The 50 Best Campground Kids Books For Every Season
Camping is a great way for outdoor enthusiasts to bond with their family and experience the beauty of nature. However, it isn't always feasible or desirable for some families due to bugs or sleeping outside.
A family-friendly alternative is to pitch a tent in the backyard or living room, which can create a sense of adventure and lasting memories. Reading books about camping is another way to experience the outdoors without the hassle of packing and traveling. This can become a new tradition for families on a budget.
We’ve compiled a list of the best campground kids' books. This list offers something for everyone in the family and is a unique opportunity to learn more about nature, camping, and the outdoors while discovering new authors and enjoying captivating stories.
1. C Is for Camping (BabyLit) Board book – by Greg Paprocki
Introduce your toddler to camping with this colorful alphabet primer featuring themes from the great outdoors. Illustrator Greg Paprocki’s popular BabyLit alphabet board books feature his classically retro midcentury art style that’s proven to be a hit with both younger children and adults.
Amazon Rating: 4.9
Ages: 1 – 3 years
FOR BABIES & TODDLERS (0-2 Years Old)
2. Let's Go Outside! by Amy Pixton
In Let’s Go Outside, your little one will enjoy the wonders of nature in a book that’s indestructible! Indestructibles is the trusted series for easing little ones into storytime. Beloved by babies and their parents, Indestructibles are built for the way babies “read” – rip-proof, waterproof, portable, and safe!! It's the perfect book!
Amazon Rating: 4.8 (Best Seller)
Ages: Baby - 2 years
3. Good Night Campsite by Adam Gamble
Get your little camper ready for your next camping trip. Your toddler will explore their favorite campsite and all the fun outdoor activities that come with it, like hiking and swimming. Roasted marshmallows by the campfire included! So grab your tent and sleeping bags! We’re heading to the campsite!
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 1 – 3 years
4. Brave Little Camper by Carmen Crowe
Follow along with the interactive story by pushing the corresponding audio button to play friendly forest sounds as you peruse the campsite and meet new fuzzy friends! Friendly forest sounds include hooting owls, howling wolves, insects buzzing, and frog ribbit A campfire storytime favorite that is perfect for family camping outdoor adventures!
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 1 – 3 years
5. Campfire Songs: 11-Button Interactive Children's Sound Book by Cottage Door Press
In this charming songbook, toddlers and preschoolers can sing along with classic campfire song melodies like The Bear Went Over the Mountain, the S'mores Song, and more. This book is sure to delight while teaching an appreciation for both music and together time.
Amazon Rating: 4.6
Ages: 1 – 4 years
6. Love You S'more by Melinda Lee Rathjen
In this little board book, two competitive raccoons declare themselves to love the other "s'more." The fireside banter crackles with puns, and the silly competition heats up until they finally realize that with all that love, everyone wins. Outdoorsy and camping-loving families will love this book and the deep lessons taught!
Amazon Rating: 4.6
Ages: 1 – 4 years
FOR PRESCHOOLERS (3-5 Years Old)
7. Curious George Goes Camping Paperback by H. A. Rey
My 4.5 yo son loves the Curious George series, and this was perfect for our first solo camping trip. He likes it so much that it has become a car staple and is permanently in the seat back organizer. – Amazon review by Alyssa W.
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 2 – 5 years
8. John's Camping Adventures by JoAnn M Dickinson
John’s Camping Adventures is the first in this new series about a young boy experiencing camping and traveling to unique places. This book will expand children's imagination and critical thinking about other places to visit and learn about nature, and animals while enjoying the beauty of many unique places. Where will the next adventure take him!
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 2 – 5 years
9. Fred and Ted Go Camping by Peter Eastman
In this story, Fred and Ted go camping, and as usual, their uniquely different approaches to doing things (such as packing equipment, setting up camp, and fishing techniques) have humorous—and sometimes surprising—results. A charming introduction to opposites that beginner readers will find ruff to put down!
