School’s out and summer is in full swing! But before you’re knee-deep in back-to-school shopping and prepping for a new school year, there’s still plenty of time to soak up the sunshine and create lasting memories together. An outdoor family adventure is the perfect way to keep the kids active, unplugged, and smiling—all while building unforgettable family moments.
If you’re looking to make the most of these last few weeks of summer, here are 7 must-try outdoor family adventures to pack in before the school bell rings again.
Adventure #1: Hike a Scenic, Family-Friendly Trail
Hit the trails and explore the great outdoors together! Hiking is a fantastic way to connect with nature, get some exercise, and discover hidden gems right in your own backyard.
Tips to Get Started:
- Use apps like AllTrails, Hiking Project, or The Outbound to find family-friendly hikes near you.
- A quick Google search for “hiking near me” will usually turn up local blogs and park websites with detailed suggestions.
- This helpful post from Moore Misadventures is a great place to start: Hiking 101: Trails.
Be Prepared:
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for everyone. For a complete gear guide, download our What to Pack in Your Hiking Bag” checklist. [Family Hiking Gear Checklist]
Make it Extra Fun:
- Bring a nature journal and colored pencils so everyone can draw what they see.
- Print a nature scavenger hunt and race to find everything on the list.
- Collect natural items like leaves or rocks to use in a DIY nature craft back at home.
- Choose a trail with a stream or splash area for a mid-hike cool-down!
Adventure #2: Have a Backyard Campout
No campground? No problem! Pitch a tent in your backyard and enjoy a night under the stars—complete with grilled dinner or a Dutch oven meal, s’mores, flashlights, and stories around a campfire.
Pro tip: Let the kids “pack” their own camping bags to build excitement.
Adventure #3: Plan a Beach or Lake Day
There’s nothing quite like a day at the water to beat the summer heat! Whether you’re heading to the ocean, a lake, or a riverbank, water play is always a favorite family adventure.
Bring Along:
- Sand toys, footballs, cornhole, or even a paddleboard or kayak.
- Must-haves: Sunscreen, beach shade (tent or umbrella), floaties, towels, cover-ups, water shoes, snacks, and lots of water.
Adventure #4: Explore a State or National Park
State and National Parks are treasure troves of outdoor family fun—think hiking, wildlife spotting, ranger programs, and hands-on learning.
- The Junior Ranger Program, perfect for kids of all ages.
- Visitor centers where you can pick up National Park passports and start collecting stamps or coins from each park you visit.
- For inspiration, check out this post on Western U.S. National Parks [Best Family-Friendly National Parks In the Western U.S.].
Adventure #5: Go on a Local Paddle Adventure
Paddleboarding or canoeing offers a fresh perspective on local lakes or rivers—and it’s a relaxing way to spot wildlife and enjoy the water.
Tips:
- Rent gear locally for a half- or full-day outing.
- Always wear properly fitted life vests.
- If it’s your first time or you have young kids, pair up for safety and choose calm waters.
Adventure #6: Take a Sunset Picnic
There’s something magical about winding down a summer day with a picnic at dusk. Head to a local park, beach, or even your backyard.
What to Bring:
A picnic blanket, favorite snacks, yard games, and fun extras like glow sticks, bubbles, or sparklers.
Invite friends or family and make it a mini celebration of summer!
Adventure #7: Try an Outdoor Obstacle Course or Nature Challenge
Turn your backyard into an epic obstacle course using cones, ropes, sprinklers, and a slip-n-slide. Create a course for kids—and one for adults—for all-ages fun.
Or head to a local ropes course, climbing park, or ninja gym for an adrenaline-filled challenge that builds confidence and keeps everyone active.
Have a Family Adventure Summer that is Magical & Memorable
Summer doesn’t last forever—but the memories you create can! Pick 1 or 2 of these adventures to try this week and see where the trail, paddle, or picnic takes you.
We’d love to hear from you! Which adventure are you trying first? Share your photos and tag us—or leave a comment below.
For even more outdoor family fun, check out our posts [25 Unforgettable Family Adventures that are Fun & Affordable] [Family Is Fun: Backyard Adventures to Try this Weekend (Budget Friendly)]