Gathering around a crackling campfire is a quintessential part of the camping experience. As the flames dance and the stars emerge, singing Campfire Songs together creates lasting memories and strengthens bonds. This beloved tradition, enjoyed by cowboys, soldiers, and families for generations, offers a unique way to relax, connect with nature, and share joyful moments.
Whether you’re planning a family camping trip, a weekend with friends, or a scout adventure, having the right campfire songs ready is essential. From storytelling ballads to silly singalongs, there’s a perfect campfire song for every group and occasion. Dive into our ultimate camping music playlist, featuring over 40 of the best campfire songs guaranteed to make your next outdoor gathering unforgettable.
Family-Friendly Campfire Songs | Adult Campfire Songs | Scout Campfire Songs | Enhance Your Camping Trip with KOA
A joyful family of four enjoys campfire songs as the dad plays guitar around a campfire.
Alt text: Happy family singing campfire songs with guitar around a cozy campfire.
20 Fantastic Family-Friendly Campfire Songs for Kids
Camping provides incredible experiences for families, offering adventures and opportunities to connect with nature. As evening approaches, and before sharing thrilling kid-friendly spooky campfire stories, gather everyone for a heartwarming singalong with these family-friendly campfire songs. These tunes are perfect for creating joyful moments and sing-along fun for all ages.
“Camp Granada”
“Camp Granada” is a comedic gem that evolved from “Hello Muddah, Hello Fadadduh,” a Grammy-winning parody by comedian Allan Sherman in 1963. A year later, Sherman crafted this now-iconic version, debuting it on “The Tonight Show With Johnny Carson.” This funny campfire song tells a story through letters home from a child at summer camp, detailing increasingly disastrous and hilarious camp experiences. Its catchy tune and repetitive chorus make it a guaranteed kid-pleaser around the campfire.
“Five Little Speckled Frogs”
“Five Little Speckled Frogs” is a classic nursery rhyme that doubles as a fantastic educational campfire song for young children. This counting song narrates the tale of five speckled frogs sitting on a log, each deciding to jump into the cool, refreshing water one by one. Beyond its singalong appeal, it subtly introduces the concept of subtraction in a fun and memorable way, making learning part of the campfire fun.
“I’m Being Swallowed By a Boa Constrictor”
Penned and originally performed by the celebrated children’s author Shel Silverstein, “I’m Being Swallowed By a Boa Constrictor” is a poem-turned-song later famously covered by Johnny Cash. Despite the slightly alarming title, this campfire song is pure comedic gold. Told from the perspective of someone being slowly consumed by a boa constrictor, the lyrics are lighthearted and utterly silly. Kids adore the escalating predicament and the humor in this unique and engaging song.
“Bumpin’ up and Down in My Little Red Wagon”
The origins of “Bumpin’ up and Down In My Little Red Wagon” may be unclear, but its popularity with young children is undeniable. This playful and repetitive song gained widespread recognition after being featured on Barney the Dinosaur’s “The Backyard Show.” Its simple lyrics and bouncy rhythm make it perfect for little ones to sing and act out, imagining their own bumpy ride in a little red wagon around the campfire.
“The Campfire Song Song” by Spongebob Squarepants
For families with “SpongeBob Squarepants” fans, “The Campfire Song Song” is an instant hit. Immortalized in “The Campfire Episode” of the show’s third season, this hilarious and meta song is sung by Spongebob, Patrick, and Squidward. Its absurdity and catchy tune, combined with the characters’ familiar voices, make it a fun and recognizable addition to any family campfire singalong.
“We’re Going on a Bear Hunt”
Inspired by a traditional tune popular in American summer camps in the 1970s, author Michael Rosen crafted the beloved children’s book “We’re Going On a Bear Hunt.” This story, about siblings bravely searching for a bear, became so popular that it was adapted into this cherished kid’s camp song. The repetitive and rhythmic nature of “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” encourages participation and movement, making it an interactive and exciting campfire song, especially for younger campers.
“The Green Grass Grew All Around”
“The Green Grass Grew All Around” is believed to stem from an Appalachian folk song tradition. It’s a quintessential example of a cumulative song, meaning each verse builds upon the last, adding a new element to the story. Starting with simple lyrics about green grass, it progressively adds a tree, a limb, a nest, an egg, and more. This structure makes it engaging for kids as they anticipate the next addition to the growing list, enhancing memory and participation.
