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  • GIFT GUIDE, INFORMATION, NATURE SCHOOL

    Nature-Themed Board Games for Kids and Families

    If you’re searching for the best nature-themed board games for kids, you’re in the right place. In this roundup and review, outdoor educator, author, and mom of two Jessie Lehson (with help from her kids) shares a variety of nature board games her family tested, rated, and loved. From ecosystem-building strategy games to whimsical creature adventures, this post breaks down age ranges, gameplay, educational value, parent energy level, and honest kid reviews so you can choose the perfect game for family night, classroom learning, or no-tech fun at home. Whether you’re an outdoorsy parent looking to spark a love of nature or just trying to reduce screen time with something engaging, this guide will help you find nature board games that inspire curiosity, creativity, and real-world outdoor play.

    Quick Links to the Nature Board Games Reviewed

    What are Nature Board Games?

    Board games have exploded over the last decade. Gone are the days of only playing Candyland or Chutes and Ladders. Today’s games are full of clever mechanics, variable gameplay, and beautiful designs that make every play-through feel different (and yes, that includes nature-themed games).

    But what exactly is a “nature board game”? For our family, we defined it pretty broadly: any game where nature, ecosystems, wildlife, or natural elements are a primary theme or core part of how the game works. Some games are science-heavy and perfect for classrooms; others are whimsical and let you play as woodland creatures, build ecosystems, or collect nature treasures. But the common thread is that they spark curiosity about the natural world while still being really fun (and would make a great no tech gift!).

    With so many amazing options out there, we knew we could only scratch the surface. So, we focused on games that offered a mix of strategy, creativity, and nature immersion. Each game in this roundup includes honest reviews from kids, parent notes, suggested ages, and all the little details families want to know before trying something new.

    These nature board games aren’t just for rainy days or winter nights inside. They connect kids to nature in simple, meaningful ways sp. Theyarking curiosity, teaching real-world concepts, and inspiring outdoor play long after the game is packed away.

    Board Games… You Don’t Play Those Outside?!

    I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that you can absolutely play board games outside, even though they’re more often considered indoor activities. And yes, that makes them a little different from the things we usually talk about here at Run Wild My Child. But even extreme nature lovers need to spend some time inside, and while I’m a “there’s no bad weather” kind of mom, even I will admit that sometimes there is bad weather… or sometimes I’m just tired and don’t want to tromp around in the rain.

    Nature Board Games Promote a Connection to Nature

    Nature-based board games can promote all kinds of connections to nature and inspire creative outdoor play. One of my favorite reasons to play nature-themed board games is that they teach kids about the natural world in an engaging, hands-on way. Knowing the names of plants and animals makes them important. This knowledge gives kids power and confidence when they explore outside. Board games can also be a catalyst for creativity and imagination. My kids were inspired by several of these games to invent their own games and spend more time outside afterward.

    Low-effort Activities Can Help Get Kids Outside

    You can play board games outdoors, too. In fact, doing a familiar activity like reading or playing board games outside is a great way to encourage kids who are reluctant to go outside. It’s also an easy way to log some outdoor time that doesn’t require setup or much supervision. Set the kids up on a porch or deck while you do something else.

    And on those truly miserable-weather days, playing games inside is a great way to get some “nature time” when you can’t actually be outside. Choosing games with nature themes encourages real-life exploration later, teaches nature concepts in a less obvious way, and has even led to giant outdoor “game boards” drawn on the lawn and elaborate scavenger hunts inspired by the ecosystems and creatures we learned about while playing.

    Board Games & Screen Time

    It goes without saying that parents are often looking for ways to entertain kids without screens. (Especially parents that are visiting this website!) I don’t think anyone is immune to the “I’m boooreeeed” lament, and sometimes, you’ve got to do what you’ve got to do.

    It’s important to remember that being bored is ok though. Good even. Boredom begets creativity and motivation. Boredom is an important part of childhood.

    That said, it’s also practical to have a few reliable, screen-free activities in your back pocket. I love board games for this exact reason, especially games that kids can play with minimal adult support. Not only do they give kids something engaging to do, but they also introduce basic principles of game design without kids even noticing. And fun fact: learning board-game mechanics is ironically the first step toward understanding video game design (a bonus for kids who love tech).

    Nature-themed board games are especially valuable because they combine screen-free entertainment with environmental learning. Kids absorb new information about animals, ecosystems, habitats, adaptations, weather patterns, and more simply by playing. These games reinforce STEM concepts, build vocabulary, spark curiosity, and often inspire real-life outdoor exploration. They’re a great alternative for families looking to reduce screen time without compromising fun or learning.

    And unlike movies or tablets, board games bring families together in an active, hands-on way. Whether your kids are strengthening math skills, practicing reading, working on fine motor skills, or learning to strategize and problem-solve, they’re doing it through play, all while grounding themselves in nature-based themes that lead them right back outside.

    Family Game Night

    Much like reading with kids, playing board games together is a fantastic whole-family activity. It’s far more interactive than watching a movie, and it gives kids a chance to learn through hands-on play. Board games help younger children build fine motor skills, reinforce math and literacy in sneaky, stress-free ways. And, when you choose nature-themed board games, you introduce them to wildlife, ecosystems, and outdoor concepts without it feeling like a lesson.

    Board games also encourage problem-solving, cooperation, and creativity. Kids quickly learn how to take turns, plan ahead, manage resources, and adapt when their strategy doesn’t go as planned.

    Best of all, this connection happens while the family gathers around the table, laughing, talking, and building memories together. A good nature board game brings the outdoors in, keeps kids learning, and strengthens those meaningful bonds that come from simply being present with each other.

    Board Game Tricks from a Teacher

    Board games (and especially board game design) are one of my favorite teacher tricks. Want to get a group of kids with varied skill sets to work together? Board game design. Want a creative way to blend multiple subjects? Design a board game. Need a hands-on project that teaches content without requiring direct interaction with the outdoors? Board games do that, too. They combine math, literacy, art, logic, and storytelling in a way that makes educators everywhere swoon.

    Game design also encourages kids to synthesize and organize information. They have to explain rules clearly, think through cause and effect, and test and revise their ideas (all skills used in writing, science, engineering, and even coding).

    I introduced board game design to my now-12-year-old when he was struggling with handwriting. He had decided he “wasn’t good at writing,” so we worked together to design a game. He wrote down the rules, created the board, and made the cards. For that project, he wrote more than he had all year! And he hasn’t stopped making games since. (Yes, his handwriting improved tremendously.)

    Nature-based games in particular are incredible tools for the classroom or homeschooling. They reinforce science standards, encourage observation skills, and spark curiosity about wildlife and ecosystems. Whether kids are learning about adaptations, food chains, habitats, or environmental challenges, nature games turn abstract concepts into something they can see, touch, and play.

    Nature Board Games: How We Reviewed Them (and What Our Ratings Mean)

    Before we dive into the individual nature board game reviews, here’s how we structured things so you know what to expect. My family played each game multiple times (with kids of various ages), took notes, debated favorites, and gathered honest feedback (including the sometimes-chaotic, always-hilarious thoughts from our kid reviewers). We also evaluated each game through the lens of both a parent and an educator, because those two perspectives can be very different.

    After testing each game, we rated them using a handful of helpful categories you’ll see throughout this post:

    • Suggested Age: The manufacturer’s recommended age range (which I find to be generally conservative).
    • My Suggested Age: What I recommend after watching real kids play — often younger than the box says. You know your kids best, use your judgement.
    • Time: How long the game typically takes to play from start to finish. I find that this is an important factor for me when choosing games. I want to know what I’m committing to.
    • Players: How many people can play, including whether it works for solo or small-group play (huge for families with multiple kids).
    • Other Notes: Anything particularly interesting or unique about the game (e.g. components, materials, themes, or ways to modify difficulty).
    • PEF (Parent Energy Factor): This started out as a joke, but it’s a very real measure of how much mental bandwidth you, as a parentn, eeds to play the game. High-energy strategy nights are great… but sometimes you just need a game you can handle while tired, nursing a baby, or refereeing siblings.
    • Kid Reviews: Real reviews by kids of various ages. Completely unfiltered reactions from kids ages 7–12. Sometimes insightful, sometimes a little whacky, always entertaining.

    This review structure gives you the information you actually need as a parent: how easy the game is to learn, how long it will occupy your kids, whether they can play it independently, and whether the gameplay truly sparks curiosity about nature. By the end of this round-up, you’ll know exactly which nature board games deserve a spot on your shelf and which ones your kids will be begging to play again and again.

    AEG Games: Nature-Focused Favorites for Families

    AEG (Alderac Entertainment Group) is one of the standout publishers creating beautifully designed, nature-themed board games. If you’re already familiar with their popular butterfly migration game Mariposas, you know they have a knack for combining gorgeous artwork with clever, accessible gameplay. For this round-up, we reviewed three of their nature-inspired titles – Cascadia, Cascadia Jr., and Nocturne – and they quickly became family favorites in very different ways.

    Below, you’ll find our experiences with each game, including parent impressions, gameplay notes, and unfiltered kid reviews.

    Cascadia

    I reached out to AEG because we already own and love Mariposas, and Cascadia immediately proved to be another hit. It’s beautifully made, with wooden animal tokens, hexagon habitat tiles, and a sweet little cloth bag. Plus, it’s easy to learn while still offering plenty of strategy. You build habitats featuring animals and ecosystems of the Pacific Northwest, but even as an East Coaster, I found the theme universal and engaging. The environmental educator in me was delighted to see backmatter in the rulebook with real info about each animal. The included scorecards also make gameplay much easier for kids.

    Suggested Age: 10+
    My Suggested Age: You could definitely go younger and simplify the scoring (there is a “family mode” to help with that).
    Time: 30-45 minutes
    Players: 1-4
    Other: Beautiful wooden tokens, hexagonal pieces and a cloth bag. Feels very well made.
    PEF: The directions felt very clear and simple. Gameplay was fun and strategic but not tricky. Older kids could play alone.

    Kid reviews:

    • Age 10: I think this was a fun nature themed game. I really liked all the little animal tokens, especially the elks, and the pinecones. Now I want to see a deer. (elk noise.)
    • Age 12: I think it was really fun to build your own world and get creatures to live in it. I liked competing with other people to make the best park. Good reviews from me. 🙂

    Cascadia Jr.

    Cascadia Jr. is my top pick for nature games if you are looking for something for the 6 and under set (preschoolers and early elementary aged kids). It’s easy to learn, easy to play, and super adorable. I really, really love the illustration on this one. My older reviewers played it, but preferred the original version. My younger reviewers loved the “panorama boards” and making little scenes with their animals. (Which is not an option in the original, although the simpler scoring from this version is.) This was one of the shorter games we played which is always a plus with younger friends. The scoring and complexity are scaled back appropriately for younger players, while the game is still cute and fun for their grownups.

    Suggested Age: 6+
    My Suggested Age: I think you could go down preschool on this one. I didn’t need to help my 7-year reviewer at all.
    Time: 15-30 minutes
    Players: 2-4
    Other: “Panorama boards” are an awesome touch and the littles loved them.
    PEF: Rules are easy to understand, gameplay is easy and straightforward. My 7 year old reviewer thought it was easy.

    Kid reviews:

    • Age 7: I thought it was fun and easy so if it was a book it would be good for beginner readers. I liked the game, I like the animals, especially the foxies.
    • Age 10: I think it was a really fun game, I especially like the little habitats where you had your little creatures. I think it’s a perfect family game. (foxie noise)

    Nocturne

    I was excited to play Nocturne as soon as we got the box. The art is adorable and full of woodland creatures. This game falls at the whimsical end of the nature game spectrum; you play as a fox that casts magic spells and creates potions (called concoctions.) This immediately spoke to that childhood urge to mix leaves and grass and water in a bucket to make stews, potions and whatever else, which I consider a core component of nature play. You also collect natural objects in the game, which is another nature-related childhood compulsion. (As I’m sure those of you with stick and rock collections all over the house can relate to.)

    I was initially a little overwhelmed when we read the rules/gameplay, but once we started playing it felt very intuitive and logical and we barely had to consult the rulebook. There are also “family rules” to make the playing simpler. The gameplay is clever and easy to follow (despite the word “orthogonally” being used with great frequency in the rules– my 12 yr explained what it meant to me lol.)

    This is a game you can play over and over because the shifting tiles and cards make it different every time. I also loved that they included scorecards which is a big help with kids, and tons of plastic bags for all the little parts. (I know that is such a mom thing, but it was really helpful.)

    Suggested Age: 10+
    My Suggested Age: My 10 year old handled this like a champ, but had some trouble following in the beginning. An 8 year old could handle it, but would need parent support. If you use the family rules you could probably go a smidge younger.
    Time: 30-45 minutes (Our game took a little longer, but wasn’t overwhelming)
    Players: 1-4
    Other: Lovely art, both kids commented on it, and wooden tokens which I always love as a parent because they don’t get destroyed.
    PEF: The initial work of figuring out the gameplay was a bit of a lift, but then it’s pretty straightforward and logical to play. I think I could handle this one when I wasn’t feeling my best. It’s also an entertaining game you could play with other adults/ older kids. A great balance of easy to play and not boring. Older kids could play it without a parent.

    Kid reviews:

    • Age 10: I think it’s an action-packed, thrilling nature themed game. I liked how we all had our own special characters and they had spells.
    • Age 12: I really liked the game because I like D&D and this game reminds me of Humblewood (a D&D edition that adds creature folk) so I liked announcing the spells I cast. It was really fun. I thought the shadow tokens were a little confusing.

    Starling Games: Charming Forest Worlds & Family-Favorite Strategy

    Starling Games is known for immersive, beautifully illustrated board games, and their flagship woodland strategy game Everdell has become a beloved staple in many families, including ours. These games feel like stepping into a storybook forest filled with critters, resource gathering, and cozy village-building. In this section, we reviewed both Everdell and the simplified children’s version, My Lil’ Everdell, to see how they work for different ages.

    Below you’ll find gameplay impressions, parent energy factor (PEF) notes, and real kid reviews of each game.

    Everdell

    Everdell is our family’s favorite nature board game and we have been playing it for years. It is the one that everyone always agrees on. (That said, we didn’t have any of these other games before, so I think we’ll have quite a few in rotation now!)

    The directions initially feel a little overwhelming, but once you get started and play it through once, things work pretty intuitively. It’s charmingly adorable and infinitely playable. It’s got serious Brambly Hedge vibes (which I was obsessed with as a kid, so that’s probably part of why I love it) but it’s a serious game that Dad loves to play. (He was not obsessed with Brambly Hedge.)

    It is a bit of an older kid’s game though, so I wanted to check out My Lil’ Everdell to see if it made this awesome game more accessible for younger friends. There are tons of expansions to collect and multiple ways to play. I don’t think I will ever get bored of this game. There is something about Everdell that I think links to fairy house play– maybe it’s because my kids love to build little storehouses for their villages.

    Suggested Age: 10+
    My Suggested Age: we started playing this with my youngest when he was 8 and that would probably be my suggested age. He is better at strategizing now at 10 though.
    Time: 40-80 minutes (this game definitely runs long.)
    Players: 1-4
    Other: The pieces are adorable wooden animals called meeples. My kids are obsessed with them. You collect sticks, berries and resin and they are sweet little 3D pieces. The art is beautiful and there are tons of add-ons.
    PEF: The first time you play this game the directions feel like a lot, but after you play it through once, it makes sense and works well. I would put this on the high end of the PEF scale overall though.

    Kid reviews:

    • Age 10: I think it’s a really fun game. I especially like how you get to build your own cities and have little critters too. And I think all the collecting is fun.
    • Age 12: One of my favorite games ever. I love how you get to build your own city with your cute little critters, collect resources and achieve events. I love building outdoor lego civilizations after playing this game.

    My Lil’ Everdell

    If it’s possible, the My Lil’ Everdell version may be even cuter than the original! It’s definitely a pared back version of the original game play that is easier for younger kids. It’s also much shorter which worked well for younger attention spans.

    It is still pretty complex for a 6/7 year though and will require parent support. However, my 7 year old reviewer declared this her favorite game and borrowed it to play later so it was clearly a hit! It is a great game and the kids all had a ton of fun. They were also talking about writing books to go with the game and making expansions and adventures– it clearly inspired creativity in all of them and our group ranged from 7-12 so that is impressive.

    The kids loved the cards and characters and spent time looking through them long after the game was over. They also loved the little wooden animals. I loved the sun and moon tokens. I also loved that they were all entertained for nearly an hour without a ton of input from me.

    Suggested Age: 6+
    My Suggested Age: I would not go younger than 6 on this one. My 10 year old, who has played the original Everdell many times, really liked the simplified game play of this version. The 12 year old crushed everyone else point-wise, so he was probably a little too old for this version.
    Time: 30 minutes (more like 45 for us, but snappy compared to the original)
    Players: 1-4
    Other: Beautiful little wooden animals, amazing art and characters that the kids couldn’t stop talking about.
    PEF: The kids played this without me, but I still had to “manage” the game. The 7 year old definitely got it, but still needed my help with her cards. I think older kids could have played it alone. It’s pared down, but still complicated for a young kid. Doable and fun, but only with parent support.

    Kid reviews:

    • Age 7: It was fun and it’s a good idea to make a book from it and maybe it could be about an adventure.
    • Age 10: It was really fun with all the new cute critters, and the new way of playing the game. (this reviewer has played the original Everdell) This version was easier, there were less workers and it was easier for me.
    • Age 11: It was a bit confusing at first but I got the gist of it. It was fun and entertaining but it took a long time. I really like the art, it was my favorite part.
    • Age 12: I really liked this game (this reviewer has played the original Everdell) and I think this is a lot simpler. I enjoyed making my own city with buildings and cute little critters. My favorite card was the treasure hunter. Playing this game also inspired me to make my own Everdell expansion that adds little 3D models of the buildings so you can set up a little city. I also loved that there were lizards in this one!

