{4th of July themed scavenger hunt}

We are officially gearing up for some 4th of July fun at the lakehouse this weekend, and I couldn’t be more excited! Give me the water, sunshine, good food, and fireworks with my people and I’m one happy girl. 

Anytime we take a family trip, there’s one thing I always try to include...a scavenger hunt for the boys. Our nephews (ages 5 and 7) have come to expect it, and it’s honestly one of the highlights of every trip. They love the thrill of the hunt, and I love watching their excitement with each new clue. So of course, I had to put one together for our lakehouse getaway.

Since we’re staying in a rental, I kept the clues super basic and general...things like “check the couch,” “look by the kitchen table,” or “near a plant.” I based the hunt off of the photos in the VRBO listing and tried to choose common household spots that I could easily adjust if needed once we arrive. The scavenger hunt includes 15 clues total, and I have a feeling they’ll speed through it in no time. But it’ll be fun while it lasts!

And of course, there’s treasure waiting at the final clue (which leads them to the bathtub/shower!). I filled a basket with all kinds of goodies they can enjoy throughout the trip—mostly 4th of July-themed or colored. Here’s a peek at what’s inside:

🎯 Water guns
✨ Glow-in-the-dark bracelets, necklaces, balls, etc.
💥 Pop-Its (a little nostalgic fun)
💧 Reusable water balloons
🎲 Mini games
🎉 Party poppers
🍧 Popsicles
💍 Ring pops
🏐 A beach ball
🥨 Snacks
🍧 Snow cone goodies

I tried to include a mix of play items and fun treats...things that will keep them busy and excited all weekend long. I think they’re going to love it!

For the clues, I just found a flash card template on Canva and entered my clues. Easy peasy. These are the clues I'm using, if you want to save them.

Putting these together is one of my favorite ways to create special memories for the boys and make our trips feel a little extra magical. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate...just a few simple clues, a few dollar store goodies, and a whole lot of heart.

Let me know if you’ve ever done a scavenger hunt like this! I’d love to hear your ideas for future hunts, too.