Music-Making in Camps: Enhancing Camper Experiences Through Outdoor Sound

For many, the memory of singing around a campfire is one of the most cherished parts of the camp experience. The warmth of the flames, the laughter of friends, and the rhythm of a familiar tune create a sense of connection that lasts long after the summer ends. But music at camp is more than just a nostalgic pastime - it’s a powerful tool for engagement, expression, and community-building.

So how can camps harness the power of music to enrich their programs and create unforgettable experiences for campers of all ages?

We explore this question in our sponsored blog with the American Camp Association - How can camps use music to enhance camper experiences, and why is it so important?

Music in the Great Outdoors

Outdoor musical instruments offer camps a unique opportunity to integrate music into daily life in a way that’s spontaneous, inclusive, and accessible. Whether installed along nature trails, in wellness gardens, or near activity zones, these instruments invite campers to explore sound, collaborate with others, and express themselves creatively—no prior musical experience required. They’re also incredibly versatile. Outdoor instruments are perfect for:

• Structured programming such as music workshops, talent shows, or themed activity sessions.
• Transition periods between scheduled activities, helping campers stay engaged and energized.
• Downtime moments, offering a calming, creative outlet for campers to unwind and connect.

Best of all, they require little to no supervision, making them an ideal resource for busy camp staff looking to provide meaningful, low-maintenance activities throughout the day.

To help camps get inspired, we’ve created a mini-catalog titled: Helping Summer Camps Hit All The Right Notes for some great inspiration and ideas.

Real Stories from Real Camps

Want to see how it works in practice? Check out our case studies featuring three incredible camps that have embraced outdoor music:

• Camp Lake Aurora – Where musical instruments have become a central part of spiritual reflection and group bonding.
• Camp Courageous – A camp serving individuals with special needs, where music is used to promote joy, inclusion, and sensory engagement.
• Camp Henry – A vibrant camp community that uses outdoor music to energize campers and create moments of shared creativity.

These stories show how camps are using outdoor musical instruments to inspire, energize, and engage their campers and staff in new and meaningful ways.