    Northstar Games: Science-Forward Strategy Games for Curious Kids

    Northstar Games is known for clever, educational board games that blend science concepts with fun, family-friendly strategy. If you’re familiar with their popular game Evolution, you’ll recognize the same DNA (pun intended) in both Nature and Biomos – the two games we reviewed for this post. These games are fantastic for families who love STEM tie-ins, classrooms looking for hands-on learning tools, and kids who geek out over ecosystems, adaptations, and world-building.

    Below you’ll find age suggestions, gameplay notes, and real kid reviews of each game.

    Nature

    One of our regular favorite games is Evolution (also by Northstar games) so we tried out two more games from Northstar. Nature felt like a no-brainer because how can you do a nature game round-up without Nature!?

    As it turns out Nature is basically the same game as Evolution, it’s just been streamlined and upgraded a bit. I found the game play to be much smoother. Both would be amazing in the classroom, although Nature feels more like a family game while Evolution feels more like a classroom game. Both games are perfect for all of those “traits and adaptations over time” NGSS standards. In fact, I feel like I read somewhere that this game was designed by a teacher, and I can definitely see that.

    The rules are easy to understand and the play is straightforward. The design of the game makes it a little different each time. There are also a bunch of expansions. My kids LOVE it and want to play it all the time. The thing that I did not expect is that they, all on their own, got excited about the species they were creating and did drawings of how their species evolved over time as we played. They were really into it and it’s always amazing to see that kind of self-directed creativity from kids. (I am also wondering if it’s somehow Pokemon-related, which is interesting.)

    Anyway, this is another game with lots of tidy little containers for all of the bits and pieces, which I love. Last but not least, I love that there are non-fiction facts on the cards!

    Suggested Age: 10+
    My Suggested Age: I would say more like 8+
    Time: 30-45 minutes (It took us more like an hour)
    Players: 1-4
    Other: the game is biodegradable (how cool is that?!), great classroom potential
    PEF: I love that this game has a set number of rounds, so you know your time commitment up front. It’s pretty straightforward to play and has a reasonably low PEF. It also has a solo mode.

    Kid reviews:

    • Age 10: I think the game was really fun. I especially liked drawing my little creatures at each evolution stage as I got them.
    • Age 12: I really liked the game and how each round you get a new species. I really enjoyed drawing my creatures as I evolved them and using my imagination.

    Biomos

    I knew I was going to love Biomos when the rule booklet mentioned primordial soup. It’s a planet building game, and we have another similar one, but Biomos was way more fun to play. It’s also a quick game which is always something I like.

    This board game is nature with a side of sci-fi, which can be a great way to engage kids who wouldn’t typically be considered “naturey.” You are more or less terraforming a planet with different biomes, and the gameplay is simple and clever. This would also make for a fun intro to a biomes lesson. This was Dad’s favorite game of the group.

    Suggested Age: 8+
    My Suggested Age: I think 8 is about right. It’s simple to play, but the strategizing will be too much for younger kids.
    Time: 20 minutes (this sounds about right, maybe 30)
    Players: 1-4
    Other: There is a standard mode, family mode and solo mode.
    PEF: This was easy to understand right out of the box and simple and straightforward to play. I like that it was pretty fast to play as well. Easy to play with kids and a solo mode so that they can play alone. There is also a family mode to make it simpler.

    Kid Reviews:

    • Age 10: I liked the planets in this game. It was fun.
    • Age 12: I think the system to build the planet was good. I liked pretending I was building a death star to blow up my mom’s planet.

    DVC Games

    DVC Games is known for clever, beautifully designed tabletop games, and Corvids is no exception. Their titles often blend charming themes with smart, intuitive gameplay – the kind of combination that works equally well for families, classrooms, or adults who simply love a good strategy game. When we added Corvids to our nature board game lineup, I knew immediately that it would strike a chord with my bird-loving, treasure-collecting kids. It’s whimsical, engaging, and full of opportunities for kids to connect play with real-world nature learning.

    Below is our full review of Corvids, the standout DVC title we tested.

    Corvids

    I have been coveting Corvids for a while, just like a crow coveting a shiny trinket! And it did not disappoint. The crows and the art in this game are stunning. I also loved the gameplay…it was clever and different than anything I’ve ever played while also being super simple and easy to pick up. It was easy to play and a fairly fast game.

    Fun and engaging without taking too much brain power. The game revolves around a treasure/ trash pile which is obviously awesome and fun for kids. You use oversized tweezers to pick out treasures which is such a good motor skill thing for littles. And a big part of the game is stealing stuff from other corvids, which my kiddos found hysterical.

    This game inspired some research and learning about different types of corvids– I now know what a nutcracker bird is, for instance! The funniest part of this game however, is that both kids started running around and cawing at each once it was finished. (You’ll notice they both included caws in their reviews as well…) A really fun game that I can see working for a lot of different ages.

    Suggested Age: 8+
    My Suggested Age: I would go much younger on this. A 4-5 year old isn’t going to be very strategic about the point system, but they will have fun flipping and playing and stealing. I would just skip scoring with littles, or make everything one point. All of that said I can imagine this being super fun with adult beverages too, and will test that out asap.
    Time: 20-30 minutes
    Players: 2-5
    Other: This comes with a lovely printed fabric mat, oversized tweezers and is generally well made.
    PEF: This is a perfect low parent energy game. I could play this with a headache or while nursing. At the same time it was clever and fun to play. It’s also an easy one for kids to play without adults.

    Kid reviews:

    • Age 10: Corvid’s is a fun family stealing game (all corvid’s included). I really loved it because I loved stealing from people and I got to be the raven. I think it’s a really good game for kids 8-12. Caw caw.
    • Age 12: Corvid’s is a fun game to play as a family. I loved becoming a crow and collecting all the shiny treasures. I also loved repeatedly stealing from my dad after he took something from me. In the end I think we all had a good time and I loved searching through the garbage. Also caw caw.

    Pencil First Games

    Pencil First Games is known for beautifully crafted tabletop experiences that feel cozy, clever, and delightfully tactile. Many of their titles are inspired by collecting, nature, and small everyday wonders, which makes them a natural fit for families who spend a lot of time outdoors. When we added The Whatnot Cabinet to our nature board game lineup, it felt instantly aligned with the spirit of outdoor play: curiosity, collecting, noticing small details, and finding beauty in unexpected places.

    Below is our full review of The Whatnot Cabinet, a charming game about building your own nature-inspired treasure collection.

    The Whatnot Cabinet

    I love that The Whatnot Cabinet is a game about nature collections, because what outdoorsy family doesn’t have a collection of random nature treasures? Gameplay is pretty simple and I think you could easily simplify the rules further for younger kids.

    Essentially, you are trying to make rows of the same color or same object type which is easy and fun for younger friends. The scoring and rules make it a little more complex (and more interesting for older kids) but I think this could be a good multi-age game. And who knows, maybe it will inspire you to start a nature collection! (Both my reviewers mentions real life collections after playing it!)

    Suggested Age: 14+
    My Suggested Age: You could definitely go younger on this, my 10 and 12 year olds had no problem with it and I would say you could go as young as 7 or 8, so long as you simplified the scoring a little.
    Time: 20 minutes
    Players: 1-4
    Other: Cool nature treasure tokens.
    PEF: Fun quick and easy to learn.

    Kid reviews:

    • Age 10: I liked this game it was fun. I liked collecting stuff.
    • Age 12: I really enjoyed collecting lots of different things for my collection and the game was overall fun. My favorite part was making my own little collection of nature treasures because that’s something I enjoy doing in real life.

    Final Thoughts: Why Nature Board Games Belong in Every Family Home

    Nature board games are more than just a way to pass the time on a rainy afternoon. They’re a bridge between indoor play and the outdoor world, a way for kids to explore ecosystems, animals, weather, habitats, and natural processes while laughing, strategizing, collecting, and creating. Whether you’re raising outdoor-loving kids, trying to reduce screen time, or simply looking for meaningful activities the whole family can enjoy, nature-themed board games offer a perfect balance of fun, education, and connection.

    What surprised me most during our review process was how much these games inspired real outdoor curiosity. My kids built imaginary ecosystems in the yard after playing Cascadia, ran around cawing like crows after Corvids, and invented new worlds after Everdell. Good board games don’t just entertain…they spark creative play, storytelling, problem-solving, and a deeper appreciation for nature.

    Whether you’re shopping for holiday gifts, looking to enhance family game night, or searching for screen-free activities that build curiosity and confidence, this list is a great place to start. Every game we played offers something different (whimsy, strategy, science, storytelling), but they all bring kids one step closer to understanding and loving the natural world.

    Here’s to more nature, more play, and more family time – indoors and out.

    About the author

    Jessie Lehson is the author of seasonal children’s books and nature-focused curricula. She is the founder of a public nature school in Baltimore, MD, and the former director of an educational farm owned by Baltimore City Public Schools. A longtime teacher and professor of sculpture, Lehson is an illustrator and environmental artist. Lehson is an avid chicken keeper, urban homesteader, master gardener and permaculture designer. She is mom to two adventurous little boys who love nature.

    Follow Jessie online in the following locations:

    Instagram: @wineberryadventurescouts
    Website: Wineberry Wood Press

  • FAMILY TRAVEL, FAVORITE GEAR, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARENTING

    How to Use AI to Plan Outdoor Adventures with Kids (Stress-Free Travel Tips for Moms)

    Planning family outdoor adventures can feel overwhelming. Between picking the right destination, figuring out what to pack, and keeping kids entertained, moms often carry the bulk of the mental load. In this guide, Brittany Brown, an outdoor-loving Montana mom of four, shares how she uses AI tools like ChatGPT to simplify the process of planning outdoor adventures. From finding hidden gems to creating personalized packing lists, she shows how AI can save parents time and stress, so you can spend less time planning and more time outside making memories with your kids.

    Using Artificial Intelligence

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) might sound intimidating, but at its core, it’s simply technology designed to help answer questions and solve problems quickly. Think of it as a super-smart assistant you can chat with in plain language.

    Instead of spending hours searching Google, flipping through guidebooks, or scrolling endless blog posts, you can ask AI to create a custom packing list, suggest hiking trails for kids, or even plan an entire day’s itinerary. Tools like ChatGPT or Claude respond to normal conversation (not tech jargon), which means you can ask them for help just like you’d ask a friend.

    AI adapts to your family’s unique needs, whether that means toddler-friendly trails, gluten-free camp meals, or rainy-day backup plans, so you can spend less time stressing over logistics and more time enjoying the outdoors together.

    AI for outdoor moms: the ultimate guide to planning family adventures 

    The photo above (undoubtedly my family’s best Christmas card picture ever) definitely took some planning to orchestrate. But I didn’t have to lift a finger.   

    That’s because AI gave me a precise run-of-show and planned the whole adventure for me.  

    My prompt?

    “My family of six (two adults and four kids) is staying in Gardiner, MT. Plan a day trip for us to Yellowstone National Park. Make sure we arrive at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone at magic hour so I can get my Christmas card photo (it’s October). Also include stops at Mammoth Hot Springs, Porcelain Basin Trail, and Dragon’s Mouth Spring. Give us recommendations on what to do in each stop/location, can’t miss stops, kid-friendly hiking trails, and any other information that would be helpful for a mom planning a trip with kids.”

    The itinerary AI returned was nothing short of epic.

    Better answers than Google

    All the questions I would have spent hours Googling? Answered. With one simple prompt, I had a complete itinerary that told us exactly what to do:

    • What time should we leave Gardiner? 
    • How long should we spend in each location?
    • How long is each car ride?
    • Where should we take potty breaks?
    • Are there park restaurants open in October?

    Every detail was spot on. We saw exploding geysers, bubbling mud pots, and countless geothermal wonders. And just as I hoped, we pulled into the parking lot at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone right as the afternoon light softened, perfect timing for our Christmas card photo.

    That was when I realized: AI just became my new best friend for planning outdoor adventures.

    Why AI is a game-changer for outdoor moms

    Using technology/screens to spend more time outside (and off screens) might sound counterintuitive. But, the truth is that getting kids outside (especially little kids) takes work.  Planning meals, finding bathrooms, tracking weather, deciding what gear to bring… it all adds up. And as every mom knows, the list of “things to figure out” never (ever) ends.

    That’s where AI comes in. It’s not about replacing your intuition or taking away the magic of discovery; it’s about lightening the mental load so you can spend less time planning and more time actually outside with your kids. Think of it as your personal assistant who never gets tired of your “just one more question” phase.

    And don’t stress about writing perfect, complicated prompts. The best way to use AI is to talk to it like you’d talk to a helpful friend. Tell it what you need, and let it do the heavy lifting.

    Examples of AI prompts for adventure planning

    For example, here are a few tasks I happily outsourced to AI before our Yellowstone trip:

    • My kids want to be Junior Rangers, so include information about where they can complete those activities in our itinerary.
    • Suggest 10 nature-themed audiobooks (at least an hour long) for 3-8 year-olds to listen to on the road trip.
    • Give me some intel on kid-friendly dinner spots in Gardiner that are open in the off-season (October).
    • Give me the best times and kid-friendly locations to spot bison, elk, and maybe bears safely in Yellowstone. Include pullouts or trails where parking is easy.
    • Suggest picnic areas in Yellowstone near our planned stops that have shaded tables, nearby bathrooms, and short walking paths for little legs.

    Each of these would have taken me a few hours of late-night Googling, only to second-guess if I found the right answer or if it was up-to-date. But with AI, I had tailored answers in seconds.

    The bottom line: AI doesn’t replace your sense of adventure. It gives you the headspace to enjoy it. When you let technology help handle the logistics, you free yourself up to be present for the actual adventure: hiking with your kids, roasting marshmallows, or catching that perfect sunset.

    How to use AI to plan outdoor adventures

    At its core, planning family adventures comes down to answering three big questions:

    1. Where should we go?
    2. What do we need to bring?
    3. How can I make it more fun for the kids?

    AI can help you tackle each of these in minutes, turning the hours of Googling, note-taking, and second-guessing into simple, actionable plans that fit your family’s needs, interests, and schedule.

    Instead of scrolling through ten different blogs or trying to piece together tips from random Facebook groups, you can ask AI to create a tailor-made adventure plan that accounts for your kids’ ages, attention spans, interests, abilities, and even their snack preferences.

    Want a list of toddler-friendly hikes within an hour of your house? AI can do that. Need a gluten-free camping meal plan with recipes and a shopping list? Done. Looking for ways to keep siblings entertained on a long car ride? AI can turn your ideas into games, playlists, or scavenger hunts.

    Adaptability, customization, and examples

    The beauty of using AI is that it adapts to your family. Whether you’re planning a quick backyard nature scavenger hunt, a half-day trip to a local state park, or a week-long trek through the Alps, AI can lighten your mental load and free up brain space for what really matters: enjoying the adventure once you get there.

    In the rest of this guide, I’ll break down how I personally use AI to make outdoor planning simpler, less stressful, and more fun. We’ll walk through real-life examples and ready-to-use prompts you can copy, paste, and tweak for your own family.

    Because at the end of the day, the goal isn’t to spend more time on a screen. The goal is to spend less time planning and more time outside making memories.

    Using AI to help Choose where to go

    I like the pool. But faced with a week of pool days on a family trip to Arizona, my mind started to wander. 

    “I bet the locals know of some great spots for a beach day on the Salt River.”

    I was picturing a sandy riverbend with shallow water, slow current, and those classic Arizona mountain views. It’s not the kind of hidden gem you’ll stumble across on TripAdvisor, or even by scrolling through pages of Google results.

    So I turned to AI for some help.

    “Check local parenting forums or Facebook groups for tips from Arizona families about Salt River beach spots within 1 hour of Phoenix. We’re looking for a scenic place to take a group of kids ages 1-8 with slow-moving water, easy parking, and ideally some shade.”

    What I got back was exactly what I had envisioned. AI pointed me to family-friendly access points along the Salt River in the Tonto National Forest, with details on parking, bathroom availability, and which spots had calmer sections of water perfect for little kids.

    That one query turned what could have been just another pool day into the highlight of our trip. Our lazy afternoon on the Salt River—parents in camping chairs, kids splashing in the shallows—was everyone’s favorite memory of the week.

    Things to keep in mind when ssing AI for planning

    AI’s not perfect and you may need to ask additional questions once you have your “answer” from AI. Here are a few things that came up for us as we were planning this outing that we needed to consider.

    • Public vs. private land: Always confirm that your chosen spot is on public land. AI can point you in the right direction, but it’s up to you to double-check maps and signage. For example, the Salt River runs through the Tonto National Forest, which allows public recreation, but there are areas along the river that may be private or require a permit.
    • Seasonal closures & conditions: River access points can vary by season. Water levels change, parking may require a day-use pass, and certain areas are closed during fire season. AI may not always have real-time updates, so check with the U.S. Forest Service or the local ranger station before you go.
    • Parking passes: Most Salt River recreation sites require a Tonto National Forest pass ($8/day or $80 annual), which you can buy online or at gas stations near the recreation areas. AI may remind you of this, but I learned the hard way that it’s best to get your pass in advance.
    • Wildlife awareness: We didn’t see any, but wild horses are often spotted near the Salt River. It’s magical, but make sure to give them space and remind kids not to approach.

    Why AI works for finding hidden gems

    Google and TripAdvisor are great for big-name attractions. But AI can “think” like a local, pulling in insights from parenting forums, family blogs, and visitor chatter you might not otherwise find. It’s like asking a well-traveled friend, “Where do you take your kids on a hot day when you need shade and calm water?”

    And the best part is that once AI gave me some options, I could ask follow-up questions like:

    • Which Salt River beach has bathrooms close to the parking lot?
    • What time of day is best for avoiding crowds with little kids?
    • Are there shaded picnic areas where we can eat lunch?

    That’s the power of AI: less scrolling, more confidence, and more time making memories.

    Beyond basic location searches: AI prompts for nuanced adventure planning

    Now it’s your turn! Below you’ll find sample AI prompts divided into categories to help answer the first big question when planning an outing: “Where should we go?”

