Drama games and why we love them!

At camp, some of our favorite moments happen in a simple circle with no props, no tech, and no plan — just games, laughter, and the freedom to be silly. Drama games are a huge part of that. They’re loud, fun, and full of unexpected moments that help campers connect, loosen up, and build confidence.

Here are some of our most-played and most-loved drama games at camp:

YEEHAW!

How it works:Campers stand in a circle and pass the energy using specific moves. Each action has its own direction or effect:

• Yeehaw! – Big lasso motion to the person next to you (continues in same direction)

• Hoe Down! – Bend one knee, one fist in the other hand (changes direction)

• Hay Barn! – Arms up overhead like a roof (skips one person)

• Cowgirl! – Hands on hips and a strong “Cowgirl!” shout (skips two people)

The goal is to keep the action moving smoothly. Hesitate, use the wrong move, or get confused — you're out. But usually, we’re too busy laughing to care.

Why we play it:It’s high-energy, great for group focus, and gets everyone engaged right away.

ZIP ZAP BONG

How it works:This fast-paced game is all about keeping up:

• ZIP – Passes the energy to the right

• ZAP – Sends it back to the left

• BONG – Sends it across the circle to anyone

Players have to stay alert and react quickly. One mistake or hesitation and you're out.

Why we play it:It’s quick, challenging, and perfect for big groups that want to test focus and speed.

BULLET CLAP

How it works:Everyone stands in a circle and claps together twice — “clap-clap” — staying in rhythm. One person starts the “bullet” by pointing to someone on the beat. That person picks it up on the next clap and sends it to someone else.

The rhythm never stops. If someone hesitates, goes off-beat, or misses their turn, they’re out.

Why we play it:It builds timing, rhythm, and group awareness — plus, it feels great when the whole circle is locked in.

ZOMBIE

How it works:Zombie is a fun and slightly spooky way to learn names. One camper becomes the “zombie” and slowly walks toward another player. That camper must say the name of someone else in the circle before the zombie tags them. If they succeed, the zombie turns and heads toward the new name. If they fail — they become the zombie.

Why we play it:It’s a creative, low-pressure way to help campers learn each other's names and stay alert. Plus, it’s always funny when the zombie gets this close before someone remembers a name just in time.

21

How it works:Campers take turns counting from 1 to 21, but the number of words spoken changes the rules:

• Say 1 number – next person continues

• Say 2 numbers – skip one person

• Say 3 numbers – reverse direction

Whoever says “21” is out. After each elimination, the group restarts at 1. Teams often form strategies to control who ends up with 21.

Why we play it:It’s a mix of math, memory, teamwork, and sneaky strategy. Campers love trying to trick each other and survive the round.

THE NAME GAME

How it works:Each camper introduces themselves with their name and a matching movement or gesture (e.g., “I’m Kai!” with a spin or dance). The group repeats the name and movement together. Go around until everyone has been introduced.

Why we play it:It’s a fun and active way to learn names, and it gives each camper a chance to express their personality right away.

SPLAT (Dry + Water Version)

Dry Version:One person stands in the middle and points at someone, shouting “SPLAT!” That person must duck, and the two people on either side try to splat each other. The slower one is out.

Water Version:Same rules — but we add water! Buckets, water balloons, or spray bottles make this version messy, fun, and perfect for hot days. Campers who are “splatted” might get soaked.

Why we play it:The dry version is all about speed and laughter. The water version is complete chaos — in the best way. Either version is a camp favorite that always ends in giggles.

Masking Tape Jousting 

How it works:Two players face off in a nose-to-nose duel. Each one has a small roll or ball of masking tape stuck to the tip of their nose. The goal? Knock off the other person’s tape using only your nose. No hands allowed.

Whoever loses must stand behind the winner, place their hands on the winner’s shoulders, and join their “team.” As more duels happen, the losers keep joining the growing line behind the winner — forming a marching parade of fans chanting the winner’s name.

By the end, there's a long, noisy conga line of campers cheering behind one triumphant tape warrior.

Why we play it:It’s hilarious, low-stress, and completely absurd in the best way. There’s no real prize — just the joy of getting weird and having the whole group come together in the name of nonsense.

Why We Love These Games

Drama games help campers:

• Break the ice without pressure

• Learn names and build group connection

• Gain confidence in being silly and expressive

• Sharpen focus, rhythm, and quick thinking

• Have a whole lot of fun — with zero equipment needed

So if you hear someone yell “COWGIRL!” or watch a zombie slowly shuffle across the rec field, don’t worry — it’s just another day of drama games at camp.

Got a game we haven’t tried yet? Bring it to the circle next session!