestly adorable. Plus, they're ridiculously cute when they're all puffed up, looking like those plump, little marmalade-stuffed pastries.

Ice Skating

You can ice skate on a frozen pond or lake if you know what you're doing. Oh, you don't know what you're doing? Well, you'll figure it out after you take a header into the ice and look like a seal struggling to get back onto land! Just be careful not to mix those two extensive activities - ice skating and eating ice. They never go well together, and neither does your stomach or your dignity.

Hot Springs

Picture this: you're soaking in a hot spring surrounded by snow. It's a surreal and relaxing experience that contrasts the hot and cold in the most delightful way. If you're lucky, you might even find some natural hot springs. But if you're like me, you'll have to settle for a hot spring resort to soak away your troubles.

Building a Snow Shelter

There's something magical about constructing a snowy dwelling - it's like building a secret fort for grown-ups. But beware the chill, you icy imbecile, for snow can be a cruel and deceptive mistress, whispering promises of warmth only to leave you writhing in frostbite torment!

Tracking Animal Footprints

Investigate your winter surroundings like a stealthy wildlife detective. You'll learn to identify different animals by their tracks and discover fascinating insights into their winter habits. Plus, it's a fantastic excuse to seek out more of those adorable fluffy birds we talked about earlier.

Dog Sledding

One of my favorite winter activities is dog sledding! The dogs go nutso when it's time to run, and it's pure exhilaration to get pulled through the snow on a sled. Plus, it keeps the huskies from feasting on the corpses of their fallen foes.

Activities for the More Adventurous Winter Camper

For those seeking a taste of the subarctic adrenaline rush, winter camping opens up a world of exhilarating activities. If you're willing to venture into Type 2 fun, you'll find thrills, a deeper connection with winter wilderness, and probably some deep powder. Here's a list to get the adrenaline pumping:

Backcountry Skiing/Snowboarding

Instead of resort skiing, delve into the wild unknown by carving your own path through untouched snow, often in remote areas. This is for the hardcore winter warriors who don't mind putting in some serious effort. If exploring the backcountry is your thing, join a local group to find good spots and consider taking an Avalanche class.

Ice Climbing

Fanaticize about frozen waterfalls and icy cliffs that'll test your mettle, both physically and mentally. If you haven't done this before, consider seeking out a local guide to help you scale these icy behemoths with minimal frostbite or imminent demise.

Winter Mountaineering

Conquer snowy peaks and navigate harsh conditions, a true test of endurance, skill, and the resolve of your inner mountain goat. Call up a local outfitter if you fancy climbing a mountain but don't want the hassle of actually planning and preparing for the whole ordeal.

Fat Biking

Ride specially-designed bikes with oversized tires through snowy trails, a fun and challenging way to navigate winter terrain. I've even heard of some campers using their fat bikes for an ice cold beer tour!

Snowmobiling

Speed through winter landscapes on a snowmobile for the ultimate in winter transportation, a privilege usually reserved for the Scandinavian royalty.

Extreme Tobogganing

Elevate your sledding game with steeper and more challenging courses, adding a thrilling edge to a classic winter pastime.

Paragliding

Fly high above snowy mountains and valleys, soaring among winter's peaks and valleys in the sky, feeling like an eagle soaring among the clouds.

Each of these activities requires specialized equipment, knowledge, and often a higher level of physical fitness. So, first-timers, leave those fat bikes and snowmobiles alone for now, lest you bite off more than you can chew! Safety is paramount, so either have the appropriate training or hook up with a guide who does. For the adventurous camper, winter offers a playground of opportunities to challenge yourself and connect deeply with the beauty of the season.

Indoor Winter Camping Activities

Now, let's say you're blessed with the ability to retreat indoors, whether in an RV or nearby cozy accommodations. In that case, your list of winter activities can expand to include some that offer a break from the cold while still embracing that winter camping spirit. Here are some ideas:

Visit a Local Museum or Visitor Center

While your camping companions may be bickering about whose turn it is to stir the campfire, you can explore the area's rich history and culture at the local museum or visitor center. You might even find some useful info on nearby winter activities to supplement your camping experience!

