15 Must-watch Camping Movies for Kids to Have Fun

By Rama Aiyer | Updated: 01/01/2025

Camping is one of the most exciting adventures for kids. It’s a chance to explore the outdoors, bond with family, and create memories that last a lifetime. For those moments when you’re planning a camping trip or just dreaming of one, movies can be a wonderful way to capture that adventurous spirit. There are plenty of movies about outdoor adventures, campfires, and magical bonds created under the stars.
This list of must-watch camping movies for kids is perfect for rainy days, movie nights, or simply getting your little ones inspired to enjoy nature. From timeless classics to newer favourites, these films combine fun, adventure, and heartwarming lessons. So, grab your bucket of popcorn and scroll through some incredible camping movies!

Top Fun and Adventure Camp Movies for Kids

Camping movies are often packed with laughter, adventure, and a sense of togetherness. These movies offer the perfect mix of fun and life lessons for kids of all ages. Check out these 15 exciting movie inspirations your kiddo will love:

1. The Parent Trap (1998)

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Parent Trap is a fantastic story about two identical twins who meet for the first time at a summer camp. They plan to reunite their estranged parents by switching places. The movie is filled with outdoor fun, camp pranks, and heartfelt moments. It teaches kids the value of family and working together.

Suitable for Age: 8+

2. Camp Rock (2008)

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A music-filled Disney classic where teenagers at a summer camp discover their talents and learn about self-confidence. The movie follows Mitchie, a shy girl who finds her voice and courage while dealing with friendship and rivalry.

Suitable for Age: 7+

3. Troop Beverly Hills (1989)

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A quirky, feel-good comedy about a glamorous mom leading a group of scouts on wild adventures. This movie is about teamwork, self-belief, and how every kid can be a leader.

Suitable for Age: 9+

4. The Great Outdoors (1988)

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This hilarious family movie follows a camping trip gone wrong. Filled with comedic moments and relatable family dynamics, it’s a great choice for outdoor-loving kids.

Suitable for Age: 10+

5. Heavyweights (1995)

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Set at a weight-loss camp for kids, this comedy movie on camping sends inspiration about teamwork, standing up for yourself, and embracing individuality. With humour, the meaningful lessons turn magical and make it easy for children to understand.

Suitable for Age: 10+

6. Ernest Goes to Camp (1987)

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Ernest’s mishaps and comedic adventures at camp will leave kids laughing. Despite the silliness, it also shares a message about courage and loyalty.

Suitable for Age: 8+

7. A Week Away (2021)

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A unique blend of faith-based themes and musical fun, this movie is about a troubled teen finding friendship, hope, and a sense of belonging at camp.

Suitable for Age: 10+

8. It Takes Two (1995)

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This heartwarming comedy follows two identical girls who meet at camp and scheme to bring their guardians together. The story is charming, adventurous, and packed with camp fun.

Suitable for Age: 7+

9. R.V. (2006)

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When a family goes on an RV camping trip, chaos ensues. This lighthearted comedy is about family bonding and learning to appreciate each other.

Suitable for Age: 9+

10. Race for Your Life, Charlie Brown (1977)

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In this fantastic movie, the Peanuts gang goes to a camp and faces a thrilling river rafting race. Full of teamwork and laughs, this classic is perfect for kids who love a good adventure.

Suitable for Age: 6+

11. Moonrise Kingdom (2012)

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Moonrise Kingdome is a whimsical story about two kids running away to create their own camping adventure. Full of quirky humour, friendship, and stunning visuals, this film is a seat grabber!

Suitable for Age: 11+

12. The Adventures of Milo and Otis (1986)

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This charming tale of a dog and cat navigating the wilderness is a fun watch. It teaches kids about animals, the importance of friendship, perseverance, and the beauty of nature.

Suitable for Age: 6+

13. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days (2012)

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This lighthearted comedy features Greg’s misadventures at a family camping trip. It’s a relatable and hilarious choice for kids who love the series.

