The Down and Dirty Guide to Camping with Kids: How to Plan Memorable Family Adventures and Connect Kids to Nature

by Helen Olsson

Plan your family camping adventure!

Whether you’re a first-time camper or a veteran backpacker befuddled by the challenges of carting a brood—and all the requisite gear—into the great outdoors, here you’ll find all the tips and tools you need to plan the perfect nature adventure with your family. Humorous and irreverent, yet always authoritative, this guide to camping with kids, from babies through pre-teens, is filled with checklists, smart tips, recipes, games, activities, and art projects.

Helen Olsson, a seasoned camper and mother of three, shares lessons learned over the years of nature outings with her own family. Learn the basics of family camping, from choosing a destination and packing gear to setting up a campsite and keeping little ones safe. Create the perfect camp menu with simple and tasty recipe ideas. Discover foolproof tips and tactics for keeping kids happy and entertained while hiking. Explore nature through clever and creative camp arts and craft projects. This guide is your game plan to unplugging from the digital world and connecting your kids to nature. Whether it’s roasting marshmallows around a crackling campfire or stretching out on a camp mat to gaze at the stars, the memories you’ll be making will last a lifetime.

Genres: Nonfiction, Parenting, Travel, Nature, Outdoors, Family

272 pages, Paperback

First published March 20, 2012

Reviews

[Regina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It is fun to read and highly informative. If you are new to camping, new to camping with kids or looking for new ideas about how to make camping with kids better then this book is for you. I have recently read several books on camping, cooking while camping and cooking for kids while camping and this is the best out of all of them. The book comes with very helpful lists (I happen to love lists!). The lists are for packing equipment, packing activities for the kids, and packing and preparing food. There are very useful and basic but interesting recipes and food menus. Olsson includes very helpful information about what to do if it is raining/storming, what to do with the hours in between meals and sleeping, what to do on a hike when the kids become tired, what to do if you are far from a bathroom, and what to do when you have unhappy campers. Every page of this book has helpful tips, lists and I found myself highlighting parts on every page. What makes this book even better is Olsson's sense of humor and style of writing. The book opens up with a very funny camping before kids were in her life -- I have recounted that scene to several friends already. Olsson doesn't just give advice, she gives advice with examples of where she or a friend encountered the exact same situation and dealt with it poorly or perfectly. The personal anecdotes make this more than just a how-to-guide. In the end the book is inspiring and helpful. I highly recommend this book for anyone thinking about camping with kids or who regularly camps with kids.

[Melissa · Rating 1 out of 5]

There was a weird sort of anti-kid undercurrent to this purportedly kid-centered book, so when I got to "Use earplugs. I am not kidding about this." as a suggestion for how to deal with whining, or "Employ bribes" as a strategy for getting kids down a trail, I was not surprised, and nor did I want to read anymore. I mean, I get it, I've been there, but can't we be a little more inspired? I don't see how those strategies can foster connection, as the subtitle suggests.

[Andrew · Rating 3 out of 5]

Useful. Introductory. Checklists.

Includes a couple recipes I'd like to try.

[Julianne Vantland · Rating 4 out of 5]

I grew up camping with my family and have the best memories of summer days exploring the campground and outdoors and nights around the fire. I’ve been wanting to introduce my own kids to this magical experience but felt daunted by all the details and supplies and variables. This book is a great help for all that! She breaks down each component of the camping experience from prep work to meals to hiking to first aid, and so much more, into reflections and manageable lists of steps or supplies. It’s nothing that I hadn’t heard or done before, but having all of the tips and tools in one place makes this a great resource for a busy family who wants to try something new. I’m so looking forward to getting out with my kiddos!

[Bridgette · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is great! Well written and a pleasure to read. In addition to the checklist in each chapter there is a master list in the back. Great ideas for things to do with the kids when you are in the camping! We are long time campers, but have recently gotten back into camping with our littles. This book covers the basics as if you’ve never camped and gives lots of game and activity ideas for littles.

[Joelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the helpful gear lists in this book as well as the practical camping advice.

[Pamela · Rating 1 out of 5]

So along with talking about how to diaper kids while camping there is a chapter on food has this reminder...don't mix up your oregano with your medical marijuana. Seriously? We're not even pretending it's for medical use?

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

Skipped over most of the basic camping information but I liked the tips for hiking with kids and camp games that might keep them entertained. I'm feeling like my family needs a completely unplugged weekend sometime soon!

[Mark Schleier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full review soon.

Book rating criteria; to help objectify my ratings.
1. Will I read it again?
Yes, this was a fun read with tons of practical ideas and wisdom in camp craft as a family.

2. Would I recommend this to others?
Yes, I believe anyone trying to get into out of doors activities as a family would benefit from this book.

3. Am I smarter, better or wiser as a result of this book (was the learning worth the time investment)?
Yes, everything from amazing new ways to make smores, to various games to do as a family, to hacks in preparing for your trip, this was great.

4. Was I entertained while reading this/it kept my attention?
Yes, easy read.

5. This book was just the right length?
Yes, just right.

[Lisa Gusewelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I understand that she needs to offer the most safe and comprehensive ideas in the book in order to avoid anyone blaming her for any once in a million happenings, but I still wish she had offered: here's the most safe option and here's the typical option. Or as well: here's the most comprehensive amount of gear and here's what you can get by with.

I overall enjoyed this book, though I think there were too many references to adults drinking alcohol, and came away believing that I'm better prepared for my family's upcoming summer camping trips.

[Jodi · Rating 3 out of 5]

While there were some good tips about camping with kids, overall I found this book geared more for beginner campers with no equipment or experience. I was hoping for some delicious, easy camp meals, and this is especially where the book fell short in my opinion. Still glad I read it as I have a couple new ideas for the girls this fall, but definitely not what I was hoping for.

