If you’re looking for non-toy gift ideas for kids who love the outdoors, check out our curated (and growing) list. These items might just inspire them to spend even more time outside!

non-toy gift ideas for kids who love the outdoors; small child on balance bike

Most of the time, kids don’t need more toys. They usually have plenty already! But they do still like getting gifts, so consider some non-toy gifts that will also help them spend more time outdoors.

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Outdoor Adventures
Backyard Fun
Nature Exploration
Camping Adventures
Game Time
Splurges

Non-toy gifts for outdoorsy kids

FOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

LIGHTS

Though often “the brighter the better” applies to headlamps, this may not be the case for young children. Because of their tendency to look straight into their own light, or shine it in someone’s eyes (especially when talking to them), it’s best to keep the lumens lower on the scale (under 200). Look for adjustable straps and consider ease of use.

This Foxelli headlamp allows you to adjust the size of the headstrap and the angle of the light, shines up to 180 lumens and has several different light modes. It is also rechargeable! (This Foxelli model is AAA battery-powered, in case you’re worried about forgetting to charge your headlamp ahead of time!)
If you want something just a little brighter, battery powered, and inexpensive, this Energizer headlamp fits the bill. It’s always been our go-to headlamp when our rechargeable one isn’t ready!
There are so many flashlight options, it’s hard to recommend just one. We have had a good experience with the Coast HX5 — perfectly pock-sized, easy on/off switch, and plenty bright. It even has a clip for belts, belt loops, pockets or lanyards. It’s brighter than recommended for kids, so be clear on proper use. (For more flashlight recommendations, look at the end of this post.)

PACKS:

Daypack/Backpack/Knapsack: Letting them carry a few items of their own helps inspire responsibility and pride. When choosing a pack for casual daytrips, I look for four main features: adjustable straps, snack pocket, side pockets for water bottles and an easy-to-access main compartment.

Get your littlest ones (3+) started with this Deuter 8L daypack. On the smaller size, perfect for day hikes with littles.
When they’re ready for a little more weight, consider the Osprey HydraJet 12L pack — a great introduction to hydration systems with its 1.5L reservoir (included).
Camelbak is a good brand to consider, due to their sizes and ease of use for kids. The Mini MULE is a good fit for ages 3-12, and the Hydrobak Light is a good fit for youth ages 10+. (Several colors available for both.)

Hydration packs can be a great tool for bikers, hikers and runners alike, when stopping to remove a water bottle may impede the flow of your adventure. Consider how much water you will need for your excursion, finding the balance between too much (heavy) and not enough (thirsty). Some children like the mechanics of a hydration back (ie., bite valve), others don’t. Another feature to consider: the on/off ‘switch’ for the water flow. This can be an key feature for children, as they have been known to chew through their bite valve. And remember that hydration packs are generally smaller than regular day packs, and may not have room for much more than snacks + one layer. Bigger is not necessarily better, as the length of a pack is also important: too long and it will interfere with mobility.

SCAVENGER HUNTS

my insect journal, printable with insect cards and an insect scavenger hunt, lying on board outside

No matter what kind of nature-related scavenger hunt you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered!

WALKIE TALKIES

Walkie talkies are a great way to stay connected and encourage a little more independence outdoors. For hiking, camping, or even just backyard play, these two-way radios keep everyone within reach. These walkie talkies are rechargeable (no more hunting for AAA batteries!) and have a range of “about 0.2-0.8 miles in urban densely populated areas; about 0.5-1 miles in open areas/mountains”.

JOURNALING

This weatherproof notebook is a great option for nature journals. Not too big and not too small, it “won’t turn to mush when wet and will repel water, sweat, grease, mud, and even survive the accidental laundry mishap”.
This sketchbook was developed by a master of nature journaling, John Muir Laws. With a hardcover, lay-flat pages, journaling prompts and reference materials, it’s a great tool for your nature journal.
These colored pencils are inexpensive and a great option for young journalers. The tube makes them easy to carry, and give kids a sense that these are step up from their regular school pencils!

KNIVES & TOOLS

A pocket knife is great for whittling or making a perfect marshmallow stick. The rounded edges of this Opinel knife make it more appropriate for younger children, but please remember that this is still a knife with a sharp blade!
Multitools cover all the bases with a variety of tools, from knives to tweezers. Victorinox is well recognized for their ‘swiss army knives’, with a history of quality. With 13 features, this pocket knife is a great option when kids are ready. It has 13 functions, including two blades, a wood saw, tweezers and a screwdriver. Kids may not need/use each and every feature, but they will love having so many options! It’s a great tool to bring hiking or camping.
For a bladeless multitool, consider this nine-in-one multitool. It includes a keyring, needle nose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutters, scissors, bottle opener, SIM extractor, phillips head and flathead screwdrivers.

SURVIVAL GEAR

Emergency whistle: A whistle is both an survival tool and an opportunity to practice restraint! (Not to be used in the house, only outdoors in case of an emergency!)
Parachute cord: Use these lengths of paracord to practice your knots, build a shelter or make a craft.
Firestarter/Ferro Rod: Offer your older kids an extra challenge next time they want a campfire! Put away the matches and lighters and see how many strikes it takes to start the fire. With this ferro rod, they’ll have 15,000 chances!

FUN ON WHEELS

Trick scooter: If your child enjoys scootering and wants to take it to the next level, consider a trick scooter. We’ve had endless fun on neighborhood roads, skate parks and pump tracks.
Balance bike: Many budding cyclists have had found success starting with balance bikes. They help develop balance and confidence, preparing kids for future pedal bikes. The 12″ size is a great place to start. Strider is a well-recognized quality brand, but look to Banana for a more budget-friendly option.

