If you’re a first-time camper or camping with young children for the first time, you might wonder about the best camping toys for kids. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of 21 camping toys for kids that will keep them entertained while you’re outdoors. Enjoy your summer holiday!
Camping has been a popular vacation for centuries. Families pack up their belongings, go to a beautiful location, away from screen, bring their books, and pets for one week or two. People often camp in RVs or campers, but many still love to rough it in tents. After the pandemic, more people will be hitting the road to explore. According to Kampgrounds of America, 57 million households went camping in 2021, which is a 77% increase compared to the previous year. More interesting is that over 9 million households went on their first camping trip in 2021.
Table of Contents
21 Best Toys to Bring Camping
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Without further ado, here are the best camping toys for kids:
1. Shovels and buckets
We feel that we should start things off with something more… old school. Good old fashioned shovels and buckets, these are timeless camping toys that can provide hours of fun for kids.
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Both young and older kids will find these camping toys valuable and entertaining. Among other things, shovels and buckets can be used to:
- Gather acorns, rocks, and leaves
- Make mud pies and dirt towers
- Catch and collect bugs
- Fill up with water to make a splash
- Collect worms, snails, and other slimy creatures
2. Walkie talkies
If you have more than one child, walkie-talkies are a great way to help them stay in touch while encouraging outdoor play. Walkie-talkies are great because they come in packs of two, four, or six, so no matter how many kids you have, there’s an option.
They can also help your children make new friends while camping. If you’re in a campground, other kids have walkie-talkies, and they can explore the campground and make new friends while staying safe.
3. Binoculars
Binoculars have been around since the 17th century. While they’ve initially been designed for warfare and hunting, they’ve become popular camping toys for kids in recent years, especially if you’re planning on doing some hiking.
A quality pair of binoculars can help your child see things they usually wouldn’t be able to see. That can make for a great camping experience and create some lasting memories.
Here are some excellent camping tips when using binoculars:
- First, let your child pick out their pair of binoculars, making them more likely to use them.
- Make sure the binoculars are the right size for your child. They shouldn’t be too big or too small.
- Give your child some assignments. For example, have them find a specific tree, bird, or animal.
4. Bug catcher kit
There are over 91,000 different species of bugs in the United States alone. So, it’s no surprise that kids are fascinated by them. While some kids find them gross, most are fascinated by them.
If your child is interested in bugs, a bug catcher kit is a great camping toy to bring. These kits typically come with a net, a magnifying glass, and sometimes a container to put the bugs in.
Your child will have hours of fun catching and studying bugs with one of these kits. If you’re lucky, they might even teach you a thing or two about the bugs they see.
5. Bug net
A bug net is a great camping toy for kids because it allows them to catch bugs without getting bitten. It can also collect leaves, flowers, and other things.
Make sure the bug net you get is the right size for your child. Otherwise, they might have a hard time using it.
Bug nets go hand in hand with bug collecting kits, so if you’re going to get one, you might as well get the other.
6. Water gun
A water gun is a great camping toy for kids because it can help cool off hot days. It’s also a lot of fun to shoot at targets or each other. Ensure you have enough water to refill the gun when it runs out.
And don’t be fooled; water guns in 2022 are far more complex than when you were a kid. They have different nozzles and water capacities; some even come with targets.
Taking your child with you when picking out a water gun would be a good idea. That way, they can choose one that they’ll use and enjoy.
7. Nerf gun
Since we’re on the topic of guns, we might as well talk about Nerf guns. These are similar to water guns but shoot soft foam darts instead of water.
Nerf guns are great camping toys for kids because they’re safe and can be used indoors or outdoors. In addition, they come in all shapes and sizes, so you’re bound to find one that your child will love.
If you’re worried about losing the darts, don’t be. Most Nerf guns come with a dart holder so you can keep all the darts in one place. And even if they get lost, don’t worry; over 445,277,777 NERF darts are made yearly.
8. Camping lantern
A camping lantern is a great toy because it provides light at night. It can also be used as a flashlight during the day.
Some lanterns are small and can be hung from the tent ceiling; others are larger and placed on the ground. And even lanterns come with a remote control so you can turn them on and off without getting out of bed.
9. Rope
Yes, a simple piece of rope can be a great camping toy for kids. Rope can be used in many different ways, such as:
- Tying up a tarp
- Making a clothesline
- Playing tug of war
The possibilities are endless. Just make sure you get a durable rope that can withstand the elements. Otherwise, it’ll quickly become damaged and unusable.
10. Slackline
Slacklines are ropes or webbing stretched between two points, such as trees, which can be used for balance training, walking, or other tricks.
To use a slackline, your child must balance on the line and walk from one end to the other. That cannot be easy at first, but with practice, they’ll be able to do it.
Slacklines are great camping toys for kids because they help improve balance and coordination. They’re also a lot of fun and can be used in many different ways.
11. Kite
Kites can be fun. Really, really fun. So much so that in the 18th century, they were banned in China because they flew their kites so much that they were missing work.
Your child will surely have a blast flying a kite at the campsite. And if there’s enough wind, they might even be able to get the kite to fly on its own.
Just make sure that the camping site you’re going to is kite-friendly. Some places don’t allow them because they can get caught in power lines or trees.
12. Frisbee
We know what you’re thinking. A Frisbee is a classic beach toy, not a camping toy. But hear us out.
Frisbees are great camping toys because they’re versatile and can be used in various ways. Here are some ideas:
- Play catch with the family pet
- Play frisbee golf
- Use it as a plate or bowl
Also, you want to motivate your child to get outside and play, and a Frisbee is great. A Frisbee can help them find something to do if they’re bored.
