The Down and Dirty Guide to Camping with Kids: How to Plan Memorable Family Adventures and Connect Kids to Nature

The revised and updated edition of the bestselling guidebook that equips parents with all the confidence they need to embark on and enjoy the ultimate outdoor activity with their kids: camping.

Written by a seasoned camper, adventurer, and  mother of three, this book is a practical, irreverent introductory guide to all things camping.

Helen Olsson writes from a parent’s point of view, giving readers a clear plan—and plenty of encouragement—for an enjoyable family camping experience. Whether you’re planning a simple outing, a multiday trek with babies or teens, or camping with several families, Down and Dirty has you covered. 

Each chapter features helpful checklists, including “Little Tykes” lists dedicated to items for babies and toddlers. The book focuses on car camping but nods to alternate ways to camp: backpacking, pull-behind campers, canoe/kayak trips, hut camping, and trips with pack animals.

The second edition is updated to reflect the latest products, outdoor etiquette, and lifestyles. You’ll have guidance on: 

choosing a destination packing gear and foodsetting up the campsiteplanning menusand staying safe

This timeless camping resource addresses the myriad unique needs and concerns of parents and children.

About the Author

HELEN OLSSON is a writer in Boulder, Colorado. She was the executive editor of Skiing magazine and is the editor-in-chief of Epic Life and Modern Luxury Peak magazines. Winner of the Canadian Tourism’s Northern Lights Journalism Award and a finalist in the Women’s Sports Foundation's Sports Journalism Award, Olsson has written for publications such as Self, Ski, the New York Times, and more. She  camps with her husband and their three children.

Author Residence: Boulder, CO

Author Hometown: Buffalo, NY / Long Island, NY / Boulder, CO

SCOTTY REIFSNYDER is a Pennsylvania-based illustrator and designer. Scotty’s work has brought fame and good fortune to such clients as Mountain Dew, Chronicle Books, Disney/Pixar, GQ, Time Magazine, The Boston Globe, The New Yorker, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal.

Illustrator Residence:Lititz, Pennsylvania

Illustrator Hometown:Lititz, Pennsylvania