10 Easy Guitar Songs to Play Around the Campfire
If you’re planning a camping trip with friends or family, playing the guitar around a campfire can be a fun and memorable activity. And while you don’t need to be a master guitarist to strum some chords and sing along, choosing the right songs can make all the difference. Here are 10 of the easiest songs to play on the guitar around a campfire. (Or maybe ukulele songs are more your thing?)
(All songs and videos are courtesy of David Pots from his site SongNotes and YouTube channel SongNotes. Flannel & Flame is not affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with David. I just think he’s a good guitar teacher.)

1. “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan
This classic song has only four chords and a simple strumming pattern, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
2. “Country Roads” by John Denver
This timeless tune has a straightforward melody and chord progression, making it easy to play and sing along to.
3. “Lean On Me” by Bill Withers
This friendly song has a simple chord progression and a catchy melody that everyone can sing along to. Bonus points if you know the dance moves.
4. “I’ve Been Everywhere” by Johnny Cash
With just three chords and an iconic tempo, “I’ve Been Everywhere” is a crowd-pleaser that’s fun to play and sing along to, man. Try to keep up!
5. “Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show
This folk classic has a simple chord progression and an easy-to-remember chorus, making it a great choice for campfire sing-alongs.
6. “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley
One of the most beloved songs in reggae, “Redemption Song” has a simple chord progression and an easy-to-sing chorus that everyone can join in on.
7. “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond
Of course I was going to include some Neil Diamond! This classic sing-along favorite has a simple melody and chord progression that’s perfect for playing around the campfire.
8. “Southern Cross” by Crosby, Stills, & Nash
With just three chords and a memorable story, “Southern Cross” is a great choice for beginners and experienced players alike. Bonus points for singing next to a campfire under the stars.
9. “The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers
This classic country tune has a simple chord progression and an easy-to-sing chorus that everyone already knows. Perfect for a warm summer’s evenin’.
10. “Let It Go” by Frozen
You had to listen to it 1000 times, so you might as well learn how to play it. This Disney classic has a simple chord progression and an easy-to-remember melody that your kids will love. And then off to bed!
Playing the guitar around the campfire is a fun and rewarding activity that can bring people together and create lasting memories. With these 10 easy-to-play guitar songs, you’ll be able to get everyone singing and strumming along in no time. So pack your guitar and get ready to make some music under the stars!
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