FOR BACKYARD FUN

WINDOW BIRD FEEDER

This window bird feeder allows you to observe and feed birds from a much closer vantage point. Swap a screen for a window and let the entertainment begin!

HAMMOCK

Whether lounging in the backyard or relaxing at the campsite, hammocks are a fun way for kids to enjoy the outdoors in a more sedentary way. Look for ones that are adjustable and easy to put up and take down. The Wise Owl Outfitters hammock is a great option for kids, and you can consider an Eno hammock for the whole family.

SWINGS

The Swurfer is a great stand-up swing with adjustable handles.
This large saucer swing allows for friends, pillows, reading.
A combination of swing and ladder, this apparatus can be attached to the beam of an existing swing set, or other locations if properly installed.

GARDEN

wheelbarrow: My kids always loved their wheelbarrow and enjoyed “helping” in the garden (even if it was just one stick at a time).
garden tools: Many kids love to help in the garden, and having their own set of garden tools give them a better sense of pride and responsibility. This set includes a hoe, rake, shovel and leaf rake.
watering can: This set of watering can + tools by Green Toys is the perfect size for little hands and made from 100% recycled plastic.

MUD KITCHEN

For kids who love pretend play and love to get dirty, a mud kitchen or outdoor kitchen is a great addition to outdoor spaces.

ADVENTURE ZONE

Slackline: A slackline is a great addition to any backyard or campsite. Practice your balance in the fresh air.
Zipline: Your backyard can become an adventure park with this zip line kit!
Obstacle Course: Your kids will beg to go outside to play on this ninja warrior obstacle course.

SLEDS + SNOW TUBES

Sledding is such a fun winter activity! You can increase the fun factor (and comfort) with one of these snow tubes: flamingo, penguin, ice dragon, polar bear, or unicorn.
The Slippery Racer is simple but fast! Lightweight and easy to pull uphill, it’s a good inexpensive choice to add to your sledding arsenal!
This sled is great for families (all in together!) or as a wagon of sorts, shlepping your gear through the snow.

NATURE-INSPIRED COSTUMES

Costumes can inspire creativity and endless pretend play. Whether owl wings or butterfly wings, these colorful cloaks will let their imagination soar!

FOR NATURE EXPLORATION

A CLOSER LOOK

To take a closer look at nature (and insect’s eye view), a magnifying glass is a helpful tool. This two-pack allows children to share the experience with a friend!
This insect jar has a built-in magnifier in the lid, allowing kids to get up close and personal with insects — before letting them loose again! The base has a grid for measurements, and there are breathing holes in the lid.
For the serious birder, it might be worth investing in a mid-range pair of binoculars (around $100). These Nocs Provisions binoculars come in some pretty snazzy colors too!

FIELD GUIDES

Written for the beginner naturalist, this field guide will help your kids identify the trees they see on their adventures big and small.
Insects: If your kid loves minibeasts, keep this insect pocket guide handy.
National Geographic Kids has produced this Bird Guide (North America).

FOR CAMPING ADVENTURES

LANTERNS

To help bring a little more light to your after-dark outdoor activities (reading in a tent, etc.), consider a lantern.

This solar inflatable lantern is battery-free, takes up little storage space and can handle being dropped by little hands.
In case of charging issues, you can also consider this small AAA-battery-powered lantern.
This mini lantern is dimmable, waterproof, versatile (from a bright focused light to a soft glow), and has a long battery life. Easy to hang from a jacket or a tent ceiling, it brings a little ambiance to your campout!

These lanterns are also handy to have for late-night boardgames during power outages!

SEATING

Kids love to have their own place to sit — around the campfire or while reading in the backyard. Foldable and portable, camping chairs are a great addition to your gear arsenal.

This kids’ chair is lightweight and good for young children.
This Alps chair is meant for adults but is low to the ground and very sturdy, suitable for a range of ages.
For outdoor-inspired indoor seating, bring the nature inside with this tree-cookie-shaped pillow.

GAME TIME

BOARD GAMES

I underestimated how much playing a board game would inspire my kids! They absolutely love the National Parks edition of Monopoly and their “bucket list” of parks to visit has continued to grow.
Speaking of National Parks, Keymaster Games’ Parks is a board game with an outdoorsy twist. While exploring the beauty and wild wonders of nature, player guide their two hikers down the trail to view landmarks, collect gear, see wildlife, and visit parks for points.
For older kids, consider Wingspan. This popular boardgame is especially good for aspiring ornithologists. “You are bird enthusiasts – researchers, bird watchers, ornithologists, and collectors – seeking to discover and attract a beautiful and diverse network of birds to your wildlife preserve.”

SPLURGES

GOPRO

For your budding videographer and adventurer, consider a GoPro action camera. Whether attached to a helmet or a friend, they can capture their latest “trick” or favorite trail. This is a great way tool for getting older kids excited to spend more time outside!

KAYAK or PADDLEBOARD

If you live near water, a kayak or paddleboard can be an exciting and useful gift! Choose from a molded plastic kayak or an inflatable kayak. Or for a bigger splurge, consider an inflatable stand-up paddle board to practice their balance and experience the water from a different vantage point!

If you’re looking for a gift for a kid who loves the outdoors, consider one of these non-toy items. Encouraging them to spend more time outside is a gift in and of itself!

(Please take these ideas as suggestions only, doing your own subsequent research. We assume no liability. Consider the child’s needs, age, ability. There are so many options out there!)

More outdoorsy gift ideas:

outdoorsy gifts for all ages and interests