Some of my fondest memories and most beautiful experiences with my children are outside. Whether hiking, camping, gardening, or taking pictures of flowers, we’re happiest when we’re in nature. Here are twelve books that will help your kids develop a love of nature and get them excited to explore the outdoors!
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Explore the Outdoors with These Picture Books for Kids
Explorers of the Wild by Cale Atkinson
In this heartwarming book, two unlikely friends find that friendship and a sense of adventure can conquer fear. It’s a celebration of nature and curiosity with vibrant, beautiful illustrations and sweet, relatable characters.
My First Book of Hunting ABC by Andrew McMurdie, illustrated by Dena McMurdie
For all the hunting families out there, this is the perfect introduction to the sport for little ones! With fun rhymes, bright illustrations, and lots of animals, your future little hunter will love this charming book. Be sure to check out the fascinating fun facts at the end!
The Hike by Alison Farrell
I love this book’s down-to-earth, informal writing—it’s relatable, fun, and informative and feels like a friend annotating little snapshots of their adventures. It highlights the simple joys and deeper, profound moments that come when you immerse yourself in nature—especially when it’s with people you love.
The Camping Trip by Jennifer K. Mann
First time camping with your little one? This is a great book to help your child know what to expect! It follows a girl on her first camping trip and the journey of feelings and experiences that follow. At first, camping is new and exciting, but some challenges make her wonder if she’s cut out for it. Can she find the fun in a new and unexpected experience? Discover the joy of trying new things in this sweet story!
Flashlight by Lizi Boyd
Nighttime isn’t so scary with the help of a flashlight. Go on a wordless journey with a boy as he discovers the magic and wonder of the forest at night. I love how this book immerses you and your child into the nocturnal world and helps you see the everyday through a new perspective.
If You Go Down to the Woods Today by Rachel Piercy, illustrated by Freya Hartas
Part poetry, part look-and-find, this delightful book takes you to many unexpected corners of the woods. The poems are sweet and charming, the detailed illustrations are fun to explore, and the hidden pictures add a fun challenge to keep your child busy and excited to get outside!
Backpack Explorer: On the Nature Trail: What Will You Find? by the editors of Storey Publishing
Get outside with your kids and get your hands dirty with this fun and informative field guide! This book encourages your kiddos to look closer at nature, from leaves to worms to birds and everything in between. With sticker badges to earn for each item or animal spotted in the field, your child will be engaged and fascinated by the wonderful world of nature. Be sure to check out the others in this series: Bug Hunt and Bird Watch.
All Aboard! National Parks: A Wildlife Primer by Kevin and Haily Meyers, illustrated by Haily Meyers
Start your little ones young on the wonders of the national parks of the U.S.A. with this simple, charming board book. With bold and beautiful illustrations highlighting the variety and beauty of the parks, this one’s a nursery must-have for nature lovers.
National Parks of the USA by Kate Siber, illustrated by Chris Turnham
For older kids, this book takes you on a journey across America, highlighting 21 national parks. With easy-to-read details about the plants and animals there, fun facts, and vibrant illustrations, this book will get your child excited to explore the outdoors while learning about the importance of preserving these beautiful spaces for generations to come.
André Goes Fishing by Mikaela Wilson, illustrated by Pardeep Mehra
What do you do when the weather throws off your plans to go fishing? Bring the great outdoors inside! This story shows kids how to handle disappointment and teaches that a little imagination and creativity can turn a situation around.
We Planted a Tree by Diane Muldrow, illustrated by Bob Staake
This heartwarming book was a favorite of mine to read to my oldest when he was young. It shows how little actions, like planting a single tree, can significantly impact the world. It takes you around the globe and shows that no matter where you are, you can explore the outdoors and enjoy watching nature grow—just like you!
Have You Ever Seen a Flower? by Shawn Harris
Follow a city girl into the countryside, where she experiences a single flower’s wonders. What does it look like? Smell like? What does it remind her you of? How is she like a flower? I love how this book invites us to tune into the little things in nature, be mindful, and be present. The illustrations are bold, bright, unique, and captivating. After reading this stunning book, you may never see a flower the same way again.
Have older kids? Check out this list of books like Hatchet by Gary Paulson!
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