As our lives become more and more fast-paced, it seems family outings have dwindled. However, there is no reason why you should not take time to go outside with the kids and see what nature has to offer. Going out can help improve or strengthen family relationships.
Here is a list of ten family-friendly outdoor activities that you should try:
1) Camping
Camping is a great way to spend time with the kids and enjoy nature at its finest. There are so many options when it comes to camping, from staying in a tent in your backyard to renting a cabin or cottage for the whole weekend. The trick is not to let it become a chore and to keep the kids involved as much as possible. This is the perfect way for everyone to unplug from technology and tune into nature, including those amazing stars you will see!
2) Hiking
Hiking with your family is another great way to bring people together and enjoy outdoor time. It is also a great way to introduce your kids to the marvels of nature. The fresh air and exercise will do every family member good, especially if you live in a big city with lots of pollution. Make sure to keep kids aged under five close by as they cannot walk for very long before tiring out.
3) Canoeing
Canoeing is an activity that can be enjoyed by all members of the family, regardless of age or fitness level. It is a great way to explore different waterways and get some exercise at the same time. You can either rent canoes or paddle boats or invest in your own if you plan on doing this activity often.
4) Traveling in an RV
Many families are opting for custom-built recreational vehicles (RVs) to take on their road trips and vacations instead of a hotel or renting a home. This is a great way to go, as you have everything that you could need right in the comfort of your recreational vehicle. It does not matter if it is just a weekend getaway because your RV will give you many years of enjoyment.
5) Fishing
Fishing is a perfect family activity, especially if the kids are older and want to go off on their own for a few hours or so. It teaches patience and discipline, and kids can be quite proud when they catch their first fish. Make sure you have all the necessary gear, such as poles, tackle boxes, and bait, before heading out.
6) Cycling
Cycling is a great way to see a new place and get some exercise at the same time. You can either bring your own bikes or rent them from the place you are visiting. This is a great activity for all ages and can be done by people of all fitness levels.
7) Swimming
Swimming is a great way to cool off on a hot day, and it is also a great exercise. Many public pools have designated times for families, so check your local pool schedule before heading there. You can also go to a beach, and everyone can burn off some energy in the fresh air.
8) Kayaking
Kayaking is similar to canoeing but is done in much smaller vessels. This activity is great for families with children aged six years and up as it usually requires more coordination to do correctly. Kayaking can also be much faster-paced than canoeing.
9) Geocaching
Geocaching is a newer family activity that has taken the world by storm. It is a treasure hunt where you use GPS coordinates to find hidden caches around your area. This is a great way to get the whole family outdoors and explore.
10) Picnic
A picnic is always a great option for a family outing. You can either pack a lunch and head to the park or visit a local attraction and have your picnic there. This is a great way to save money and spend time together.
11) Skiing and Snowboarding
Skiing and snowboarding are great activities for the whole family, but they can be a little expensive. If you do not live near a ski resort, you may want to consider investing in some equipment and learning how to ski or snowboard. This is a great way to spend a winter weekend together.
12) Volunteering
Volunteering is a great way for families to give back to their community and spend time together. There are many types of volunteer work that can be done, so find something that interests you and your family. Not only will you be helping others, but you will also be making memories that will last a lifetime.
There are so many wonderful family activities that can be enjoyed outdoors. What are you waiting for? Get out there and have some fun.
