Not sure what to give a camper as a gift? In this post, you'll find tons of outdoor ideas and camping gifts that any camper will love and actually use. The post is divided into 13 categories, ranging from tech, campfire, cooking gear, camp coffee, water, photography and campsite comforts.
71 Perfect Camping Gifts
If you know an avid camper, you know how important proper equipment can be for the trip.
We’ve compiled a list of our favorite camping gifts for the avid camper in your life, and divided into any category you could possibly think of.
Let’s make you their favorite person.
Campfire Gear Gifts
Starting a fire isn’t always easy, but it’s a critical part of the camping trip. Help get the fire started, keep it going and keep things safe with our favorite campfire gear.
Tesla Coil Lighter: USB-Charged Fire Starter
Give the gift of reliable fire with the Tesla Coil lighter. Instead of gas or butane, it uses a simple electric charge to help light a starter.
There’s no dangerous flame and no lighter fluid to run out. It’s USB rechargeable and highly durable.
Lodge Quart Seasoned Dutch Oven
Lodge has been making quality cast iron for over 100 years, and this gift is one that will get passed down for generations.
Textport Heavy Duty Over Fire Camp Grill
It’s made of heavy-duty steel and folds for easy transport. It’s designed to handle a variety of cookware from aluminum to your heaviest cast iron. The mesh top allows the fire to filter through, cooking food with the signature campfire taste.
Magical Flames
Just toss the unopened package onto your fire and enjoy colorful flames for over an hour. Colors include red, green, dark and light blue, purple, and yellow.
Here's what it looks like in the fire:
Watch on YouTube
MalloMe Marshmallow Roasting Sticks: 32″
These telescoping, 32-inch forks are kid approved and come in eight different colors, so no one gets mixed up. They’re also suitable for cooking hot dogs and a variety of other campfire food at a safer distance from the flames.
Omnicore Designs Heavy Duty Camp Chair
This ultra comfortable camp chair offers plenty of support but doesn’t compromise comfort with the double quilted seat and back. It can hold up to 300 pounds and is made of 600 denier nylon.
It folds for easy storage and is durable enough to outlast a lot of different kinds of weather.
It has cup holders, pockets, and a bottle opener, so you don’t have to get up until you’re good and ready.
Fun Camping Gifts
So your friend or family member has all the necessary things to get out there camping, but you can still lighten the mood and brighten the day with these fun camping gifts.
They won’t mean the difference between surviving and thriving while camping, but they can bring some fun.
Savvy Designs BBQ Apron
It’s made of a durable cotton and polyester blend and should fit most sizes. On the front “Grill Master: The Man, The Myth, The Legend” lets everyone know who to thank for their meal.
Enamel Camping Mug
It has “Happy Camper” on the side, reminding you of everything you love about camping while remaining simple to clean and store for the ride home.
Camping Hat for Hair Care
This camping hat lets people know that you’re taking a break from the glam each day to enjoy yourself, hair wrangled into place securely with this hat. “Camping hair, don’t care” indeed.
The Great Family Songbook
Children love songs, and this could make the family camping trip all the more fun and memorable.
Conversation Starters Fireside Chats
They double as simple cards, so you can begin the night with your favorite game and then end the night by flipping over on the back for some fun conversation starters.
They offer four different ways to get everyone involved and are sure to be the most fun you’ve had in a long time.
Flashlights and Fireflies (Kids Game)
Rules come in English and Spanish, and it accommodates two to five players.
The object of the game is to “catch” fireflies while avoiding other woodland creatures, giving you a great starting point to talk about all the things you see while you’re camping.
Kids Camping Journal
Journaling can be a thoughtful way for children to process the things they experience and it also encourages literacy skills.
Cooking Gear Gifts for Campers
The tent is up, and the chairs are out. What’s for dinner? Cooking during a camping trip can be difficult, but if you have the right equipment, it can easily be the best part.
Camp food is comforting and tasty, but you need the right tools. Make sure your friend or your family have everything they need.