Suitable for Age: 8+

14. The Jungle Book (2016)

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Though not a traditional camping movie, Mowgli’s adventures in the jungle offer excitement and lessons about survival and bravery.

Suitable for Age: 7+

15. The Call of the Wild (2020)

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Based on the classic novel, this movie follows a dog’s journey in the wilderness. It’s an inspiring tale of resilience and the bond between humans and animals.

Suitable for Age: 10+

What Makes a Great Camp Movie for Kids?

A great camping movie for kids captures the magic of outdoor adventures. Such movies brings about the excitement of camping and raw adventure to life through stories that are fun, relatable, and filled with heartwarming lessons. Here are a few key elements that make kids camping movies memorable:

Adventures in Nature: Movies that showcase the beauty and challenges of the outdoors inspire kids to explore and appreciate nature.
Friendship and Teamwork: Great camp movies highlight the importance of building friendships and working together, just like kids do during real camping trips.
Exciting Challenges: From solving mysteries to completing outdoor tasks, fun challenges keep kids engaged and make these movies enjoyable.
Life Lessons: The best camping movies for kids teach values like bravery, kindness, and perseverance in ways that are easy to understand.

These elements come together to create movies that entertain while inspiring young viewers to embrace the joys of camping.

What Do Kids Learn From Camp Movies?

Kids movies about camping are not just entertaining—they can also teach valuable lessons. These films highlight important life skills and values while keeping young viewers engaged with fun and adventure. Here’s what kids can learn:

Teamwork and Cooperation: Camping movies show how working together can help overcome challenges and build strong friendships.
Problem-Solving Skills: Many movies involve solving outdoor puzzles, navigating nature, or finding creative solutions to problems.
Respect for Nature: These stories introduce kids to the outdoors, especially the urban kids, and inspire them to appreciate the outdoors and take care of the environment.
Courage and Resilience: Kids see characters facing fears or tough situations, learning to stay brave and keep going.

These lessons make kids camping movies both entertaining and enriching for young minds.

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Top Fun and Adventure Camp Movies for Kids - Infographic

FAQs

1. What are the best camping movies for kids?

The best camping movies for kids are those that combine fun, adventure, and positive lessons. Titles like The Parent Trap, Camp Rock, and Troop Beverly Hills are great choices that entertain while teaching teamwork and courage.

2. Can toddlers enjoy backyard camping?

Yes, toddlers can enjoy backyard camping with the right setup. Simple toddler backyard ideas like a small tent, blankets, and fairy lights make it safe and fun. Add snacks and storytime for a magical experience.

3. How do camping movies inspire kids?

Camping movies inspire kids by showing exciting outdoor adventures, teamwork, and problem-solving. These stories encourage children to explore nature, enjoy outdoor activities, and value friendships.

4. Are there camping movies suitable for all ages?

Yes, many camping movies are perfect for all ages. Movies like The Jungle Book and Race for Your Life, Charlie Brown are great for both toddlers and older kids, offering adventure and humor everyone can enjoy.

Camping movies are a great way to inspire a love for nature and adventure in kids. This is because camping movies combine fun, adventure, excitement, and important lessons that stay with young viewers. Such movies teach children about friendship, teamwork, and problem-solving, successfully leaving a lasting impression. From family movie nights to children’s sleepovers to preparing for a real camping trip, these camping movies are just perfect. Watching these movies can also encourage creativity and build a sense of curiosity about the world in children. So, grab some popcorn and enjoy these amazing kids camping movies together!

Also Read:

Best Educational Movies for Kids
Amazing Action Movies for Kids
Best English Movies for Kids
Best Musical Movies For Kids

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About the Author

Rama Aiyer

Rama is a proud Delhiite with three years of content writing experience in her pocket. She is a commerce graduate with an advanced degree in the German language, but writing feels like home to her. When she is not writing,, you can probably find her researching on environment sustainability, devouring a novel, or exploring hidden nooks for delicious food around the city.