30 Must-Read Books For Kids Who Love Nature and the Outdoors

Check out our list of fiction nature books for kids, which might just inspire them to spend even more time outdoors!

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Books have a beautiful way of sparking imagination, transporting us to another world, and helping us see things from a different perspective. When the focus is the world outside, kids can learn about the plants and animals around them, all while immersing themselves in a story. I’ve compiled a list of fiction books that will help inspire kids of all ages who love nature and the outdoors.

You will find books from the following categories:

books for the young naturalist (ages 1-8+)
adventure/survival stories (ages 5-12+)

FOR THE YOUNG NATURALIST (fiction nature books for kids)

learn about nature

ages 1+

Wendell the Narwhal | Emily Dove | ages 1-3 – This heartwarming story follows Wendell, a young narwhal, as he embarks on an adventure to find his place in the world, learning about friendship, acceptance, and his unique horn along the way. With charming illustrations and a gentle message, it’s a delightful read for young children.

Little Owl’s Night | Divya Srinivasan | ages 1-3 – This sweet, gentle story follows Little Owl as he explores the nighttime world, meeting various nocturnal creatures and discovering the beauty of the night sky. With warm, cozy illustrations and a soothing narrative, it’s a perfect bedtime read for young children.

Turtle Splash!: Countdown at the Pond | Cathryn Falwell | ages 1-3 – This countdown book also introduces children to different animals who visit the pond, from a rabbit to a chickadee to a bullfrog.

Tree: A Peek-Through Book | Britta Teckentrup | ages 1-4 – This beautifully illustrated peek-through book takes readers on a journey through the changing seasons of a tree’s life, from its bare branches in winter to its full bloom in spring. With interactive cut-out pages, it encourages young readers to explore the cycle of life in nature in a visually engaging way.

Planting a Rainbow | Lois Ehlert | ages 1-4 – In this vibrant, colorful book, young readers learn about the process of planting a garden, from selecting seeds to watching flowers bloom in every color of the rainbow. With bold, bright illustrations, it’s a joyful celebration of nature and growth.

The Snowy Day | Ezra Jack Keats | ages 1-5 – This classic (and much-celebrated) book captures the wonder of a snowy day, following a boy on his small adventures in a snow-blanketed world. It reminds us of the simple joys of being in nature with no agenda.

The Hike | Alison Farrell | ages 1-5 – This book tells the story of three girls, their friendship, and their adventures in the forest, and the flora and fauna they see along the way. The friends draw, observe wildlife, and follow a map, and readers learn the simple joy of exploring nature.

The Honeybee | Kirsten Hall | ages 1-5 – Follow the story of a sweet honeybee as it travels from flower to flower. It highlights the importance of these pollinators while telling readers about the honeybee’s travels and about life inside the hive.

Baby Wren and the Great Gift | Sally Lloyd-Jones | ages 1-7 – In this heartwarming story, Baby Wren sets out to find a special gift for her friend, discovering the true meaning of giving along the way. With lovely illustrations and a touching message, it teaches children about love, friendship, and the joy of sharing.

ages 2+

In the Small, Small Pond | Denise Fleming | ages 2-3 – Readers can experience a “frog’s eye view” of a pond throughout the seasons. Through rhymes, they learn about the small animals and insects around the freshwater pond and the beauty of the natural world.

Yellow Kayak | Nina Laden | ages 2-4 – In this whimsical story, a young child embarks on an adventurous journey in a yellow kayak, exploring both the sea and their imagination. With vibrant illustrations and a sense of wonder, the book celebrates the joy of discovery and the beauty of nature.

Looking for a Moose | Phyllis Root | ages 2-4 – This delightful and humorous story follows a group of friends as they set out on an adventure to find a moose, encountering all sorts of creatures along the way. With lively illustrations and a playful tone, it’s a fun exploration of curiosity and the wonders of nature.

Wolf in the Snow | Matthew Cordell | ages 2-5 – This touching, wordless picture book follows a young girl who helps a lost wolf pup find its way home in a snowy, wintry landscape. With beautifully detailed illustrations, the story highlights themes of kindness, bravery, and the bond between humans and animals.