13. Bubble machine
Bubbles are always a hit with kids. They love to chase them, pop them, and make them.
Bubble machines are great camping toys for small kids because they can provide hours of entertainment. A bubble machine is a must-have if you have a child between two and four.
There are many different types of bubble machines:
- Traditional: These are the most common type of bubble machines. They have a fan that blows air through a spinning wheel, creating bubbles.
- Bubble Gun: A bubble gun is a battery-operated toy that shoots bubbles. They’re easy to use and can be fun for kids.
- Automatic: These are the best type of bubble machines. They have a built-in fan and pump that create a continuous stream of bubbles.
14. Hula hoop
Hula hoops have been around for a lot longer than you think. In Ancient Greece, they were used for exercise and games. Of course, they weren’t called hula hoops in those days, but that’s what they were.
Hula hoops are great camping toys for kids because they’re easy to use and don’t take up much space. Plus, they can provide hours of fun. Your child can play hula hoop while walking, running, or even playing tag.
Also, they’re still awesome as an exercise tool for your little one. Hula hooping can help improve coordination, balance, and flexibility.
It’s also a lot of fun.
15. Magnifying glass
Is your child a bit nerdy? Do they want to do some scientific work while on vacation? Then a magnifying glass is the perfect camping toy for them.
A magnifying glass can help your child examine bugs, leaves, and other small things. You can help your child play by cataloging the different types of bugs they find.
You can also use the magnifying glass to start a fire. Therefore, make sure that the child is always under supervision when using the magnifying glass.
16. Skipping rope
Skipping rope is a camping toy you can easily place in your backpack or car. It doesn’t take up much space and can provide hours of fun for your child.
It is a great way to improve coordination, balance, and fitness. It’s also a lot of fun and can be used in many different ways. Here are some ideas:
- Double Dutch: Two people hold the ends of the rope while a third person jumps in the middle.
- Chinese Jump Rope: This is a game where two people hold the ends of the rope while a third person jumps over it.
- Snake: When playing snake, the rope stays on the ground, and the person using it spins it 360 degrees and jumps over it.
17. Bike
For some, a bike is not exactly a toy, but if your child is passed the toy stage, then a bike might be the perfect camping toy for them.
A bike is a great way to explore the campground and get some exercise. It’s also a lot of fun. Just make sure your child knows how to ride a bike on off-road terrain before you go Camping.
18. Fishing rod
Fishing is a great way to bond with your child. It’s also a lot of fun and can provide hours of entertainment. It’s also a great way to teach your child about patience, responsibility, and the importance of conservation.
Although finishing may seem outdated to some, a surprising number of kids still enjoy it. According to Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation, more than 90% of fishing enthusiasts were introduced to it before age 12.
Of course, you need to have a place to fish before you can go fishing. But a fishing rod is the perfect camping toy for your child if there is a body of water near the campground.
19. Football
Throwing the old pig skin around is a great way to bond with your child, no matter old they are. However, when you have a large family, it can be hard to find time to bond with each child individually.
But when camping, you have all the time in the world. That’s why a football is the perfect camping toy for your child. It’s also a great way to meet other families camping near you.
20. Smartwatch
For a tech-savvy child, a smartwatch would be the perfect camping toy. Your child could use it to watch videos, navigate around, and play games on it.
And with violent crimes increasing by more than 40% since 2019, it’s also a great way to keep track of your child’s location. That way, you can relax and enjoy your camping trip, knowing that your child is safe.
There are many different types of smartwatches, so make sure you choose one that is durable and can withstand the elements.
21. Archery set
The last item on the list falls into the category of “things your child doesn’t normally play with at home.” Nonetheless, an archery set is a great camping toy for kids.
Archery is a great way to improve focus, hand-eye coordination, and patience. It’s also a lot of fun. However, teach your child how to use the bow and arrow safely. Accidents can happen, so it’s essential to be cautious.
Toy Organization Ideas for Your Next Camping Trip
Now that you know what camping toys are best for your child, it’s time to start packing. But before you do, check out these toy organization ideas.
- Don’t Overpack: It can be tempting to pack every toy your child owns when going on a camping trip. But resist the urge. Not only will this make packing and unpacking a hassle, but it will also be overwhelming for your child.
- Label the Toys: Use labels or Sharpies to label the toys. You can also label the toys with their names if you have multiple kids.
- Bring Extra Batteries: Nothing is worse than a toy running out of batteries in the middle of a camping trip. So, make sure to pack extras.
How to Choose the Best Camping Toys for Your Child
When choosing camping toys for your child, there are a few things to consider. Here are a few tips:
- Consider Their Age: The best camping toys for your 3-year-old might not be the best for your 13-year-old. So, make sure to choose age-appropriate toys.
- Think About Their Interests: Choose camping toys your child is interested in. They’re more likely to play with them if they’re interested in them.
- Don’t Forget the Classics: Sometimes, the best camping toys are the classics, like balls and frisbees.
- Consider Your Camping Location: If you’re camping in the woods, choose toys that can be used in the woods. If you’re going to the beach, choose beach toys.
- Remember to Put Safety First: Always choose safe toys for your child. Avoid toys with small parts or sharp edges.
Final Thoughts from Pragmatic Lifestyle
Now that you know what to consider when choosing camping toys for your child, it’s time to start packing. These the 21 best camping toys for kids will keep your child entertained all trip long. Hope you enjoy the quality time with your kids.
About me
Hi, there. I am Lin. Together with my husband and two kids, we live in the beautiful Netherlands in Europe. I am dedicated to self-development, creating quality time for the whole family, and fully supporting kids with their potentials with all I have learned from engineering, MBA, and 10+ years of working experience in the energy sector.
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