    Make these your own, and don’t be afraid to ask for exactly what your crew needs. Remember: AI works best when you guide it. The more specific details you give—like kids’ ages, desired trail length, or even your child’s niche interests—the better your results will be.

    Hiking-related prompts

    • Tailor-made hike suggestions:
      “Find hiking trails within 30 minutes of [your city] under three miles roundtrip with less than 500 feet elevation gain, suitable for kids ages [X] and [Y]. Include trails with interesting features like waterfalls, bridges, rocks to climb on, and wildlife viewing opportunities.”
    • Hikes for mixed abilities:
      “Suggest accessible hiking trails near [location] where grandparents with mobility issues can enjoy nature alongside active kids ages [X] and [Y]. Include trails with benches, shade, bathrooms, and multiple exit points.”

    Multi-day adventures

    • Base camp research:
      “Find the best base location for a four-day outdoor family trip within [three] hours of [your city] with kids ages [X] and [Y]. Include areas with hiking trails for different energy levels, backup indoor attractions for bad weather, and proximity to family-friendly accommodations.”
    • Comparing destinations:
      “Compare [Location A] vs [Location B] vs [Location C] for a family outdoor vacation with kids ages [X] and [Y]. Focus on trail variety, seasonal considerations, crowd levels, pricing, lodging options, and which location offers the most diverse outdoor activities.”

    Kid-specific interests

    • Interest-based itineraries:
      “Plan a day in [location] that satisfies both my dinosaur-obsessed 6-year-old and my train-loving 9-year-old. Find dinosaur sites and historic railways or scenic train rides within driving distance of each other, add a short family hike and lunch stop, and map out the best route with realistic timing.”
    • Seasonal fun:
      “Find fall activities within 2 hours of [your city] for kids ages [X] and [Y]. Include apple orchards, pumpkin patches, easy hikes with fall foliage, and any seasonal festivals or events.”

    Bonus: local-style adventures

    Hidden gems:
    “Find local family-favorite spots near [your city] that aren’t in the guidebooks. Prioritize places where kids can wade, climb, or explore freely. Include parking details, entry fees if any, and best times of day for fewer crowds.”

    Pro Tip: If AI gives you something that doesn’t quite work, don’t give up! Just refine your prompt with extra details (like ages, budget, or accessibility needs). Think of it like having a conversation with a helpful travel-savvy friend who just needs a little direction or extra information.

    Packing with AI: smarter, easier, less stressful

    Bug spray. Bear spray. Motrin. Dramamine. The precise number of pull-ups. The one granola bar your toddler won’t reject. The correct stuffed animal. Rain jackets. Headlamps with fresh batteries. A deck of cards for the tent…

    Packing for an outdoor adventure with kids isn’t just tossing a few things into a bag. It’s a mental marathon. You’re prepping for weather, wildlife, and all the “what-ifs” while simultaneously fielding “Are we leaving yet?” for the fifteenth time.

    Sure, Google can give you a generic packing checklist. But AI? AI can actually build a list around your family — factoring in terrain, trip length, kids’ ages, special quirks, and even food preferences — so you can pack smarter and get on the road faster.

    Here are a few ways to let AI take the stress out of packing.

    Use AI to create personalized packing lists 

    One-size-fits-all checklists don’t cut it when you’ve got a toddler who only eats string cheese and a preschooler who insists on wearing a superhero cape at all times. AI can customize your packing list based on your family’s ages, destination, season, and comfort level—and even link to gear suggestions or rentals that match your needs.

    Prompt idea:

    “Create a packing list for my family’s first backpacking trip. Two adults and two kids under eight in bear country in September for two nights. Include delicious and easily packable kid-friendly high-protein food and a few lightweight games to keep kids entertained at camp.”

    How to use AI for meal planning and grocery lists

    Ever stared at the cooler and wondered what on earth you’re going to feed everyone after day two? AI can turn meal ideas into organized, budget-friendly grocery lists tailored to your favorite stores, dietary needs, and (most importantly) what your kids will actually eat.

    Hot tip: Ever come across a great camping recipe in an IG or TikTok caption? Screenshot it, and ask AI to turn the text into clear, step-by-step text instructions.

    Prompt idea:

    “Make a 3-day meal plan for a camping trip with kids, including one who is gluten-free. Prioritize warm breakfasts, one-pot dinners, and no-refrigeration snacks. Recipes should be easy to prep, use shelf-stable ingredients, and work at elevation.”

    Follow-up prompt:

    “Now create a shopping list for this meal plan, with items sourced from Walmart and Costco. Organize by store and category, and include quantities for two adults and four kids.”

    Using AI for gear guidance and real life recommendations

    Whether you’re picking out a -20 degree sleeping bag or a baby hiking carrier, AI can help crowdsource parent-tested recommendations, cutting through the noise to find gear that fits your family’s lifestyle. It can also point you to sustainable options, local rentals, or secondhand finds from other adventure families.

    Prompt idea:

    “Recommend a high-quality lightweight 4-person tent under $300 with a vestibule. It needs to be easy to set up while managing two young kids. Include options from secondhand sites and local rental shops. Pull recommendations from real parent reviews, forums, or outdoor mom blogs when possible.”

    Using AI to make packing less overwhelming with littles

    AI (sadly) can’t pack your car, but it can help you organize what goes where: separate lists for the diaper bag, food bag, toy stash, and your “I-hope-we-don’t-need-this” first aid supplies. It can also remind you of the things you’ll definitely forget, like extra socks or that battery-operated noise machine.

    Prompt idea:

    “Break down a weekend camping packing list for a family with a baby and toddler into bags: diaper bag, kitchen tote, sleeping setup, and a car stash for emergencies. Include commonly forgotten items and tips for staying organized at camp.”

    Using AI to make outdoor adventures more fun for kids (and parents)

    Sometimes, the hardest part of family adventures isn’t choosing the location or even packing the right gear…it’s keeping kids engaged once you’re actually outside. That’s where AI shines in a whole new way.

    Beyond logistics and checklists, it can spark creativity, curiosity, and joy. Whether it’s turning a simple outing into a scavenger hunt, helping kids learn the names of the wildflowers they spot, or even creating traditions your family will never forget, AI can transform the way kids experience nature.

    Using AI to foster your kids’ interests

    My third grader gets out of school 45 minutes earlier than her brothers on Wednesdays. Each week, we rush to one of “our spots” — beside the neighborhood creek or down a local trail — and pull out our books to enjoy a few quiet minutes of outdoor reading together.

    One day, she decided we needed to make it official: a club. We called it The Rattlesnake Reading Club, after our beloved Rattlesnake Valley in Missoula.

    Already giddy about our new “secret society,” I wondered if AI could help lock in our tradition forever (or at least as long as she’ll still willingly hang out with me).

    “Let’s make a logo,” I said excitedly.

    “You can do that?” she asked.

    Yes, you can.

    We asked AI to create a logo for the Rattlesnake Reading Club, gave it a few nature-inspired details, and fell in love with the result. Now my daughter wants patches, t-shirts, and stickers. I’m not sure we’ll actually print them, but I do know her excitement for this little club — and for spending time outdoors with me — grew tenfold because of that one creative spark.

    Using AI To create deeper connections with nature

    That simple moment, using AI to turn a shared tradition into something real and creative, got me thinking: what else could it help with? 

    Not just finding activities, but deepening our connection to nature, helping us notice more, learn more, and make memories in new ways.

    This spring was our family’s first in Missoula, and we were blown away by the explosion of yellow flowers covering the mountainsides starting in early May. I didn’t recognize the flower, so I took a photo on a hike and asked AI:

    “What is this plant called? Give me three things a kindergartner would find fascinating about it.”

    It correctly identified the arrowleaf balsamroot, and immediately came up with age-appropriate tidbits that got the kids chatting about these gorgeous flowers! 

    AI’s reply:  

    • 🌿 Native American tribes like the Blackfoot and Cheyenne used its roots as medicine for fevers, coughs, stomach aches, and more! 
    • 🐝 Bees love it! It gives them food early in the year when not many other flowers are blooming.
    • 🌸 It’s one of the first wildflowers to bloom in spring — like nature’s way of saying “winter is over!”

    Without AI, it probably would’ve just been “a pretty yellow flower.” Because let’s be honest, I wasn’t going to spend time researching it mid-hike or prepping a fun lesson the night before.

    But instead, my kids got super excited about the arrowleaf balsamroot’s healing properties, and even asked for a notebook to start recording what we learn!

    AI prompts that go beyond basic activity ideas

    Here are some AI prompts that move beyond “find a hike near me” and into activities that spark learning, laughter, and family bonding:

    Try the prompts below to get your kids excited about being outside 

    • Custom scavenger hunts: “Create a nature scavenger hunt for kids ages [X] and [Y] at [type of location – forest, beach, mountains]. Include 15 items they can find or observe, plus bonus challenges for older kids.”
    • Nature games: “Create a nature bingo card for kids ages [X] and [Y] for a day at [local park/trail]. Include common plants, animals, and cool geological features they’re likely to see.”
    • Trail entertainment: “Create 5 nature challenges for kids on a family hike that teach them about the environment while keeping them engaged. Make them age-appropriate for [ages].”
    • Group activities: “Give me outdoor games for kids that we can play at the 4th of July barbecue. Include games for different group sizes and ages [X] and [Y].”
    • Storytelling and creativity: “Create a short, exciting campfire story (5 minutes to tell) featuring characters named [your kids’ names] who discover [something related to where you’re camping]. Make it age-appropriate with a positive message about nature.”
    • Nighttime nature fun: “Create a stargazing guide for kids ages [X] and [Y] for a summer camping trip. Include 5 constellations they can actually spot without a telescope, fun stories or myths behind them, and one easy activity (like making up their own constellation).”
    • Outdoor STEM challenge: “Give me 5 simple STEM challenges kids can do on a camping trip with minimal supplies (sticks, rocks, leaves, etc.). Make them fun, educational, and safe for kids ages [X] and [Y].”
    • Nature-inspired music & stories: “Make up a campfire song for kids ages [X] and [Y] that includes animal sounds, clapping rhythms, and a silly chorus. Keep it short, catchy, and easy to remember.”
    • Cultural connections: “Tell me 3 kid-friendly legends or folktales from [location/region] related to mountains, rivers, or animals we might see while hiking there. Summarize them in less than 5 minutes each.”
    • Family photography fun: “Create a kid-friendly photo scavenger hunt for our hike. Include 10 things to capture, like ‘a flower smaller than your pinky’ or ‘a bug on the move.’ Add bonus challenges like ‘take a selfie with something taller than you.’”

    Your action plan: getting started with AI for family adventures

    Which AI tool should you use?

    I bounce between ChatGPT and Claude depending on what I need. The free versions can handle everything we’ve covered in this guide.

    Here’s what each can do for your outdoor planning:

    FeatureChatGPT FreeClaude Free
    Basic prompts (location searches, packing lists, activity ideas)✅ Yes✅ Yes
    Custom scavenger hunts & games✅ Yes✅ Yes
    Meal planning & shopping lists✅ Yes✅ Yes
    Campfire stories with kids’ names✅ Yes✅ Yes
    Upload plant/bug photos for ID❌ No✅ Yes
    “Check local forums” prompts❌ No (can’t browse web)✅ Yes (can search web)
    Daily usage limits❌ Yes (can hit limits)✅ Minimal limits
    Complex trip itineraries✅ Yes✅ Yes
    Gear recommendations✅ Yes✅ Yes

    How to get started using AI

    Start with whichever you’ve heard of (probably ChatGPT). If you want to upload photos of plants or bugs, or use those “check local forums” prompts, try Claude. Both work great for the core planning tasks that’ll actually get your family outside more.

    If you really get into AI and start using it for personal or professional projects, both offer paid versions ($20/month for ChatGPT Plus, $20/month for Claude Pro) with unlimited usage and faster responses. But honestly? The free versions handle outdoor planning just fine.

    Start here: Creating a free ChatGPT or Claude account takes about 2 minutes.

    Then try your first prompt: Copy and paste any of the prompts included in this guide! Don’t overthink it – AI responds to normal conversation, not special tech language. Ask it like you’d ask a helpful friend.

    Tips for using AI and writing better prompts

    Before we wrap up, here are a few quick best practices to help you get the most out of AI when planning your family adventures:

    • Be specific. The more details you give (kids’ ages, time of year, starting location, interests, accessibility needs), the better the results will fit your family.
    • Use natural language. You don’t need “tech speak.” Just ask like you would ask a friend: “Find an easy hike near Denver with shade and water for my kids, ages 4 and 7.”
    • Iterate and refine. If the first response isn’t quite right, ask again with tweaks: “That hike seems too long. Can you suggest one under 2 miles?”
    • Cross-check for accuracy. Always double-check weather, trail conditions, and safety guidelines with official park or ranger websites. Think of AI as a starting point, not the final say.
    • Save your best prompts. Keep a running note on your phone with prompts that worked well so you don’t have to reinvent the wheel each trip.

    A quick note on environmental impact

    AI uses water and energy to run, so use it thoughtfully. Try doing a Google search first for basic stuff like “hiking trails near me” or park hours. Save AI for the complex planning that actually gets your family outside more.

    We all make environmental trade-offs…multiple vehicles, air travel, Amazon deliveries. If using AI helps you raise kids who are stewards of the earth and love spending time outdoors, I’d say it’s worth it.

    But, if AI doesn’t feel right for you, don’t use it!

    Remember that AI can make mistakes (and can sometimes make up information)

    AI can make mistakes, just like a well-meaning friend sharing a hike recommendation. It’s also been known to completely fabricate information when it needs to find information to fit a particular query or command. Always double-check real-time trail conditions, weather, and safety information before heading out with your family. When in doubt, call the local ranger station or visitor center.

    Final thoughts

    At the end of the day, figuring everything out is part of motherhood. But, that doesn’t mean you have to do it all on your own.

    AI isn’t about replacing your instincts or taking away the magic of discovery. It’s about lightening the load so you can focus on what matters most: watching your kids skip rocks across a river, laugh under the stars, or squeal when they spot their first marmot.

    You don’t need to be the outdoorsy mom with all the answers.  Just the one who shows up. 

    With snacks. 

    With curiosity.

    And maybe a little help from AI.

    About the author

    Brittany has a background in international nonprofit work and now brings brand stories to life as a copywriter for mission-driven organizations. Years ago, she fell in love with Chile while backpacking through South America, then fell in love with a Chilean and settled in Santiago for six years (where she never missed a sunset over the Andes!) Now the mom of a daughter, a son, and identical twin boys, Brittany and her crew are loving life in the spectacular Rattlesnake Valley of Missoula, Montana. A happy camper, former ocean kayak guide, Girl-Scout-version of an Eagle Scout, and passionate forest school advocate, Brittany is convinced that the best gift we can give our kids is a warm and trusting relationship with the earth.

    You can follow Brittany online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @brittanyb313
    Website: copybybrittanybrown.com

  • FALL, HOLIDAYS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Celebrating Dia de los Muertos with Kids

    Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, is one of the most colorful, heartfelt celebrations in Mexican culture. It’s a time to honor, remember, and joyfully celebrate loved ones who have passed away. For parents, it’s also a beautiful opportunity to teach children about remembrance, family traditions, and the importance of cultural appreciation. In this post, photographer and mom of four, Wendy Cox, discusses the history of Día de los Muertos, how to celebrate at home with your kids, ideas for decorations and food, and ways to make this meaningful celebration fun and accessible for families everywhere.

    Honoring Family Roots

    My grandfather was born in Mexico in 1917. He immigrated to the United States when he was nine years old, and, luckily for me, he carried some of the Mexican culture with him when he crossed the border.

    While we didn’t celebrate Dia de los Muertos when I was growing up, I have lived my life with an appreciation for so many things that are part of the Mexican culture. Someday, I hope to travel to Mexico to see how it’s done on a full scale model! But until then, to honor my heritage, I decided that our family would start celebrating Dia de los Muertos in our own way. This celebration has been a lot of fun for me and my family, and I hope that as you celebrate Dia de los Muertos with your kids that you will enjoy it as much as we have!

    History of Día de los Muertos

    The roots of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) stretch back thousands of years to ancient pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, long before Spanish colonization. Indigenous civilizations such as the Aztec, Maya, Toltec, and Nahua peoples believed that death was not an end, but rather a continuation of the life cycle. For them, death was simply another step in the great circle of existence, one that deserved celebration, not fear.

    The native peoples believed that after death, souls traveled through nine levels of the afterlife to the land of the dead. To help guide and sustain the souls of their loved ones, families would leave offerings of food, water, and cherished belongings – an act of love and remembrance that remains central to today’s traditions.

    Today, Día de los Muertos is celebrated across Mexico and in many parts of the world, including the United States, with altars (ofrendas), marigolds (cempasúchil), sugar skulls (calaveras), candles, papel picado, and favorite foods of the departed. It’s not a somber day of mourning—it’s a vibrant celebration of life, memory, and family.

    In cities like Oaxaca, Mexico City, and Pátzcuaro, festivities include candlelight processions, music, dancing, and public displays of art and altars. The colorful decorations and joyful energy remind everyone that our loved ones continue to live on through our stories, traditions, and the love we share.

    For families celebrating at home, understanding this history helps children see Día de los Muertos not as a “Mexican Halloween,” but as a sacred and joyful reminder that love never dies.

    When to Celebrate Día de los Muertos

    Día de los Muertos is typically celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, aligning with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. In the United States, many communities hold parades, festivals, and cultural events around these dates—sometimes on nearby weekends.

    When we lived in San Diego, Old Town State Historic Park hosted ofrendas, live music, and family-friendly activities throughout October. To celebrate with your family, check local community calendars or cultural centers to see if there are Día de los Muertos events in your area.

    How to Celebrate Día de los Muertos at Home

    This celebration can be as grand or as simple as you want it to be. You could display a couple photos of your predecessors on your coffee table, or you could make a full on, multi-tiered ofrenda with candles, food, drinks, flowers, lights, and more. There is no requirement to make this extravagant, but if you want to go all in, here’s what my family has done.