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 2 – 4 years
10. Tomorrow I’ll Be Brave by Jessica Hische
Set around a campground, this book by award-winning illustrator Jessica Hische is a stunning visual work that will definitely leave an impression on your child. This uplifting and positive book - now a New York Times bestseller - encourages kids to promise that tomorrow, they will try new things, do their best, and be brave.
Amazon Rating: 4.9
Ages: 2 – 5 years
11. When We Go Camping by Margriet Ruurs
When We Go Camping is as instructional as it is delightful. Each painting highlights the tracks of one animal, which curve from the text into the illustration. Readers can turn to the glossary for more details about the wildlife depicted on each page. When We Go Camping is a good story to preserve summer memories all year long.
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 2 – 4 years
12. Tiny T. Rex and the Very Dark Dark by Jonathan Stutzman
Meet Tiny T-Rex! He may be a small dino in a BIG world, but that won't stop him from making friends, conquering his fears, and stomping his way into your heart. In this book, Tiny T. Rex and his friend are having a campout in the backyard! Sure to be an instant favorite for any dinosaur-loving toddler.
Amazon Rating: 4.8 (Editor’s Pick)
Ages: 2 – 5 years
13. Maisy Goes Camping by Lucy Cousins
Read this to my toddler ahead of our camping trip. She was very excited and prepared for how camping would go. Love Maisy books. – Amazon review by Mindy
Amazon Rating: 4.8 (Editor’s Pick)
Ages: 2 – 5 years
14. Flashlight by Lizi Boyd
Camping books for kids are usually filled with how-to guides or campfire stories. Flashlight is a unique children's book that captures the special magic of a camp-out through artwork that makes the moonlight-touched backyard forest come to life. Named an NPR Best Book of the Year and Junior Library Guild Selection, this wordless storybook with stunning illustrations aims to lighten the fear of the dark and the noises that come with it.
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 2 – 4 years
15. Llama Llama Loves Camping by Anna Dewdney
I gave it to my 3 year old granddaughter for her birthday. She has several Llama Llama books. She loves them! Totally recommend. – Amazon review by Irlop
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 2 – 5 years
16. P. J. Funnybunny Camps Out by Marilyn Sadler
Camping is not for girls, right? At least, that's what P.J. and his pals tell Donna and Honey Bunny when they want to tag along on a camping trip. But when two mysterious ghosts frighten the boys all the way home, only the girls know the real story.
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 2 – 6 years
17. The Camping Trip by Jennifer K Mann
This is such a simple, fun little story about a camping trip. My two boys (5, 3) really enjoy it and have requested to read it more than once. It’s a really good introduction to camping and everything that goes along with that - from what to pack, to swimming in a lake, to missing family - all as told by a little girl on her first camping trip. – Amazon review by Anonymous
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 3 – 5 years
18. Just Me and My Dad by Mercer Mayer
Little Critter is exploring the great outdoors with his dad in this heartwarming and funny classic. The perfect gift to celebrate dad this Father's Day--this sweet story makes a great read-aloud storytime with toddlers.
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 3 – 5 years
19. Pete the Cat Goes Camping by James Dean
Kids love exploring the outdoors, and they're sure to enjoy this funny story about Pete the Cat going camping for the first time (and overcoming his small fears). In Pete the Cat Goes Camping, Pete can't wait to go hiking, fishing, and eat s'mores by the campfire. But when he hears about the mysterious creature named Bigfoot, Pete can't help but wonder: Is Bigfoot real?
Amazon Rating: 4.8 (Teacher’s Pick)
Ages: 3 – 6 years
20. A Camping Spree with Mr. Magee by Chris Van Dusen
Chris Van Dusen books are always a delight, combining playful rhyming text with bright, comical artwork that's alive with color and detail. The second book in the much-loved series about Mr. Magee and his trusty dog and his white camper, Dee does not disappoint! It's the ultimate family vacation book!