“Alice the Camel”
“Alice the Camel” is a counting-down campfire song that tells the whimsical story of Alice, a camel who starts with five humps and gradually loses them all. Similar to “Five Little Speckled Frogs,” “Alice the Camel” provides a fun way for children to practice counting backward from five. Its simple structure and engaging narrative make it a delightful and educational song for campfire singalongs.
“On Top of Spaghetti”
“On Top of Spaghetti” is a humorous campfire song also known affectionately as “The Meatball Song.” Set to the melody of “On Top Of Old Smoky,” it recounts the comical tale of a meatball that tumbles off a plate of spaghetti and embarks on a rolling adventure. Its silly narrative and familiar tune make it a lighthearted and entertaining song for family campfire gatherings.
“B-I-N-G-O”
“B-I-N-G-O” is a universally recognized family-friendly hit that’s perfect for campfire singalongs. Kids especially love this song because it encourages both singing and clapping along as the letters of B-I-N-G-O are gradually replaced with claps. This interactive element makes it a lively and engaging campfire song for all ages to enjoy together.
“She’ll Be Coming ‘Round the Mountain”
“She’ll Be Coming ‘Round the Mountain” boasts origins dating back much further than its earliest recorded version from the 1920s. Its enduring popularity stems from its incredibly repetitive lyrics and simple melody, making it exceptionally easy for children of all ages to join in. This classic campfire song is perfect for large groups and ensures everyone can sing along and feel part of the campfire fun.
“Boom Chicka Boom”
Combine energetic singing with wonderfully nonsensical lyrics, and you get “Boom Chicka Boom,” a surefire family-friendly campfire hit. This song thrives on audience participation, with different verses prompting various vocal styles – from deep voices to whispers and even silly sounds. Its interactive and playful nature guarantees laughter and engagement from everyone around the campfire.
“My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean”
“My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean” stands out for its slower tempo and wonderfully repetitive chorus, making it an accessible and enjoyable campfire song for both children and adults. The gentle rhythm and familiar lyrics allow everyone to easily sing along, creating a calming and harmonious atmosphere around the campfire.
“John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt”
“John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt” is a beloved children’s song celebrated for its playful manipulation of volume and tempo. The song rhythmically increases and decreases in both speed and loudness throughout its verses, adding a dynamic and engaging element for singers. This variation keeps children entertained and actively involved in the campfire singalong.
“Home on the Range”
“Home on the Range” is an ideal campfire song for any outdoor retreat, perfectly capturing the spirit of nature and wide-open spaces. This classic tells stories of pioneers and cowboys in the old American West, evoking a sense of nostalgia and adventure. Its status as an American staple is cemented by the fact that Franklin D. Roosevelt declared it his favorite song during his presidency.
“Baby Shark”
“Baby Shark” became a global viral sensation, instantly making it one of the most recognizable and requested songs on any family-friendly campfire song list. Singing “Baby Shark” is not just about the tune; it’s essential to include the iconic hand motions that accompany it. This interactive element makes it incredibly popular with kids and adds a fun, energetic dimension to campfire singing.
“Ain’t No Bugs On Me”
Any seasoned camper knows that along with the beauty of the outdoors comes the inevitable presence of pesky bugs. “Ain’t No Bugs On Me” humorously acknowledges this universal camping experience. This lighthearted song embraces the reality of nature’s little annoyances in a singable and relatable way, perfect for a campfire setting.
“Do Your Ears Hang Low?”
“Do Your Ears Hang Low” is a simple and silly family-friendly campfire song that playfully pokes fun at the floppy ears of animals like rabbits and hound dogs. Its repetitive questions and actions make it easy for even the youngest campers to participate and giggle along, making it a delightful addition to a lighthearted campfire singalong.
“The Wheels on the Bus”
“The Wheels on the Bus” is a timeless classic for school children everywhere. Consider including this familiar tune in your campfire songs, especially if you have young children who are about to start school. Its repetitive verses about different parts of the bus and their actions make it a comforting and engaging song for little ones in a new environment.
“Baby Bumblebee”
“Baby Bumblebee” is a cute and slightly cautionary campfire song that tells the story of a child’s encounter with a bumblebee. The narrative follows the child’s excitement at finding the bee, wanting to show it to their mother, and the inevitable sting that leads to a rather abrupt end for the bumblebee. This song offers a mix of sweetness and a touch of humor, perfect for engaging young campers.
Adults playing guitar and singing campfire songs around a bonfire at night.
