Nature is the perfect outdoor art studio for families. It’s free, peaceful and full of hidden treasures to inspire every age.
I am not naturally artistic but I just love spending time creating nature art; it’s so soothing.
Sketching outside helps you slow down, notice tiny details, and bond as a family. Creative time in nature soothes busy minds and calms restless energy.
Whether you’re trying nature art for kids for the first time or looking for fresh kids drawing ideas for an easy and relaxed afternoon out, nature and inspiration are always close by.
Grab a blanket, pack some snacks, and head outdoors with your sketchpads and pencils or whatever art supplies you find in your cupboards.
These simple drawing ideas will help you see the world through fresh (relaxed!) eyes and make happy memories together.
Leaf Patterns
Leaves are nature’s tiny masterpieces and perfect for simple nature drawing. Pick one that looks special. Hold it up to the light to see its veins.
Start with a big outline. Then draw the lines inside. Younger kids might like using crayons to add bold colours.
Try a wax crayon rubbing too — place paper over the leaf and rub gently. This is one of the easiest nature themed art projects for kids and so satisfying for little hands.
A Sunrise Or Sunset
Sunrises and sunsets are great if you want landscape drawings easy for kids to try. Pick a spot with a clear view and cosy up with a blanket.
Sketch the horizon line first. Use coloured pencils or watercolour paints to mix soft oranges, pinks, and purples.
Tip: Bring extra paper for kids to play with mixing colours. Let them make swirly skies however they like — it’s outdoor art for kids that feels magical and calming.
Tree Bark Textures
Tree bark is like a hidden map full of patterns and perfect for easy nature drawings. Find a tree and touch the bark together. Talk about whether it’s rough, flaky or smooth.
Sketch the tree trunk outline. Add wiggly or straight lines to show cracks and grooves. Younger kids can use chunky graphite sticks or charcoal for bold lines.
Bring paper and wax crayons too — bark rubbings are fun, hands-on nature themed art projects for kids of all ages.
Wildflowers
Wildflowers brighten any sketchbook and make a lovely simple nature drawing. Find a patch of daisies, buttercups, or bluebells. Look at how each flower is shaped.
Sketch the big shapes first. Then add petals and stems. Soft pastels or chalks work beautifully for wildflowers — they’re messy but kids love the bright, smudgy colours.
Let children smudge the pastels with their fingers to blend the petals. Wipe hands with a damp cloth after!
Lake Reflections
A still lake is like a magic mirror and makes a calm easy scenery drawing for kids. Find a calm pond or lake on a quiet day. Sit together and watch what’s reflected — trees, sky, or birds.
Sketch the edge of the lake. Add the trees or sky above, then draw the same shapes upside down in the water. Younger kids can use coloured pencils or soft chalks for the reflections.
Tip: Bring a flask of hot chocolate and sit on a picnic rug while you draw.
A Night Sky
A clear night sky feels magical and is perfect for drawing about nature together. Choose a safe garden spot or local park away from bright lights. Bring blankets and a torch.
Use black paper if you have some — it makes the stars pop. Kids can dab white paint with a cotton bud for stars, or sprinkle a toothbrush dipped in paint for tiny dots.
Glow-in-the-dark paint pens are fun too — draw a constellation and watch it light up later!
Bonus: Your Own Discovery
Encourage your child to find their own sketch idea in nature. It could be a feather, a ladybird, or a pinecone. Sketch it big, add colours, or do a quick pencil doodle.
Simple drawings for kids don’t need to be perfect — they’re all about exploring and noticing new details outdoors.
Keep it light and fun. Nature art for kids should feel calm, playful, and pressure-free. Take your time and enjoy exploring together. Happy sketching!
Stephanie Simmons is an Anglo-American mum of two who is passionate about all things outdoors. She loves camping, outdoor crafting, and all outdoor activities.
Steph believes in getting the kids outdoors no matter the weather!
She created Wild Bloom Families to share her passion for the outdoors with other families.
Getting in nature can transform your physical health, mental health and happiness!
