Looking for the best camp songs for kids? Here’s a list to cover your needs!
Camp songs have been a beloved part of childhood memories for generations. Singing camp songs creates an atmosphere of joy and fun, while also teaching kids valuable lessons in community, cooperation and friendship. These are the same values that have kept many of these camp songs alive since the late 18th century, though it is believed that some of the more traditional songs can be traced back even further.
So, whether it’s silly camp songs with actions, like “The Hokey Pokey,” or sweet melodies like “Kumbaya”, camp songs bring kids together in a way that is both educational and entertaining. Join us as we explore the heritage and traditions behind 30 of the most popular and fun camp songs for kids. In our list you’ll find all kinds of campfire songs to choose from!
Table of Contents
- 7 Tips for making the best out of camp songs for kids
- 30 Campfire Songs for kids
- Camp Songs for kids – Playlist
7 Tips for making the best out of camp songs for kids
- Choose songs that meet the age and the needs of the kids’ group. Older children may like more complicated songs and lyrics, while the younger ones will prefer simple and catchy songs with repetitive lyrics and movements. Likewise, some times are for action and fun, while others are for relaxation and calmness.
- Encourage singing along and involvement. Campfire songs are a great way to get kids involved, to sing along and join in with any hand motions or other song-related movements.
- To keep things interesting, think a bit like a DJ! You can mix up the songs to an interesting medley. You can even combine different songs in one: if your group is large enough, you can divide them into smaller groups that will sing their song as a call-response or a round!
- Encourage children to create their own songs. Let their endless imagination take over to create original camp songs or modify old songs to suit their personal taste. To our experience, this is one of the most exciting activities when it comes to campfire singing!
- Maintain a pleasant and lively mood. Anyway, campfire songs are supposed to be a fun and engaging pastime. Encourage them to enjoy themselves and the experience, and not be too competitive or judgemental.
- We all know that camping is about bonding. Camp songs are a great way for kids to connect and build relationships with each other. Songs with movements or hand gestures especially, encourage youngsters to sing and work together as a team.
- Keep calm, let go and enjoy yourself. Be patient and have fun with the kids; Remember to make things fun and lighthearted, and encourage them to enjoy themselves.
30 Campfire Songs for kids
1
If You’re Happy and You Know It
This is a popular campfire song for kids, as it’s an easy way to get them involved and engaged.
The lyrics are simple yet fun, encouraging children to move their bodies in different ways depending on the emotion they are expressing – clapping hands, stomping feet, swishing tails, etc.
The chorus of the song reinforces its message of happiness – if you’re happy and you know it, show it!
If You’re Happy and You Know It lyrics to print out
You can also check out our 7+1 Friendship Songs for Preschoolers
2
Hokey Pokey
The song ‘Hokey Pokey’ is a classic campfire song for kids of all ages and grown-ups as well!
It is about putting different body parts into an imaginary circle and shaking them about, singing along to the catchy chorus. It’s very popular in kindergartens to promote movement coordination to toddlers and to even teach them the parts of the body!
Hokey Pokey lyrics to print out
3
Old MacDonald Had a Farm
This is one of the most popular songs for kids in the English-speaking world. In Old MacDonald’s farm you can find a lot of animals and listen to their voices.
The song is popular as a campfire song for kids because of its repetitive and easy to learn lyrics. It also promotes learning animal names and the sound they make.
Old MacDonald Had A Farm lyrics to print out
4
The Ants Go Marching
The Ants Go Marching is a popular campfire song for kids that encourages movement and coordination.
The lyrics of the song are simple and easy to remember; It shares the same melody with the song The Animals Went In Two by Two.
The Ants Go Marching lyrics to print out
5
The Itsy Bitsy Spider
This is a traditional song about a spider that tries to climb up the waterspout and the troubles that occur on her way. It is usually accompanied by a sequence of gestures that mimic the words of the song.
As a campfire song, it encourages children to move their bodies and use their imagination.
Itsy-Bitsy Spider lyrics to print out
6
I’m a Little Teapot
“I’m a little teapot” was written in order to teach children a dance routine.