    Día de los Muertos Party

    This year my family and I will be hosting our second annual Día de los Muertos party. We send out an invitation about a month ahead of time so people can save the date, but also so they have time to make any preparations that they want to.

    On the invitation, we request that anyone who wants to can bring a photograph of a deceased family member to add to the ofrenda. We ask that they also come prepared to share a story about that person if they feel so inclined.

    Día de los Muertos Decorations

    On the day of the party, we bring out our brightly colored banner flags (papel picado) and hang them all over the place. We string up lights, bring out a couple fire pits, and make sure to have ample seating both inside and outside.

    This year I’m going to look for some marigolds. Last year all I had was a pom pom-like orange garland, but this year I’m looking for something more authentic. I saw some beautiful marigolds while in Southern California recently, but here in Virginia they’re proving a little harder to come by. If the actual flowers are elusive, I may try tissue paper flowers, which are also found on authentic ofrendas.

    Building the Ofrenda

    Central to Día de los Muertos is the ofrenda. We put photographs of our grandparents here, and make sure to leave a lot of room for everyone else to place their photographs. Displaying the photos in frames is ideal. A simple photo can get bent or fall over easily, especially when things are getting moved around to make space for everyone.

    We add candles to our ofrenda, and pan de muerto. This is a traditional bread baked during Día de los Muertos that has symbols representing the cycle of life and death. Look for this at your local panaderia (Mexican bakery), or you can try this recipe. Pan de muerto is used both on the ofrenda, and also eaten when visiting the graves of loved ones.

    It’s also tradition to leave favorite foods and drink on the ofrenda. Usually the special items for each person are placed in front of the photograph of that person. This lends itself perfectly to tell your children why you chose those items, and any stories you have of the person eating or cooking that food while they were alive.

    My Grandpa Ben used to put honey on almost anything! He had such a sweet tooth, and so we place a bottle of honey next to his photo on the ofrenda. It makes me think of him every time I see honey or use it in any way!

    The Potluck

    We like to make our Día de los Muertos party a potluck. We invite everyone to bring a dish that is special to their family, or something that a relative used to make or enjoy. The dish doesn’t have to be something that relates to the relative whose photograph they bring, but that does end up happening quite a bit. 

    My Grandma Mary made the very best Mexican rice in the whole world! The best compliment you can give me, or any of my aunts or sisters, is that their rice tastes like Grandma’s rice. Rice also goes a long way with a crowd, so it was my obvious choice for the potluck last year. 

    Since this is a Mexican holiday, and my dad’s side of the family is Mexican, I brought out my tortilla press and made fresh tortillas during most of the party. I’m no tortilla pro, but it was a fun way to add a little bit of my heritage to the evening. I let anyone, adults and children, who wanted to make their own tortilla have a try at it. I was surprised at how many people had never used a tortilla press! I was so glad to have given them the opportunity.

    This year I plan to add Mexican hot chocolate to the potluck menu. The Abuelita brand is my favorite, but not the instant packets. In my opinion, the best kind is the Abuelita that comes in little discs of chocolate that you simply melt in milk on the stove. You can probably find Abuelita at a local Mexican or international market, but if not try this link. If you’ve never tried Mexican hot chocolate, it has more of a cinnamon flavor than other types of hot chocolate, but it’s incredibly delicious and I highly recommend you try it!

    Sharing Stories

    Towards the beginning of the evening, we gather everyone together to share stories of our loved ones. To get things started, my husband and I share something about one of our ancestors on the ofrenda while showing their photograph. Then, we go around the room giving everyone (usually one member of each family) the chance to share about the person whose photo they brought.

    It’s such an honor to hear all of the stories. There’s often laughter combined with tears shed in fond remembrance of these loved ones. The kids all sit together on the floor and they love hearing the stories. This is my favorite part of the celebration!

    Other Día de los Muertos Activities

    Because there are a mixture of both adults and kids at this party, we try to have a variety of activities. We print out some Día de los Muertos coloring pages for the younger kids. I put out a bucket of crayons for them to use. I also set up a movie projector and have the movie Coco going in one room for anyone who wants to use that. 

    This year, we thought about getting some live entertainment. I wanted to ask some friends to perform a song from Coco, but things got crazy and we didn’t get that coordinated in time. We may try that for next year though! And how fun would a dance party be to some traditional Mexican music, or a grito (shouting) contest for the best, “ayyyyyyyyyyy ayyyyyy ayyyyyyyy!” 

    Calavera Face Painting

    You may have seen the traditional Dia de los Muertos face painting, known as calavera (skull). Remember Miguel in Coco with his white face and black eyes? That’s a simple version of the calavera, but it can get very elaborate.

    Calavera makeup can range from simple to intricate, with flowers, spider webs, and hearts painted around the eyes and mouth.

    Each element has meaning:

    • Marigolds symbolize life and remembrance.
    • Hearts represent love for the departed.
    • Cobwebs mark the passage of time.

    Adding face painting to your celebration makes the experience even more immersive for kids—and helps them appreciate the artistry behind this beautiful tradition.

    If you want to try the calavera, here are a few ideas and some explanations of the symbols that are often used.

    Why This Matters for Kids

    Whether you’re inviting the whole neighborhood, or having an evening at home with your family, telling stories about your ancestors is an incredibly important and powerful experience for your children. Hearing the stories gives children a sense of where they came from. It helps them understand their roots. Learning about their ancestors helps a child build a sense of who they are, and hearing how their ancestors overcame obstacles can give children motivation to persevere through their own struggles. Psychology Today has an entire article on this subject if you’re interested in learning more about the topic.

    Final Thoughts

    Celebrating Día de los Muertos with kids is about more than food and decorations. It’s about remembrance, connection, and gratitude. When families come together to share stories and honor loved ones, they’re not just celebrating life after death; they’re celebrating life itself.

    As you build your own traditions, encourage your children to participate – by helping decorate, asking questions, or sharing their favorite memories. Through these small acts, they’ll learn that love lives on, and that remembering those who came before us is one of the most beautiful ways to celebrate being alive.

    About the author

    Wendy is a married momma who recently moved from central San Diego, CA to Roanoke, Virginia. She’s raising 4 human kids, 2 goat kids, 4 chickens, and one grumpy cat. She enjoys gardening, hiking, camping, backpacking, going to the beach, and generally getting out-of-doors. Wendy is a family photographer and also works at several local elementary schools as the garden educator. She dreams of traveling to all 50 states and beyond, and believes that there is great beauty to be found in all parts of the earth, we just have to open our eyes to see it.

    Instagram: @wendycoxphotography
    Website: http://www.wendycoxphotography.com

  • HOLIDAYS, PARENTING

    Outdoor Family Traditions

    Traditions, no matter how simple or elaborate, are incredibly special to kids. They provide a sense of continuity, belonging, and comfort, something familiar to look forward to. Today’s post is all about family traditions, why they’re important, and what makes them special. We hope the activities in this post will inspire you to start a few new traditions of your own. Whether you’re trying something for the first time or revisiting an old favorite, these moments have the power to become the cherished memories your kids carry with them into adulthood (and maybe even implement for their kids). So, go ahead, dive into the season with open arms, and let this fall be the start of something special for your family.

    Traditions Make Life Sparkle

    Family traditions are those special little things that make life sparkle. They’re the experiences, activities, routines, or rituals that create shared memories, give us something to look forward to, and lay the groundwork for family values.

    Think of traditions as the glitter glue that binds families together, giving extra meaning to celebrations, milestones, holidays, and even the changing of the seasons.

    Now, when we talk about traditions, we don’t just mean the ones passed down through generations, like your grandma’s secret pie recipe (the one that mysteriously never tastes as good when you make it). Traditions can start at any time, no ancient lineage is required.

    And guess what? You only need to do something twice for it to be considered a tradition. Yes, you heard that right—two times! So, if you find yourself repeating an activity and calling it a tradition after just a couple of rounds, congratulations, you’re doing it right!

    Family Traditions are Unique to Each Family

    Traditions are as unique as fingerprints. They reflect what’s important to each family, showcasing a little bit of their personality. They help kids feel like they’re part of something special, fostering a sense of belonging and creating a family identity. It’s like wearing a badge that says, “This is my tribe, and we do this awesome thing together.”

    I’ll admit, traditions weren’t something I gave much thought to until I became a parent. Then, like magic, the traditions I grew up with (and the ones I wanted to start) began to appear. Celebrating birthdays with a special breakfast? Yes, please…because I remember how important that was to me as a kid. Bringing every stuffed animal into the living room on Christmas morning to guard the presents? My husband’s family did it, so now, we do too.

    What’s fascinating is how different each family’s traditions can be. My brothers couldn’t care less about the birthday breakfast. But, they have their own traditions they hold dear, based on their childhood memories. It makes me wonder which of our family traditions my kids will carry on. Will they pass down the birthday breakfasts or the Christmas guard animals? Or will they invent new ones that hold meaning for them?

    Borrowing Traditions

    However, just because family traditions are unique to each family, doesn’t mean you always have to come up with them on your own. In fact, some of the best traditions are borrowed! Once you start noticing traditions, you’ll find yourself on the lookout for fun and meaningful activities that other families are doing, and you might think, “Hey, we could do that!” And guess what? You totally can!

    I love chatting with friends about how they celebrate holidays or special occasions. Hearing about their family traditions gives me so many great ideas that I can tweak and make our own. It’s like a buffet of happiness; you can pick and choose what works for your family.

    I even remember doing this as a kid. My childhood friend Katie’s family had this hilarious and heartwarming tradition of celebrating their pets’ birthdays. They’d bake a cake (for the humans), make treats for the pets, and even create homemade cards. Then everyone would sit around, eating cake, and taking turns telling funny or sweet stories about the pet. It was the best, and I asked my parents if we could throw our dog a birthday party, too. And just like that, a new tradition was born.

    The beauty of borrowing traditions is that you can start anywhere. If you hear about a fun or meaningful tradition that resonates with you, try it out. If it fits, fantastic! And if not, no worries. You can always move on to something else. The key is to discover what brings happiness to your family, what makes you laugh, or what brings you closer together.

    Traditions Bring Comfort

    Besides making everyone feel all warm and fuzzy inside, traditions provide stability. Life can be chaotic (hello, parenthood!), but knowing that every fall, you’ll have a pumpkin carving contest or on your birthday, you get to choose a special meal gives the kids something predictable and consistent to look forward to. It’s comforting, like a cozy blanket on a cold night.

    I’ve also found that repeating experiences as traditions helps kids let their guard down. For example, each year when we visit the carnival pumpkin patch, it’s a mix of the familiar and the new. The kids come with memories from past years of the fun things they did, yet each experience is different because they’re growing, changing, and seeing the world through new eyes. And honestly, these familiar and comfortable repeat experiences are a chance for my older kids to let go of their pre-teen growing-up concerns and act like carefree kids again. Maybe it’s the comfort of knowing they’ve done it before; maybe it’s just the joy of letting loose like they did when they were here as little kids.

    Traditions Should Be Fun

    But let’s be honest, traditions are also about having fun. If you’ve decided to repeat an activity, it’s probably because it was a hit the first time around. If it wasn’t, well, why would you want to repeat it?

    When it comes to choosing traditions, the key is to focus on what sparks joy for everyone involved. Get the kids in on the action by letting them help pick activities they love and would like to repeat. Ask them what they enjoyed most about past family outings or holidays and watch their faces light up as they recall their favorite moments. These are the seeds of your future traditions!

    Sometimes, traditions sneak up on you. They aren’t always meticulously planned; they can be happy accidents. Some of our favorite traditions started because we tried something once, had a blast, and decided it was worth repeating.

    Remember, the most fun traditions are the ones that bring genuine happiness, not just to you but to the entire family. Pay attention to what makes everyone laugh, what gets the kids excited, and what leaves everyone feeling closer. Those are the traditions worth holding onto, the ones that will become cherished memories for years to come.

    Intention & Planning Traditions

    The tricky part about traditions is that they require intention. You can’t just hope they happen; you have to make them happen. Yes, that takes effort and planning, but isn’t that what makes them special? The best things in life often require a bit of effort.

    And look, we’re not here to guilt-trip you into doing more or add a million things to your to-do list. We get it – there’s already so much to do! However, we think traditions are important enough to pay them a bit of attention. They’re worth the effort.

    And we’re here to help, inspire, and maybe give you a few ideas. If all you do is keep one tradition alive or try out a new one, you’re doing great. We can’t do it all, but we can do something.

    Tips for Keeping Family Traditions Alive

    Be Intentional

    Starting a new family tradition or keeping existing ones alive does take a bit of intentionality, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A little planning and forethought go a long way. Marking your calendar, setting reminders, or jotting things down in a planner can help ensure that traditions don’t slip through the cracks amidst the chaos of daily life. And let’s be real—there will be times when keeping up with traditions feels impossible, whether you’re in the trenches with a new baby, going through a rough patch, or dealing with grief. That’s okay. Missing a year doesn’t mean a tradition has to end; it just means you’re human. Sometimes, traditions can be adapted to fit your current season of life, preserving the same sense of connection and joy. It’s about capturing the feeling of the tradition, not about sticking to a rigid script.

    Keep It Simple

    Not every tradition has to be an elaborate event or require lots of planning and preparation. Sometimes, the simplest traditions are the most cherished. A monthly movie night with popcorn, a favorite fall hike, or a special dinner by candlelight can become treasured traditions that your family looks forward to. Keeping traditions simple not only makes them easier to implement but also keeps them stress-free and affordable. It’s the shared moments, the laughter, and the togetherness that count, not the size or cost of the event.

    Be Open to Trying New Things

    Traditions don’t just come out of thin air—they start by trying new things. You never know what’s going to be fun or what will stick until you give it a shot. The tried-and-true familiar traditions are wonderful, of course, but even those were once new and untested. Don’t be afraid to shake things up and add fresh experiences to your family’s lineup, even if you already have plenty of beloved traditions. Exploring new activities together not only keeps things exciting but also opens up opportunities to discover new passions and create even more memories.

    Scrap What Doesn’t Work

    Traditions should bring joy, not feel like a chore or another item on your endless to-do list. The best ones are the activities that the family has voted as fun, maybe even legendary—approved by all as worth doing again and again. If a tradition starts to feel more like a burden than a joy, it’s time to reevaluate.

    Choose Your Own Family Traditions

    We’ve talked about how wonderful traditions can be for bringing families closer together, creating lasting memories, and building a sense of belonging. But now it’s time to take the next step…creating your own!

    I’d love to challenge you to think outside the box, try new things, and discover what kind of traditions could add that extra sprinkle of magic to your family’s story. (Bonus points if your new tradition happens OUTSIDE, but it doesn’t have to.)

    A Mix of Old and New

    First, let’s talk about trying new things. The beauty of traditions is that they can start from almost anything. Whether it’s a spontaneous pizza night that turns into a weekly ritual or a one-time nature hike that everyone loved so much it becomes an annual event, traditions often begin as simple, fun activities.

    Don’t be afraid to experiment and see what sticks. The key is to find something that brings joy, not just to the kids but to you as well. After all, if the parents aren’t having fun, it’s not going to last long as a tradition!

    Think back to your own childhood. What traditions did your family have that you loved? Was it the way your family decorated the house for the holidays, an annual camping trip with friends, or maybe just the little rituals, like making pancakes on Sunday mornings or reading together before bedtime?

    These memories can be a great source of inspiration for creating new traditions with your own family. What worked for you back then might work for your family now, and you can even put your own spin on it to make it uniquely yours.

    Now, let’s take a look at what you’re already doing. Chances are, there are activities you do regularly that could easily become traditions with a little intention. Do you have a favorite meal that everyone loves? Make it a regular thing! Is there a park your family enjoys visiting? Turn it into a monthly outing. Sometimes, traditions are just waiting to be recognized. By putting a name to them and committing to do them regularly, you can turn everyday moments into cherished memories.

    Remember, the goal is not to add more to your plate but to enrich your family life in a way that feels natural and joyful. Start with something small and manageable, and see where it leads. You don’t need a grand plan—just a willingness to have fun and make memories together.

    Seasonal Traditions

    • Fruit Picking: Spend a day at a local farm picking fresh fruit (such as strawberries, peaches, and apples) and enjoying the outdoors.
    • Fall Camping: Head out to your local state park (or your backyard) to enjoy the autumn colors, crisp fall air, roast marshmallows, and sleep under the stars.
    • Winter Solstice: Celebrate the shortest day of the year with a candle-lit dinner, bonfire, hot chocolate, lantern walk, or quiet reflection to welcome the return of longer days.
    • Seasonal Bucket Lists: Each season, work together to make a list of must-do activities to experience the best of what each time of year has to offer.
    • Pumpkin Carving Contest: Hosting a friendly competition to see who can carve the funniest, scariest, or most artistic designs.
    • Vegetable Garden: Plant and tend to a garden together, or give each kid their own plant to take care of.
    • First Snowfall Walk: Bundle up and take a walk around your neighborhood to enjoy the magic of the first snow (bonus: add hot chocolate).
    • Attend Festivals: Visit local festivals to celebrate seasonal events, enjoy live music, crafts, food, and activities. Festivals usually happen annually without you having to do any work other than attending!
    • Leaf Peeping Road Trip: Take a scenic drive to enjoy the vibrant fall foliage and maybe stop for a picnic or hike along the way.
    • Morel Mushroom Hunting: Get in the woods to hunt for morel mushrooms, a fun and rewarding spring activity for the whole family.
    • Stargazing Night: Pick a clear evening to spread out blankets and gaze at the stars, trying to spot constellations or watch for shooting stars.
    • Firefly Catching: Head outside on a warm summer night to catch fireflies, then release them and watch them light up the night.
    • Beach Day at the Start of Summer: Kick off the summer season with a trip to the beach, complete with swimming, sandcastle building, and a picnic.

