After a morning at beach camp, most kids aren’t ready to call it a day — and honestly, neither are parents. The New Buffalo area makes it easy to keep the fun going without overplanning.
Here are a few of our favorite simple, go-to options after camp.
Keep It Easy: Head Back to the Beach
If your kids are already in “beach mode,” the easiest move is to stay there. At New Buffalo Beach (home to our beach camp!), you’ve got everything you need — a playground, snacks, and a scenic boardwalk along the dunes. It’s perfect for letting kids unwind while you relax a bit.
If you want something quieter, Cherry Beach offers a more peaceful, natural setting.
Burn Off Extra Energy
If your kids still have energy (and they usually do), Warren Dunes State Park is always a hit. Climbing the dunes, running down them, doing it all over again—it’s simple, but kids love it. (You can even try renting sandboards or sand sleds through Third Coast Paddling!)
Pick Something Sweet
One of the most fun (and easy) ways to round out the day is stopping at a local U-pick farm. Southwest Michigan is known as the “Fruit Belt,” so depending on the season, you can pick strawberries, blueberries, cherries, or peaches. It’s quick, hands-on, and kids love bringing home what they picked themselves.
Slow It Down
If your crew is getting a little tired (or you just want something easy), take a walk at Galien River County Park. The boardwalk trails and overlook tower make it fun for kids, but it’s also calm and shaded — perfect for winding down after a busy camp session. (Or explore the river by kayak or paddleboard with Third Coast Paddling!)
Switch It Up
Want a break from sand and water? Head to Captain Mike’s Fun Park. Go-karts, mini golf, bumper boats — it’s an easy win when kids want something different after camp.
Keep the Day Going (Without Overthinking It)
The best part about camp days here is how flexible they are. You don’t need a big plan — just pick one more stop and enjoy a little extra time together. Whether it’s one more swim, a dune climb, or picking fresh fruit, those simple moments are usually what kids remember most.