The song tells the story of a teapot that can turn itself over and pour out tea. It’s a popular campfire song for kids and helps young children learn body parts, coordination and even tea-drinking!
I’m a Little Teapot lyrics to print out
7
One, Two, Buckle My Shoe
The song ‘One, Two, Buckle My Shoe’ is an easy and fun counting song that also encourages coordination. It follows the story of a person who has to buckle their shoe in order to go and play.
As a campfire song for kids, ‘One, Two Buckle My Shoe’ is popular due to its catchy tune and simple lyrics, which makes it easy for kids to remember and sing along.
One two buckle my shoe lyrics to print out
8
The More We Get Together
This is a classic campfire song for kids that celebrates friendship and togetherness.
The lyrics of the song share the message that when we all get together, no matter where we come from or how we look, we can be happy and have fun together.
The More We Get Together lyrics to print out
9
The Wheels on the Bus
‘The Wheels on the Bus’ is a popular campfire song for kids that encourages participation and gets everyone singing along.
The song follows the story of a bus ride, singing about its tires and passengers, which makes it an exciting song for kids to learn and join in with.
Wheels on the Bus lyrics to print out
10
Boom Chicka Boom
“Boom Chicka Boom” is another favourite campfire song for kids of all ages! It has the form of a repeat after me song. It’s great for group singing and endless improvisation, while practicing on the elements of music, such as pace, dynamics, and timbre.
The kids will like it and will also have a wonderful time laughing while releasing some energy.
Boom Chicka Boom lyrics to print out
11
Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes
Kids love “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes” because they can play with something they know well, the parts of the human body. Throughout this song, the four parts of the human body mentioned are gradually substituted by a sound (the sound of a percussion instrument, a clap or the any other body-generated sound).
Head Shoulders Knees and Toes lyrics to print out
12
The Farmer in the Dell
“The Farmer in the Dell” is one of the most classic campfire songs for kids.
It’s an interactive sing-along and game in which children choose different animals to join the farmer in the dell, and it’s a great way for them to learn animal names. The melody is similar to that of A-Hunting We Will Go.
The Farmer in the Dell lyrics to print out
13
Kumbaya
This lovely old spiritual song creates an atmosphere of peace and harmony that will make everyone feel connected to one another.
The song is known from the 20’s and during the decades of the 50’s and the 60’s it became popular in scouting and summer camps.
In Gullah – a language that was spoken by slaves in South Carolina and Georgia- it means “Come by Yuh” or “Come by Here”, and refers to the help of God.
Kumbaya lyrics to print out
14
Hickory Dickory Dock
“Hickory, Dickory, Dock” is a nursery rhyme often sung as a counting-out song.
It’s a great campfire song for kids because its rhythm is easy to remember and it encourages them to move their bodies as they sing.
Hickory, Dickory, Dock lyrics to print out
15
She’ll Be Comin’ Round the Mountain
Kids that are impatient to move about will love this song. It’s a fantastic approach to convey the idea of following instructions.
Children will enjoy copying the animals stated in “She’ll Be Coming ‘Round the Mountain” since the actions are simple to follow. The children can choose to dance along, simulating each motion—from eating spaghetti to riding a horse—or they can simply clap along as they sing.
She’ll Be Coming Round the Mountain lyrics to print out
16
Kookaburra
“Kookaburra” is a lovely Australian nursery rhyme about a native Australian bird of the Kingfisher family, whose loud call sounds are like echoing human laughter. The name is a loanword from Wiradjuri guuguubarra, onomatopoeic of its call. This campfire song for kids is perfect for singing and moving around, since its rhythm follows the tempo of the bird’s call.
Kookaburra lyrics to print out
17
This Land Is Your Land
Another classic song that arises feelings of patriotism and togetherness is “This Land Is Your Land”, written in 1940 by Woody Guthrie. It’s a great anthem for all ages. During summer camp activities and campfires, this song will encourage the spirit of collaboration and inclusion among group members.
