Camping is so much fun, a time for adventure, exploration and making memories that last a lifetime. It can also be educational and can provide immense hands-on learning experiences for kids.
Introducing kids to the great outdoors is a perfect way to get them interested in nature. Camping books for kids are an excellent way to teach children about camping basics and rules, while sparking their enthusiasm and imagination.
In this post, I curated a collection of some of the best camping books for kids. These engaging stories are designed to entertain, educate, and inspire children, helping them develop a love for nature and the great outdoors.
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Whether it’s learning essential wilderness survival skills, embarking on thrilling escapades with beloved characters, or exploring the beauty of friendship and teamwork, these books offer the perfect blend of fun and learning. So gather around the campfire and dive into the world of outdoor exploration with these enchanting camping tales.
Camping Books for Kids
Here are our top picks for camping books for kids:
1. Pete the Cat Goes Camping, by James Dean, Kimberly Dean
Join Pete the Cat on his exciting camping adventure in “Pete the Cat Goes Camping” by James Dean and Kimberly Dean. As Pete eagerly anticipates hiking, fishing, and roasting s’mores by the campfire, he is confronted with the legend of Bigfoot. Pete’s curiosity is piqued, and he sets out to discover if Bigfoot truly exists.
This amusing tale of exploration and overcoming fear is perfect for children learning to read independently. As a Level One I Can Read book, it features short sentences, familiar words, and simple concepts to support budding readers.
2. Llama Llama Loves Camping, by Anna Dewdney
Inspired by an episode of the Netflix animated series, “Llama Llama Loves Camping” by Anna Dewdney takes young readers on a delightful camping adventure.
Follow Llama Llama as he experiences camping for the first time and learns that seemingly scary situations can turn out to be incredibly fun! Little llamas and their caregivers will enjoy relating to the beloved character as he navigates new and exciting challenges.
3. A Camping Spree with Mr. Magee, by Chris Van Dusen
Dive into the whimsical world of “A Camping Spree with Mr. Magee” by Chris Van Dusen, where playful rhymes and vibrant illustrations bring the story to life. Follow Mr. Magee and his dog, Dee, on their peaceful camping trip that quickly turns into a thrilling escapade when a marshmallow-craving bear enters the scene.
As Mr. Magee and Dee find themselves tumbling down a mountain, racing along a river, and teetering on a waterfall’s edge, they learn valuable lessons about overcoming obstacles. This charming, action-packed tale is ideal for family read-alouds, engaging early readers, and fans of the Mr. Magee series or other adventure-filled children’s books.
4. 1 2 3 Make a s’more with me: A silly counting book, by Elizabeth Gauthier
Dive into the delightful world of numbers with this engaging counting book, ideal for young readers just starting their reading journey. Watch as children’s counting skills and love for reading grow with each fun and silly s’more-making adventure.
5. Brave Little Camper , by Carmen Crowe, Cottage Door Press
Embark on a captivating nighttime adventure through the forest with Little Camper and charming woodland creatures. Experience the sights, animals, and sounds of the great outdoors as you gather around the campfire and join Little Camper on their very first camping trip.
This interactive story features audio buttons that play delightful forest sounds, enhancing your child’s sensory experience while strengthening their fine motor skills. Perfect for family camping trips and a must-have addition to the Brave Little Camper series!
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6. Amelia Bedelia Goes Camping, by Peggy Parish
Join the lovable and literal-minded Amelia Bedelia on her first-ever camping trip! As she tries her best to follow instructions, Amelia Bedelia encounters a series of hilarious mix-ups while attempting to pitch a tent, catch fish, and more.
This Level 2 I Can Read book is perfect for young readers who need a little extra support, providing endless laughter and teaching the importance of understanding idiomatic expressions.
7. Biscuit Goes Camping, by Alyssa Satin Capucilli
Discover the excitement of camping with Biscuit, everyone’s favorite little puppy! From setting up tents and using flashlights to exploring the wonders of nature, this story is filled with new experiences for Biscuit and young readers alike.
But when rain clouds appear, will Biscuit’s camping adventure come to an end? This My First I Can Read book is expertly designed for shared reading and uses simple language, repetition, and endearing illustrations to engage emergent readers.
8. Camp Out!: The Ultimate Kids’ Guide, by Lynn Brunelle
Get ready to embark on the ultimate camping adventure with this comprehensive guide, perfect for kids and families alike! From choosing the right gear and selecting a campsite to mastering outdoor recipes and exploring the night sky, this book has it all.
Packed with useful tips, campfire stories, and exciting activities like keeping a field journal, Camp Out! is the go-to resource for making the most of your outdoor experiences, whether it’s a backyard sleepover or a weekend in the wilderness.
9. Bluey: Camping, by Penguin Young Readers Licenses
Join Bluey and her family on a delightful camping trip where she befriends Jean-Luc, despite their language differences. Together, they embark on exciting adventures, planting fruit trees, chasing a wild pig, and more! As the vacation comes to an end, Bluey wonders if she’ll ever see her cherished friend again.
10. Curious George Goes Camping, by H. A. Rey, Margret Rey
Experience a day of outdoor adventure with Curious George as he pitches a tent, roasts marshmallows, and navigates through the challenges of camping. When George’s curiosity leads him to explore the woods alone, he encounters a charming forest creature that sets off a series of entertaining events, ultimately proving his helpful nature.
11. Wilderness Survival Guide for Kids, by Rick Bayne
Empower children with essential wilderness survival skills in this comprehensive guide. Covering everything from finding help when lost, self-defense, building fires, evading animals, and more, this book is a valuable resource for kids to feel prepared and confident when facing the great outdoors. By the end, young readers will be ready to tackle any challenge that comes their way.
12. The Berenstain Bears Go to Camp, by Stan Berenstain, Jan Berenstain
Explore Bear Country with Brother and Sister Bear as they experience Grizzly Bob’s Day Camp for the first time. Packed with thrilling activities like soccer, swimming, kayaking, and crafting, this classic First Time Book® from Stan and Jan Berenstain also includes over 50 bonus stickers for added fun!
13. The Little Book Of Camping, by Laurie Friedman, Zack Bush
The Little Book of Camping is a delightful and informative guide designed for young children to learn the basics of camping. Through engaging text and charming illustrations, kids will discover that having fun and learning about the outdoors can be simple and enjoyable. Perfect for boys and girls of all ages, this book encourages exploration and adventure both in and out of the home.
14. Fred and Ted Go Camping, by Peter Eastman
Revisit the beloved canine duo Fred and Ted in this all-new Beginner Book penned by P. D. Eastman’s son, Peter Eastman. Fred and Ted’s contrasting approaches to camping lead to amusing and unexpected outcomes. This enchanting tale of opposites will have beginning readers engaged and entertained.
15. Camping Catastrophe!, by Abby Klein
Freddy Thresher and his best friend, Robbie, are heading out for a camping trip, much to the disbelief of their class bully, Max. To make matters worse, Freddy’s sister, Suzie, bets a week’s worth of chores that he won’t survive the night outdoors. Despite his anxiety, Freddy is determined to prove his bravery and complete the challenge, all while avoiding disaster!