Adult Campfire Songs: Classics for a Singalong
Campfire songs aren’t just for kids! There’s a rich repertoire of country campfire songs and funny campfire songs perfect for adult gatherings. For an enhanced experience, bring along a guitar and strum along to these classic hits, creating a memorable and musical evening under the stars. These songs are ideal for creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for adult campers.
“Take Me Home Country Roads” by John Denver
“Take Me Home Country Roads” experienced a resurgence in popularity when a medley of country music stars covered this John Denver classic. The song has evolved into the unofficial anthem of West Virginia and resonates deeply with small-town, rural communities across America. Its heartfelt lyrics and singable chorus make it a perfect campfire anthem for adults.
“Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond
Neil Diamond penned “Sweet Caroline” in 1969 as a tribute to his then-wife. While her actual name was Marsha, he needed a three-syllable name to fit the song’s rhythm, and thus, “Sweet Caroline” was born. This feel-good song with its iconic “bah bah bah” chorus is a crowd-pleaser and a must-sing for any adult campfire gathering.
“Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison
A timeless love anthem for couples everywhere, Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl” is an upbeat and joyful song to sing—and clap—along to around the campfire. Its catchy melody and celebratory lyrics make it a fantastic choice for creating a fun and romantic atmosphere under the stars.
“Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show
The band Old Crow Medicine Show crafted “Wagon Wheel” using melodies Bob Dylan had created for a movie back in 1973. This song, with its banjo riffs and opportunities for vocal harmonies, is a favorite among musicians and harmonizers. Famously covered by Darius Rucker in 2013, “Wagon Wheel” has become a modern classic for adult campfire singalongs.
“Ring of Fire” by Johnny Cash
It would be challenging to find someone unfamiliar with the lyrics to this iconic song by “The Man in Black,” Johnny Cash. Since its original release, “Ring of Fire” has been reinterpreted by artists across diverse genres, including pop and rock, showcasing its enduring appeal. Its distinctive mariachi-style horns and passionate lyrics make it a powerful and recognizable campfire song.
“You Are My Sunshine”
“You Are My Sunshine” is a sweetly simple and universally loved anthem. Beyond its widespread appeal, it also holds the distinction of being the state song of Louisiana. Its heartwarming lyrics and easy melody make it a comforting and uplifting song for campfire gatherings.
“Edelweiss” From “The Sound of Music”
“Edelweiss” offers a unique and gentler tone compared to other campfire songs, largely due to its musical theater origins. Featured in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s beloved production, “The Sound of Music,” “Edelweiss” is often chosen by campers who want to slow down the pace as the night winds down. Its peaceful melody and nostalgic lyrics create a serene and reflective campfire atmosphere.
“American Pie” by Don McLean
“American Pie” is an epic eight-minute song widely hailed as a rock-and-roll anthem of America. Its cultural significance is so profound that in 2015, the original handwritten lyrics were auctioned in New York for an astounding $1.2 million. While lengthy, its storytelling and singalong chorus make it a memorable and ambitious choice for a campfire performance.
“Chicken Fried” by Zac Brown Band
While considered more modern than many campfire classics, “Chicken Fried” by the Zac Brown Band has quickly become a popular choice. Released in 2005, it has since cemented itself as a go-to campfire song. Its themes of simple pleasures, patriotism, and down-home values resonate with many, making it a contemporary favorite for adult campfire singalongs.
“Stand By Me” by Ben E. King
“Stand By Me” is a gospel-infused anthem from the 1960s that speaks to the power of friendship and support. It’s a perfect song for any group of friends gathered around a campfire, celebrating their bond and time spent together. Its soulful melody and heartfelt message make it a timeless and meaningful campfire song.
Three boys in scout uniforms in a forest setting.
Classic Campfire Songs for Scouts: Tradition and Fun
No Scout camping trip is complete without traditional Scout campfire songs! These songs foster camaraderie, tradition, and pure fun. Here are 10 of the most well-known Scout songs perfect for your troop to sing on their next outdoor adventure. These classic tunes are designed to build spirit and create lasting memories for scouts of all ages.
“Campfire’s Burning”
“Campfire’s Burning” is explicitly written to be sung around a glowing fire, as clearly reflected in its lyrics. Troop leaders often use “Campfire’s Burning” as a signal to gather everyone around the fire, setting the stage for an evening of songs and stories. Its simple melody and direct theme make it an ideal opening song for a Scout campfire.
“Hail, Hail the Gang’s All Here”
“Hail, Hail the Gang’s All Here” serves as an enthusiastic greeting song, perfect for kicking off a Scout camping trip on a positive and energetic note. It’s a great way to quickly capture the attention of all campers and build a sense of unity and excitement right from the start.
