Camouflage Trail Nature Activity

Camouflage trail is a wonderful activity for increasing children's observational skills while trying to spot hard to see hidden objects. Start by finding a 50 to 75 foot section of trail or clear area that has a variety of trees, plants, and leaf litter and mark it with a piece of rope. The area should be relatively free of low growing plants so that players can see the ground. Place 16 to 24 manufactured objects along the trail, having them blend in with the ground cover. For variety, place objects at different heights and distances from the rope. Tell the players, walk carefully and count the total number of objects you see. You do not have to remember the different objects. To add suspense, keep the total number of hidden items a secret. As players finish the trail, they whisper to you the number of objects they have seen. Because players will be eager to find all the items, invite them to walk the trail again. After everyone has finished, gather the group at the beginning of the trail. Ask the players to walk with you along the trail and call out when you approach one of the hidden objects. You can, if you wish, end the game by discussing concepts such as adaptation and camouflage and look for animals that demonstrate protective coloration.