Amazon Rating: 4.9
Ages: 3 – 6 years
21. Camp Tiger by Susan Choi
A 2019 New York Public Library Best Book for Kids. This is a beautifully illustrated camping book where imagination meets reality in this poetic and tender ode to childhood. With lyrical prose and dazzling art, Pulitzer Prize finalist Susan Choi and Caldecott-honor winning artist John Rocco have created a moving and joyful ode to growing up.
Amazon Rating: 4.7 (Editor’s Pick)
Ages: 4 – 6 years
22. Scaredy Squirrel Goes Camping by Melanie Watt
Scaredy Squirrel is exactly the squirrel your child needs--a little bit anxious, a lot adorable, and totally lovable. He likes the safety of his nut tree, but not so much the great outdoors. And he's about to go . . . camping?! As young listeners see Scaredy face his fears in the silliest of ways, they gain perspective and courage, empowering them to tackle their own worries with a big smile.
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 3 – 7 years
FOR EARLY READERS (6-8 Years Old)
23. Camp Rex by Molly Idle
The whole family loves the T-Rex stories. We read this one while camping in the backyard, and made bedtime under the stars that much better. The story is good and cute, and the illustrations are great. – Amazon review by K. Stegs
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 3 – 7 years
24. Koala Is Not a Bear by Kristin L. Gray
It's Koala's first day at camp, and she thinks she's found her place in the Bear Cabin and new friends — until know-it-all Kangaroo comes along and tells Koala in no uncertain terms that she is not a bear. Using humor and fun illustrations, this engaging story will reel kids in and leave them with a satisfying ending.
Amazon Rating: 5.0
Ages: 4 – 7 years
25. Don't Feed the Bear by Kathleen Doherty
It’s Bear vs. Ranger in the funniest food fight ever, in this entertaining picture book. Bear loves when campers leave him grub. The park ranger does not. Now, it’s war in the park! But when both Bear and Ranger end up losing out, will the two antagonists finally call a truce? With its delightfully cartoonlike pictures and clever wordplay, this picture book will keep kids laughing for hours.
Amazon Rating: 4.9
Ages: 3 – 8 years
26. Oliver & Hope's Adventure Under the Stars by Meg Cadts
Come along for the ride as Oliver the bear and Hope the butterfly join their friends Millie the barn owl and Chewie the English bulldog for their first camping trip. Readers take a front-row seat with these friends around the campfire, have some fun, and be inspired by their limitless imagination. The friends spend the night discovering the beauty of Mother Nature and playing silly games that make the shadows a little less scary and the adventure a whole lot more fun.
Amazon Rating: 4.6
Ages: 3 – 8 years
27. Our Great Big Backyard by Laura Bush and Jenna Bush Hager
#1 New York Times bestselling authors former First Lady Laura Bush and her daughter Jenna Bush Hager have created an exuberant picture book tribute to our national parks and the importance and fun of connecting with nature.
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 3 – 8 years
28. The Not-So Great Outdoors by Madeline Kloepper
If you have a reluctant camper like the one in this story, follow along to discover that the (not-so) great outdoors can be just as exciting as screens and skyscrapers. This playful picture book celebrates the pleasures of unplugging and embracing nature.
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 3 – 7 years
29. Wordy Birdy Meets Mr. Cougarpants by Tammi Sauer
Wordy Birdy and her pals are heading on a camping trip, and our favorite chatty bird is all ready for a big night under the stars. But the friends soon find themselves in hot water when the dastardly Mr. Cougarpants stalks their campsite. Can Wordy Birdy talk them all out of this pickle? Grab your pack, grill up a s'more, and find out!
Amazon Rating: 4.9
Ages: 3 – 7 years
30. Duck Stays in the Truck by Doreen Cronin
Farmer Brown wants to go camping. He packs up the animals. He packs up his brother, Bob. The chickens want to hike. The cows want to fish. The pigs want to picnic. And Duck? Duck just wants to stay in the truck. How will Farmer Brown bring everyone together? Check out the book to find out!
