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Top Camping Gift Ideas for Outdoor Enthusiasts

WriterAcademy Staff
10 min read
 A man and his dog are having fun camping in the mountains.

Looking for the perfect gift for the camper in your life? It may seem like they have everything, but there’s always something new out there that can take their stays in the great outdoors to the next level. From practical must-haves to fun gadgets, our camping experts at Academy rounded up some awesome camping gift ideas that are sure to bring a smile to any nature lover’s face.

Camping Gifts Below $10

Gifts for campers don’t have to break the bank to be thoughtful and useful. There are plenty of budget-friendly options that any camper will appreciate. Check out these camping gifts under $10 that would make perfect stocking stuffers or just a little something extra for their next adventure.

frogg toggs Chilly Mini

Why we chose it: This towel will keep your camper cool in the great outdoors without taking up too much space.

Price: $1.99

Key features:

  • Quickly reaches temperatures of down to 30 degrees F
  • Offers hours of cooling relief
  • Washable and reusable
  • UPF 50+ UV protection

Grabber Body Warmers 3-Pack

Why we chose it: These adhesive body warmers keep campers warm for up to 12 hours so they can enjoy nature no matter the season.

Price: $3.99

Key features:

  • Warms quickly
  • Easy to use and air-activated
  • Extra-large size
  • Adhesive backing to stick to your clothing

Coghlan's Camp Fork

Why we chose it: This fork is heavy-duty and 41” long so your camper can safely roast their favorite foods over a campfire.

Price: $4.79

Key features:

  • Chrome-plated steel construction with 2 tines
  • Wooden handle

GSI Outdoors Coffee Rocket Camp Coffee Maker

Why we chose it: This pour-over coffee maker is compact, has a stainless steel filter, and fits almost any coffee mug.

Price: $9.99

Key features:

  • Crafted with nylon and clear polypropylene materials
  • Features an 8-fluid-ounce drip cone that funnels hot water
  • Filter holds up to 3.5 ounces of medium-grind coffee
  • Filter body can nest neatly in the water hopper for compact storage

Gifts for Solo Campers

Solo campers tend to pack lighter and focus on essentials, making compact and efficient gear a must. In this section, we’ve put together some great gift ideas designed specifically for those who love to explore on their own.

Ampex Codazzi 2-Person Backpacking Tent

Why we chose it: This tent is resilient, water-resistant, can be set up in multiple ways, and has interior pockets for storage.

Price: $149.99

Key features:

  • 10-denier 500T nylon ripstop and 28-gram nylon "no-see-um" mesh withstand the sun, rain, and wind
  • Ultralight aluminum poles deliver stability
  • 15-denier 420T nylon ripstop rainfly protects against wet weather
  • Ampex foot connection system provides a simple setup
  • Pure polyurethane seam tape
  • Reflective guy lines
  • 3 pitching configurations: weather-ready, fast fly and stargazer
  • Carry bag for storage
  • Includes 14 tent stakes and a footprint

GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless 1 Person Set

Why we chose it: This set is lightweight, durable, compact, and comes with a carry bag for easy storage and portability.

Price: $34.99

Key features:

  • Easy-to-clean material
  • 8.5-inch deep plate
  • 20-ounce bottle cup
  • Folding handles
  • Utensils

Creative Outdoor All-Terrain Folding Wagon

Why we chose it: This wagon is strong, easy to maneuver, and folds down for storage, making it perfect for carrying gear to and from campsites.

Price: $99.99

Key features:

  • Steel frame and CORDURA® fabric
  • Oversize rubber tread wheels
  • Long handle with a comfortable grip
  • Front swivel wheels for easy turns

Unique Camping Gifts

Looking for something a little different to surprise your camper? These one-of-a-kind items are sure to bring an extra spark of excitement to their next adventure.

GCI Outdoor Slim-Fold Cook Station

Why we chose it: Just because they’re in the wild doesn’t mean they have to rely on campfire-roasted foods. Help your camper take their camp cooking to the next level with this durable, portable cooking station.

Price: $80

Key features:

  • Rust-resistant powder-coat steel frame and heat-resistant aluminum countertop
  • 1-piece design folds flat
  • 4 plastic fold-out side tables
  • Lower rack
  • Attached carry handle
  • Includes a shock cord

LifeStraw Peak Series Personal Water Filter

Why we chose it: This personal water filter will keep your camper hydrated no matter where they set up camp. It protects against 99.9% of bacteria, parasites, microplastics, silt, sand, and cloudiness and is made from eco-friendly materials.

