Spring and Summer are ideal seasons for outdoor activities like camping and picnicking, offering the chance to decrease stress levels while inhaling fresh air and basking in the sun's warmth. For those who love reading, enjoying a book in a natural setting can be an excellent way to enhance the experience. If you're unsure of what books to pack for your camping adventure, this inclusive list of the best books to read while camping will help you feel more connected to the surrounding wildlife and nature.
- The Body by Steven King
For those who enjoy adult mystery novels, Stephen King's novella "The Body" is a must-read (as are most of King's works). The story follows three friends who embark on a camping trip in search of answers regarding their missing and presumed dead friend. This compelling novella was later adapted and modified into the 1986 film "Stand By Me."
- Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey
Desert Solitaire is Edward Abbey's highly acclaimed first non-fiction work, chronicling his quest to experience nature's purest form while working as a ranger at Utah's Arches National Park. Abbey's passionate and poetic prose offers a unique view of the state of remaining wilderness and the future of a society that has difficulty coexisting with nature. He also shares his internal struggles with morality. In today's rapidly developing world, Abbey's plea to preserve the natural beauty of the West remains as relevant as ever.
- The Dharma Bums by Jack Kerouac
Written by Jack Kerouac, a prominent figure of the Beat Generation, "The Dharma Bums" is a novel from 1958 that follows the author and his friends, who are portrayed as characters in the book. They reminisce about life and ideals, their connection to nature, and their experiences hiking, mountaineering, and hitchhiking through the western United States. The novel also explores the protagonist's relationship with Buddhism.
- Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
The story speaks to the magnetic pull of nature and its ability to captivate us. It is based on a real-life case of a young man from a wealthy family who left behind his privileged life to venture into the Alaskan wilderness. His decomposing body was found four months later. The author challenges the judgmental and dismissive responses of the public to this tragedy and shows how many of us can relate to the boy more than we realize.
- The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes
Jojo Moyes, the author of "Me Before You," has penned another remarkable novel that is perfect for camping. Set in the Depression-era US, the story revolves around five remarkable women as they embark on a journey through the rugged Kentucky mountains. Based on true events, this fresh and inspiring tale is a must-read for anyone looking for a captivating camping novel.
- Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
The American marsh imagery is beautifully detailed and lifelike, making the book worth reading alone, and the story of its heroine, Kya, is equally captivating. Raised in the marshes of North Carolina, Kya is misunderstood and underestimated by the locals, finding solace and purpose in the wetlands around her. However, when one of her young admirers turns up dead, all fingers point to Kya, forcing her out of seclusion. Delia Owens, a three-time international bestselling author of nonfiction books on wildlife science, brings her advanced understanding of nature to this awe-inspiring, mysterious coming-of-age story in her first fiction novel.
- Wild: From Lost to Found on The Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed
This memoir follows the story of a young woman who, like the protagonist of Into the Wild, embarks on a journey to escape the pain and disappointment of her life. She finds refuge on the Pacific Crest Trail, and unlike the previous story, this one has a happy ending. As RVers, we can relate to the desire to seek tranquility amidst chaos. This candid memoir may resonate with us on a profound level, especially those of us who have experienced life on the road.
- Washington Black by Esi Edugyan
“Washington Black” is a captivating story of adventure and self-discovery, taking place across the globe from the Caribbean to the frozen North. It follows an 11-year-old slave who becomes the manservant of Christopher Wilde, a naturalist, inventor, explorer, and abolitionist. Together, they embark on a journey of discovery, both of the world and themselves, in a flying machine. This inspiring tale of self-invention, betrayal, love, and redemption makes it an ideal read for camping.
- Take Me with You by Catherine Ryan Hyde
A grieving, sober teacher sets out on a poignant journey to Yellowstone with his son's ashes. Along the way, he meets two unexpected travelers, and the trip becomes a transformative experience for all involved. This heartwarming tale is sure to resonate with readers looking for a meaningful and emotional read while camping.
- A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail by Bill Bryson
In his book A Walk in the Woods, Bill Bryson serves as an amusing and perceptive guide to the Appalachian Trail, a picturesque hiking route spanning from Georgia to Maine. He shares fascinating insights on the trail's history and ecology, as well as entertaining tales of his encounters with other hikers and wildlife, such as bears. This timeless classic is highly recommended for nature enthusiasts and anyone seeking a humorous and enjoyable read.
Vote for The Best Books to Bring on Your Camping Trip
We would love to hear your thoughts on the books mentioned above and whether you think that they belong on this list. We also welcome any other book recommendations that you believe would be perfect for reading while camping. Please share your suggestions in the comments below so that we can continue to expand this list.
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