Coleman Stove Ppn 2 BRN Ml Triton
It’s large enough to accommodate a ten and a 12-inch pan, giving you plenty of cooking surface for multiple people. It folds up at the end of the trip for storage.
Canway Camping Wood Stove
If your friend is a do it yourself-er, then no amount of high tech gadgetry will overcome the need to light that fire and get going with hands-on experience.
This wood stove is lightweight yet durable stainless steel and packs down for storage. Once at your site, the design makes it easy to use wood, and the thermal canister keeps things going for at least 20 minutes at a time with a full tank.
MalloMe Camping Mess Kit
The durable set is built for smaller camping stoves (not over open flames please) but cooks speedily and efficiently without having to carry a bunch of random tools with you.
Easy Campfire Cooking Cookbook
The Easy Campfire Cooking Cookbook is an excellent resource for beginning campers who have no idea where to start and seasoned (see what we did there?) campers who need to refresh their camping recipes repertoire. Cooking on a campfire is different than any other method you've used.
It’s an excellent option for building up new, improved cooking skills and finding new ideas.
Lodge Field Guide to Dutch Oven Cooking
It’s loaded with recipes and tips, so you aren’t at a loss once you finally get things rolling. It’s spiral bound at the top for easy access and suitable for both beginners and experts.
Norchill Voyager Series Soft Cooler
It has a dual temperature system that can keep things hot or cold depending on what you need, and the durable exterior keeps out moisture and outside temperatures.
Durable YKK zippers don’t snag or tear, and a shoulder strap frees up your hands for other things. It comes with a two-year warranty against manufacturing defects. Now it won't be so hard to keep food cold.
Camp Kitchen Utensil Organizer
Camp Kitchen’s utensil organizer is a great way to make sure you have everything you need but prevent things from getting lost or rattling around in your bags. Just throw it in the luggage, and your friend is ready to go.
GCI Slim Fold Outdoor Cooking Station
The folding cooking station gives your favorite camper extra space to prep, serve, and remain king of the barbecue. It’s simple to use and folds down flat for storage. The powder-coated steel frame is durable, and a small cook stove can fit right on the aluminum top.
Kyocera Outdoor Ceramic Knife
Kyocera’s ceramic knife keeps its sharp edge for a long time and is humidity resistant. It’s rustproof, resists bacteria and other contaminants, and it even comes in its own heavy nylon sheath with a belt loop.
Camp Coffee Gifts
If you don’t have your coffee in the morning, you’re useless, so why should your favorite camper have to live without his or hers. Make sure the coffee flows whether at the house or in the wild.
Stanley Classic French Press
This one gets the job done and helps hold in temperatures so that your coffee is warm until you’re finished.
It’s naturally rust free and BPA free, and it’s made of durable 18/8 stainless steel that keeps coffee hot for up to four hours. Plenty of time to enjoy it.
Yeti Camp Mug
If you need the maximum amount of time to enjoy your coffee hot, this could be a great way to do that. It’s a double walled, no sweat design that uses a no-flake color coating. It’s rust resistant and can keep coffee hot or drinks cold for hours and hours.
Aeropress Coffee and Espresso Maker
They can make both American coffee and espresso with the same device and enjoy drinks just like they do at home. It comes with everything needed to start.
GSI Outdoors Collapsible Drip
If your camper friend doesn’t need a lot of coffee or often travels solo, this could be a unique way to have coffee while keeping the pack light.
Mini Espresso Maker
It’s ultra portable and brews just one double shot in about 90 seconds, making it the perfect lightweight gift for a real coffee connoisseur.
Romaunt Handheld Milk Frother
It’s suitable for glamping or serving guests. It’s simple to use and froths milk in just a few seconds.
Water Gear for Campers
Water is a critical part of the journey, so anything that helps keep water in stock is a good gift. Chances are, even if your favorite camper has water tools, he or she could probably use a lot more. Make sure hydration is at the top of the list.
Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System
It comes with a filtration bag but can also be attached to water bottles or used to drink directly from the water source. It’s good for at least 100,000 gallons and comes with a reusable pouch, straw, and cleaning plunger.
SteriPen Adventurer
It’s simple to use but make sure you read the full directions, so you have maximum safety. It fits in your pocket and doubles as an LED flashlight in a pinch. It comes with the proper batteries and a carry pouch.
Embrava 40oz BPA Free Wide Mouth Bottle
It’s suitable for both hot and cold beverages and is impact resistant. It’s also dishwasher safe on the top rack and accommodates most water filters.
Lifestraw Go Water Filter Bottles
It uses an integrated life straw system that filters out over 99.9% of bacteria and protozoa. It’s one of the easiest to use and has a comfortable flow rate despite the high level of filtration.
A Warm Camper is a Happy Camper
Know someone who doesn’t like to stop camping just because the temperatures drop? Be the greatest friend ever and help facilitate the year-round obsession with heat-related gifts that keep on giving.
Mr. Heater Buddy Indoor-Safe Portable Heater
It’s suitable for areas of up to 225 square feet and has an auto-shutoff feature in case of tipping, a blown pilot light, or when low oxygen levels are detected. It connects easily to a small propane tank.
More reading: Safe Camping Guide to Heaters for Tents
Marmot Trestles 15 Cold-Weather Mummy Sleeping Bag
It has high loft insulation with an anatomically shaped foot box to allow some wiggle room. It discourages heat build up but helps seal out cold drafts on winter nights. It weighs about four pounds and has an interior length of 82 inches.
Thinking about winter camping? Check out our Sub-Zero Winter Camping Guide.
Hot Hands Hand Warmers
If they seem to lose some heat, just expose them to air and shake for an extra bit of heat. They’re simple to pack, and they’re available in a few different styles to make things easier.
Karacel Rechargeable Hand Warmer
Light indicators help you know if the battery is getting low and how much time you have left on your charge. It can also double as a portable power unit for a smart device.
Technology Gifts for Campers
Sure camping has fun perks such as getting away from the hustle and bustle and out into nature. But technology can make things a little more fun, don’t you think? Here are some fun gifts to bring your camper into the modern world.
SUAOKI 100W 18V 12V Solar Panel Charger
They can use it to power up to 100 watts, and the high-efficiency absorbency captures light more quickly than some at home solar panels out there. It weighs just over five pounds and is easy to transport. Great for car or RV camping.
Anker PowerCore+ 26800 PD with 30W Power Delivery Charger
It comes with everything you need and charges smartphones roughly seven times, tablets about twice, and a USB-c notebook at least once. It takes around four and a half hours to recharge, and it packs with a small, light footprint.
Tough Light LED Rechargeable Lamp
It has about 50,000 hours of use and can be charged on any USB based phone charger for convenience. With military grade rubber and high water resistance, it’s a durable safety tool.
Hawkeye Fishtrax Fish Finder
It has an easy to read dot matrix display with depth reader and fish depth identification.
It has five levels of sensitivity and can be mounted on the boat if needed. The audible fish alarm helps you stay focused on fishing so you don't have to watch the device in beautiful surroundings.
Watersports Gifts for Campers
Outdoor enthusiasts know that watersports are some of the most fun ways to spend the summer. If your favorite camper is into watersports, here are some gifts to feed that love.
Two Person Inflatable Kayak
The inflatable kayak has space for two people and a small amount of gear plus a bright yellow body for increased visibility.
It has a combined weight limit of 400 pounds and is made of heavy duty, puncture resistant vinyl. It also has built-in stability with two different air chambers plus a central stabilizing chamber.
Peak Expedition Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board
It’s made to house an additional (smaller) rider or pet and carries a combined weight of up to 350 pounds.
The outer material is a PVC material that’s durable and puncture resistant. Plus, it has bungee cords for storage while you’re out on the water.