Up In the Garden and Down in the Dirt | Kate Messner | ages 2-5 – This beautifully illustrated book takes readers on a journey through a garden, exploring the changes in both the plant life above and the bustling world of critters below the soil. With engaging, informative text, it highlights the wonders of nature and the interconnectedness of all living things in a garden ecosystem.

This is Sadie | Sara O’Leary | ages 2-5 – This imaginative and heartwarming story follows Sadie, a young girl with a big imagination who can transform into anything she dreams of, from a mermaid to a pirate. With beautiful illustrations and a celebration of creativity, it encourages children to embrace their imagination and the limitless possibilities it holds.

The Moose Belongs to Me | Oliver Jeffers | ages 2-5 – This charming and humorous story follows a boy named Wilfred who believes that a moose he finds belongs to him, only to discover that the moose has its own ideas about freedom. With Oliver Jeffers’ signature whimsical illustrations, the book explores themes of friendship, ownership, and letting go.

Blueberries for Sal | Robert McCloskey | ages 2-5 – In this classic story, a young girl named Sal and her mother go blueberry picking, while a bear and her cub are doing the same, leading to a mix-up in the woods. With charming illustrations and a gentle narrative, it’s a timeless tale of adventure, nature, and the bond between mother and child.

Night Animals | Gianna Marino | ages 2-6 – In this playful story, a group of nocturnal animals try to help a little raccoon who is afraid of the dark, only to discover that night can be full of wonder and adventure. With lively illustrations and a warm, reassuring tone, the book celebrates the creatures of the night and the courage to face fears.

ages 3+

A Walk in the Forest | Maria Dek | ages 3-6 – This book reminds readers that a forest is the “best playground ever”. It also introduces different activities to do on a hike/nature walk, while encouraging readers to explore, be curious, and play independently.

Miss Maple’s Seeds | Eliza Wheeler | ages 3-6 – Readers learn the importance and magic of some of the tiniest things: seeds. Miss Maple is a loving caretaker who sees the potential of “orphan seeds” and cares for them until they are ready to be planted.

The Curious Garden | Peter Brown | ages 3-6 – In a grey and dreary city, a young boy comes across a neglected garden and decides to bring it back to life, not realizing the wide-ranging transformation he’s put into motion. The garden spreads and revives the city, turning it into a lush landscape. The book reminds us of the power of a single individual and the importance of caring for nature.

The Tea Party in the Woods | Akiko Miyakoshi | ages 3-6 – In this enchanting story, a young girl named Kiko stumbles upon a magical tea party in the woods, where forest creatures gather to celebrate and share treats. With delicate illustrations and a dreamy atmosphere, the book highlights themes of curiosity, wonder, and the unexpected joys found in nature.

The Little Yellow Leaf | Carin Berger | ages 3-6 – This heartwarming story follows a little yellow leaf as it clings to a tree, unsure of when to let go, until it finds courage through a new friend. With beautiful, textured illustrations and a gentle narrative, it explores themes of change, friendship, and the natural cycle of life.

If You Hold a Seed | Elly MacKay | ages 3-6 – This beautifully illustrated book follows a young child as they plant a seed and nurture it into a tree, witnessing the wonders of growth and nature along the way. With soft, detailed illustrations and a poetic narrative, it gently explores themes of patience, care, and the power of nature.

I Hear You, Forest | Kallie George | ages 3-7 – A young child steps into the forest, opens her ears and is enchanted by the many sounds of nature. This book helps teach empathy and connection, mindfulness and appreciation, showing the world that can be discovered if we just stop to listen.

Finding Wild | Megan Wagner Lloyd and Abigail Halpin | ages 3-7 – Two kids set off on a nature adventure and discover that the wild isn’t so far away. They discover the beauty of the natural world around them, opening their eyes to what was always there.

