In Little House in the Big Woods, Laura Ingalls Wilder shares memories of peaceful days spent outdoors, gathering wildflowers, playing with her sister Mary, and enjoying simple picnics by the water. Now you can recreate your own pioneer-style lakeside picnic, just like Laura did—with homemade food, brown paper wrappings, and outdoor adventure.
This is a perfect hands-on activity for homeschool families, Little House fans, or classrooms learning about pioneer life and 19th-century America.
Spread butter on slices of bread, add a slice of cheese, then wrap each sandwich in brown paper, folding the edges like a little parcel. This is how Ma would have packed food—no plastic or foil back then!
2. Prepare Hard-Boiled Eggs
Ask a grown-up to help you boil eggs ahead of time. Once cooled, keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to leave for your picnic. They’re easy to pack and were a common item in pioneer lunches.
3. Pack Some Cookies
Wrap a few homemade cookies in brown paper. Oatmeal, molasses, or sugar cookies would be pioneer-approved treats!
4. Pack It All Up
Bundle your food into a basket or cloth sack, tuck in your picnic blanket, and don’t forget your tin cup or water canteen.
5. Enjoy Your Picnic by the Lake
Find a shady spot near the water. Spread your blanket on the grass and unpack your food just like Laura and Mary would have done. Listen to the birds, feel the breeze, and imagine the forested shores of the Big Woods.
Bonus Craft: Make Torn Calico Pockets
In Little House in the Big Woods, Laura made torn calico pockets to carry pretty pebbles, acorns, and treasures she found while exploring.
Pioneer Tip: Make Your Own Butter!
Want to take your picnic to the next level? Churn your own butter with a small jar and heavy cream! Shake it until a lump forms, rinse with cold water, and spread it on your sandwich. (See our full butter-churning activity here).
Leave a Reply