Ah, nature! The great outdoors! A place to soak up the sun, listen to birds chirping, and maybe even get lost in the woods!
Wait, what? Lost in the woods?! Okay, maybe let's focus on the fun parts of nature for now, and leave the getting lost part for another time.
It's no secret that getting outdoors and taking in a little nature can be beneficial for both your physical and mental health. So why not make it fun as well? From outdoor games to exploring nature, there are so many fun ways to enjoy the great outdoors, regardless of your age. Here are some ideas to help you have fun in nature:
Play in Your Backyard
Play some outdoor games such as tag, hide and go seek, frisbee, or catch. You can also fly a kite, stargaze, have an outdoor barbeque, or simply go for a walk around the neighborhood.
Start a Garden
Have fun and connect with nature by starting a garden. It will save you money at the grocery store and you’ll know where your food comes from.
Have a Picnic
Enjoying your lunch outdoors is a great way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Throw a blanket on the ground, find a bench, or sit at a picnic table and enjoy the fresh air.
Go for a Hike
Nothing beats a good old-fashioned hike through the wilderness. Just make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy up. And if you happen to come across a bear, remember to make yourself look big and loud, and not to run away (unless you want to become a bear snack).
Foraging for Wild Edibles
You can find all types of edible plants while exploring nature. Pick some berries, forage for mushrooms and other plants, or research the plants in your own backyard. Be sure to follow the rules in your area and don’t eat anything you’re not sure about or that has been sprayed with chemicals.
Ride a Bike
Seeing nature on a bike is a great way to explore outdoor places you wouldn't otherwise get to see. Plus, biking is a great workout!
Go Camping
Spending a night under the stars can be a magical experience, as long as you remember to bring a tent and a sleeping bag (unless you like sleeping on rocks and getting eaten alive by mosquitoes).
Go Fishing
There's nothing quite like the thrill of reeling in a big catch. Just make sure you have the proper permits and know the local fishing regulations, or you might end up with a hefty fine instead of a tasty dinner.
Take Photos
Bringing a camera and capturing nature’s beauty through photographs is a great way to explore nature. Plus looking at those photos later is a great way to bring nature inside when you can’t get out.
Go Swimming
Go to the lake, river, or beach and have fun swimming. It is great way to exercise, but also very relaxing. If you’re not a good swimmer, it can be just as fun soaking up the sun onshore with your feet in the water.
Play on the Water
If you enjoy playing on the water, there are plenty of options for you. Whether you prefer boating, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, waterskiing, or surfing, you’ll have fun while enjoying the beauty of nature.
Go Sightseeing
Go see the sights in your area. Enjoy a long drive, take a train ride to a nearby town, ride a tour bus through the city, or go on a horse-back ride. Taking tours and learning the history of an area can be fun, relaxing, and educational.
Enjoy Local Events
Visit your local farmer’s market, park, orchard, garden, or zoo. Have some fun at an outdoor concert, festival, or parade. Support your local community.
Bird Watching
Bring a pair of binoculars and an identification guide, and then take a stroll to find some feathered friends.
Geocaching
If you're looking for a modern-day treasure hunt, geocaching might be just the thing for you. Armed with a GPS device or smart phone and some clues, you can search for hidden caches all over the world.
Play Golf
Gather your family and friends and go play a round of golf. Even a game of miniature golf can help you have fun in nature.
Metal Detecting
Visit your local pawn shop and buy yourself a metal detector. Metal detecting is a great way to explore nature and you may find some interesting treasures.
Be Creative
Take your creative skills outside and paint a landscape or build a birdhouse (the birds will appreciate it). Use your imagination!
Rock Climbing
For those who like to live on the edge (literally), rock climbing can be a thrilling adventure. Just make sure to wear proper safety gear and have a good grip, or you might end up taking a tumble.
So there you have it, some ideas to help you have fun in nature. Nature can be unpredictable and sometimes things don't go according to plan. But as long as you keep a sense of humor about it all, you're sure to have fun (and some great stories to tell). Just remember to pack plenty of snacks, some water, and a map (or a GPS device, if you're feeling fancy). Also, remember to follow the Leave No Trace Seven Principles and help us protect our natural environment so we can all continue to enjoy the great outdoors. Have Fun!