The Little Gardener | Emily Hughes | ages 3-7 – This charming story follows a young gardener who is determined to grow a beautiful garden, even though it’s a lot of hard work. With lush, detailed illustrations and a message of perseverance, it celebrates the beauty of nature and the rewards of dedication and love for the environment.

The Night Walk | Marie Dorleans | ages 3-7 – In this beautifully illustrated book, a young child and their family take a peaceful walk through the neighborhood at night, discovering the quiet magic of the world after dark. With soft, soothing illustrations and a gentle tone, it captures the serenity and wonder of nighttime.

Outside In | Deborah Underwood | ages 3-7 – This book reminds us that our connection to nature is ever-present, even if we happen to be indoors.

The Garden Next Door | Collin Pine | ages 3-7 – Three children investigate why their own garden is barren but their neighbor’s is full of life, and decide to make some changes of their own.

The Not-So Great Outdoors | Madeline Kloepper | ages 3-7 – This book tells the story of a “grumpy urban kid” is forced to go camping with her family. She misses the city and technology, but slowly comes to appreciate the wonders of nature and the value of unplugging.

Outside Your Window | Nicola Davies | ages 3-7 – This beautifully crafted collection of poems explores the natural world just outside your window, from the changing seasons to the animals and plants that surround us. With vivid language and engaging illustrations, it invites readers to connect with the world around them and appreciate the beauty in everyday life.

The Forever Tree | Tereasa Surratt | ages 3-7 – This heartwarming story follows a young girl who forms a special bond with an ancient tree, learning about its wisdom and the importance of nature’s cycles. Through its gentle narrative and beautiful illustrations, the book emphasizes themes of growth, change, and the lasting impact of nature on our lives.

The Hippy Hoppy Toad | Peggy Archer | ages 3-7 – This lively and rhythmic story follows a toad who hops and hops, meeting a variety of animals along the way. With playful rhymes and bright illustrations, it’s a fun and energetic tale that celebrates movement and the joy of exploring the outdoors.

ages 4+

When the World is Dreaming | Rita Gray | ages 4-7 – This poetic story takes readers on a journey through the quiet moments of the night, from the sleeping animals to the stillness of the world, celebrating the peacefulness and beauty of dreams. With soft, soothing illustrations, it captures the magic of nighttime and the calm that comes with it.

Have you Heard the Nesting Bird? | Rita Gray | ages 4-7 – In this lyrical and beautifully illustrated book, readers follow a young child as they listen to the songs of various birds and observe the wonders of nature during springtime. Through rhythmic language and vibrant illustrations, it celebrates the sounds of the natural world and the joy of discovering birds’ nests.

The Flowers are Calling | Rita Gray | ages 4-7 – In this vibrant and poetic story, the flowers call out to a young child, inviting them to explore the beauty of nature as it comes to life in spring. With rhythmic text and colorful illustrations, it celebrates the wonders of blooming flowers and the joy of the changing seasons.

My Mud Kitchen is Rad | Allison Bakkum | ages 4-8 – Follow two kids as they play in the rain and enjoy the magic of mud play.

Steve the Dung Beetle on a Roll | Susan R. Stoltz | ages 4-8 – Steve the dung beetle goes on a journey, rolling his ball of poo! With each friend that he passes, we learn how he’s helping each one of them and their environment. Warning: You may start hearing your kids recite “Hey, Steve! Why are you rolling that ball of poo?”

Old Rock (Is Not Boring) | Deb Pilutti | ages 4-8 – Old Rock may look boring to some that pass by, but he has quite a few stories to tell! Life in the forest definitely isn’t boring.

The Golden Glow | Benjamin Flouw | ages 4-8 – Fox heads out on a journey to find a rare, mysterious specimen. He meets friends along the way and observed different plants an animals. But when he finally finds the Golden Glow? Read on to find out what he decides!

Beyond the Pond | Joseph Kuefler | ages 4-8 – In this imaginative story, a young boy explores the wonders of a pond and discovers an entire hidden world filled with adventure, mystery, and unexpected surprises. With stunning illustrations and a sense of curiosity, it encourages readers to embrace the beauty of nature and the endless possibilities of exploration.