Price: $24.99

Key features:

  • High-performance sustainable construction
  • Enhanced flow rate for easy sipping
  • Lasts for up to 1,000 gallons/4,000 liters of water
  • Can be attached to water bottles and to standard gravity hoses with removable threaded bottom cap
  • Pore size: .2 microns
  • Meets US EPA & NSF P231 drinking water standards for the removal of bacteria and parasites
  • Warranty: 3 years limited; 60 days limited carbon filters

Ampex Bertin Self-Inflating Camp Pad

Why we chose it: This camping pad is perfect for campers with limited space. It is very lightweight, comes with a carrying bag, and self-inflates in just 2 minutes.

Price: $79.99

Key features:

  • TPU-coated 30-denier polyester stretch top
  • TPU-coated 75-denier fabric bottom
  • Horizontal coring foam
  • Proprietary inflation valve with a micro-adjustment feature to customize firmness
  • 2 dedicated 1-way deflate valves
  • 2 patch kits
  • Includes a pump sack and hook-and-loop compression straps

Magellan Outdoors Ultralight 10L Dry Bag

Why we chose it: This dry bag can keep up to 10L of items dry and has a clear window so your camper always knows what’s stored inside it.

Price: $16.99

Key features:

  • Made from lightweight 40-denier ripstop nylon
  • TPU coated for waterproof protection
  • Secure D-ring roll-top closure

Gifts Any Camper Will Love

When it comes to camping, some gear is universally appreciated, no matter the experience level or adventure style. These gift ideas are tried-and-true favorites that any camper will love.

Camp Chef Deluxe 3 Burner Portable Stove

Why we chose it: This portable stove makes camp cooking easy and enjoyable with its 3 reliable burners, matchless ignition, foldable side shelves, and adjustable legs.

Price: $349.99

Key features:

  • Cast aluminum construction
  • 3 30,000 BTU burners
  • Appliance-style temperature controls
  • Steel handle for easy transport

Coleman Classic 800 Lumen Rechargeable Lantern

Why we chose it: This rechargeable lantern is durable, water-resistant, easy to carry, and has multiple flashing modes to guide your camper through the dark.

Price: $74.99

Key features:

  • High-performance LED bulbs supply up to 800 lumens
  • 7 to 18-meter beam distance
  • Powder coat textured plastic
  • Large bail handle with built-in carabiner
  • Charging port

GCI Outdoor XL Freestyle Rocker

Why we chose it: This rocking chair will help your camper enjoy the great outdoors in comfort and style. It’s lightweight, uses E-Z Fold technology, and has spring-action rocking for smooth motion.

Price: $75

Key features:

  • Powder-coated steel construction resists corrosion and rust
  • Powder-coat steel frame
  • Ripstop fabric for reliable support
  • Beverage holder helps you stay hydrated
  • Mesh backrest for breathable comfort
  • Easy carry handle

Tough Tested 16,000mAh Solar Power Bank with Flashlight

Why we chose it: This solar-powered power bank can fully charge between 4 and 6 smartphones and comes with a built-in flashlight with 4 modes, so your camper can stay safe and connected.

Price: $69.99

Key features:

  • Dustproof, shockproof, and IP67 waterproof
  • InstaSense technology ensures connected devices get the correct power at factory specs
  • Dual 2.4A USB outputs
  • Built-in safety circuitry
  • Panel delivers 1 full smartphone charge with 5 - 6 hours in direct sunlight
  • Solar-only charging time is 3.57 hours per 1,000mAh for 57.14 hours total
  • TSA compliant
  • Includes a carabineer and a micro USB charging cable

Oklahoma Joe's Fire Starters 24-Pack

Why we chose it: Ever spent a night camping without sitting around a campfire? Of course not! This fire starter kit is odorless and non-toxic and can be used to start wood, chimney, or charcoal fires.

Price: $12.99

Key features:

  • Each starter burns for up to 8 - 10 minutes
  • Odorless and nontoxic design

Lifeline Wilderness First Aid Kit 105-Piece

Why we chose it: This first aid kit was designed with outdoor enthusiasts in mind. It’s easy to transport and store and has almost anything your camper might need to treat minor injuries.

Price: $29.99

Key features:

  • Soft-shell case protects contents
  • Complete with a whistle, fire starter, scissors, tweezers, safety pins, emergency blanket, bandages, and more

Igloo MaxCold® 152-qt. Cooler

Why we chose it: This cooler is great for long camping trips. It can store ice for up to 7 days at 90℉, has dual-snap fitted latches, and an easy-to-use threaded drain plug.