Spa Day

Indulge in a luxurious spa day to rejuvenate and warm up after braving the cold outdoors. There's nothing quite like a warm spa after a cold day, all snuggled up in a fluffy robe, sipping on a delicious herbal tea while the candles flicker in the dimmed room. Aaaah, pure bliss!

Board Games and Puzzles

Gather your fellow campers for some friendly competition and bonding with board games or puzzles. Plus, board games are a fantastic way to avoid discussing the mundane minutiae of everyday life. Our go-to camping game is UNO!

Hot Cocoa and Movie Night

Warm up with a steaming cup of hot cocoa while watching a classic winter movie, like A Christmas Story or Die Hard. Just remember to download the movie onto your phone or tablet beforehand, and don't rely on the campground's sketchy Wi-Fi connection.

Local Winter Festivals

Check out if any winter festivals or events are happening nearby. You might be lucky enough to find an ice sculpture display, winter-oriented food tastings, or some other festive celebration.

Crafting

Invest in your creative side by crafting souvenirs or decorations for your campsite, arts and crafts-style. Just remember to bring your own supplies – you don't want to run out of beads in the middle of making that tacky snowflake necklace that'll remind you of the good ol' days of winter camping.

Reading

Get lost in a good book while curled up inside your tent or cabin. Pro tip: remember to bring a headlamp or book reading light, because let's face it – there's a lot of darkness during peak winter months!

Plan the Next Day's Activities

Take some time to map out the next day's adventures, ensuring you make the most of your trip. Last-minute planning? That's just symptoms of spontaneous adventure, don't ya know?! (Just make sure you've got a solid backup plan in case the weather turns nasty.)

Local Indoor Sports

Take advantage of local sports facilities to try out swimming or rock climbing. What better way to explore a new area than through the thrill of facing unfamiliar terrain in bone-chilling temperatures?

Music and Podcasts

Get cozy and connect with your higher self by listening to your favorite music or podcasts. Just beware the seductive call of sleep, lest you nod off while sitting in the back of the car and miss your exit.

Being able to retreat indoors doesn't mean the adventure has to stop; it just adds another layer of options to your winter camping experience. And let's face it, part of the joy of braving the cold is the warmth and comfort you'll find within the cozy embrace of your sleeping bag, nestled amidst the frosty wilderness.

And now, for those of you who are more interested in the aration than the information, let's do a quick FAQ for all you y'all who are too lazy to read the whole damn thing:

What are some popular winter camping activities?

Haven't figured it out yet, huh? Try campfires, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, sledding, stargazing, campfire cooking, photography, snowball fights, bird watching, ice skating, hot springs, building a snow shelter, tracking animal footprints, dog sledding, backcountry skiing, ice climbing, winter mountaineering, fat biking, snowmobiling, extreme tobogganing, paragliding, visiting museums, a spa day, board games, hot cocoa movie nights, local winter festivals, crafting, reading, planning the next day's activities, and more!

Is winter camping fun?

DUH! Of course, winter camping is fun! It's a unique blend of tranquil beauty, exhilarating activities, and a touch of the unexpected, not to mention the chance to test your mettle against the frosty wilderness. Just make sure you pack the right gear and be prepared for some unpredictable weather, and you'll be golden.

And there ya have it, my friends. Embrace the chill and let your winter camping adventure unfold! Don't forget to book your stay at the Walltown Arbor Lodge for those nippy winter nights, and remember: winter is coming!

P.S. Are you looking forward to diving into a good book? Check out my picks for the ultimate winter camping reads (sorry, you'll have to buy your own copies, cheapskates):

Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
The Commander-in-Chief's Handbook by Vice Admiral Rudy L. Kreibich
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
The Window by Amelia Engstrom

These books are sure to keep you warm and entertained on those frosty nights in the wilderness! Happy reading!

Take a break from the cold and explore local museums or visitor centers to learn about the area's history and culture.
Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa day after a day in the snow.
Bring board games or puzzles for indoor entertainment and friendly competition.
Create a cozy movie night with hot cocoa and your favorite winter-themed films.
Check out nearby winter festivals for ice sculptures, food tastings, and other seasonal celebrations.
Craft souvenirs or decorations while staying warm indoors, but don't forget to bring your own supplies.
Curl up with a good book and a headlamp for relaxation and entertainment, or listen to music or podcasts while enjoying the warmth indoors.