Rock Painting

What you need

• Smooth, flat rocks (collect from the ground before the activity)
• Paint pens or acrylic paint with a small brush
• A cup of water for rinsing brushes
• A paper plate as a palette
• Optional: a clear coat spray or Mod Podge to seal finished rocks

How to play

1. 1.Each person collects 2-3 smooth rocks from around camp. Flat, palm-sized rocks hold paint best.
2. 2.Rinse rocks and let them dry fully. Paint does not stick to wet stone.
3. 3.Sketch a loose design in pencil first if needed. Simple shapes work best: animals, geometric patterns, words, emojis.
4. 4.Apply paint in thin layers. Let each layer dry for 5 minutes before adding details.
5. 5.Sign the back with the date and campsite (optional). Seal with a clear coat if available.
6. 6.Hide your finished rocks somewhere visible on the trail or near a trailhead for others to find.

Variations

• Rock swap: trade rocks with another camper at the trailhead.
• Camp markers: paint rocks to label gear areas or tent spots.
• Story rocks: each person paints a character; arrange them to tell a story around the fire.

Safety notes

• Only collect rocks from the ground - never remove rocks embedded in trails, stream beds, or protected areas.
• Use water-based, non-toxic paint around younger kids.
• Seal rocks before placing them outdoors so paint does not wash into water sources.