Get outside and play! Our free backyard scavenger hunt printable is a fun, easy way to help kids explore and enjoy nature this summer.
When the weather is nice and the kids are bouncing off the walls, sometimes the best activities are the simplest. That’s why I love pulling out this Backyard Scavenger Hunt—it’s screen-free, easy to set up, and gets everyone outside exploring nature right in your own yard.
Whether you’re looking to sneak in a little fresh air before dinner or keep the kids occupied while you enjoy your coffee in peace, this free printable scavenger hunt is a quick win you’ll turn to again and again.
Why We Love Backyard Scavenger Hunts
Honestly, this is one of my favorite go-to summer activities because:
- It’s completely free and literally takes two minutes to set up—just print and head outside!
- It works for all ages—your preschooler can spot the grass and birds, while older kids love the challenge of finding something like a stick shaped like a letter.
- It’s a sneaky way to get the kids to use their brains and senses without a single screen in sight.
- It’s perfect for solo play or sibling teamwork (which, let’s be real, is a win for us).
- It gets everyone moving and breathing in that fresh air, even when we don’t have time for a big outing or planned activity.
What They’ll Be Looking For
The printable has simple, nature-inspired items that make your backyard feel like a mini adventure. Your kids will be on the lookout for:
- A patch of grass
- A bird flying or perched nearby
- A shadow (their own counts!)
- A smooth rock
- A tree or branch
- A buzzing bee
- A dandelion
- A trail of ants
- A piece of trash to pick up (great for teaching responsibility!)
- A butterfly fluttering by
- A spider web (just don’t touch it!)
- A stick shaped like a letter of the alphabet
How to Use Your Scavenger Hunt Printable
Here’s how we make it work at our house (no Pinterest-level prep required):
- Print a copy for each kid (or let them share if they’re good at taking turns).
- Hand them a clipboard and pencil—or just let them check things off in their heads if they’re little.
- Set a timer to turn it into a race or just let them wander and explore.
- Chat about what they found afterward—mine always surprise me with the little things they notice.
Pro Tip: Laminate your sheet if you want to reuse it all summer long. We just keep one clipped to the fridge and grab it anytime someone says “I’m bored.”
More Screen-Free Outdoor Fun
Looking for more ways to keep the kids playing, learning, and connecting outdoors? Don’t miss these reader favorites:
- Summer Minute to Win It Games – Quick, silly games that are perfect for backyard parties
- Summer Bingo – Another great printable for low-prep backyard fun
Share the Fun!
Did your kids find a stick shaped like a letter or spot a butterfly? I’d love to see their finds! Tag me on Instagram @MicheleTripple so we can celebrate their discoveries together—and maybe inspire another family to head outside today.
Making Summer Simple and Special
At Confessions of Parenting, we’re all about making everyday moments count. This backyard scavenger hunt isn’t just an activity—it’s an opportunity to slow down, explore together, and remind our kids that fun doesn’t always need a screen or a schedule.
So go ahead—print it out, step outside, and start discovering what’s hiding in plain sight in your own backyard.
Grab your free printable now in our Summer Family activity bundle and start your scavenger hunt today!
Michele Tripple is a renowned author and expert in the fields of parenting, relationships, and personal development. She is a certified Life Coach with her degree in marriage and family studies, her experience as a Family Life Educator, and over a decade of experience as a professional writer; Michele has authored books that provide practical advice and insights into improving family dynamics and personal growth. Her work is celebrated for its blend of research-driven information and relatable, real-world applications. Michele has been a keynote speaker at conferences and has contributed to numerous publications and media outlets, solidifying her reputation as an authoritative voice in her field and helping families build relationships.