January 1, 2021

From the backyard to the bayou and forest trails, these camping basics check all the boxes for year-round, great outdoors, family fun. 

Birds of Louisiana & Mississippi Field Guide

By Stan Tekiela. This bird identification guide features 140 species of Louisiana and Mississippi birds, organized by color for ease of use, with facts, range maps, and detailed photos. All ages. $14.95. Octavia Books, 513 Octavia St., octaviabooks.com. 

Roasting Sticks 

You’ll never drop your marshmallows or hot dogs into the fire again! These dual-pronged, stainless-steel sticks have gripping handles and their own storage case, four to a set. Dishwasher safe. Ages 6+. $39.99. Solostove.com.  

Terra Kids Camping Lantern 

This sturdy battery-operated lantern with six LEDs has sturdy metal handles for carrying and hanging, and handy small storage compartments. Suitable for indoors and outdoors. Ages 5-10. $14.99. Habausa.com.  

Beef Jerky 

Beef jerky is the original energy bar and go-to snack for generations of campers. Old Trapper’s new option is made from seasoned, smoked lean steak with zero sugar – perfect for kids and low-carb dieting parents. Ages 6+. $14. Oldtrapper.com.  

Coghlan’s Six Function Whistle 

This camping essential is packed with an LED light, compass, a magnifier, thermometer, signal mirror, and whistle. It also has a convenient lanyard and clip. Batteries included. $12.99. Ages 6+. scoutshop.org.