Fun and useful camping gifts for kids can turn a family camping trip into a thrilling adventure. They can make kids feel like true explorers.
Whether it’s their first trip or they’re seasoned campers, having their own gear—from sleeping bags and tents to binoculars and personalized water bottles—can spark curiosity, build independence, and enhance their love for the outdoors.
In this guide I will help you find the perfect camping gifts to make the next outdoor adventure memorable and fun for your child.
Essential Camping Gear and Unique Outdoor Gifts
Planning a family camping trip means ensuring kids have the right gear.
The best camping presents not only equip them but also spark their love for the outdoors.
Here’s a table of children’s camping essentials and unique outdoor gifts that make any camping trip memorable.
Essential Camping Gear and Unique Outdoor Gifts
Essential Camping Gear and Unique Outdoor Gifts
| Accessory | Features | Why They’ll Love It |
|---|---|---|
| Child-Friendly Sleeping Bag | Insulated, lightweight design | Keeps them warm and cozy, with fun patterns to choose from. |
| Popup Play Tent | Easy setup, weatherproof material | Their own mini hideaway for daytime play and nighttime security. |
| Ergonomic Kids’ Backpack | Adjustable straps, multiple compartments | They’ll feel like real adventurers carrying their own gear. |
| Foldable Camp Chair | Lightweight, child-sized, with cup holder | Perfect for roasting marshmallows and sitting by the fire. |
| Personalized Water Bottle | Customizable with names | It’s theirs and theirs alone—no more mix-ups! |
| Educational Kits | Bug viewers, star maps | Turns them into little scientists exploring the wild. |
| Animal-Shaped LED Lantern | Cute designs, safe lighting | Adds a magical glow to their nighttime adventures. |
| Themed Headlamps | Bright, available in animal motifs | Makes exploring the dark super fun and exciting. |
| Kid-Friendly Binoculars | Compact, easy to use | Perfect for spotting birds, wildlife, and distant landscapes. |
| Durable Kids’ Apparel | Water-resistant, quick-dry materials | Keeps them comfy and dry, ready for any weather. |
| Camping Adventure Kits | Compass, whistle, and map | Makes them feel like real explorers on a mission. |
| Camping Games | Engaging, outdoor-themed | Keeps the fun going with scavenger hunts and nature games. |
| Multifunctional Tools | Safety locks, kid-friendly designs | They’ll feel like true explorers with their own tools. |
| Eco-Friendly Water Bottles | Durable, insulated | Keeps their drinks cool and them refreshed all day. |
| Interactive Toys | Walkie-talkies, LED frisbees | Endless fun with night-time games and secret missions. |
| Novelty Camping Accessories | Glow-in-the-dark tent stakes, fun designs | Adds excitement and personality to their camping gear. |
Commentary on Essential Gear and Gifts
Sleeping Bags and Popup Tents
Sleeping bags and tents are the cornerstones of a fun camping adventure for kids.
Imagine a cozy, colorful sleeping bag that becomes your child’s favorite spot to snuggle in after a day of exploring. Lightweight yet warm, you might choose a sleeping bag that features their favorite characters or vibrant patterns, turning bedtime into a highlight of the trip.
A kid-sized popup tent can be their personal fortress in the wild and the perfect place to play.
Picture a small, easy-to-assemble tent that your child can set up, giving them a sense of accomplishment and ownership. This personal space can be a play area and den, especially on days when they need shelter from hot sun or rain.
Backpacks and Chairs
Ergonomic backpacks designed for kids are game-changers.
Backpacks can have multiple pockets for their treasures, adjustable straps for comfort, and a fun design that makes them eager to carry their gear.
This not only teaches them responsibility but also gives them a sense of independence.
Now, think about foldable camp chairs in bright colors or with cute animal faces.
Choose a lightweight chair that they can lift easily, perfect for gathering around the campfire, and making story time even more special.
With their own chair, your child will feel more included and comfortable, whether they’re toasting marshmallows or just relaxing.
Personalized Essentials
Personalized essentials add a unique touch to camping gear. A classic and practical gift is a water bottle with your child’s name.
Or what about a sleeping bag embroidered with their initials?
Personalized items can make your child feel, “I belong here, in this outdoor camping world”.
Educational Kits
Educational nature kits come in a variety of forms.
For example, a bug viewing kit for examining insects up close and discovering their tiny world. Or a star mapping kit, for identifying constellations under a clear night sky.
(You can also make your own camping adventure kit!)
These kits are perfect for adding excitement and turning the natural into your child’s classroom.
Novelty Lighting
Novelty lighting brings a touch of enchantment to the campsite. It might be an animal-shaped LED lantern that not only lights up the night but also becomes a beloved camping buddy, or twinkly fairy lights that change color.
Special lights can make evening adventures by the campfire or around the campsite feel magical.
Binoculars, Walkie Talkies and Interactive Toys
Binoculars and other interactive toys can be inexpensive and enhance children’s outdoor fun.
Imagine your child spotting birds or distant landmarks with their own binoculars, feeling like a true explorer.
Walkie-talkies are an absolute favorite with my kids when camping with friends, and have been for many years. They enable kids to communicate and play games across the campsite.
You could also explore LED frisbees to bring a splash of light to evening activities. My son just got one for his birthday and it’s a game changer at night time!
Durable Apparel
Quality camping apparel is essential for comfort and protection and will help your child feel the part. These include water-resistant jackets that keep them dry during unexpected showers, and quick-dry pants that stand up to muddy adventures.
Proper hiking boots ensure safety and support, letting your kids explore rough terrains confidently.
Reflective strips are great additions for color and safety.
Camping Games
Camping offers a great opportunity for family bonding through fun games. Consider gifting a scavenger hunt game that encourages kids to explore nature while staying engaged.
Portable board games like UNO or Yahtzee are also fantastic for evenings around the campfire.
For a quiet moment, card games like Go Fish or Snap are perfect. These games ensure everyone has a memorable and enjoyable camping experience.
Eco-Friendly and Novelty Accessories
Novelty camping accessories make perfect gifts for outdoorsy kids.
Glow-in-the-dark tent pegs ensure easy setup and safety at night.
Solar-powered fairy lights create a cozy campsite ambiance.
Consider a portable campfire popcorn maker for fun, delicious treats.
Compact, waterproof picnic blankets are practical and stylish.
A quirky camping-themed mug adds a personal touch.
These unique accessories enhance the camping experience, making each trip more enjoyable and memorable.
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!