Amazon Rating: 4.6
Ages: 5 – 7 years
FOR GROWING READERS (9+ Years Old)
31. The Campground Kids: Grand Teton Stampede by C.R. Fulton
Join The Campground Kids as they work together to solve their first mystery in Grand Tetons National Park. The Campground Kids will take your kids on a journey of epic camping adventures. Join this squad as they begin exploring the most loved National Parks encountering mystery, challenge, survival, and more in this action-packed book series. Other books in the series include Smoky Mountain Survival, Rocky Mountain Challenge, Zion Gold Rush, and Grand Canyon Rescue.
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 2 – 12 years
32. Mystery In Rocky Mountain National Park by Aaron Johnson
If your family loves the enchanted lands of our national parks, this series will take you to hidden places and into breathtaking landscapes. If you enjoy movies like National Treasure and Uncharted or mystery adventures like the Hardy Boys and Gary Paulsen’s survival story, Hatchet, you’ll love this first installment of the National Park Mystery Series.
Amazon Rating: 4.8 (Best Seller)
Ages: 8 – 11 years
33. The Camp-Out Mystery by Gertrude Chandler Warner
The Aldens are going camping! But after they hear loud music in the middle of the night, notice their lantern is missing, and find a frightening note, the Boxcar Children must find out who is behind the pranks to save their vacation and peaceful camping trip!
Amazon Rating: 4.9
Ages: 7 – 10 years
34. Piper Reed, Campfire Girl by Kimberly Willis Holt
I bought this for my eight-year-old niece. She had it on her wish list and was thrilled when she got it. She's been reading the whole series, and couldn't wait for the new books to come out. That kind of enthusiasm for reading is worth every cent! Will continue to buy these till she grows too old for them! – Amazon review by Amby
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 8 – 11 years
35. Beatrice The Little Camper Gets Rescued by Lori Helke
The Little Book Of Camping in the Little Camper series provides a simple, fun roadmap for young children to learn what they need to know about camping. With engaging text and warm, kid-friendly illustrations, Beatrice The Little Camper's brave new friend teaches children that having fun, learning, and doing the right thing doesn’t have to be complicated.
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 3 – 7 years
NON-FICTION (For All Kids)
36. The Little Book Of Camping by Laurie Friedman
The Little Book Of Camping provides a simple, fun roadmap for young children with inspiring camping tips. With engaging text and warm, colorful fun illustrations, the books teach children that having fun, learning new skills, and doing the right thing doesn’t have to be complicated.
Amazon Rating: 4.6
Ages: 2 – 12 years
37. S Is for S'Mores: A Campfire Alphabet by Helen Foster James
Really impressed with this book. Normally I don’t really like alphabet books because there’s not a real story and it can feel forced, but I adore how this book includes so much information and gives you the opportunity to learn more on the topic if you choose. It feels like a book that can grow with a child - simple at first and then you can read the more in-depth text as they get older. – Amazon review by eSm
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 10 years and up
38. National Parks of the USA by Kate Siber
Packed with maps and fascinating facts about the flora and fauna unique to each of the 21 parks portrayed, this lushly illustrated coast-to-coast journey documents in large format the nation’s most magnificent and sacred places—and shows why they should be preserved for future generations to enjoy.
Amazon Rating: 4.9
Ages: 2 – 9 years
39. Lonely Planet Kids America's National Parks by Alexa Ward
Calling all adventurers! Are your kids ready to explore America's 60 amazing national parks? With awesome facts, photos, and illustrations on every page, you'll discover erupting geysers, exploding volcanoes, howling wolves, soaring eagles, mountains, glaciers, rainforests, and more throughout the continental USA, Hawaii, American Samoa, and the US Virgin Islands.
Amazon Rating: 4.8 (Editor’s Pick)
Ages: 2 – 9 years
40. National Geographic Kids National Parks Guide USA by National Kids
The Most Amazing Sights, Scenes, and Cool Activities in state parks from coast-to-coast! Filled with color photos, information on animals, fascinating lists, fun facts, maps, cool things to do, conservation tips, and much more -- think of this book as your trusted guide to these most majestic of the national parks of the United States.