18
Home on the Range
“Home on the Range” is a classic western folk song that expresses an idealised and romantic perspective of the past. This song will be especially popular with kids because of its anthem-like chorus and its beautiful imagery. By participating in campfire songs, children build a sense of camaraderie, as well as an appreciation for the beauty of nature.
Home on the Range lyrics to print out
19
Camp Granada (Hello Muddah, Hello Fuddah)
This popular novelty tune from the 1960s is sung from the perspective of a little kid who is away from home at a summer camp. It has many amusing phrases and rhymes for children as well as many subtle jokes for adults to adore. A fantastic option for the entire team!
20
You Are My Sunshine
Being one of the most covered songs in popular music history, “You Are My Sunshine” has a light and happy melody that will help to bring life to any campfire. Kids will feel an instant connection with the song and they’ll be able to relate to its message of love and friendship.
You Are My Sunshine lyrics to print out
21
On Top Of Spaghetti
The traditional campfire song “On Top of Spaghetti” will have everyone singing along. Being the goofy and entertaining version of the famous “On Top of Old Smokey” song, it is great for kids of all ages and is sure to make everyone grin. It is the ideal tune for a camp sing-along because the lyrics are straightforward and simple to recall.
On Top of Spaghetti lyrics to print out
22
Five Little Monkeys
A fun and easy song for kids, “Five Little Monkeys” is a great way to keep children engaged in campfire activities. The song is about five mischievous monkeys jumping on the bed, one-by-one. It’s an ideal camp song for preschoolers; toddlers love to sing along and jump around having great fun!
Five Little Monkeys lyrics to print out
23
There Ain’t No Bugs On Me
Kids who are a little bit afraid of insects will love this camp song. They’ll be singing and dancing along in no time thanks to the catchy song. Using a banjo will even earn you some bonus points.
24
The Song That Doesn’t End
A timeless children’s song that has thrilled audiences for ages is The “Song That Doesn’t End.” It is a story about a group of friends that sing an unending song, written by Shari Lewis. It’s a great option for young kids because to the catchy music and straightforward words, and adults will no doubt relate to the theme of perseverance as well.
25
Five Little Speckled Frogs
This song is an ideal choice to spread good vibes and encourage team spirit. It’s also a great way to teach kids counting skills, as they learn to recite the numbers in order. It’s an easy-to-learn song that kids will enjoy, especially when they get to copy the frogs’ motions.
26
There’s A Hole In The Bucket
A classic English nursery rhyme about a humorous problem-solving adventure is “There’s A Hole In The Bucket.” This sing-along song is a great way to introduce children to the concepts of problem-solving and cooperation. It’s a great camp song for preschoolers and will have everyone clapping and singing along.
Hole in the Bucket lyrics to print out
27
Going on a Bear Hunt
Here’s another great camp song for preschoolers and younger kids. Acting out each verse will take it to the next level and help the youngsters release more energy. For the younger crowd, chuckles are a certain.
Going on a Bear Hunt lyrics to print out
28
Daisy Bell (Bicycle Built for Two)
This classic song is sure to bring back sweet memories and it’s also a great one for kids.
Daisy Bell (Bicycle Built for Two) is an old-time classic that has been covered by many popular singers over the years. It’s a joyous and happy song that’s perfect for a campfire sing-along.
Daisy Bell (Bicycle built for two) lyrics to print out
29
Oh Susanna
This classic American folk song about being on a journey is an absolute must for campfire sing-alongs. It’s sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face and have them singing along in no time. Kids will love the upbeat melody and they’ll quickly learn the lyrics.
Oh, Susanna! lyrics to print out
30
B-I-N-G-O Song
This classic and fun children’s song is an absolute must for campfires. Kids will love singing along to the familiar chorus and they can act out the motions to boot. It is a great way to help introduce children to letters and numbers in an engaging manner.
B-I-N-G-O song lyrics to print out
Campfire songs are a beloved tradition that has been passed down through generations. They bring people together, spread joy, and create wonderful memories. So the next time you get the opportunity to gather around a campfire with family or friends, be sure to sing along and enjoy the moment!
Camp Songs for kids – Playlist
Play these 30 catchy songs on Spotify.
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