Coolerz Rapid Rider Four Person Island
The bottom is open, so you have options for how to float. Plus, with convenient handles, getting it in and out of the water is a snap. Two air chambers help keep safety at the forefront, and the design is a fun way to spend the day.
Wildhorn Outfitters GoPro Compatible Snorkel Mask
It fits across your entire face to allow you to breathe freely through your nose and mouth while maximizing the view space. It’s durable and adjustable and may be your most favorite snorkel yet.
Wildhorn Topside Snorkel Fins
The body ensures a tight but comfortable fit that won’t come off in the water and, more importantly, won’t leave a ring of blisters at the end of the day.
Photography Gear for Campers
Photos … or it didn’t happen, right? Your favorite camper needs a way to document the sights and sounds of camping whether for personal nostalgia or that amazing social media profile. Make sure those photos are impeccable.
GoPro Hero8
It’s compatible with a variety of accessories, so those boring camping slide shows will be a thing of the past. This one features hyper-stabilization for better shots and a durable exterior designed to take more hard knocks.
Plus it's water and dust proof – perfect for hiking and camping.
40 Inch Selfie Stick / Tripod
It extends an impressive amount for aerial shots and collapses comfortably enough for up close shots that won’t disappoint. You can also use it for your cell phone until you’ve invested in your GoPro.
Here are some more of the best GoPro selfie sticks.
Kobra Flex Tripod
Plus, the included Bluetooth remote means you won’t have to beg strangers to take your picture anymore. It’s highly durable and folds down for easy storage.
Sleeping Gifts for Campers
Even one night of poor sleep can throw your entire trip off. Make sure your favorite camper has plenty of rest and the most comfortable set up while out in the wild with these thoughtful gifts.
Coleman Cabin Tent with Instant Set Up
It has a weather tech system designed to keep you dry and reflective guylines for safety.
The poles can withstand winds of up to 35 miles per hour with welded seams and bathtub style floor helping keep moisture out. With a six and a half foot center height, it’s comfortable for just about everyone.
Coleman Brazos Sleeping Bag
Insulation is held in place with the stitching and most people up to five feet, and 11 inches should fit comfortably. It’s machine washable and has a polyester exterior that’s slightly moisture resistant.
Coleman Airbed Folding Cot
The simple cot design folds out quickly, and the mattress blows up with the included pump. It can support up to 600 pounds and is leak resistant. When you’re packing up, it folds up into its own carrying case.
Read more about the best air mattresses for camping.
Winner Outfitters Double Camping Hammock
It hangs easily and adjusts quickly so you can get just the right position to sleep through the night. Set up takes about three minutes and the hammock comes with lines and carabiners. It’s 118 inches long by 78 inches wide.
Hammock camping is more popular every year. A good hammock replaces a tent and air mattress – saving space and money.
Safety Gear for Campers
If you worry about your favorite camper being in the great outdoors, give him or her something to make sure the trip goes smoothly. Safety equipment is almost as necessary as water, and these gifts help your camper stay safe and return home in one piece.
Northbound Train First Aid Kit
It weighs just 11 ounces, so they don’t have any excuse not to carry it. It has belt loops and Molle webbing and is TSA compliant.
Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Pro Knife, Fine Edge
The blade is just under 5 inches long and comes with a nylon sheath. There’s a sharpener built into the sheath, and it has lashing holes in the handle.
Plus, a built-in fire starter rod and a safety whistle make it a multi-use safety tool.
Glowmind Ultra Bright Glow Sticks
These are quick deploying and have hooks so you can hang them around where you need them. They’re bright enough to be seen from long distances and maintain their glow for 12 hours or more depending on conditions. They come in a 12 pack, so there’s plenty of use.
Cobiz Headlamp
It has low, medium, and high settings plus a safety strobe. You can use it in the rain thanks to the housing and waterproof switch, and the light itself is rechargeable so you don’t have to worry about packing batteries.