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 8 – 12 years
41. Who Pooped in the Park? Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Steve Kemp
Steve Kemp worked as a seasonal park ranger in Yellowstone and Denali national parks and was also employed by Great Smoky Mountains. He has written several books and magazine articles on the natural world but his favorite project is keeping up with his family. This book is dedicated to his two poop experts, Lucy and Thomas.
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 7 – 10 years
42. Bushcraft Kid: Survive in the Wild and Have Fun Doing It! by Dan Wowak
The Most Amazing Sights, Scenes, and Cool Activities in state parks from coast-to-coast! Filled with color photos, information on animals, fascinating lists, fun facts, maps, cool things to do, conservation tips, and much more -- think of this book as your trusted guide to these most majestic of the national parks of the United States.
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 8 – 12 years
43. Wilderness Survival Guide for Kids by Gary White
The #1 Guide to Survive in the Outdoors. In this guide, children will learn everything they need to know for navigating dangerous situations in the wilderness and how to face any of them with NO FEAR!
Amazon Rating: 5.0
Ages: 5 – 9 years
44. Exploring Nature Activity Book for Kids by Kim Andre
50 Creative Projects to Spark Curiosity in the Outdoors Encourage young nature lovers to get outside and track, explore, discover, and create. This book is filled with hands-on, educational outdoor activities that will get their hands dirty and their imaginations revving while staying active outside.
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 6 years and up
45. On the Nature Trail: What Will You Find? by Storey Publishing
The Most Amazing Sights, Scenes, and Cool Activities in state parks from coast-to-coast! Filled with color photos, information on animals, fascinating lists, fun facts, maps, cool things to do, conservation tips, and much more -- think of this book as your trusted guide to these most majestic of the national parks of the United States.
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 8 – 12 years
46. Constellations for Kids: An Easy Guide to Discovering the Stars by Kelsey Johnso
From Canis Major to Cassiopeia, each constellation includes easy-to-read sky maps and step-by-step instructions for identifying it in the night sky. Your child willl also learn how to use bright stars as guides to show you where to find each constellation.
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 5 – 8 years
47. The Boy's Book of Adventure by Michele Lecreux
The Little Guidebook for Smart and Resourceful Boys
My boys loved this so much we bought it for a gift. They have carried it everywhere in a backpack. Pulling it out and looking up projects and asking to buy things to complete them. This is a great idea for a boy who loves the outdoors. – Amazon review by Fryerman
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 7 – 10 years
48. The Young Adventurer's Guide to (Almost) Everything by Ben Hewitt
Calling all adventurers! Want to know how to build a fort from nothing but sticks? Or find your way through the forest? This survival guide is your ticket to getting down and dirty in nature and learning to make the coolest things with your own two hands.
Amazon Rating: 4.8 (Editor’s Pick)
Ages: 8 – 12 years
49. See You at the Campground by Stephanie and Jeremy Puglisi
A Guide to Discovering Community, Connection, and a Happier Family in the Great Outdoors (Plan the Best Family-Friendly Summer Camping Vacation)
Road trips with kids aren't easy, but new parents of twins Stephanie and Jeremy Puglisi became experts at creating lasting family memories without breaking the bank. Whether you're new to camping or a seasoned pro, hit the road with Stephanie and Jeremy, hosts of the popular The RV Atlas podcast, as they show you the different ways that camping can lead to a happier, healthier family.
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: For family
50. Ranger Rick Kids' Guide to Camping by Cherie Winner
From Canis Major to Cassiopeia, each constellation includes easy-to-read sky maps and step-by-step instructions for identifying it in the night sky. Your child willl also learn how to use bright stars as guides to show you where to find each constellation.
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 5 – 8 years
So, whether you are looking for a new book to read around the campfire (real or not!) or a gift for the camper in your life, be sure to check out this list of the best campground kids’ books!
Whether you have a new reader or a more experienced one, these campground kids’ books will provide your child with hours of fun and come up with a list of favorite camping books!