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!
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!
(This post contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and purchase the item, I will receive a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)
FOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
HEADLAMP
For hands-free after-dark adventures, headlamps are a perfect!
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!)
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.
FLASHLIGHT
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. And at 120 lumens, it’s bright enough without being too bright for little eyes.
DAYPACK / BACKPACK / KNAPSACK
Letting them carry a few items of their own helps inspire responsibility and pride. The Osprey 10L daypack is on the smaller size, perfect for day hikes with littles.
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.
HYDRATION PACK
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 lenght of a pack is also important: too long and it will interfere with mobility.
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 Charm is a good fit for youth ages 10+. (Several colors available for both.)
SCAVENGER HUNTS
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”.
JOURNAL
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”.
POCKET KNIVES
Pocket knife 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!
MULTITOOL
Victorinox is well recognized for their ‘swiss army knives’, with a history of quality. This pocket knife* is a great entry point for kids, with 8 main functions: key ring, toothpick, tweezers, large blade with rounded tip, nail file, nail cleaner, Phillips screwdriver 1/2, wood saw. 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 Leatherman (also with 8 main features). It includes scissors, needlenose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutters, a flat-head screwdriver, a phillips-head screwdriver, tweezers, a nail file, and a carabiner/bottle opener.
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.
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.
TREE SWINGS
The Swurfer is a great stand-up swing with adjustable handles. And this large saucer swing allows for friends, pillows, reading.
TRIANGLE ROPE LADDER SWING
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.
WHEELBARROW
My kids always loved their wheelbarrow and enjoyed “helping” in the garden (even if it was just one stick at a time).
ROCK CLIMBING GRIPS
Build a climbing wall for your adventurous kid with these colorful grips.
GARDENING 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.
MUD KITCHEN
For kids who love pretend play and love to get dirty, a mud kitchen is a great addition to outdoor spaces.
SLACKLINE
A slackline is a great addition to any backyard or campsite. Practice your balance in the fresh air.
SNOW TUBE
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.
ZIP LINE
Your backyard can become an adventure park with this zip line kit.
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
MAGNIFYING GLASS
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!
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.
FOR CAMPING ADVENTURES
LANTERN
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 inexpensive AA-battery-powered lantern.
(They’re also handy to have for late-night boardgames during power outages!)
CAMPING CHAIR
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 Coleman chair is lightweight and good for kids 3-7. This Alps chair is meant for adults but is low to the ground and very sturdy, suitable for a range of ages.
FOR NATURE LEARNING
KNOT TYING KIT
From a bowline to a buntline hitch, your kids will learn 23 essential knots with this knot tying kit. The waterproof cards come with two practice ropes and two carabiners and are a perfectly portable for any outing!
NATIONAL PARKS MONOPOLY
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.
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
TREE POD
Part tree swing, part tent, your kids can let their imagination fly in a TreePod. The original is quite a splurge, but you can also consider the much less expensive tree tent.
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!)
For more (budget-friendly) gift ideas, check out our other lists:
Gifts Under $35 for Kids Who Love Nature
Useful Stocking Stuffers and Party Favors for Outdoorsy Kids (under $15)
50+ Must-Read Non-Fiction Books for Kids (and Parents) Who Love Nature and the Outdoors
40+ Outdoor Toys That Help Any Backyard Inspire Nature Play and Adventure