Little Butterfly | Laura Logan | ages 4-8 – This gentle story follows the journey of a little butterfly, from its transformation in a cocoon to its first flight, celebrating the beauty of change and growth. With soft, calming illustrations and simple text, it’s a perfect introduction to the life cycle of a butterfly for young readers.

A Whiff of Pine, A Hint of Skunk: A Forest of Poems | Deborah Ruddell | ages 4-8 – This delightful poetry collection takes readers on a whimsical journey through the forest, capturing the personalities and quirks of its animal inhabitants with humor and charm. With playful rhymes and vivid illustrations, it brings the forest to life, inviting readers to appreciate nature in a fun and imaginative way.

On a Magical Do-Nothing Day | Beatrice Alemagna | ages 4-8 – This charming story follows a young child who, initially frustrated by a rainy day indoors, discovers the joy of simply doing nothing and finding magic in the quiet moments. With whimsical illustrations and a heartwarming message, it encourages children to embrace stillness and the beauty of the present moment.

If I Were a Tree | Andrea Zimmerman | ages 4-8 – This imaginative book invites young readers to explore the life of a tree, from its roots to its branches, and the many ways it interacts with the world around it. Through simple, poetic text and vibrant illustrations, it encourages a sense of wonder and connection to nature.

ages 5+

The Things That I LOVE about TREES | Chris Butterworth | ages 5-8 – In this delightful book, readers explore all the wonderful things about trees, from their towering presence to the wildlife they support. With engaging text and beautiful illustrations, it celebrates the beauty and importance of trees in a way that is accessible and fun for young readers.

A River | Marc Martin | ages 6-8 – This beautifully illustrated book takes readers on a journey along a river, exploring the landscapes, wildlife, and cultures it connects as the river flows from its source to the sea. With vivid, detailed illustrations and a peaceful narrative, it celebrates the beauty and diversity of the natural world.

You & Me in the Trees | Amoris Walker | ages 6-8 – Reminding us to help protect nature for future generations, this beautiful book inspires kids’ wonder and awe along with and a sense of responsibility and stewardship.

Meeting Trees | Scott Russell Sanders | ages 8+ – In this thoughtful book, the author reflects on the connections between humans and trees, sharing personal experiences and stories that highlight the importance of trees in our lives. With beautiful prose and a deep reverence for nature, it invites readers to appreciate the wisdom, beauty, and significance of trees in the world around us.

ADVENTURE/SURVIVAL STORIES

The Story of Charlie the Coyote | London Michaels | ages 5-12 – This heartwarming story follows Charlie, a young coyote, as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and learns about his place in the world. With themes of friendship, adventure, and the wild, it teaches children about the life of a coyote and the importance of embracing one’s uniqueness.

The Wild Robot | Peter Brown | ages 7-10 – You may not have asked yourself whether or not a robot could survive in the wilderness, but this book provides you with the answer. Suddenly stranded on a remote island Roz (a robot) has to adapt to her surroundings and befriend the local animals in order to survive. Bear vs. Roz — who will win?

The Trail | Meika Hashimoto | ages 8+ – 11-yr-old Toby is determined to walk the Appalachian Trail to fulfil a pact he once made with his best friend. Hiking the trail solo wasn’t his original plan, but what ensues is a riveting story of courage, friendship, harrowing experiences and survival.

A Wolf Called Wander | Rosanne Parry | ages 8-11 – This book is inspired by the true story of a wolf named OR-7/Journey. Swift is a young wolf pup who finds himself separated from his family and alone in the Pacific Northwest. In his search for a new home he travels an incredible 1000 miles and encounters many dangers and difficulties along the way. It’s a beautifully written story that also includes fascinating descriptions and beautiful illustrations of the natural world Swift encounters.

Pax | Sarah Pennypacker | ages 8-11 – A boy named Peter is forced to release his pet fox, Pax, into the wild when war separates them, sparking a journey of survival and self-discovery for both. With alternating perspectives, the novel explores themes of loyalty, love, and the resilience of friendship in the face of hardship.

