Perfect Outdoor Gifts for Family Fun

If you’re someone who loves exploring the outdoors more than shopping, you’re not alone. I’ve spent countless hours debating gear and purchases, especially when it comes to finding the perfect gifts for my outdoorsy family.

That’s why I’ve put together this gift guide to take the stress out of your holiday shopping. Whether you’re looking for experience gifts, something for the whole family, or a special present for each person, these holiday gifts are designed to inspire your loved ones to get outside and play.

Unique Ideas for Everyone

For the men in your life, consider unique camping gifts that enhance their outdoor adventures. And don’t forget the little ones – the best travel toys for toddlers can keep them entertained while you’re on the go. From practical gear to fun experience gifts, there’s something here for every member of your family to enjoy.

Outdoor Family Gift Ideas

Explore the Great Outdoors with a National Parks Pass

If you want a gift that inspires your family to get outside and explore, the National Parks Pass is a must-have. Priced at just $80, the America the Beautiful pass is an annual pass that provides access to stunning National Parks, National Monuments, and Federal land across the US. It’s a fantastic deal that opens the door to some of the most beautiful land in the country. My family has used our annual passes to create unforgettable adventures, and I’m sure yours will too!

Discover Local Treasures with a State Parks Pass

For families living in a region with less Federal land, a State Parks Pass is a wonderful alternative. We cherished our Minnesota state parks pass, which allowed us to uncover the unique state parks scattered throughout Minnesota. It’s a thoughtful gift that brings fond memories and endless opportunities for exploration.

Hit the Slopes with Ski or Snowboarding Lessons

If your family enjoys winter fun, consider gifting Ski or Snowboarding Lessons led by a certified ski instructor or certified snowboarding instructor. You can easily purchase lessons from the ski school, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. It’s a fantastic way to bond while mastering a new skill!

Make a Splash with a Rafting Trip

For a summer adventure, a Rafting Trip is an awesome way to experience a new outdoor activity and push beyond your comfort zone. As an outdoorsy family, trying new things together creates a bonding experience that results in lasting memories. If you’re unsure about rafting as a family, take inspiration from a podcast episode featuring a dad who rafts with his 5-year-old daughters – it’s proof that this thrilling activity is for everyone!

Gifts That Spark Adventure for Kids

If you’re tired of plastic toys cluttering your house, it’s time to think outside the box! While Dino Legos might still find their place under the tree, these gifts are designed to spark outdoor play and ignite your child’s imagination, whether they’re indoors or outside.

A Hammock for Endless Fun

A Hammock is the perfect place to spark imagination and play. My kids love relaxing in theirs, but they also enjoy pretending it’s a cave or that they’re monkeys in a tree. The possibilities are truly endless. I prefer adult size hammocks because they’re more durable, and I can even climb in with them. Plus, an outdoor nap is a bonus – my son loves his afternoon nap in the hammock. For families in places like Minnesota, a rain fly and mosquito net are essential additions.

Light Up Their Adventures with Headlamps

How many times have your kids borrowed your headlamp? Mine are always reaching for mine! This year, I’m making headlamps a stocking stuffer. I chose one with a variety of settings at a low pricepoint – practical and budget-friendly!

Runways, Chutes, and Slides for Creative Play

The Runways Slopes, Chutes, and Slides set is a beautiful bamboo kit that includes chutes and balls to build ramps. It’s a fantastic way to let your child’s imagination run wild with this fun activity.

Bring Camping Home with a Campfire Set

A Campfire Set is a wonderful way to bring camping home. This soft campfire set is sure to spark imaginative play. My kids have a similar set (though with more plastic parts), and they love cooking s’mores and playing campfire.

Create a Cozy Space with a Play Tent

A Play Tent is perfect to spark imaginative play and create a calming, quiet space indoors. It’s a versatile gift that kids adore.

Schleich Toys for Indoor and Outdoor Fun

Schleich Toys are durable, plastic animals that are a favorite in our house. We take them outdoors in wet bags to play in the dirt, sand, or water. Once back inside, my kids “give them a bath” in the sink, ready for the next adventure. They also make great stocking stuffers!

Build the Ultimate Fort

The Ultimate Fort Kit is a beautiful kit that has everything needed to build amazing forts in your house. A bonus is the included stuff sack, making clean up after playtime a breeze.

Fun Challenges for the Whole Family

The Adventure Challenge Family Edition is an awesome book packed with challenges that work both indoors and outdoors. You can choose activities based on cost, time of day, and duration, making it a versatile and fun gift for the whole family. While some activities are better suited for older kids, it’s a gift that grows with your kids as they grow older. We received this as a gift, and it’s been a hit for creating memorable moments together.

A Sled for Family Adventures

The Family Toboggan is a must-have for winter fun. This sled is durable, fits both kids and myself, and is super fast – perfect for thrilling rides! I also love how easy it is to pull the kids around camp, making it a practical and exciting addition to our outdoor gear.

Capture Memories with a National Parks Journal

For families who love exploring, the National Parks Pages is a beautifully bound National Parks journal that lets you record all your family’s National Park adventures. It pairs perfectly with the America the Beautiful pass, and we’re so excited to fill the pages with our experiences. It’s a thoughtful way to preserve your outdoor memories.

Outdoorsy Gifts for Parents

The Glampfire Box: Comfort for Camping Enthusiasts

The Glampfire Box is a delightful subscription box that arrives at your doorstep every month, perfect for the woman who loves adding a touch of comfort to her camping experience. Each box includes something consumable, something reusable, something seasonal, and even a recipe! I personally loved the scented firestarters from our last box – they added a cozy vibe to our outdoor adventures.

A Big Camping Table for Family Gatherings

A big camping table is a game-changer for any camping trip. I gifted one to Richie for Father’s Day, and it’s seen some great use ever since. It’s sturdy, spacious, and perfect for family meals or game nights under the stars.

Bring the Outdoors Inside with Rachel Pohl Art

For parents who love bringing the outdoors inside, Rachel Pohl art is a fantastic choice. I’ve swooned over Rachel Pohl’s artwork for years and finally received a print as a Christmas gift. It’s now one of my favorite pieces of art in our house, reminding us of the beauty of nature every day.

Wrapping Up Your Gift Search

Giving gifts doesn’t have to feel complicated or stressful. This list of gift ideas is designed to help you find presents that are both wanted and useful – gifts that will be cherished for years to come. Whether you’re still shopping or just brainstorming for the holiday season, I hope these ideas inspire you. Don’t forget to share what you’re planning in the comments below – I’d love to hear your thoughts!