Field Games

Field Games are gloriously silly outdoor races and team challenges, inspired by the school sports day you either loved or dreaded. Think sack races, relays, balancing acts and games that are much harder than they look. They're also the perfect warm-up for Patrol Games, where your Patrol (the team you join when you arrive) battles the rest of Camp.

The egg and spoon race is a test of balance and nerve, and dropping the egg is practically tradition. The sack race is pure hopping chaos. The three-legged race ties you to a partner at the ankle and asks you to run as one, which tells you a lot about your friendship.

Tug of war sets two teams against each other on a long rope, and it's all about teamwork and grip. Relays pass a baton down the line at speed. The limbo asks how low you can go, and the answer is usually lower than your back would like. Add wheelbarrow races, hula hoops and giant team games and you've got the full sports day experience, minus the plastic medals.

Your Activity Leader warms everyone up, explains the games and shows you how each one works. Then you dive in, playing in teams or pairs through a run of races and challenges. It's the ideal chance to get a cheeky head start on Patrol Games, or to try the sillier stuff before you volunteer for it in front of a crowd. Dignity is optional. Laughing is not.

Completely. If you can hop, wobble and laugh at yourself, you're qualified. Most of the games reward timing, balance and teamwork over speed or strength, so the least sporty person in your group can easily turn out to be the hero of the three-legged race. It's a brilliant way to meet your Patrol and bond with strangers fast.

Clothes you can move in and closed-toe shoes with a good grip, like trainers. The games are played on grass and forest ground with roots and bumps, so leave the sandals and wellies in your tent. Bring water, as you'll work up a thirst.

You might also like Capture the Flag, Dodgeball and Scavenger Hunt.

See all Camp Wildfire activities