Price: $91.99

Key features:

  • Foam lid keeps contents cold
  • Wide, reinforced swing-up handles with a tie-down loop feature for secure and easy transportation

Gifts for Campers Who Have Everything

No matter how many years your camper has spent in the great outdoors and perusing camping stores, there are plenty of camping items out there they could still use! Check out our top recommended gifts for campers who have everything.

Mr. Heater Rechargeable Hand Shower

Why we chose it: If your camper likes to set up in more remote areas rather than campsites, this rechargeable hand shower is a great gift. It has a lithium-ion battery and has a hook, holder, and suction cup for easy mounting.

Price: $54.99

Key features:

  • Operates between 45 to 60 minutes at a time
  • Produces a water flow of .66 gallons per minute

Garmin Forerunner 55 GPS Watch

Why we chose it: This GPS watch is the ideal camping gift for those who like to wander without getting lost. It connects to smartphones, has access to multiple global navigation systems, and water-resistant.

Price: $199.99

Key features:

  • Fitness tracking keeps track of steps, intensity minutes, and more
  • Body Battery energy monitoring informs you of your energy levels
  • Sports apps let you choose routines suited for running, swimming, and more
  • Smart notifications send alerts for texts, emails, and more

Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter XT Hammock

Why we chose it: This hammock can be used for lounging or sleeping and comes with spreader bars to make it feel roomier. It also has a zippable bug net to protect your camper from pests while they enjoy the wilderness.

Price: $99.95

Key features:

  • Made from soft, lightweight and breathable parachute nylon
  • Double-sided zipper allows for easy entry/exit from the netting
  • Fabric is durable and fast-drying
  • Triple lock-stitched seams
  • Knotless Cordlock System
  • Suspended gear loft

Magellan Outdoors 14-in-1 Hammer Multi-Tool

Why we chose it: This multi-tool has 14 different components, is lightweight yet durable, and comes with a carrying sheath so your camper can be ready for anything.

Price: $12.99

Key features:

  • Stainless steel blade
  • Includes a large flat-head screwdriver, a small flat-head screwdriver, a Phillips screwdriver, linesman pliers, and standard pliers
  • Also comes with a hammer, a nail claw, a large knife, a serrated blade, a soft file, a bottle/can opener, wire cutters, a wire stripper, and a key ring

Camping Gifts for Women

For women who love to explore the great outdoors, thoughtful and functional gear can make all the difference. Whether it's for comfort, convenience, or a bit of adventure, these gifts are sure to elevate any camping experience.

Columbia Sportswear Women's Switchback III Rain Jacket

Why we chose it: Every camper needs a reliable rain jacket to keep them dry in the unpredictable great outdoors. This jacket has waterproof hydroplush fabric, a stowaway hood, and zippered pockets for keeping essentials secure. It even has multiple color options!

Price: $49.99

Key features:

  • 100% polyester mesh provides breathability
  • Adjustable cuffs
  • Drawstring hemline
  • Jacket packs into one of the hand pockets
  • Machine washable

The North Face Women's Aphrodite 2.0 Capri Pant

Why we chose it: Whether she’s hiking tough trails or relaxing around a campfire, these adjustable-fit capris will keep your camper cool, dry, and comfortable.

Price: $60

Key features:

  • 95% nylon and 5% elastane FlashDry™-XD fabric
  • 2 hand pockets and a pocket with a concealed zipper
  • Stretch drawstrings at the leg openings let you cinch the bottoms
  • Wide, rib-knit waistband with a stretchy external drawstring

Fila Women's Firetrail EVO Hiking Shoes

Why we chose it: No matter how your camper plans to spend their days at the campground, they need the right pair of shoes to support their adventures. These shoes are lightweight yet durable, cushioned, and incredibly versatile.

Price: $39.99

Key features:

  • Synthetic uppers
  • Mesh adds ventilation
  • EVA midsoles
  • Rubber trail outsoles offer durability and traction

Camping Gifts for Men

For the men who enjoy the great outdoors, the right gear can enhance their adventures and keep them well-prepared. These camping gifts are designed with practicality and durability in mind to make outdoor experiences even better.

Frogg Toggs Men's Bull Frogg Rain Jacket

Why we chose it: This rain jacket is waterproof, breathable, and puncture-resistant to keep your camper dry and comfortable no matter where his adventures take him.

Price: $39.99

Key features:

  • Made of non-woven signature 75 fabric
  • DriPore Gen 2 performance-matched technology
  • Hand-warmer pockets
  • Full-zip front with a snap-down storm flap
  • Raglan sleeves with adjustable elastic wrist cuffs
  • Adjustable, tuck-away hood
  • Hem push-button cord locks
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Magellan Outdoors Men's Back Country 2.0 Zip-Off Pants

Why we chose it: These pants are perfect for any camping weather! They can stay ankle-length for colder days or be turned into shorts for warmer ones. They’re water-repellant and have UPF 50+ sun protection.

