Camping is a beloved outdoor activity that many families enjoy. It allows children to connect with nature, learn new skills, and create lasting memories. To enhance the camping experience for kids, here are 20 of our favorite books about camping that are sure to inspire adventure and imagination.
- “Scaredy Squirrel Goes Camping” by Mélanie Watt – This funny and relatable story follows Scaredy Squirrel as he overcomes his fears and discovers the joy of camping.
- “Curious George Goes Camping” by Margret Rey – Join Curious George on his camping trip where he explores the great outdoors and learns about camping safety.
- “The Camping Trip that Changed America” by Barb Rosenstock – Learn about the pivotal camping trip taken by President Theodore Roosevelt and conservationist John Muir that led to the creation of national parks.
- “The Berenstain Bears Go Camping” by Stan and Jan Berenstain – Follow the beloved Berenstain Bears as they embark on a fun-filled camping adventure filled with mishaps and lessons.
- “Sam and the Firefly” by P.D. Eastman – Although not strictly about camping, this classic tale teaches children about the importance of friendship and the fun of exploring the great outdoors.
- “A Camping Spree with Mr. Magee” by Chris Van Dusen – Join Mr. Magee and his dog, Dee, on their camping trip full of unexpected adventure and humor.
- “Amelia Bedelia Goes Camping” by Peggy Parish – Laugh along with Amelia Bedelia as she hilariously misunderstands camping instructions and creates chaos.
- “S Is for S’mores: A Camping Alphabet” by Helen Foster James – Introduce children to the world of camping through this informative and beautifully illustrated alphabet book.
- “Camping Day!” by Patricia Lakin – Join Max and his family on their camping trip filled with exploration, campfire fun, and sibling bonding.
- “Just Me and My Dad” by Mercer Mayer – Little Critter goes on a camping trip with his dad, overcoming challenges and making lasting memories.
- “Henry and Mudge and the Starry Night” by Cynthia Rylant – Follow Henry and his loyal dog, Mudge, as they go camping and discover the wonders of a starry night.
- “Cam Jansen and the Summer Camp Mysteries” by David A. Adler – Join Cam Jansen, the girl with a photographic memory, as she solves mysteries at summer camp.
- “The Bailey School Kids: Werewolves Don’t Go to Summer Camp” by Debbie Dadey and Marcia Thornton Jones – Follow the Bailey School Kids as they encounter a mysterious camper who may or may not be a werewolf.
- “A Week in the Woods” by Andrew Clements – Join Mark Chelmsley as he unwillingly attends a summer camp and navigates challenges that ultimately lead to personal growth.
- “The Outdoor Girls in a Winter Camp” by Laura Lee Hope – Follow the Outdoor Girls on their camping adventure in winter, where they overcome obstacles and solve mysteries.
- “The Boxcar Children: The Camp-Out Mystery” by Gertrude Chandler Warner – Join the resourceful Boxcar Children as they face a camping mystery and learn the value of teamwork.
- “Sleepaway School” by Annette Cascone and Gina Cascone – Follow sisters Clio and Elsa as they attend Camp Willow Lake, where spooky occurrences and friendship await.
- “The Happy Camper Handbook” by Michael Hodgson – This guide is perfect for young campers, providing tips, advice, and fun activities to enhance any camping trip.
- “Flat Stanley Goes Camping” by Jeff Brown – Join Flat Stanley on his camping adventure, discovering the wonders of nature and the importance of teamwork.
- “How to Catch a Bear Who Loves to Read” by Andrew Larsen – Although not directly about camping, this heartwarming story takes place during a camping trip and celebrates the joy of reading and storytelling.
These books offer a wide range of camping-related themes, from adventure and mystery to friendship and learning. Whether your child is a seasoned camper or new to the experience, these books are sure to ignite their imagination and love for camping. Happy reading and happy camping!
