Why Outdoor Musical Instruments Are a Must-Have for Summer Camps

For many, the sound of singing voices around a campfire is one of the most cherished memories of summer camp. The warmth of the flames, the strum of a guitar, and the joy of communal singing create a powerful sense of connection and nostalgia. But music at camp can be so much more than a fireside tradition—it can be a transformative tool for emotional expression, social bonding, and inclusive play.

So how can camps use music to enhance the camper experience—and why is it so important?

Music as a Core Part of the Camp Experience

Music is a universal language that transcends age, ability, and background. At camp, it becomes a powerful tool for:

• Building community through shared musical experiences
• Encouraging self-expression in a safe, creative environment
• Supporting emotional well-being and reducing stress
• Fostering inclusion by engaging campers of all abilities

Whether it’s a structured music session, a spontaneous jam, or a quiet moment of reflection with sound, music helps campers connect—with themselves, with each other, and with nature.

Outdoor musical instruments are a perfect match for the camp environment. Durable, weather-resistant, and accessible to all, they invite campers to explore sound and rhythm in the great outdoors. Percussion Play instruments are all designed to be intuitive and inclusive—no musical training required.

These instruments are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways:

• Structured programming: Music sessions, rhythm workshops, or creative arts electives
• Unsupervised downtime: Free play areas where campers can gather, jam, and create their own music
• Transition pathways: Installed along trails or between activity zones to keep campers engaged as they move from one activity to another
• Lakeshores, quiet zones, or under cover: Ideal for reflective moments, sensory breaks, or low-energy times of day

Wherever they’re placed, these instruments become natural gathering points—spaces where creativity, collaboration, and joy flourish.

Don’t just take our word for it—see how camps across the country are already using music to elevate their programs:

• Lake Aurora Christian Camp integrated outdoor instruments into their nature-based programming, creating a space for reflection and creativity.
• Camp Courageous used music to support campers with special needs, offering a joyful and accessible outlet for expression.
• Camp Henry brought music into their leadership and team-building activities, using rhythm and collaboration to strengthen camper bonds.
• Camp Beausite created inclusive musical spaces for campers with disabilities, using outdoor instruments to foster connection and joy.
• JCC Camp Centerland added outdoor musical instruments to enhance their lakeside environment, encouraging spontaneous play and group music-making.

These case studies show how music can be seamlessly woven into camp life, enriching the experience for campers and staff alike.

We’ve partnered with the American Camp Association to share insights and inspiration in our sponsored blog:

👉 Music-Making in Camps - How can camps use music to enhance camper experiences, and why is it so important?

And don’t miss our mini-catalog: Helping Summer Camps Hit All The Right Notes
Packed with ideas, product highlights, and real-world examples, it’s a must-read for any camp looking to bring more music into their programming.

Ready to Bring Music to Your Camp?

Whether you're planning a new activity zone, updating your sensory spaces, or simply looking for new ways to engage your campers, music can help you hit all the right notes.

Let’s make this summer unforgettable—one beat, one note, one joyful sound at a time.

Contact Us today to learn how outdoor musical instruments can transform your camp experience.