Price: $29.99

Key features:

  • Made with 95% nylon and 5% spandex flex fabric for 4-way mobility
  • Adjustable elastic waistband with button closure and belt loops
  • Lower legs zip off for easy transformation into 6 inch shorts

Merrell Men's Moab 3 Low Vent Hiking Shoes

Why we chose it: These shoes are lightweight, versatile, and breathable, so your camper can be ready for any terrain Mother Nature throws his way.

Price: $119.99

Key features:

  • Pigskin leather uppers
  • Kinetic Fit™ ADVANCED contoured insoles
  • Mesh linings
  • Protective toe caps
  • Nylon arch shanks
  • EVA foam midsoles
  • Merrell Air Cushions
  • Vibram® TC5+ rubber outsoles

Camping Gifts for Kids

Camping is a great way for kids to connect with nature and enjoy some outdoor fun. These camping gifts are perfect for sparking their sense of adventure and keeping them entertained on the trail or around the campfire.

Vortex Bantam HD 6.5x32 Youth Binoculars

Why we chose it: Help young campers explore the great outdoors from a whole new perspective with these durable binoculars. They come with a comfort neck strap to prevent them from getting lost on adventures.

Price: $19.99

Key features:

  • Rubber armor protects the binoculars and offers a secure, non-slip grip
  • Gas-purged and O-ring sealed for fogproof and waterproof performance in harsh weather conditions
  • Shockproof body can withstand recoil and impact
  • Ergonomically designed to fit small hands and faces

Play Monster Koosh Flix Stix

Why we chose it: This game is compact, easy to transport, and can be played indoors or outdoors for hours of campground fun.

Price: $24.99

Key features:

  • Large pocket with a no-bounce Koosh ball ensures easy catching and throwing
  • 2 flix stix and a Koosh ball

Disc-O-Bed™ Kid-O-Bunk Convertible Cot Bunk Bed

Why we chose it: Make camping an unforgettable experience for kids with this space-saving, collapsible bunk bed! It’s durable, has 2 side organizers, and can be bunked, benched, or used as 2 separate cots.

Price: $299.99

Key features:

  • High-grade, water-resistant polyester mat
  • Antirust steel frame
  • Rounded end frame helps alleviate ground sinking and damage to your tent floor
  • 2 zippered polyester carry bags
  • No-tool assembly

Camping Gifts for Families

Camping with the whole family creates memories that last a lifetime, and the right gear can make those trips even more enjoyable. These camping gift ideas are perfect for families who love spending time outdoors together.

CORE Equipment 10 Person Instant Cabin Tent with Screen Room

Why we chose it: This tent has plenty of room for large families or smaller families who want extra room for playing. It is 7ft tall, waterproof, ventilated, and comes with a divider to create separate rooms within the tent.

Price: $319.99

Key features:

  • Sleeps up to 10 people
  • 1-room tent with an attached screen room
  • Included room divider
  • Large door and 4-window design
  • 68D polyester material with PE floor
  • Water-repellent fabric with a fully taped rainfly and sealed seams
  • Conveniently located storage pockets
  • Tent body has pre-attached poles that lock into place for quick setup

Magellan Deluxe Enamel Tableware 24-Piece Set

Why we chose it: This durable outdoor tableware set will help your favorite camp-loving family eat well and reduce waste while in the great outdoors.

Price: $39.99

Key features:

  • Glazed enamel double coating
  • Stainless steel edges
  • 4 spoons, knives, forks, plates, bowls and mugs

Wonderfold Wagon W1 Double Stroller Wagon

Why we chose it: This collapsible stroller wagon makes getting to and from campsites with little ones a breeze. Use it to carry kids and gear so you don’t have to take multiple trips.

Price: $299.99

Key features:

  • Holds up to 2 children
  • 1-step foot brake system and 5 point safety harness
  • Slidable/removable canopy
  • Adjustable push handle
  • Removable fabric for easy cleaning
  • Extra pockets on all sides of the body
  • All-terrain tires
  • Easy to fold/unfold
  • 180-pounds weight capacity

Have Fun Out There!

No matter who you’re shopping for, the perfect camping gift is out there and ready to make their outdoor adventures even better. With the right gear, they’ll be even more excited to hit the trails and enjoy all that nature has to offer. If you want to explore some more camping gift ideas, check out the camping gear, equipment, and supplies available at Academy Sports + Outdoors!

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