SAS Survival Handbook
It’s written by a survival instructor and former member of Britain’s special forces. It has step by step instructions for some of the most likely survival scenarios whether out in the wild or in the “urban” jungle.
Edible Wild Plants
It’s a great resource that can tuck away in a bag to be used again and again. It covers over 200 North American plants.
The Ultimate Book of Everyday Knots
This resource is excellent for people who come into situations regularly where a good knot can mean all the difference. It’s also suitable for hobbyists who want to get into the fascinating world of knot tying.
Babyganics Baby Sunscreen + Insect Repellent
This spray is a 50 SPF sunscreen with insect repellent built right into the spray. It’s easy to use and water resistant for up to 80 minutes.
Peppermint Oil
If you’re going someplace where you’re worried about pests not just around your body but getting into your things, this could be a good deterrent. It’s also an effective cleaner for those grimy camp surfaces.
It has a convenient dropper lid and ships with a detailed User’s Guide. A little goes a long way so you can use it again and again.
Learn more about homemade insect repellents.
Coolibar Men’s Sun Hat: SPF50
The brim is adjustable and positionable thanks to a moldable brim, so it’s always out of your face and in the right place. It’s comfortable, quick drying, and provides SPF 50 coverage. Hand wash to clean.
Sunday Afternoon Kids Hat: SPF50
It’s comfortable and quick drying, so your children are less likely to rip it off every five seconds. It also has a six-inch neck veil to extend coverage down the neck, which is a highly vulnerable spot for sun exposure.
Campsite Comforts
Not everything is safety, survival, gloom, and doom. While your camper may enjoy certain aspects of survival, other gifts can help make the campsite a comfortable place to stay. Lighten the mood with a few of these campsite comforts.
Advanced Elements Five Gallon Shower
It hangs conveniently and doesn’t take too long to warm up for a quick wash. It has an extra large filling head to make it more convenient to prep.
WildVenture Waterproof Tarp
It folds quickly into its own carrying pouch and uses 2000 mm waterproof 210T nylon ripstop, so there are no snags even when you’re having to set it up yourself. Give the gift of necessary protection and never have a wet sleeping bag again.
Chillbo Shwaggins Inflatable Lounger
It has an elastic anchor for stability and side pockets to hold your gear, so you only have to get up when you want to. It comes in 12 different color combinations and is bright enough that you’ll always know where to find it.
Green Elephant Folding Toilet Seat
This portable commode seat makes it easy to fashion your camp toilet in a way that won’t kill your back and create a huge mess. It’s especially suitable for children who aren’t coordinated enough to go the “dig a hole” route. It’s compatible with any eight-gallon toilet bag.
Green Elephant Pop-up Privacy Tent
It’s great in a pinch for when you need a quick change, need to set up a breastfeeding station, or any other privacy-related need that happens while you’re out. It’s excellent for groups and families who may not always be comfortable sharing everything.
Wildlife Spotting Gifts
Got an avid birder on your hands? Creating a trip solely to spot those native species? Wildlife spotting is a massive part of being outdoors, and you can make it a lot easier with these gift options.
Don’t let that ultra-rare species slip from your favorite camper’s grasp; ensure the best chances each and every time.
Wingspan Optics Explorer High Powered 12X50 Monocular
It’s fog proof and water resistant, so even if you’re in humidity or going from the cool of the morning to the heat of mid-day, your view won’t be obscured. It has a single hand focus and a comfortable, ergonomic design.
Gosky 10×42 Roof Prism Binoculars
The durable rubber armor makes them impact resistant, and they’ve got an impressive field of view for the cost.
The lenses have multilayer coatings for better sight, and a smartphone mount allows you to watch on your smartphone’s screen when you’re with other people.
The Gift of the Great Outdoors
Giving camping gifts allows your friends and family to head out on their camping trips better prepared and more likely to enjoy what nature has to offer.
These gifts cover a range of needs and wants and could be great for many different types of camping, from family to solo backpacking.
Let us know how your camper reacted to your gift in the comments below.