[Jules · Rating 3 out of 5]

A decent review with some good tips and reminders, but more motivational than informational. I think the section with activities will be worth bringing along on the trip, and the packing lists should be a helpful resource when it actually comes time to head for the campground.

[Kit Feral · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked how this was laid out and it gave me a lot to think about. We will be attempting backyard camping this summer and I will re visit this next year before attempting a real trip (with two 5.5 year olds, a 3/4 year old and a baby under 1 ahhh)

[Karen Duvall · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a perfect book for people wanting to get started with their family, especially with young kiddos. A lot of this book was not new information to me, but a nice review with some other insights I hadn't have thought about.

[Mandy Londer · Rating 4 out of 5]

A comprehensive guide to mostly car camping with kids of mid childhood ages (I’d say geared towards ages 5-12). Lots of great ideas and very comprehensive checklists. You won’t need all the stuff but you definitely won’t miss anything.

[Lindsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a great resource! It was also fun to read! The author's tone and humor is great!

[Elyse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Smart writing and useful information. I got this from the library and would definitely consider buying it when I have littles of my own!

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good overview of all the camping basics.

[Aasinathena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was so hesitant about camping with kids before I red this. But now ... A world of opportunities await and we love it !

[Ashima · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun reading informative book

[Arazeli · Rating 4 out of 5]

We camp often with kids. This had lots of tips that I will use on our next trip. 4 stars because I found all her suggestions for backpacking with kids annoying

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very basic info but there are a lot of checklists and book lists at the end that seem useful.
Good inspiration to give it a try.

[Jake · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5

Great summary of camping with family topics!

[Bethany Shirk · Rating 4 out of 5]

excellent read to prep for a camping trip; honestly with or without kids

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good overview of camping with children; this is perhaps one to skim for tidbits of useable advice or just read the section you need particular help with.

[Diego · Rating 3 out of 5]

A little long winded, but it generally has pretty good tips and a comprehensive packing list that can get you started on getting ready to go camping with kids, making that process a little more efficient.

[Vanessa Ellermann · Rating 1 out of 5]

If you don't know anything about camping, this book will get you through. Perhaps I should be more generous, but I was turned off by the cutesy prose.

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Must-Have for Adventurous Families!

Helen Olsson's "The Down and Dirty Guide to Camping with Kids" is a breath of fresh air for families seeking outdoor adventures. I had not reviewed the 1st edition but the 2nd edition is a comprehensive guide and a treasure trove of wisdom, making it a must-have for anyone looking to create unforgettable camping experiences with their children.

Olsson's writing is not only informative but also infused with a contagious enthusiasm for the great outdoors. From the very first pages, she effortlessly captures the essence of family camping, blending practical advice with a genuine passion for connecting kids to nature. The author's warm and friendly tone makes the sometimes daunting task of planning a camping trip feel like an exciting adventure waiting to unfold.

One of the standout features of this guide is its user-friendly approach. Olsson breaks down complex topics into manageable, easy-to-follow steps. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a complete novice, the book offers valuable insights into everything from choosing the right gear to planning meals that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

The inclusion of real-life anecdotes and experiences from other camping families adds a delightful touch, making the book not only a guide but also a shared journey of discovery. The author's emphasis on safety is reassuring for parents, and her tips on troubleshooting common issues make this guide a reliable companion for any camping escapade.

In essence, Helen Olsson's "The Down and Dirty Guide to Camping with Kids" is a gem for families seeking to unplug, connect, and create lasting memories in the great outdoors. This book is an invitation to embark on a journey of discovery, and with Olsson as your guide, camping with kids becomes not just a vacation but a lifestyle that will be cherished for years to come.

[Sara Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Camping with children can be difficult but Helen offers a simple guide to make the trip more successful for everyone involved. She starts with planning. Planning an outing is a tough thing to teach so instead she offers some points to consider when planning a camping trip. Location is everything and researching the campsite you are going to will ease surprises when you arrive. Prepare your children with fun books about camping and information about activities you can do. For me, gear is the hardest part. Helen has nicely broken down all the parts that make up a great campsite and how to shop for them. She includes bringing along a play tent to keep the kids occupied while you set up. Then comes section 2, arrival at the site. Helen offers an amazing detailed description of setting up a campsite. I don’t think I have ever seen a better manual and I have read a ton of camping books. She offers a chapter on camp food with recipes. Then goes on to offer games and activities to keep children occupied. The book ends with a section on hygiene, first aid and safety. Camping is a daunting activity for any beginner. Add children and camping becomes forbidden. Helen Olsson has created a simple guide to break down those barriers and get the family out into the woods. I can see so much potential for this book from scouting groups, youth groups to just learning to enjoy nature as a family.

[Breanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great camping guide with a focus on caring for your kids in the wilderness. It has sections on what gear you'll need, food to prepare (including recipes), hygiene and safety, as well as many ideas for crafts, games, and activities. Each section comes with checklists so you can make sure you've remembered to pack everything, and the book is scattered with helpful "smart tips" that the author has picked up from experience - such as keeping a pair of sandals by the tent door for any midnight trips to the bathroom. "Nobody, especially a six-year-old, wants to be tying laces in the dead of night."

I originally only intended to peruse this book and scan the sections that I was interested in. But the author's friendly and playful voice lured me in until I ended up reading it from cover to cover, even laughing out loud a few times. "You want the kitchen to be as far from the tent as possible (within reason), because you don't want your tent smelling like blueberry cobbler. Bears love blueberry cobbler." There is a lot of good insight and experience here specific to camping with kids that you won't get from a normal camping book, and it's fun to read to boot.