    Birthday Traditions

    • Special Dinner/Breakfast: Celebrate birthdays with a special breakfast or dinner, featuring the birthday person’s favorite foods or let them choose their meal/restaurant.
    • Birthday Plate: Use a special plate reserved only for birthday meals, making the birthday person feel extra special on their day.
    • 10th Birthday Trip: Mark the milestone of turning ten with a special one-on-one trip to a destination of their choice with a parent.
    • Surprise Balloons: Fill the birthday person’s room with balloons while they sleep, so they wake up to a colorful surprise.
    • Birthday Journal: Instead of cards, maintain a family birthday journal where each year, everyone writes a message, memory, or wish for the birthday person.
    • Special Delivery: Arrange for a special lunch, sweet treat, or bouquet of flowers to be delivered to the birthday person at school.
    • Birthday Countdown: Start a countdown a week before the birthday, doing small surprises or activities each day leading up to the big day.
    • Birthday Interview: Record an annual birthday interview asking the birthday person about their favorite things, dreams, and memorable moments from the past year.
    • DIY Birthday Decor: Create a custom birthday banner or wreath to display for every family birthday.
    • Birthday Movie Night: Let the birthday person choose a movie, snacks, and invite friends or family for a cozy birthday movie night.

    Holiday Traditions

    • Holiday Book Countdown: Countdown to the big day by letting the kids unwrap and read a holiday-themed book each night.
    • Leprechaun Traps: Let the kids get creative and build a trap to set out the night before St. Patrick’s Day in hopes of catching a leprechaun and gold!
    • Special Ornament for Each Kid: Give each child a unique ornament based on their interests, achievements or milestones for the year
    • Easter Camping Trip: Instead of Easter dinner, take the family camping with an Easter egg hunt for a memorable outdoor holiday celebration.
    • Valentine’s Day Heart Hunt: Head out for a family hike and see how many heart-shaped items you can find in nature.
    • Halloween Costume Parade: Organize a neighborhood parade where kids (and adults) can show off their Halloween costumes before trick-or-treating.
    • Cut Your Own Tree: Head to a local tree farm to cut down your own Christmas tree, making it a family adventure.
    • Fishing Day for Father’s Day: Spend the day by the water, casting lines and enjoying quality time together on Father’s Day.
    • Mother’s Day Bouquet and Cards: Celebrate Mom by picking wildflowers and creating homemade cards filled with heartfelt messages.
    • Turkey Trot: Participate in a local turkey trot race or fun run on Thanksgiving morning, making room for the big feast later.
    • Plant a Tree for Arbor Day: Celebrate Arbor Day by planting a tree in your yard or community, giving back to the earth.
    • Place Flags on Memorial Day: Honor fallen soldiers by placing flags on graves or around your neighborhood on Memorial Day.
    • Canned Food Drive for Thanksgiving: Organize a family canned food drive, collecting and donating food to a local food bank to help those in need.
    • Banging New Year: Head outside and ring in the New Year with a bang by making noise by banging pots and pans with spoons at midnight (or earlier, if you have little ones).
    • Chinese New Year Dumpling Making: Celebrate Chinese New Year by making dumplings together, a symbol of wealth and prosperity.
    • Rosh Hashanah Apple Dipping: Celebrate the Jewish New Year by dipping apples in honey together, symbolizing the wish for a sweet new year.
    • Year-End Photo Slideshow: Create a slideshow of favorite family photos from the past year, watching it together to reminisce and celebrate the year’s memories.
    • Christmas Pajama Hike: Bundle up in cozy pajamas and take a hike on Christmas morning, enjoying the winter landscape and fresh air.
    • Hanukkah Dreidel Tournament: Host a family dreidel tournament during Hanukkah, with chocolate coins or small prizes for the winners.
    • Diwali Light Decorating: Decorate your home with colorful lights and diyas (oil lamps) to celebrate the Festival of Lights, Diwali.
    • Fourth of July Fireworks Picnic: Enjoy a picnic in the park, complete with a homemade feast, and stay to watch the Fourth of July fireworks.
    • Veterans Day Family Visit: Visit a local veterans’ memorial or cemetery, teaching children about the importance of honoring those who served.

    Family Traditions Around Food

    • Friday Night Pizza: Make every Friday a special night by ordering pizza and enjoying a relaxed family meal together.
    • Grandma’s Cinnamon Rolls: Start the weekend on a sweet note by making Grandma’s famous cinnamon rolls every Sunday morning or for special occasions.
    • Fancy Dinner: Elevate a regular meal by getting dressed up, setting the table with the good china, lighting candles, and enjoying a fancy dinner together.
    • Back to School Feast: Kick off the new school year with a big feast, letting each kid invite their school friends over to share excitement about the year ahead.
    • Soup for the Sick: Show love and care by preparing chicken noodle soup and biscuits for anyone feeling under the weather.
    • Chili Cook-Off: Host an annual chili cook-off with neighbors, where everyone brings their best chili recipe to share and compete.
    • Homemade Ice Cream: Spend a summer afternoon making homemade ice cream, experimenting with different flavors and toppings.
    • Fondue Night: Gather around the table for a fun fondue night, dipping bread, fruits, and veggies into melted cheese or chocolate.
    • Backyard Campfire Cookout: Fire up the backyard fire pit for a cookout, roasting hot dogs and marshmallows under the stars.
    • Lemonade Stand: Teach kids about entrepreneurship and community by setting up a lemonade stand on a warm day.
    • Family Recipe Night: Dedicate one night a month to cooking a dish from an old family recipe, passing down culinary traditions and stories.
    • Sunday Potluck with Friends: Invite friends over for a casual Sunday potluck, where everyone brings a dish to share and enjoys a relaxed meal together.
    • Baking Cookies: Gather the family to bake and decorate cookies for holidays, making enough to share with friends and neighbors.
    • Weekly Farmers Market Visit: Make a weekly trip to the farmers market to pick out fresh, seasonal produce and enjoy local treats.
    • Family Pizza Making Night: Set up a DIY pizza station with various toppings, letting everyone create their own personal pizza masterpiece.
    • New Recipe Try-Out Day: Choose a day each month to try out a new recipe together, turning cooking into a fun family adventure.

    Other Fun Family Traditions

    • Attend Sporting Events: Cheer on your favorite team or alma mater by attending games together, creating lasting memories and showing team/school loyalty.
    • Front Porch Thunderstorms: Enjoy the thrill and beauty of nature by sitting on the front porch together to watch thunderstorms roll in.
    • Tech-Free Week: Unplug from technology for a week, focusing on outdoor adventures, board games, and family bonding.
    • Last Day of School Campout: Celebrate the end of the school year with a backyard campout, complete with a tent, s’mores, and star-gazing.
    • Have a “Yes Day”: Give your kids the reins by having a “Yes Day,” where they get to plan the day’s activities and parents say yes to all reasonable requests.
    • Date Your Kids: Spend quality time with each child by having regular one-on-one outdoor date nights, whether it’s hiking, biking, or going to the park.
    • Vacation Souvenirs: Start a collection of natural souvenirs by picking up a rock, shell, or leaf from each vacation spot you visit.
    • Seasonal Family Hike: Choose a local trail and hike it together at the beginning of each season to enjoy the changing scenery and fresh air.
    • Fishing Saturdays: Head to a nearby lake or river for a relaxing Saturday morning of fishing, enjoying nature and each other’s company.
    • Bike Ride to a Ice Cream Shop: Make it a tradition to take a family bike ride to your favorite local ice cream shop whenever the weather is nice.
    • Annual Family Picnic: Choose a favorite park or scenic spot for an annual family picnic, bringing homemade food, games, and blankets.
    • Weekend Nature Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of items to find in nature and head to a local park or forest for a fun scavenger hunt adventure.
    • Snow Day Sledding: Take advantage of snowy days by heading to a nearby hill for an afternoon of sledding and hot cocoa.
    • Kite Flying Afternoon: Spend a breezy afternoon flying kites in an open field, enjoying the simple joy of watching them soar.
    • Volunteer Day in Nature: Dedicate one day a year to volunteering together in a local park, beach, or nature reserve, helping with clean-up or conservation efforts.
    • Sunrise Breakfast Picnic: Wake up early to catch the sunrise at a scenic spot, enjoying a simple breakfast picnic while watching the day begin.
    • Geocaching Adventures: Go on regular geocaching hunts, searching for hidden treasures and exploring new places together as a family.
    • Seasonal Tree Planting: Plant a tree each spring or fall in your yard or community, teaching the importance of environmental stewardship and watching it grow over the years.
    • Full Moon Hike: Organize a nighttime hike under the full moon, enjoying the quiet and unique experience of being in nature after dark.

    Traditions Root Us

    Traditions are like the roots of a family tree, grounding us in what’s important and helping us grow. They’re the stories we tell, the memories we share, and the moments we hold onto. They’re what make us a family, even once we’ve grown and started families of our own.

    So, go ahead—start a new tradition this season, or revisit an old one. The beauty of traditions is that they’re yours to create, shape, and pass down. And who knows? Maybe one day, your kids will be telling their kids about the quirky, wonderful things you did together, creating a legacy of laughter, love, and the great outdoors.

    About the Author

    Sara McCarty is the Founder of Run Wild My Child, a resource website, online community, podcast, and seasonal magazine all about connecting families through outdoor activities, adventure, and travel. Run Wild My Child offers busy parents helpful content about outdoor activities, nature crafts, kid-friendly travel, gear recommendations, parenting advice, and more. Sara’s a mom of 3, a wife, and a former corporate securities lawyer turned writer. She lives in St. Louis, Missouri, and is determined to raise her city kids to be as wild and feral as possible. You can usually find her family exploring a creek, fly fishing, hiking, duck hunting, camping, canoeing, biking, or geocaching.

  • FAMILY TRAVEL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Alps Road Trip with Kids: Dolomites, Lake Garda, Innsbruck, Zugspitze & St. Moritz

    If you’re dreaming of a family adventure in the Alps but feeling intimidated by the logistics, you’re in the right place. Today, Lizzy Astrella, a US mom of two currently living in southern Italy, is taking you along for a road trip of a lifetime. In this post, she’ll share what they learned about planning a Dolomites trip with kids, tips for family-friendly adventures, and why this region is one of the best places in Europe to introduce children to hiking, camping, and exploring the outdoors.

    Moving Abroad to Southern Italy

    My family (husband, two daughters, and a dog) and I moved from the United States to southern Italy one year ago (wow, just realized as I am writing this that it’s been exactly one year to the day). We moved because my husband will be working here for the next couple of years. But, we also came for everything that comes along with moving your young family to Europe: adventure, travel, and learning about other cultures and ways of life.

    Before our big move, none of us had ever even visited Europe! Needless to say, our first few weeks were, honestly, rough. Living in a hotel far from the tourist parts of town, navigating jet lag, overwhelmed children, culture shock, and a language barrier, we spent our first few weeks just surviving. We had to find an apartment and arrange for our things to be delivered, buy a car, register our dog, and just generally try to settle down in our new and very different world.

    Planning a European Family Road Trip to the Dolomites

    After a couple of months of settling in, my husband had time off, and we were finally ready to go beyond weekend day trips. As the trip planner of the family, I knew exactly where I wanted to go: the Dolomites in northern Italy.

    The Dolomites are part of the Italian Alps and are famous for their dramatic pale-colored peaks, alpine lakes, charming mountain villages, and world-class hiking. For a family that loves camping, hiking, and simply being outdoors, it was the perfect first destination.

    Why the Dolomites?

    I’m not a big fan of cities, didn’t really dream of wandering the streets of Rome or Florence. But the Dolomites (the mountains in the northeastern part of the Italian Alps, famous for their pale-colored dolomite rock, dramatic vistas, alpine lakes and world-class hiking), have long captured my imagination. Plus, my family loves camping and hiking and just exploring the outdoors in general, and this felt like the right fit for our first European adventure. So, I set about planning a last-minute trip to the Dolomites and the Alps.

    Planning a Trip to the Dolomites

    Now, most people will spend a year (or more) planning their dream trip to Europe. The Dolomites are extremely popular, and planning a trip there with a month’s notice was, ambitious, to say the least. This was also our first time traveling in Europe, and traveling internationally with kids. The learning curve was tremendous.

    Since that first trip, we’ve returned to the Dolomites and Alps several times, each adventure teaching us something new. This guide isn’t written from the perspective of a seasoned European travel expert — but from a mom figuring it out as she goes. Inside, you’ll find:

    • Tips for planning a Dolomites trip with kids
    • Family-friendly activities and hikes in the Alps
    • Practical advice on driving, lodging, and eating out with kids
    • Lessons learned from traveling Europe with kids (mistakes included!)

    If I can plan family trips in the Dolomites as a first-timer, you can too.

    Some Things to Consider When Planning a Trip to the Alps

    Planning a trip to the Alps is a bit different than planning a typical family vacation. First, the Alps aren’t just one destination, they stretch across eight countries (France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Italy, Austria, Germany, and Slovenia), and each region has its own culture, language, and landscape. That means your trip can look completely different depending on where you go.

    A few things to think about:

    • Season matters. Summer means hiking, alpine lakes, and wildflowers; winter means skiing, sledding, and snow sports. Spring and fall can be quieter (and less expensive), but some cable cars and huts may be closed.
    • Distance can be deceiving. A town that looks “right next door” on a map may take 3–4 hours to reach, thanks to winding mountain roads or multiple train connections. Build in buffer time for travel days.
    • Weather is unpredictable. Even in summer, pack layers. We experienced warm sunny hikes one day and chilly rain the next (in August)!
    • Language barriers. While English is widely spoken in tourist hubs, smaller villages may only speak the local language. Having Google Translate downloaded for offline use saved us multiple times.

    Where to Go and What to See

    When we first started researching, I quickly realized you could spend a lifetime exploring the Alps and still not see it all. For families, here are some highlights worth considering:

    • The Dolomites (Italy): Jaw-dropping peaks, turquoise lakes (like Lago di Braies and Lago di Carezza), and endless family-friendly hikes. It’s also full of rifugios (mountain huts) where kids can refuel on pasta or hot chocolate mid-hike.
    • Switzerland: Famous for postcard-perfect villages like Zermatt and Grindelwald, plus incredible train rides (the Glacier Express is unforgettable). Expensive, yes — but spectacular.
    • Austria: Family-friendly ski towns that double as hiking paradises in summer. Innsbruck is a great base with a mix of city culture and easy access to mountain trails.
    • Germany (Bavarian Alps): Think castles (Neuschwanstein!), alpine lakes, and storybook villages. A little more budget-friendly compared to Switzerland.

    My tip: Don’t try to do it all in one trip. Pick one region as your home base and spend a few days really exploring. It’s tempting to country-hop, but traveling with kids is so much smoother when you aren’t constantly packing up and moving.

    How to Get Around

    One of the biggest decisions you’ll make is whether to rent a car or rely on public transportation.

    • Car rental pros: Ultimate flexibility, especially with kids. You can stop at random villages, carry extra snacks/gear, and avoid long waits for buses or trains.
    • Car rental cons: Driving mountain passes can be intimidating (hello, hairpin turns!), and parking in small alpine towns can be expensive or limited.
    • Public transportation pros: Incredibly reliable in Europe. Trains, buses, and cable cars are well-connected, especially in Switzerland and Austria. Plus, kids often ride discounted or free.
    • Public transportation cons: Lugging bags, strollers, or tired kids between connections can be tough. And timetables mean less spontaneity.

    What worked for us: Renting a car in Italy gave us freedom to explore multiple Dolomite valleys, but in Switzerland we leaned on trains and gondolas, which felt easier and more efficient.

    Book Early

    Here’s the hard truth: the Alps are no hidden gem. The Dolomites, in particular, have exploded in popularity thanks to Instagram-famous spots like Seceda and Tre Cime. Even campsites book out months in advance.

    Tips:

    • Consider shoulder season. June and September can be magical — fewer crowds, lower prices, and still great weather.
    • Start early. If you’re traveling in July or August, book lodging at least 6–9 months ahead.
    • Be flexible. If the exact hotel or campground you want isn’t available, look in smaller villages nearby. We stayed in a lesser-known town 20 minutes from the “hot spots,” and it was quieter, cheaper, and just as beautiful.

    Traveling with Kids

    I’ll admit — planning a trip like this with kids felt overwhelming at first. But once we were there, I realized the Alps are incredibly family-friendly.

    Here’s why:

    • Kid-friendly hikes: There are endless trails that are stroller-friendly or under 3 miles, often leading to a playground, lake, or rifugio with snacks at the end.
    • Epic playgrounds: Picture zip lines, giant wooden castles, and slides built into the side of a mountain — themed around animals, climbing, or even cowbells. My kids still talk about the one in Val Gardena.
    • Cable cars & gondolas: These make it possible for families to experience incredible viewpoints without a grueling hike. Plus, most kids think riding them is an adventure in itself.
    • Food rewards: Pancakes, strudels, hot chocolate, and spaghetti are never far away. We made it a tradition to end each hike with a shared Kaiserschmarrn (a shredded pancake dessert), the ultimate motivator.
    • Kid programs: Many alpine hotels and campgrounds offer daily activities for kids, from pony rides to crafts. Some even provide childcare, which can give parents a rare moment to relax.

    From our experience: Be realistic about what your kids can handle. We found that one “big adventure day” followed by a slower day in the village (playground, swimming, strolling) was the sweet spot.

    Alps Regions to Explore with Kids

    The Alps are massive, spanning across eight European countries, so choosing where to go can feel overwhelming. Luckily, there are plenty of family-friendly regions filled with breathtaking scenery, accessible hikes, and kid-approved activities. Below, I’ll highlight three regions my family has personally explored and loved. To start, let’s dive into one of the most famous: the Dolomites.

    Region 1: The Dolomites

    What are the Dolomites?

    The Dolomites are located in the northeastern part of the Italian Alps and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They’re known for their jagged peaks, pale dolomite rock, alpine meadows, and stunning turquoise lakes that look like they’re straight out of a postcard. This area is world-famous for hiking, skiing, and outdoor adventure, and is surprisingly family-friendly.

    Getting to the Dolomites

    The most common entry point is Milan, though Venice and Verona are also options if you want to combine your trip with a city stay. From Milan, you can catch a train or bus to Bolzano, the capital of the South Tyrol region and considered the “gateway to the Dolomites.”

