Top Books about Summer Camp: Reads for Tweens (Ages 9–12)
Flashlight Reads: Summer Camp Books for Tweens
Remember the thrill of mail call, cabin bunk beds, and trying to roast the perfect marshmallow? Summer camp has a way of sticking with you—and if your kids haven't lived it yet, the next best thing might just be a good book about it. Whether they're getting ready to head to summer camp or just dreaming of camping, these stories capture all the fun, awkward, and unforgettable moments of camp life.
As a mom who lives for late-night campfires, early morning hikes, and anything that involves a hammock and a good book, I’ve found that summer camp books are the perfect way to keep the adventurous spirit alive—even when we’re back home. These stories are packed with bunk bed giggles, canoe mishaps, secret codes, and just the right amount of growing-up moments. I’ve rounded up our favorite summer camp books that my kids couldn’t put down— These books are ideal for both boys and girls ages 9-12, who love adventure. We’ve included Amazon links to the books in case you want to surprise them and pack some in your camper’s duffel bag.
Before you ask- yes, they make excellent road trip audiobooks too. If you join Audible, you can even get one month free and easily download your next book. There is a selection of free audiobooks on Audible too, which you can utilize through their "Free Listens" section.
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1. The Terrible Two Go Wild
Authors: Mac Barnett & Jory John
Age Range: 8–12
Summary: The prank war continues when best friends and mischief-makers Miles and Niles head off to summer camp. Full of clever humor and hijinks, this is the third book in the popular Terrible Two series.
The Fish Chronicles: The Search for Big Lou
Author: Lane Walker
Age Range: 8–12
Summary: When Tucker Thompson heads to Camp Chuckamuck deep in the Montana wilderness, he and his new camp friends hear whispers of a mysterious creature named Big Lou. Is it just a local legend—or something more? While they explore the rugged terrain they uncover secrets and build friendships in this thrilling summer camp adventure. Perfect for young readers who love nature and mystery. We own the entire series by Lane Walker, both The Fishing Chronicles and Hometown Hunters Collection, and my boys have re- read these time and time again.
3. Bear Grylls Adventures (Series)
Author: Bear Grylls
Age Range: 7–10
Summary: In this action-packed Bear Grylls Series, kids find themselves in wild survival situations and must use courage and outdoor skills to get through. Not strictly set at summer camp, but perfect for fans of nature and adventure.
4. Float
Float
Author: Laura Martin
Age Range: 8–12
Summary: A boy with a “defective” superpower is sent to a special government-run summer camp for other kids like him. A story of self-acceptance, friendship, and finding your place.
5. The Campground Kids (Series)
Author: C.R. Fulton
Age Range: 8–12
Summary: A group of friends embark on camping adventures across different national parks and campgrounds. Some stories feature family camping trips, while others focus on overnight camp experiences. Clean, wholesome, and full of fun.
6. Arlo Finch in the Valley of Fire (Book 1 of 3)
Author: John August
Age Range: 9–12
Summary: Arlo joins a mysterious scouting organization and discovers a hidden magical world overlapping with his own. The second book, Arlo Finch in the Lake of the Moon, is set at summer camp and is full of outdoor adventure and fantasy. These make great audio books.
Arlo Finch in the Lake of the Moon
7. Summer of the Woods (Virginia Mysteries Series)
Author: Steven K. Smith
Age Range: 8-12
Summary: Although not at summer camp, brothers uncover a Revolutionary War mystery while on a summer trip. Outdoorsy and full of treasure-hunting fun.
8. Be Prepared
Author: Vera Brosgol
Age Range: 9–13
Summary: Vera is desperate to fit in, so she joins a Russian Orthodox summer camp—but it's not exactly the dreamy camp experience she imagined. Awkward, honest, and hilarious. Perfect for readers who like graphic novels, real-life camp drama and strong female protagonist.
9. Hatchet
Author: Gary Paulsen
Age Range: 10–14
Summary: After a plane crash, thirteen-year-old Brian survives alone in the Canadian wilderness with only a hatchet. Not a camp book in the traditional sense, but a classic survival story often read at summer camp or school.
10. Percy Jackson and the Olympians (Series)
Author: Rick Riordan
Age Range: 9–13
Summary: Demigod Percy Jackson attends Camp Half-Blood, a training ground for kids of the Greek gods. This best-selling fantasy series blends mythology, action, and friendship with a memorable camp setting. First The Lightening Thief book first book in the series of Percy Jackson and the Olympians.
11. Keeper of the Lost Cities
Author: Shannon Messenger
Age Range: 10-13
Summary:
Not a camp story, but a magical boarding school/foster world with heavy outdoors and fantasy training vibes. Your children will love Keeper of the Lost Cities.
12. Camp Myth
Author: Chris Lewis Carter
Age Range: 9–12
Summary:
Camp Myth is where mythological creatures train. Think centaur canoeing and gorgon dodgeball. Light, creative for those who love nature and fantasy.
Closing Thoughts:
Whether your kiddo is heading off to camp or just dreaming about it from the hammock in your backyard, a great book can capture all the magic of summer adventure. These must-read summer camp stories for 9–12 year olds are perfect for growing readers who love friendship, humor, mystery, and a little bit of wildness. Trust me, these are the kinds of books they’ll stay up reading with a flashlight under the covers—and maybe even start writing their own camp stories after. Speaking of flashlights, all our kids have their own rechargeable book lights, that easily clip on books and make great gifts.
So grab a few of these titles from the library, bookstore or Amazon, toss them in the beach bag or camper, and let the reading adventures begin!
Happy reading, wild ones!
—Marian
Best audio books packed with adventure that are perfect for your next family road trip. These family-friendly books are ideal for children and adults. Here is a list of our favorite read aloud books for boys and girls in elementary and middle school.