Journey Beyond the Burrow | Rina Heisel | ages 8-12 – The story of a mouse who must rescue his baby brother, this book shows us that nature can be “unpredictable, occasionally frightening, and inspirational all the same”.

Out of Range | Heidi Lang | ages 8-12 – Three warring sister find themselves stranded in the wilderness and need to learn to get along and support each other in order to survive. (Described as “[Gary Paulsen’s] Hatchet meets Raina Telgemeier’s Sisters“.)

Nature Girl | Jane Kelley | ages 8-12 – A twist on the classic survival story, this book tells the tale of 11-yr-old Meghan who gets lost on the Appalachian Trail in Vermont. With her dog by her side, she decides to walk all the way to Massachusetts to find her best friend. Through all the challenges, she gets to know herself better and proves herself to be brave, loyal and perseverant.

Island of the Blue Dolphins | Scott O’Dell | ages 8-11 – 12-year-old Karana finds herself stranded alone on an island off the California coast and has to learn to survive on her own. She makes a life for herself, building a close kinship with some of the animals on the island.

Julie of the Wolves | Jean Craighead George | ages 8-12 – Mijax/Julie finds herself lost on the Alaskan tundrea and learns to survive by copying the ways of a pack of wolves, with whom she subsequently forms a bond. If you enjoy this book, don’t miss its sequels: Julie and Julie’s Wolf Pack.

My Side of the Mountain | Jean Craighead George | ages 8-12 – Not happy with life in the big city, Sam runs away to live alone in the Catskill Mountains. With just a few simple tools, he needs to learn to survive – and thrive – on his own in the wilderness. He befriends a falcon and a weasel, learns to live off the land, and grows in courage and independence. If you enjoy this book, don’t miss its sequels: Frightful’s Mountain and On the Far Side of the Mountain.

Hatchet | Gary Paulsen | ages 9+ – An exciting survival story about a boy lost in the Canadian wilderness, the book speaks beautifully about his developing and evolving connection with nature. If you like this one, be sure to read the rest of the incredible books in the Brian’s Saga series: The River, Brian’s Winter, Brian’s Return and Brian’s Hunt.

Where the Red Fern Grows | Wilson Rawls | 9+ – This timeless classic tells the story of a boy named Billy and his two loyal hunting dogs, Old Dan and Little Ann. Together, they share adventures in the Ozark Mountains, teaching lessons of love, determination, and the deep bond between kids and animals.

The Sign of the Beaver | Elizabeth George Speare | ages 9-11 – This classic novel follows a young boy named Matt who is left alone to guard his family’s homestead in the wilderness of 18th-century Maine. As he befriends a Native American boy, Attean, they teach each other important lessons about survival, friendship, and cultural differences, highlighting themes of resilience and respect.

Call it Courage | Armstrong Sperry | ages 9-12 – This book tells the story of Mafatu, a Polynesian boy who overcomes his lifelong fear of the sea. Through courage and determination, he faces challenges on a deserted island and discovers his own strength in this Newbery Medal–winning tale of adventure and bravery.

Call of the Wild | Jack London | ages 12+ – Buck is stolen from his owner and put to work in as a sled dog. He has to quickly adapt from his previous (domesticated) life and learn to survive and adapt to the ways of the wilderness of the Yukon and Alaska. He faces cruelty and suffering, but also friendship and love from both men and dogs.

Reading is a powerful thing, able to transport us to a whole new world and while teaching us all about it. Kids who love nature and the outdoors will appreciate this list of fiction books, where they can learn anything from wilderness survival to inviting creatures into their backyard garden. What new favorite will they read today?

Don’t miss our list of non-fiction books for kids who love nature and spending time outdoors:

50+ Must-Read Non-Fiction Books for Kids (and Parents) Who Love Nature and the Outdoors

More outdoorsy gift ideas:

outdoorsy gifts for all ages and interests