    That said, if you’re traveling with kids, I highly recommend renting a car. While there are trains and buses, many of the Dolomites’ most beautiful areas are not easily accessible by public transport. A car gives you flexibility for nap schedules, snack breaks, or those “we just need to stop right here because look at that view” moments. Driving in the region is fairly straightforward, though roads can be narrow and winding.

    Where to Stay in the Dolomites

    The Dolomites cover a vast area, so narrowing down a home base is key. Popular family-friendly towns include:

    • Bolzano – Great for first-timers, easy access to museums, restaurants, and nearby cable cars.
    • Ortisei – A charming village in Val Gardena with plenty of lodging options, alpine playgrounds, and quick access to lifts like Seceda and Alpe di Suisi.
    • Santa Cristina – Smaller than Ortisei but very family-oriented, with unique trails like the PanaRaida adventure hike.

    Families can choose from hotels, alpine lodges, vacation rentals, or even campgrounds. Just remember that the most popular areas book up months in advance.

    What to Do with Kids in the Val Gardena Region of the Dolomites

    1. Ride a cable car

    Kids will love the thrill of soaring up the mountain in a gondola, and parents will love skipping the steep climb. From Bolzano, ride to Soprabolzano for sweeping views and the fascinating “earth pyramids.” From Ortisei, hop on cable cars to the Seceda ridgeline (jaw-dropping views) or the flower-filled Alpe di Suisi/Seiser Alm meadow.

    2. Go family hiking

    Thanks to the cable cars, many high-alpine trails are surprisingly kid-friendly. Scenic loop trails start from both Seceda and Alpe di Suisi’s upper stations. For extra fun, try the PanaRaida adventure trail near Santa Cristina, which features treehouses, rope bridges, and a water playground along the way.

    3. Visit a museum

    In Bolzano, stop by the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology to meet Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,300-year-old natural mummy. My kids were absolutely fascinated—it was a cool mix of science, history, and “real life mummy!” that stuck with them long after the trip.

    4. Rent a boat at Lago di Braies

    Yes, it’s Insta-famous for a reason! This iconic turquoise lake is about an hour’s drive from Ortisei. Families can rent a wooden rowboat or walk the loop trail around the lake. Insider tip: arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.

    5. Play at a park or playground

    The Alps are home to some of the most creative playgrounds we’ve ever seen. Favorites include Talvera Park in Bolzano and Val d’Anna Park in Ortisei. For a high-altitude experience, let the kids run wild at the alpine playgrounds at Seceda and Alpe di Suisi. If you’re in Ortisei, don’t miss the Uhrerhof Rosarium, Europe’s highest rose garden, which feels like a fairytale backdrop for kids and parents alike.

    Region 2: The Bavarian Alps

    What are the Bavarian Alps?

    The Bavarian Alps stretch along southern Germany’s border with Austria and are famous for their storybook scenery—think fairy-tale castles, alpine lakes, snow-capped peaks, and cozy mountain villages. It’s a region where families can mix outdoor adventure with cultural experiences, making it one of the most magical (and accessible) places in the Alps to explore with kids.

    Getting to the Bavarian Alps

    A great home base for exploring the region is Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a picturesque town that sits at the foot of Germany’s tallest mountain. The closest international airports are Munich and Innsbruck (Austria). From either airport, you can reach Garmisch by train, bus, or rental car. While public transportation is reliable, renting a car can give families more flexibility to hop between lakes, castles, and mountain trails on their own schedule.

    Where to Stay in the Bavarian Alps

    • Edelweiss Lodge and Resort – If you’re a U.S. military family, this is an incredible option. It’s family-oriented, budget-friendly, and located right in Garmisch.
    • Hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals – The town and surrounding villages are filled with charming alpine-style accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to family-friendly hotels with pools.
    • Campgrounds – For adventurous families, camping near Lake Eibsee or in the surrounding countryside is a fun option, especially in summer.

    What to Do with Kids in the Bavarian Alps

    1. Explore waterfalls and gorges

    Take a walk through the Partnach Gorge, a narrow, winding ravine that’s a national monument. The trail follows wooden boardwalks and tunnels alongside rushing waterfalls, rapids, and crystal-clear pools. (Pro tip: bring rain jackets, you will get wet!)

    2. Ride a cogwheel train and cable car up Germany’s highest peak

    The Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain, rises just south of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Families can ride the 90-year-old cogwheel train and the Gletscherbahn cable car up to a viewing platform near the summit, where the panoramic views stretch into Austria. On the way down, take the record-breaking Zugspitze cable car, which descends right to the turquoise shores of Lake Eibsee.

    3. Tour a real fairy-tale castle

    No trip to Bavaria is complete without visiting Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration behind Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Kids will love exploring the turrets, courtyards, and sweeping views over the Bavarian countryside. It truly feels like stepping into a storybook.

    4. Picnic and play at Lake Eibsee

    Located at the base of the Zugspitze, Lake Eibsee is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Germany. Families can rent a rowboat or paddleboard, swim in the refreshing waters, or just enjoy a picnic on the beach. The lake has several small islands that make boating extra fun for kids. For a classic Bavarian touch, take the 80-year-old cogwheel train from Garmisch right to the lake’s edge.

    5. Visit an alpine playground

    Take the cable car up Mount Wank (yes, the name always makes kids laugh) for kid-friendly hiking trails and one of the best alpine playgrounds in the region. With ziplines, climbing structures, and sweeping mountain views, it’s a place where kids can burn energy while parents relax in a mountaintop café.

    Region 3: Valais, Switzerland

    What is the Valais?

    The Valais is a stunning region in southern Switzerland, famous for its soaring alpine peaks, vineyards, mountain villages, and iconic landmarks like the Matterhorn. It’s an outdoor playground year-round—skiing and snowboarding in winter, hiking and biking in summer—and offers plenty of family-friendly adventures mixed with Swiss charm.

    Getting to the Valais

    You can fly into Zurich, Geneva, or Milan and connect to the Valais by train, bus, or rental car. If you’re flying into Milan, there’s a fun twist: drive to the Swiss border and take the Simplon Pass “car ferry”. It’s actually a drive-on train that carries your car through the Simplon Tunnel, connecting Brig, Switzerland, and Iselle di Trasquera, Italy.

    Pro tip: If you drive in Switzerland, you’ll need a vignette (toll sticker). Most rental cars already come with one, but double-check before hitting the road.

    Where to stay in the Valais?

    Crans-Montana makes a great base for families. This resort town sits high in the mountains and has:

    • A free shuttle system throughout town, making it easy to get around without a car
    • World-class ski slopes (now included on the Epic Pass!)
    • Summer adventure options, from hiking to biking to lakeside fun
    • Plenty of family lodging—hotels, chalets, and rental homes

    What to Do in the Valais?

    1. Hike family-friendly trails

    Crans-Montana is surrounded by kid-friendly paths. Try the Dwarves’ Trail around Lake Grenon, with interactive storyboards in multiple languages, or ride the cable car up to Cry d’Er and hike the Marmot Path, where kids have a good chance of spotting wild marmots. (Pack binoculars!)

    2. Spend a day at the lakes

    There are five lakes right in Crans-Montana and even more in the surrounding mountains. Families can enjoy sandy beaches, rent pedal boats, try stand-up paddleboarding, or just walk and bike the trails that connect the lakes. It’s an easy, low-key day outdoors.

    3. Learn to mountain bike

    Crans-Montana is a biking hub, even for beginners. Families will find a pump track, a balance bike course for little ones, and a family forest trail that’s perfect for practicing mountain biking skills in a safe environment.

    4. Go on a treasure hunt

    Meet Bibi the Marmot, the official mascot of the resort! Families can pick up a free treasure hunt booklet at the tourist office and set off on a scavenger-style adventure through town, learning about local animals while solving clues.

    5. Take a day trip

    The Valais is perfectly located for bucket-list day trips. Head to Chamonix, France to see Mont Blanc, or ride the train to Zermatt, Switzerland for unforgettable views of the Matterhorn.ix, France to see Mont Blanc or Zermatt, Switzerland to see the Matterhorn.

    Our Alpine Road Trip Itinerary

    What started as some last-minute planning turned into a week-long family road trip through the Dolomites, Bavarian Alps, and Switzerland. Since we’re based in Naples now, we decided to drive north with stops in Lake Garda, Innsbruck, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, and St. Moritz. Here’s how our trip unfolded, day by day:

    Days 1-4: Dolomites and Lake Garda

    We camped at an agriturismo (a working farm that offers accommodations and meals) in Trentino. It wasn’t quite where I’d hoped to stay (everything near Bolzano or Ortisei was already booked), but honestly, I can’t complain. The farm was an apple orchard, and every morning we had fresh apple juice pressed right there.

    The number one place I wanted to see was the Seceda ridgeline, so we went there on our first full day. Driving to Ortisei was simple, but arrive early to find parking. We had good luck with the parking garage under the Alpe di Siusi cable car station. From there, we rode the cable car up to Seceda and spent the day hiking along the ridgeline, soaking in the views, and letting the kids play at the alpine playground near the station. We especially loved Baita Sofie Hütte. Great food and drinks, epic mountain views, a meadow full of alpine cows, and space for the kids to run around.

    The next day, we rode the Alpe di Siusi cable car again and explored the alpine meadow. Hearing the bells of the grazing cows as we hiked was magical, and my daughter loved the swing and play area at Malga Sanon (while we loved the Kaiserschmarrn and Hugo spritzes).

    We had planned to spend two more days exploring the mountains, but lightning storms forced us to change plans. Luckily, Lake Garda is just an hour’s drive from Trentino. We took two day-trips there: one to Riva del Garda, where we strolled through town and played in the stream at the public beach, and another to hike up to Castello di Arco and cool off in the mist of Cascata del Varone waterfall. On a separate day, we drove the scenic lakeshore down to Sirmione, exploring its medieval town and the impressive Castello Scaligero di Sirmione, one of Italy’s best-preserved castles.

    Day 5: Innsbruck, Austria

    Leaving Italy, we headed into Austria and spent an afternoon in Innsbruck. We rode the Hungerburgbahn cable car from downtown straight up to the Alpenzoo Innsbruck, which has the world’s largest collection of alpine animals. If you have more time, continue the cable car ride up to Nordkette for panoramic views, hiking trails, and mountaintop restaurants.

    Day 6: Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany

    We spent two nights in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, and honestly, we could have stayed longer. (We’ve already gone back since!) If you’re a U.S. military family, the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort is a fantastic option. Otherwise, the area has no shortage of hotels, resorts, and rental homes.

    Our full day here was spent riding the 90-year-old cogwheel train and Gletscherbahn cable car up to the top of the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain. The kids were thrilled to play in the snow (in August!) and learn about Germany’s last glaciers. For the return trip, we took the Zugspitze cable car down the mountain, which made for a perfect round-trip experience.

    Day 7: St. Moritz, Switzerland

    On our way back south to Naples, we took a different route through St. Moritz, Switzerland. After lunch at one of the lakefront restaurants, we strolled the scenic path along Lake Moritz to the Terrasse Panoramique observation deck.

    Leaving the city, we drove the winding but breathtaking Maloja Pass, stopping at pullouts to admire the mountain views and fields of bright purple fireweed lining the road.

    Final Thoughts on our Alps Road Trip

    Our Alps road trip was the perfect introduction to both the region and our new life in Europe. The Alps are epic, beautiful, and full of adventure. If you’re planning a trip, my number one piece of advice is to be flexible (weather in the mountains can change quickly), and sometimes the best memories come from those last-minute detours.

    About the Author

    Lizzy is a mom to two girls (6 and 3 years old), a sometimes-teacher, and an all-around outdoor enthusiast. She currently lives with her family in Naples, Italy. Her husband is in the U.S. Army, so they move often and all over. Her family spends most of their free time traveling and exploring the new places they find themselves living in. They love hiking and camping in the summer, and skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. After growing up in the Pacific Northwest in a family that prioritized outdoor time, it comes naturally to Lizzy to spend as much time in nature as possible with her own kids. She’s also found that spending time outdoors provides a sort of calm to the chaos of parenthood and the military lifestyle.

    Follow Lizzy on Instagram: @elizabethstarexplores

  • CAMP, LOCAL GEMS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

    Marval Resort Review: Family-Friendly Fun in Oklahoma

    Looking for the perfect Oklahoma summer getaway that keeps kids entertained, parents relaxed, and everyone cooled off from the blazing heat? Marval Resort in Gore, Oklahoma checks all the boxes. Nestled along the lower Illinois River in the foothills of the Ozarks, this family-friendly campground offers swimming pools, river play, endless kid-approved activities, and plenty of ways for parents to feel like they’re back at summer camp (minus the braces and bug juice). Today, Oklahoma mom Katie LaCombe shares what makes Marval Resort such a hidden gem – from the best things to do and where to stay, to tips from her family’s experience visiting Marval year after year.

    It’s summertime in Oklahoma, and if you’re like me, you are itching to find some fun, kid-friendly relief from this oppressive heat.  Well, look no further, because I have the solution: Marval Resort.

    Hi! I’m Katie! I’m a mom AND an Okie, so when it comes to the topic of “fun summer Oklahoma getaways” I hope you can lean into those two trusted credentials.  Because let’s face it, the temperatures are already reaching ‘Campbell’s Soup” degrees and we are exhausted trying to put sunscreen on our velociraptor… I mean, toddler.  So, for the love of popsicles and “is that a freckle or a tick?”, you and your family deserve some core memories to coincide with the sweat pooling down your back.

    Let me introduce you to your new favorite place…Marval Resort.

    Marval Resort: The Basics

    Marval Resort is located in Gore, Oklahoma, in the beautiful foothills of the Ozarks, right on the lower Illinois River. It’s a destination designed for families, whether you’re looking to relax, play, or explore.

    With options for tent camping, RV hookups, bungalows, and cabins, it works for both weekend getaways and longer family vacations.

    Think of it as a place where kids can roam free, make new friends, and burn off energy, while parents get a chance to reconnect with their own summer-camp selves (but, like, without the braces and acne). From fishing to themed weekends, Marval truly offers something for everyone. Let me show you around…

    What to Do at Marval Resort

    What to do, indeed! Boredom doesn’t stand a chance here. Marval Resort is packed with activities for every age and interest:

    • Playground & Outdoor Sports: basketball, volleyball, pickleball, mini golf, a gaga pit, kayaking, bird watching, treasure hunts, and the always-popular jump pillow (my personal favorite, even if my “mom bladder” was not happy with me, if you know what I mean).
    • Activity Center: clubhouse, arts and crafts, tie-dye, painting, arcade, karaoke, and more for when you need some creative time.
    • Mining Station: kids can sift for gems, fossils, and shark teeth to take home (my daughter still talks about her treasures).
    • Water Fun: two swimming pools plus a splash pad for cooling off between adventures.
    • Outdoor Movie Nights: the perfect way to wind down after a busy day.
    • Dog Park: yes, your furry family members are welcome too!

    Whether your kids are climbing, jumping, splashing, or crafting, there’s never a dull moment at Marval.

    The Illinois River

    The Illinois River runs right along Marval Resort, offering gorgeous views, excellent fishing, and plenty of opportunities for family fun.

    When we first arrived, the river instantly captured my heart. Clear, inviting, and shallow in many areas, it’s perfect for kids to splash around, toss rocks, and (most importantly) cool off in the summer heat.

    If my children were just a little older, I would have loved to float the river. There’s something magical about drifting under an Oklahoma sunset, toes skimming the water, with a cooler tube in tow. Just the thought makes me exhale.

    For this trip, my favorite part was watching my daughter play in the river with her best friend. They had a (reusable) water balloon fight, practiced floating on their backs, and laughed until their cheeks hurt. Meanwhile, my four-month-old snoozed contentedly in his portable playpen (because rivers really are nature’s built-in sound machines).

    It’s those simple, joy-filled moments that make Marval so special. As my friend (and trip buddy) put it: “This trip will live in the scrapbook of my heart.”

    And the river adventures only scratch the surface. Fun fact: Gore is actually the fly fishing capital of Oklahoma. While I didn’t get a chance this visit, next time I’ll be out there with a fly rod in hand. The resort has over one mile of riverfront, onsite bait and tackle, and a fish cleaning station. It even greets guests with a giant trout statue, a fitting nod to its fishing roots.

    If fly fishing with kids is something you’d like to try, be sure to check out this post on How to Teach Kids to Fly Fish.

    Lodging options at Marval Resort

    One of the best things about Marval Resort is the variety of lodging options:

    • Tent camping for the true outdoorsy families
    • RV hookups with full amenities
    • Cozy cabins and bungalows for families who want comfort and convenience

    There are clean facilities, fire rings & picnic tables at every site, free Wi‑Fi, laundry, general store, dining, and cart rentals.

    We stayed two nights in a bungalow, which was the perfect fit for our crew. With a master bedroom, two loft beds, a small kitchen, bathroom, and coffee pot (essential!), it had everything we needed.

    If you want to vacation with a large group but still have your own space for your family, consider the bungalows. We saw a big group of families rent a section of bungalows so they could all be next to each other during their stay.  They would grill out in the evenings while their kids rode their scooters and played in the yard. The way their laughter and joy echoed was addictive.  It was special watching so much community live out loud.

    The scene stuck with me so much, I have talked about it nonstop.  I think I have almost convinced my friends to do the same thing this fall.  The resort has themed weekends and people get festive with it.  Like, really festive. 

    I would love to go back and see Marval in the fall with all the costumes and decorations.  Fingers crossed, I am able to convince everyone we need our minions to dress up like minions and enjoy some spooky fun along the river! Who’s with me?

    Where to Eat at Marval Resort

    Imagine this, you’ve been swimming all morning, the kids are drying off with a round of mini golf, when you hear one kid sit down with their golf club, throw their head back in exhaustion, and proclaim, “I’M HUNGRY!”

    The walk back to your cabin seems overwhelming, and honestly, you just don’t want to make anything. You’re tired and hungry, too.  

