Kid-Friendly Family Adventures

By: Sylvia Karcz, Contributing Blogger

Adventure, my friends, comes in all shapes and sizes. There’s a time and place for certain complex, risky “Type-II” escapades—or hey, even Type-III if that’s your poison of choice!—but when kids are involved, it’s only natural to dial it down a bit on the sufferfest scale. By focusing on pleasant, enjoyable experiences that youngsters will remember fondly, the greater the chance that they’ll want to repeat said experiences again and again! And at day’s end, that’s the goal, is it not? The more excited kids get about nature and being active outside, the more benefits they’ll reap while going through this journey called life. 

So, if you’re looking for some kid-friendly adventure ideas for this summer and beyond, read on for some tried-and-true favorites that’ll be sure to stoke the flame!

River Float

Whether it’s a kayak trip, a relaxing float on inner tubes, or some mellow—or exhilarating!—white-water rafting, time spent on a flowing river source always proves to be a day to remember with the kiddos. Depending on the time of year, the time you have available, and the logistics of getting from point A to point B, you can usually set aside time to pull off for a picnic, or better yet, spend a night camping along the riverside if that’s an option! 

Dinosaur Park

Have you ever met a kid who didn’t have at least a tiny fascination with famous prehistoric reptiles of yesteryear? Probably not! Dinosaurs, very simply, are awesome, and kids love adventures that put them in an explorer’s mindset, so a Dinosaur Park offers the perfect balance of education and thrill. Part interactive museum and park conservation area, Dinosaur Parks usually have things like life-sized displays, indoor learning centers, exploratory fossil trails, and guided tours or events that focus on kid-friendly themes. A no-frills, dino-mite adventure for children of all ages!

State Park Tour

Granted, road trips take a tiny bit more planning and resources, but if there’s a window to make a multi-day trip possible, a state park tour is nearly guaranteed to be something that will imprint itself on the kids in the best of ways! As opposed to National Parks, which tend to be a bit further, staying local will cut down travel time and add more flexibility. I love the idea of taking a map and letting the kids plan out their own wishlist; it puts them in the driver seat, and allows an opportunity for some pre-trip education about what the different parks offer and how they differ!

Sometimes, parks will offer “junior ranger” programs and host special events, too— so be sure to check the park’s calendar or call for information. 

Star Gazing Adventure

Something goes to be said about nighttime outings in nature— there’s a certain mystery and wonder that comes alive when the sun goes down and the night sky reveals itself! From learning about constellations and galaxies to counting shooting stars, there’s a certain magic within that big, whirling expanse above us, and it’s easy to get kids fired up about it!

You can plan something as simple as an evening camp-out in your own backyard or porch, or, look for local star-gazing events or dark-sky specials at a planetarium near you. Prepare a little hot chocolate and an evening snack, gather some cozy blankets and jackets, and let your curiosity soar amongst the stars!

Family 5K

Before you scratch this one off your list, remember: you can walk a 5K race, too! I’ve seen many family units sign up for local races and runs together—with kids of all ages, from toddlers in strollers to teens!—and I must say, there’s a certain bond that’s strengthened when you set out to complete a hard goal collectively. From the training beforehand and those pre-race jitters to the glory of crossing the finish line, it’s a physical activity in the outdoors that showcases the power of determination, commitment, and perseverance,  even for the youngest of kiddos. A celebratory meal afterward is a nice touch, too!

Start a Hiking/Camping Tradition 

Want to slowly start piecing together part of a thru-hike? Dedicate a whole summer to camping at a local park every single Friday? Set a goal of hiking the tallest peaks in your state? Creating a family tradition that’s focused on nature and movement outdoors is such a wonderful way to instill the notion of commitment in younger and older kids alike. It’s a challenge that allows a family to both strategize together and consistently get outside together—rain or shine, if you so choose!—which will reap endless lessons and surefire potential for lasting memories.