Camping is a beloved outdoor activity that brings families and friends closer to nature. It’s a chance to unplug from technology and enjoy the simple pleasures of the great outdoors.
Camping toys are a fun addition to any outdoor adventure, providing entertainment and creating lasting memories for campers of all ages.
Camping toys come in many forms, from classic board games to outdoor sports equipment. These toys can make downtime at the campsite more enjoyable and add an extra layer of fun to hiking trips or beach outings. They’re designed to be portable, durable, and easy to use in outdoor settings.
When choosing camping toys, it’s important to consider size, weight, and durability. The best camping toys are compact and lightweight, making them easy to pack and carry. They should also be able to withstand the elements and rough handling that often comes with outdoor play.
We looked at a wide range of camping toys to find the ones that offer the most fun while still being practical for outdoor use.
Best Camping Toys
We’ve put together a list of the top camping toys to make your outdoor adventures more fun. These toys are perfect for keeping kids entertained at the campsite and creating lasting memories in nature. Our picks are durable, easy to pack, and suitable for a range of ages.
ULOVEME Kids Camping Set
We recommend this camping set for kids who love pretend play and outdoor adventures.
Pros
- Large, cute tent fits 2-3 kids
- Includes many accessories for realistic camping play
- Detachable binoculars for shared fun
Cons
- Tent may be small for older children
- Some parts could break with rough play
- Batteries not included for campfire sounds
We tried out this camping set and were impressed by how much it offers. The tent pops up easily and provides a cozy space for kids to play. It’s big enough for 2-3 young children to sit inside comfortably.
The accessories really make this set stand out. We loved the pretend grill with play food. Kids can act out cooking burgers and hot dogs just like at a real campsite.
The toy campfire adds to the outdoor feel, though you’ll need to buy batteries to hear the crackling sound effects.
One of our favorite features was the detachable binoculars. They split into two mini telescopes, so kids can share and explore together. This encourages teamwork and doubles the fun. The whole set sparks imagination and gets kids excited about nature and adventure.
Meland Kids Camping Adventure Set
We highly recommend this camping set for kids who love outdoor adventures and imaginative play.
Pros
- Comes with 30 fun camping accessories
- Easy-to-set-up tent fits 1-2 toddlers
- Light-up campfire and lantern add realism
Cons
- Requires batteries (not included)
- Tent may not be very durable
- Some pieces are small and can get lost easily
This camping set is a hit with young explorers. We love how it includes everything kids need for a pretend camping trip. The pop-up tent is quick to set up and gives little ones their own special space.
The light-up campfire and lantern are cool features that make playtime more exciting. Kids can adjust the binoculars and use the magnifying glass to check out bugs up close.
We found the pretend food and utensils great for cooking games.
We like that it comes with a backpack to keep all the pieces together. It’s perfect for indoor or backyard play. While some parts are small, the set offers lots of ways for kids to learn about camping and nature.
Melissa & Doug Campfire S’mores Set
We think this adorable pretend campfire set is a great buy for young kids who love outdoor-themed imaginative play.
Pros
- Realistic details like crackling flames and toastable marshmallows
- Durable wood and fabric construction
- Encourages screen-free creative play
Cons
- Somewhat pricey for a toy set
- Small parts require supervision for younger kids
- Limited appeal beyond camping theme
This 23-piece play set brings the fun of camping right into your living room. Kids can “roast” marshmallows over the pretend fire, build s’mores, and even saw logs with the wooden toy saw.
We love the attention to detail, like the reversible marshmallows that go from white to toasty brown.
The quality of the pieces impressed us. The wooden graham crackers and chocolate bars feel sturdy enough to withstand lots of play. The plush marshmallows are a nice touch too.
Everything packs up neatly in the included mesh bag for easy storage or on-the-go fun.
We found this set great for sparking imaginative play. Kids can act out camping trips or use it as part of larger pretend scenarios.
It’s a fun way to introduce outdoor concepts without screens. While a bit costly, we think the durability and play value make it worthwhile for kids who love camping themes.
Melissa & Doug Camp Stove Playset
We highly recommend this camping toy for kids who love outdoor adventures and pretend play.
Pros
- Realistic wooden design with moving parts
- Includes many accessories for imaginative play
- Compact storage inside the stove
Cons
- Pricier than some plastic alternatives
- Wood may scratch or dent over time
- Some small parts to keep track of
This camping stove playset brings the fun of outdoor cooking indoors. Kids can turn the knobs, flip the reversible grill, and adjust the “flame” on the burner.
We love how it comes with 24 pieces total, including play food, plates, utensils and a kettle.
The wooden construction feels sturdy and durable. It’s a big step up from flimsy plastic toys.
All the pieces pack neatly inside the stove for easy cleanup and storage. This is great for small spaces or taking the toy on trips.
Kids can slice the wooden fish, crack open the plastic egg, and serve up pretend meals. The felt food pieces add a fun sensory element.
We found the included activity book adds extra play value with camping-themed games and prompts. While it costs more than some toys, the quality and play potential make it worth it for many families.
Buying Guide
When shopping for camping toys, we recommend considering a few key factors.
Age Range
Pick toys suited to your children’s ages. Younger kids may need simpler, safer options while older ones can handle more complex toys.
Durability
Look for sturdy toys that can withstand outdoor use. Plastic and rubber materials often hold up well to rough play and weather.
Size and Weight
Choose compact, lightweight toys that are easy to pack and carry. Space is often limited when camping.
Educational Value
Select toys that teach outdoor skills or nature appreciation. This adds extra benefit to playtime.
Versatility
Multi-use toys provide more value. A frisbee can be used for catch, as a plate, or even to fan a campfire.
Safety
Check for any small parts or sharp edges. Make sure toys are appropriate for use around a campsite.
Ease of Cleaning
Pick toys that are simple to wipe down or rinse off. Camping can get messy!
Weather Resistance
Water-resistant or waterproof toys are ideal for unpredictable outdoor conditions.
Noise Level
Be mindful of how loud toys are. You’ll want to respect other campers and wildlife.
Choose camping toys that are fun, practical, and enhance the outdoor experience for kids.