    Cue Marval’s Riverfront Grill! You can order pizza, sandwiches, sweet treats, and more! And the best part? It’s right there and the only thing you need to do so sit and enjoy. Instantly, bellies are full, morale is lifted, and you all are ready to rock and roll!

    When we stayed, we ordered their cheese pizza for the table and man, that really hit the spot. 

    Now, if you are wanting to try some local flavors, I highly recommend driving into town and trying either Soda Steve’s, Gambino’s, Or Jimbo’s. 

    I am getting hungry thinking about their food as a type. Anyone have a teleportation device so I can enjoy Soda Steve’s California Burger? Because that would be great!

    However, if you’re the kind of family that loves cooking outside over a fire, be sure to check out this post on Camping Food Your Kids Will Love Eating (and Making).

    Nearby Oklahoma Outdoor Family Adventures

    As if Marval Resort itself wasn’t enough, there are even more outdoor adventures just a short drive away.

    • Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge – Only 20 minutes from the resort, this refuge is perfect for birdwatching, spotting wildlife, or taking a leisurely hike through Oklahoma’s natural beauty.
    • Lake Tenkiller – Another nearby gem, where you can rent a boat, go swimming, or simply enjoy a day on the water.

    Both spots make excellent day trips if you want to add a little variety to your Marval stay. Whether you’re after a quiet hike, a scenic drive, or a full day on the lake, you’ll find something nearby to suit your family’s mood.

    Things to Know Before You Go

    Before you toss swimsuits and scooters in the car, here are a few things to know that will make your Marval Resort trip smoother:

    • Best Time to Visit: Summer means pools, splash pads, and river play. Fall is cooler (and less crowded) with themed weekends that families really get into with costumes and decorations.
    • Length of Stay: A weekend is enough to sample the activities, but 3–4 days gives you time to enjoy both the resort and nearby adventures like Lake Tenkiller.
    • Location: Marval is in Gore, Oklahoma (about 1.5 hours from Tulsa and 2.5 hours from Oklahoma City), making it an easy drive for a weekend getaway.
    • Who It’s For: Perfect for families with kids of all ages, multi-family groups, and even grandparents who want to join the fun. With options for tent camping, cabins, and RVs, you can go rustic or keep it cozy.
    • Pets Welcome: There’s even an on-site dog park, so your four-legged family members can join the fun, too.
    • Day Pass: Marval offers day‑use passes ($12 per person (ages 4+), free for kids under 3), ideal if you want a fun day trip without staying overnight.

    Packing Tips for Marval Resort

    Packing smart makes the difference between a laid-back trip and one where you’re constantly running back to the cabin (or Walmart). Here’s what I recommend bringing:

    • Water Shoes: The Illinois River is shallow and perfect for kids, but rocky in spots. Protect those toes!
    • Extra Towels & Swimsuits: Between the pools, splash pad, and river, your kids will cycle through outfits faster than you can say “Who left this wet towel on the floor?”
    • Sunscreen & Bug Spray: Essentials for Oklahoma summers. Reapply often.
    • Camping Basics: Flashlights, folding chairs, and a cooler for snacks/drinks by the river. Check out this post for a full list of camping gear for families.
    • Scooters/Bikes: Tons of kids ride around the bungalow areas in the evenings — it’s like an impromptu neighborhood block party.
    • Portable Playpen: If you’ve got a baby, the river doubles as a natural sound machine — but you’ll want a safe spot for them to snooze.
    • Themed Weekend Gear: If you’re visiting in the fall or during a holiday, pack costumes and decorations (I hear people go all out).

    Trust me, being over-prepared means less stress and more time enjoying the pools, river, and all the activities Marval has to offer.

    Y’all Come Back Now, Ya Hear

    In conclusion, Maraval Resort will forever reside as one of Oklahoma’s most cherished and hidden treasures for you and your family.  It’s a place where memories are made year after year, and the memories you make will compound over time. You will find yourself making picture collages of your kids in front of the general store over the years. You’ll remember when they were timid to jump into the deep end or how the tye-dye shirt they made now is too small. You will see their sweet faces grow each year in a place that will grow with them. It’s not just a vacation, it’s a timestamp for their childhood.

    The fun is only the beginning.

    About the Author

    Katie resides in the heart of Oklahoma with her husband and two incredible children. She loves all things outdoors. From blowing backyard bubbles with her kids to backpacking in the Rockies. She has a heart for it all. She is passionate about conservation, community, and cultivating a space for the two to collide. When she’s not adventuring with her kiddos, you can find her nose-deep in a book – either reading one or writing one. She is a sucker for a good story and she is excited to share a piece of her story with you.

    Follow Katie on Instagram: @flyoverstateadventures

  • INFORMATION, PARENTING

    Outdoor Parenting Hack: Overcoming the Hardest Part – Getting Out the Door

    If you’ve ever tried to get your kids out the door for an outdoor activity, you know the struggle is real. From “It’s too hot!” to “I don’t want to go there,” the resistance can be strong (even from kids who normally love nature). In this post, outdoor mom Sandy Harper shares her real-life strategies for turning that pre-adventure chaos into calm and reluctance into excitement. You’ll find practical tips, tried-and-true tricks, and a healthy dose of humor to help you leave the house faster, happier, and ready to make the most of your time outside together.

    Leaving is the Hardest Part

    I can confidently say my kids love the outdoors and all things nature. However, there are still plenty of times it’s a struggle getting out the door with them. Whether they’re initially not interested, the weather is not to their liking, or they think it will be boring, they will give me pushback. I will remind them of all the times they had fun outside when they thought they wouldn’t enjoy it. Alas, they never seem to recall those times. 

    As a “seasoned” outdoor mom of 12 years, I have learned (sometimes the hard way) how to overcome these poor moods and reluctance when you have an outdoor activity planned. Getting out the door doesn’t have to be a negative start to your outdoor adventure and fun!

    Tip #1: Tell Kids the Outdoor Plan Ahead of Time

    Just like adults, kids like to know ahead of time what is coming up. So, if you have an outdoor activity in mind that you want to do, let them in on it early. Give them as many details as they can handle. Obviously, this is based on the age of your kiddos. Hype it up, make it sound as great as you envision it in your mind. Answer their questions, acknowledge their concerns, and ask for their input. If possible, show them pictures or videos of where you are going. If it is a certain activity, show them videos of other kids doing the same activity. This can help ease their minds about the unknown or something new to them. 

    This may seem like a lot of talk ahead of time. Then again, it also takes a lot of time to convince a kid who doesn’t want to get out the door when they don’t understand what they are about to do. They will be hesitant, much like we would be in their shoes.

    Tip #2: Prep Early for Outdoor Success

    Being prepared for your outdoor adventure is key. The more time kids are sitting around waiting to get out the door, the more time for whining and push back. Plus, it gets everyone off on the wrong foot with negativity.

    Personally, I try to have everything ready to go before the kids realize it’s time to leave. This way, I can easily tell everyone to get out the door because we are ready to go. There will always be that last-minute need to grab an item or take a bathroom visit. However, if everything else is ready, you will be in a good place.

    Being prepared means that you have thought of everything you and the kids will need for this specific outdoor adventure. This includes but is not limited to:

    • Proper clothing needed
    • Food
    • Each kid’s personal items
    • Your personal items needed
    • Equipment that is needed for your activity
    • First-aid kit
    • Gas in your vehicle (I’m horrible for this one!)
    • Water (plus extra)
    • Anything else you can think of!

    I promise you, you will never regret being prepared. It takes away the struggle, stress, and feeling of being rushed.

    Pro tip: If you’re hiking, make sure to bring the 10 Essentials of Family Hiking

    Tip #3: Pack Outdoor Adventure Snacks (for Them and You)

    For the love of Pete, don’t forget the snacks! I promise, you will only be five minutes down the road or into your activity, and someone is going to say, “I’m hungry!”. This is one thing I learned swiftly as a new outdoors mom.  

    So, depending on what we were doing, I packed snacks accordingly. Sometimes, I will pack snacks in one bag if the outdoor adventure is not far away. Though if the drive to our destination was a bit farther, I would pack them individual snacks to keep near them in the vehicle.

    Attention! This is important! Do not forget “going home after the outdoor activity” snacks! I warn you; your kids will have already burnt through their initial packed snacks and will be absolutely starving.

    The best way I’ve found to stay prepared is by leaving a bag of ZolliPops in my vehicle. They’re lollipops but healthy. The kids are getting a treat ,and I’m not feeling bad about it. Sometimes, I bring apples, crackers, and Annie’s Bunny Gummies too. 

    If you remember anything from this blog, let it be the snacks! Don’t forget to bring a snack for you. It will save you sanity!

    Pro tip: Check out our post with recipes for our favorite Trail-Tested Kid-Approved Hiking Snacks

    Tip #4: Dress for Outdoor Success

    Nothing can bring an outdoor adventure to a screeching halt like kids being too hot, too cold, or too wet. I always dress the kids and myself for the current weather outside. If it is going to get warmer while we’re outside, I make sure we have on layers that are easily removed. If it gets cooler, then I pack extra layers. 

    If there is any chance of water being involved, pack extra clothes. This is one I learned the hard way. My youngest, anytime he got wet, he HAD to strip naked. He could not handle the wet clothes against his skin. Of course, he was also prone to getting wet. If there was any water around (puddle, pond, stream, or fountain) he was going to end up wet. No matter what season of the year. I quickly realized that I needed to bring not one but two extra changes of clothes for my boy. This is when knowing your kids well comes in extremely handy!

    Just like the snack situation, don’t forget yourself! It is no fun for you either if you are uncomfortable in what you are wearing. A happy mom means happier kiddos!

    Tip #5: Invite Friends for Outdoor Motivation

    There are countless times when I informed my kids of my outdoor adventure plans, and they started to grumble. However, the moment I mention that their friends are coming, they quickly squeal with delight. The power of friends is huge!

    I have taken my kiddos on numerous hiking adventures with friends, and they have done amazing! Yet, the moment we take the kids on a family hike, they fall apart only a half-mile into it. I tell my husband, “I promise they love hiking and they are not normally like this!” The difference, friends.

    It makes sense…I love having my nature moms with me. You’re sharing an experience with people that you don’t see all the time, chatting, creating a memory that you will share later. We still have our own outdoor family time adventures. The key is to make it an adventure that they don’t associate with friends.

    Tip #6: Sometimes, You Just Have to Go

    In the end, if you find none of these suggestions helpful, it is time to “rip the band-aid off” and just GO! So many times, nothing I do helps to get my kids out the door. The only thing that helps me as their mom is knowing that every time I do this dance with them, they always end up having a great time.

    I can’t count how many times my kiddos fought me getting out the door. And yet, 99% of the time, after our outdoor fun, they tell me they had the best day of their life. 

    I think that is what makes it the hardest on me personally when I get pushback from the kiddos about getting outside, knowing that they will have an awesome time and will talk about their outdoor adventure for days. 

    Overcoming Common Excuses from Kids

    Even the most outdoorsy kids have their off days, and as parents, we hear it all. Here’s how I handle some of the most common “reasons” my kids try to stay in:

    • “It’s too hot.” – Find shade, pack extra water, and plan for water play if possible. Even a shallow creek can make a sweltering day bearable.
    • “It’s too cold.” – Layer up and bring along warm drinks in a thermos (what kid can say no to hot chocolate?). Keep moving so little bodies stay warm, and plan a fun indoor warm-up afterward.
    • “It’s too far.” – Choose a closer spot or break up travel with a quick stop for a special snack. Sometimes the destination isn’t the problem; it’s the car ride.
    • “It’ll be boring.” – Let them invite a friend, bring along a nature scavenger hunt, or give them a “mission” (like spotting 5 types of leaves or finding a certain color rock).
    • “I’m tired.” – Pick something low-key, like a park picnic, short trail, or backyard nature game. Not every outing has to be a big hike or a full-day adventure.

    The trick is to validate their feelings, then calmly counter with a solution. Often, the moment they’re outside, they forget the excuse entirely.

    It’s Always Worth It

    Getting kids out the door isn’t always easy…in fact, it’s often the hardest part of any outdoor adventure. But as I’ve learned over 12 years of parenting in nature, the pre-trip protests almost always give way to smiles, laughter, and “best day ever” declarations by the end.

    So, pack the snacks, dress for comfort, invite a friend, and go, even if it means a little pushback at first. The fresh air, shared memories, and happy exhaustion at the end of the day are worth every bit of the effort. Wishing you all the best of luck getting out the door with your kiddos! You will not regret it!

    About the Author

    Sandy is a free-spirited mom of three adventurous kiddos. She calls North Carolina home and has lived in multiple areas of the state. From the Piedmont, to the foothills and now the barrier islands off the coast, she finds the entire state’s natural beauty an adventure all on its own. After 13 years as an educational tutor, she decided to stay home when her first child was born. Since then, she has started a writing career, blogging, website management, multiple outdoor clubs and classes for kids and their parents, and homeschooling. She is thankful for the love and support of her husband of 13 years. Her goal is to help moms, and families, enjoy what nature has to offer and experience the benefits of being in nature with their kids. She and her family love hiking, camping, all things water related, and finding new nature spots to explore.

    Find Sandy on Instagram: @freespiritedmom

  • HIKE, PARENTING

    How to Hike with Kids (Without the Whining and Complaining)

    If you’ve ever started a family hike full of optimism only to be met with complaints, whining, or outright resistance, you’re not alone. Hiking with kids is rewarding…it builds confidence, resilience, and a love for nature. But, it also comes with its own set of challenges. Today, North Carolina mom of four, Courtney Fleet, shares what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to getting kids excited to hit the trail. In this post, she shares practical hiking tips for families that will help you prepare, prevent meltdowns, and keep your kids motivated from trailhead to summit.

    hiking with kid - how to stop the whining and complaining

    Why Hiking with Kids Matters

    We all know how important it is for kids to spend time outside. Sunshine and fresh air can lift moods and reduce stress. Running, jumping, climbing, and hiking help growing bodies stay strong and coordinated. Nature invites kids to explore, be curious, and use their imaginations. When they face challenges outdoors — like climbing a tree, balancing on a log, or reaching a summit — they build confidence, resilience, and perseverance.

    Research shows that children who spend time outside also tend to focus better, think more creatively, and work more cooperatively with others. Above all, time in nature helps kids feel connected to the world around them, which benefits their overall mental and emotional health.

    All of these advantages are exactly why you’ve decided to take your kiddos on a hike! But before you go, here are my hard-earned lessons on how to deal with the inevitable bumps along the way.

    Learning to Hike with Kids: A Journey in Patience

    I’ve loved hitting the trails for as long as I can remember, so when I became a mom, I knew I didn’t want to set that passion aside. But hiking with kids has a definite learning curve. That first hike with my oldest daughter felt like such an achievement — but as she grew and her abilities changed, I had to adapt.

    Through practice and repetition, we both got better. We learned that every stage brought new challenges and new joys. By the time our second, third, and fourth daughters joined the family, we’d hiked all over the East Coast and had a much better sense of which trails suited us, what to wear, what to pack, and — most importantly — how to keep going even when moods dipped.

    These early lessons shaped the way we hike today and helped me discover tricks that boost motivation, keep energy up, and (mostly) prevent whining.

    So, if you are a mom who loves the outdoors and wants to bring your kids along, it is doable- I promise! Here are ten main tips I have learned that might help make your next (or first!) family hike a whole lot smoother. (Hint: most of the effort starts before you even hit the trail.)

    Tip #1: Prep Everything the Night Before

    If I don’t gather our gear the night before, we’ll never get out the door on time. Prepping ahead means a smoother start and more time on the trail. The night before, I set out:

    • Backpacks
    • Snacks and water bottles
    • Sunscreen and bug spray
    • First aid kit (If you’re wondering what to include in your kit, our Hiking Safety & First Aid 101 post walks you through exactly what to pack for both kids and adults.)
    • Socks, shoes, and hats
    • Diapers, wipes, and baby carrier (if needed)
    • A post-hike picnic lunch

    Getting everything ready in advance makes departure quick and stress-free. It also prevents the slow build-up of whining while kids wait around for you to pack. For a complete checklist of the must-have items to bring on every hike, check out our 10 Essentials for Family Hiking guide.

    Tip #2: Pack More Snacks Than You Think You Need

    This one is non-negotiable: snacks are essential for hiking with kids. A hungry child on the trail can quickly derail even the most beautiful hike. While at home, I might limit snacks to teach patience, the trail is different. Out there, snacks keep everyone’s energy (and mood) up.

    I pack hearty, filling options: think granola bars, trail mix, fruit, or cheese sticks. And I always bring more than I think we’ll need. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that no one ever complained about having too many snacks on a hike.

    Tip #3: Let Kids Be Part of the Process

    Even though I handle most of the planning, I make sure my girls have ownership over parts of the hike. They might:

    • Pack their own backpack
    • Choose their snacks and water bottle
    • Help plan our picnic
    • Pick the car music playlist
    • Choose which games we play on the trail

    If we’re not locked into a specific route, I’ll even let them vote on which trail to take. This involvement gets them invested, builds excitement, and makes the hike feel like a shared adventure rather than something they were dragged into.

    Tip #4: Choose Trails with a “Wow” Factor

    Kids hike better when there is a fun feature to look forward to – a waterfall, an expansive view, a creek to splash in. Whatever the destination, be sure to have a “thing” they are working toward. They will be much more agreeable to keep moving than to just “walk for the sake of walking.”

    Whenever I find a good hike online or read about one on a blog, I save it to my phone. Over time, I have built a running list of trails I can choose from when I need inspiration or want to match a hike to my kids’ energy level.

    Tip #5: Build up Gradually

    Start small. Local walks, short loops, or just some time on a nearby park trail can go a long way toward creating future hikers. Kids of all ages are capable of long hikes, but they build endurance and confidence through practice, just like we do. Put in the ground work by increasing their tolerance and distance gradually.