“A Song That Gets on Everybody’s Nerves”
Scout campers have a particular fondness for “A Song That Gets on Everybody’s Nerves.” True to its name, this song intentionally repeats just one line— “I know a song that gets on everybody’s nerves, and this is how it goes” —over and over again. Its sheer repetition and slightly annoying nature are precisely what make it a hilarious and engaging song for scouts.
“Girl Scouts Together”
For camping trips with Girl Scout troops, singing “Girl Scouts Together” is a meaningful way to reinforce the values of Girl Scouting. The lyrics remind campers of what it means to be a Girl Scout – emphasizing good deeds, friendliness, and service to their communities and country. It’s a song that promotes unity and pride in Girl Scouting.
“We Are the Boy Scouts of America”
Since the Boy Scouts of America was founded in 1910, “We Are the Boy Scouts of America” has become one of the most recognizable and emblematic Boy Scout songs. It’s a powerful anthem that instills pride and belonging in Boy Scouts, celebrating the organization’s values and mission.
“Ging Gang Gooli”
Younger campers especially adore “Ging Gang Gooli” due to its nonsensical lyrics and catchy, rhythmic beat. The opening lines, with their playful sounds, are instantly engaging:
Ging gang gooli, gooli, gooli, gooli watcha
Ging gang goo, ging gang goo
Heyla, heyla sheyla
Heyla, sheyla heyla ho
This song’s silliness and rhythmic nature make it a guaranteed hit for keeping young scouts entertained around the campfire.
“Brownie Smile Song”
The “Brownie Smile Song” is specifically written for Brownies in Girl Scouts. It’s a short, simple, and cheerful song designed to be easily learned and sung by young Brownie Scouts. Its brevity and positive message make it perfect for capturing the attention of younger children and fostering a happy campfire atmosphere.
“I’m a Girl Scout Daisy”
Girl Scout Daisies, comprising girls in Kindergarten and first grade, are introduced to the values of fun, sharing, and leadership. “I’m a Girl Scout Daisy” is a straightforward song that reinforces these core values in a way that’s easily understandable for young Daisies. It helps instill a sense of identity and purpose within the youngest Girl Scouts.
“Make New Friends”
“Make New Friends” is a classic Scout campfire song that carries a valuable message about friendship: “Make new friends, but keep the old.” It’s an excellent song for encouraging interaction and breaking the ice among new Scout members, while also honoring existing friendships within the troop.
“I Met a Bear”
“I Met a Bear” is an engaging call-and-response song that requires a leader to sing the verses, with campers repeating key phrases throughout. The song narrates a humorous encounter with a bear, culminating in a comical escape up a tree. Its interactive format and funny story make it a highly entertaining and participatory campfire song for scouts.
Start Planning Your Next Camping Trip with Campfire Songs in Mind
If you’re feeling inspired to gather around a campfire and sing these songs, it’s time to start planning your next camping trip at KOA today. KOA offers diverse lodging options to suit every camper’s needs, including:
- Tent Sites: For a traditional camping experience.
- RV Sites: With full hookups for recreational vehicles.
- Camping Cabins: Offering a step up from tents with basic amenities.
- Deluxe Cabins: Providing more home-like comforts for a relaxing stay.
- Unique Lodging: From yurts to Airstreams, for a memorable camping experience.
Lodging options can vary by campground, so check the specific KOA location you’re interested in to see what’s available!
Every KOA guest enjoys access to convenient amenities such as laundry facilities, clean restrooms with hot water, playgrounds for kids, and a well-stocked KOA Store. Many KOA campgrounds also offer unique features and amenities, like swimming pools, game rooms, and mini golf, enhancing your camping experience.
Ready to hit the road? KOA has over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada, making it easy to find a perfect campground on your route. Plus, you can save 10% on every camping stay with KOA Rewards, making your outdoor adventures more affordable.
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About Kampgrounds of America (KOA)
Kampgrounds of America is the world’s largest system of open-to-the-public campgrounds, boasting over 500 locations across the United States and Canada. Founded in Billings, MT, in 1962, KOA’s family of campground brands – KOA Journey, KOA Holiday, and KOA Resort – welcomes over a million camping families each year. KOA is dedicated to “connecting people to the outdoors and each other” by delivering diverse camping experiences and providing valuable information to maximize every camping trip. Explore more camping and travel resources at KOA.com/blog.
