This is part of my "Camping Skills" series. Others posts in the series are listed at the bottom.

Knowing how to tie knots seems like something every kid who plans to spend time camping, hiking or messing around in the woods should know how to do. When I started thinking about this post I considered, whether knot tying is really a valuable skill or just something Scouts learn to do to earn a badge.

Follow up:

Of course sailors, horse packers, anglers and climbers need to know a handful of knots, but does anyone else?

Why tie knots when there are a bevy of straps, tie-downs and other products that can serve most of the same purposes? For one, you often don't have the right strap when you need it. Or maybe the strap breaks, or perhaps you just want to carry one rope for multiple purposes.

Knots can be used for:
Securing a food bag for a bear hang.
Lashing something to the outside of a pack.
Keeping little hands busy during a trail break, campfire or other down time.
Straping a bundle of wood together for easy carrying.
Fixing a torn backpack/daypack strap.
Tying down a tent in the wind.

You can probably think of other uses.

There are lots of books available to help you learn knots. I've listed a few at the bottom of the page. I also like this video because you can see knot-tying in action.

If you are intrigued and want to learn more about knot tying, check out these books.

The Outdoor Knots Book (Mountaineers Outdoor Basics) by Clyde Soles
Knots: Step-by-Step Instructions for Tying More Than 50 Knots by Peter Owen

And this DVD:

Knot Tying DVD: Why Knot? an introduction to knots, splices and rope (dual language options: English/Spanish) by Jerry Spinelli

What do you use knots for and what are your favorite kinds?

Need more skills?
How to Tie Knots
Bear Hang How-to
Build a Campfire
How to Cross a River

Want more information about camping with kids? This book--Camp Out! The Ultimate Kids' Guide is a great resource whether you're planning an over night in the backyard or a weekend in the wilderness. Kids learn about gear, choosing a campsite, building a tarp tent, how to keep a nature journal, how to explore the nighttime sky and a whole lot more. It is primarily for kids age 7 and older. Check it out.

Camp Out!: The Ultimate Kids' Guide by Lynn Brunelle