    Take it from someone who thought her first hike as a mom of two should be six miles. Since I had always carried baby #1 in a hiking pack, miles were never a barrier. When baby #2 joined us, I wrongly assumed I could keep up my same mileage. Needless to say, I had to rethink which trails I picked moving forward.

    (Spoiler: we did not make the summit that day.)

    If you’re navigating the trails while expecting, our Hiking While Pregnant article has practical tips to keep you safe, comfortable, and confident outdoors.

    Tip #6: Keep Expectations Low (And Expect Some Whining)

    Keep your expectations simple, especially in the beginning. If your kids complain along the trail, don’t let that deter you from trying again. Whining is normal (don’t let it discourage you).

    I started hiking with my girls when they were very young, and even now, after years of hitting the trails, they can still get whiny. So, when they whine, don’t take it personally.

    Kids are pros at finding the one thing they don’t like about any situation. Pool? Water’s too cold. Ice cream? Scoop’s not big enough. Gorgeous waterfall? They didn’t want to see a waterfall that day. Stay the course. With time, hiking becomes something they look forward to; something they accept as part of their family rhythm.

    Tip #7: Don’t Panic if the First 30 Minutes are Rough

    It usually takes a little time for at least one of my kids (typically the same one) to get on board with that day’s hike. There might be whining as we pack the car, moping during the drive, a mini meltdown at the trailhead, or dramatic resistance in the first few steps. But here’s the thing: she does this at home, too. I would much rather parent a tantrum out in nature than in the confines of four walls.

    And you know what? Once we’ve started hiking – especially with a fun game or treat along the way – she’s off running, laughing, singing, and genuinely enjoying herself. Remember that not all kids are enthusiastic about plans they didn’t make, but a little strategy, some silliness, and a snack or two go a long way toward turning that around.

    Pro tip: If you have a little one still in a carrier, this might cause some level of frustration from an older child. It is not unusual for there to be jealous sibling complaints from the one who must walk while her sister gets to ride. I have learned to calmly coax the grumpy walker (with the tips listed here!) until she finds her stride. And she always does. 

    Tip #8: Be Prepared to Stop. Often.

    While I prefer to hike at a strong pace when I’m on my own, I have found that hiking with kids means stopping often along the trail. Like, a LOT.

    An ideal throwing stick, a creepy crawly creature, a glistening spider web, a balance beam log, the perfect rock – these are the kinds of things that stop my girls in their tracks. If I continue on ahead, or prod them to start up again before they are ready, I have prevented them from enjoying their hike their way.

    We are out there to discover and enjoy all that nature has to share. What better way to bring learning and fascination into your hikes than to spend that time observing and interacting with the world around you? Those stops to examine nature often become the moments they talk about most afterward.

    Pro Tip: One fun way to make the trail more engaging is to create your own gear. Our DIY Hiking Sticks for Kids project is a favorite for giving little hikers a sense of ownership and adventure.

    Tip #9: Add in Some Fun and Spontaneity

    Nothing says hiking has to be boring or serious (or quiet). Silly songs, trail games, mini races, and the occasional sugary bribe can be total game-changers in getting your kids excited about the task at hand and distracted from the boredom/ frustration/ fatigue/ add-your-feeling-here/ that they may otherwise be experiencing.

    One of our favorite hiking games is spotting the next trail blaze. We identify these early in the hike to emphasize trail safety and to keep us on track, but finding them also becomes a fun, ongoing challenge: who can spot the next blaze, can you jump up and touch it, how many have we found? This keeps them engaged in an activity AND keeps them moving in the right direction.

    Racing from blaze to blaze, shadow to shadow, or tree to tree also highlights their competitive sides and allows them to use their muscles differently than the trudge of a slow walk. 

    While I am a health-conscious mom, I have been known to say “Skittles make miles,” and I stand by it. Rewards, incentives, treats – call them what you want – they work! Whether it’s a Skittle after five more blazes, a snack at the next sitting log, or a promised reward at the destination, these little motivators create positive associations. Personally, my summits are always more satisfying when I savor a specific treat I saved for the top, so why not let your kids experience the same satisfaction?

    And do not underestimate the power of singing! It is a great way to keep minds busy and lift moods in the process. Dredge up those old Girl Scout tunes or call-and-repeat songs from childhood and put them to use! These boisterous sing-alongs will someday be among your kids’ favorite hiking memories.

    Tip #10: Don’t forget to Plan for the Drive Home

    Do you have little ones who still need an afternoon nap? Pack items that are ready to pull out once you start your return trip. I like to maximize our time on the trail, so we usually don’t head home until after we eat our picnic lunch. Then my girls settle into their car seats with a few naptime essentials – blankets, lovies, soothing music – to help them rest their bodies as we make our way back home.

    Start Small, Stay Consistent, Make It Fun

    If hiking with your kids is something you haven’t tried yet, but you have always wanted to, consider this your nudge! Start small, but start. Bring a friend- or four! (I even started a monthly Mama and Toddler Hiking Group!) Trying something new with other like-minded moms makes the experience more fun, helps keep you motivated, and gives you support when things get tough. It is also a fabulous way to get all of you and your kiddos outside – enjoying each other’s company and the great outdoors at the same time. 

    If you’re new to the trails, our Beginner’s Guide to Hiking with Kids covers everything you need to know to plan, prepare, and enjoy your first family hiking adventure.

    Although planning and executing a hike with your family can take some work, it is SO worth it, as you will see in the eyes of your children as their bodies and imaginations have the freedom to run wild. Try out these tips (plus any others that work for you) as you tackle each new trail. Make these moments and memories your own. I will see you out there!

    About the Author

    Courtney is a wife, mama to four fearless adventurers, and a physical therapist turned business owner. A runner, biker, hiker, camper, and backpacker, she thrives in the great outdoors and believes in its power — both for healing and for building community. She leads monthly Mama & Toddler hikes through North Carolina’s scenic trails but doesn’t hesitate to whisk her daughters away on spontaneous adventures, solo. Her travels, both near and far, have deepened her love for nature, and she finds endless joy in watching her girls discover the world with wide-eyed wonder. She credits their confidence and resilience (and her own) to time spent outside and enjoys encouraging families that childhood is best lived outdoors and that parenting is a little easier when you do!

    Follow Courtney on Instagram: @happytrailsandponytails

  • BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

    How to Get Started Snorkeling with Kids

    Snorkelling is one of the most magical ways to explore the natural world, and it’s even better when you can share the experience with your kids. Whether you’re planning a tropical vacation, heading to a nearby lake, or just want to build your child’s confidence in the water, teaching kids to snorkel can open up a whole new world of underwater adventure. In this post, Natalie James, a mom of two and longtime snorkelling enthusiast, shares how she taught her daughters to snorkel from a young age, along with practical, step-by-step tips to help your kids (or even yourself!) feel comfortable, safe, and excited about snorkelling.

    How to get started snorkeling with kids

    Snorkelling Fun for Little Adventurers

    Just before my first daughter was born, we moved to Mauritius, a tiny island off the coast of Africa. It’s almost completely surrounded by coral reef, with warm ocean water year-round. At eight months pregnant, I would bob along the surface, snorkelling blissfully with my very large belly weightless in the sea.

    From that point on, we never stopped. From pregnancy to babies to toddlers to teens, snorkelling became part of our family rhythm.

    In the years that we lived in Mauritius, snorkelling became one of our favourite family activities because it allowed each of us to experience the ocean in our own way but still be all together.  My younger daughter would float happily on the top of the water in a life vest or inflatable tube, peering down into the water and watching the world below. While at the same time, my older daughter and my husband would dive down to explore the coral reef below. 

    A few years later, my sister gifted them a packet of waterproof UNO cards (honestly, worth every cent she paid). If you can find a set, I highly recommend them. My girls are now teenagers, and that same set still comes on every holiday with us. The cards aren’t designed to be snorkelled with, but that didn’t stop my girls from trying. They’d spend as much time underwater with their goggles on, making up games as they went. (See photo below.)

    Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about how to teach kids to snorkel, and I’m always happy to share what worked for us. If you’re planning a beach holiday and want your little ones to feel confident in the water, these are the steps I’d recommend—starting small, staying playful, and keeping it fun all the way through.

    kids playing uno at bottom of pool

    How I Taught My Kids to Snorkel (And How You Can Too)

    Teaching your kids to snorkel is one of those things that starts small but leads to big, beautiful adventures. There’s something magical about putting your face in the water and discovering a whole new world below the surface: colorful fish, coral reefs, swaying seaweed, and the soft hum of the underwater world.

    Snorkelling is an incredible way for kids to connect with nature, build confidence in the water, and experience a sense of wonder and calm. It’s also an activity the whole family can enjoy together, side by side, while each person explores at their own pace.

    And the best part? Learning to snorkel doesn’t need to happen on a tropical reef; it can start right at home.

    Start Small (Really Small)

    Snorkelling doesn’t have to begin in the ocean, surrounded by fish and seaweed brushing your legs. It can start right at home, in a bathtub or a shallow pool. The key is to keep it pressure-free and purely playful. Start small…like, bathtub-small.

    Kids are naturally drawn to water and want to explore it. My one-year-old niece loves to dunk her face into the bath over and over again to rescue her sinking toy. No one tells her to do it, she’s just curious and determined. That’s where the snorkelling journey truly begins: getting used to water on their face without fear.

    Goggles Come Next

    As soon as we could find a pair that fit, our girls wore goggles constantly. The little swimming goggles that just cover the eyes (not the nose or mouth) are perfect for beginners. They also protect sensitive eyes from salt or chlorine water.

    Even in the shallowest water, my girls would lie on their tummies, goggles on, faces submerged, watching their fingers wiggle or pretending to hunt for treasure. One of our friend’s daughters loved her pink goggles so much she wore them around the shopping mall – just to see how different life looked with them on.

    tips for teaching kids how to snorkel

    The Mask Moment

    Graduating to a snorkel mask feels like a big deal. It may feel strange at first, but if you give kids time to play and explore, they’ll adapt quickly.

    Encourage them to hold their breath and dip their face underwater. Don’t rush it. Some kids will float on their tummies or hold onto the side of the pool just to stare at the tiles for ages. That’s perfect. It’s about building comfort, confidence, and curiosity.

    In our house, snorkelling masks often made appearances during bike rides and superhero games. Sometimes there’s just no explaining a child’s imagination, but if it gets them used to wearing the gear, I’m all for it.

    Snorkel Skills

    This was the big leap. I found kid-sized snorkels with soft mouthpieces and clipped them to their masks so they stayed upright. At first, we floated alongside them, helping them practice breathing through the snorkel, which can be surprisingly tricky!

    Breathing only through your mouth takes a little getting used to, especially while trying not to chew the mouthpiece. So we held them gently in the water, letting them fully focus on that one skill: breathe in, breathe out. No rush. Just floating, learning, and having fun.

    snorkeling with kids

    Use Whatever Floats

    From boogie boards to life vests and inflatable rings, anything that keeps little snorkelers comfortably afloat is a win. In those early days, there’s a lot of adjusting, gear gets fussy, masks need fixing, someone wants to hold your hand. A little extra buoyancy makes it easier for everyone.

    When we were in the ocean, I always made sure the girls wore proper swimming life jackets, especially in the beginning. Eventually, they wanted to ditch the floats and swim more freely, but that confidence came gradually. We started them in shallow water, where they could always touch the ground if they needed to. That made all the difference.

    Do You Really Need Snorkelling Fins?

    Fins aren’t essential for beginners, but once kids get the hang of snorkelling, they often want to try everything, including fins. They’re great for helping kids swim farther with less effort, but they do take some practice.

    Start in a pool or a calm, shallow spot. The trick with fins is that they require a long, sweeping movement from the hips, not the quick, bent-knee kicks most kids are used to. I tell mine to imagine the motion starting from the tips of their toes and moving all the way up to their hips—one long, flowing kick. Short fins are best for kids starting out, since they’re easier to control and less bulky than long ones.

    tips for getting kids used to wearing a snorkel and mask

    What You’ll Need to Get Started Snorkeling with Kids

    Here’s a quick list of basic snorkelling gear for kids:

    • A well-fitting mask – It should seal snugly without leaking and have a clip or loop for the snorkel.
    • A kid-sized snorkel – Look for a soft mouthpiece that’s easy to hold in the mouth.
    • A full-face snorkel mask – These are great for beginners and come in smaller sizes for kids.
    • Snorkelling fins (optional) – Start with short fins that fit securely and aren’t too long or stiff.

    A rash guard or UV-protective swimsuit can also help protect from sunburn, lifejacket rubbing, and jellyfish stings, plus, bright colors make it easier to spot your child in the water.

    Snorkeling Safety Tips for Kids

    Snorkeling Safety Tips for Kids

    Snorkelling is a ton of fun, but it’s important to set some basic safety habits early on. Here’s what we do in our family:

    Sun safety – Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to often-missed spots like the back of your neck, shoulders, and the backs of your legs. It’s easy to get burned when you’re face-down in the water for long stretches on a sunny day.

    Never snorkel alone – We use the buddy system so that no one is ever out of sight. It’s easy to get distracted when exploring underwater, so we always check in with each other and stay close.

    Wear bright colors – Swimsuits, rash guards, and snorkel gear in bright, bold colors help us spot each other quickly in the water.

    best time and place to start snorkeling with kids

    What age can kids start snorkelling?

    Most kids are ready to start exploring with snorkelling gear between ages 3–5, but there’s no perfect timeline (and it’s never too late to start). Some kids don’t take to it until they’re older, and plenty of adults learn for the first time on vacation!

    Don’t worry, you haven’t missed a window. Just follow the steps in this post, go at your child’s pace, and focus on fun and comfort.

    Are full-face snorkel masks safe for kids?

    We don’t recommend full-face snorkel masks for children. While they’ve become popular in recent years, there have been serious safety concerns, including difficulty removing the mask if it fills with water and potential for CO₂ buildup in cheaper or poorly designed models. For kids, a traditional mouth snorkel and a separate, well-fitting eye mask are the safest options. Stick with trusted brands and supervise closely, especially in open water.

    Where’s the best place to snorkel with kids?

    You don’t need a coral reef or a tropical ocean to start snorkelling. The best places for kids are calm, shallow spots with clear water – anywhere they can see the bottom and feel safe. This might be a protected bay, a gentle beach lagoon, a clear freshwater lake, or even a shallow, slow-moving creek (or the swimming pool!). Choose a spot with low waves, good visibility, and a sandy or soft bottom, and let the exploring begin.

    Final Thoughts on Snorkeling with Kids

    Snorkelling has become one of our family’s most joyful shared experiences. It all started in the simplest way: no expectations, just curiosity, shallow water, and lots of fun.

    If you’re heading somewhere by the sea, start in a pool first. Let your kids get comfortable with goggles, then a mask, and finally a snorkel. One small step at a time.

    Remember, even just being in the sea can feel like a big, brave adventure for a child. Let them hold onto you, take their time, breathe slowly, and peek below the surface when they’re ready. Bit by bit, their courage will grow.

    About the Author

    Natalie is a photographer, adventurer, and mom to two teenage girls. She is passionate about getting outdoors and exploring. Based in Cape Town, South Africa, Natalie has lived and traveled all over the world, experiencing firsthand the magic of nature and the freedom it brings to childhood and families.

    Natalie’s Instagram: @natalie99james
    Natalie’s Website: nataliejamesphotography.myportfolio.com

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, FAMILY TRAVEL

    Exploring Churchill: A Train Adventure to Beluga Whales and Polar Bears

    Thinking about a trip to Churchill, Manitoba with your family? You’re in for the adventure of a lifetime. From kayaking alongside beluga whales to spotting polar bears in the wild, Churchill is one of Canada’s most unforgettable (and surprisingly family-friendly) destinations. In this post, Carolyn Regehr, a Canadian mom of two young boys, shares her firsthand experience exploring Churchill with her family. You’ll find everything you need to plan your own Arctic adventure: how to get there, where to stay and eat, what to do (with kids!), what to pack, safety tips, budgeting advice, and so much more.

    All Aboard to Churchill

    Choo Choo!
    Thomas, you can make it up that bridge!
    Chugga-chugga, chugga-chugga Choo Choo!
    Percy, uncouple my car. Whoosh!
    Sir Topham Hatt is waiting for us.

    These are the kinds of conversations that echo through our home on a daily basis. We have two boys, and they’re both obsessed with trains—especially Thomas the Tank Engine. Their wooden train set is a constant source of imaginative play, and they can spend hours lost in their own little railway world.

    So when we told them we were going on a real train adventure, all the way to Churchill, Canada, to see beluga whales and maybe even polar bears, they were beyond thrilled. In fact, they started asking every single day for months: “When are we going on the train?!”

    What Is Churchill…And Where Is It?

    Churchill is a remote town located in northern Manitoba, Canada, perched on the shores of Hudson Bay and the mouth of the Churchill River. Despite its isolation, it’s become a world-renowned destination for wildlife tourism…and for good reason.

    Known as the Polar Bear Capital of the World, Churchill is one of the only places where you can safely spot polar bears in the wild. In the summer, it also offers the incredible experience of seeing and interacting with thousands of migrating beluga whales. Add in breathtaking tundra landscapes and a front-row seat to the northern lights, and it’s easy to see why Churchill is on so many adventure-lovers’ bucket lists.

    Why Visit Churchill?

    People from all over the world travel to Churchill for its one-of-a-kind wildlife experiences and stunning natural beauty. Imagine spotting a massive white bear roaming freely across the tundra, watching the aurora borealis dance overhead, or feeling the gentle nudge of a curious beluga whale as you paddle your kayak across the water. It’s unforgettable.

    My partner Chris and I have always dreamed of visiting Churchill to experience the wild landscape and see wildlife in their natural habitat. When we floated the idea to our boys, they were just as excited. They’ve always loved animals, and the chance to see them outside a zoo, in the wild, was a big deal for all of us.

    Is Churchill for Kids?

    Yes! Absolutely!

    Churchill is a surprisingly family-friendly destination for wildlife lovers. When we visited, our boys were 5 and 7 years old, and it was the perfect age for them to experience this kind of adventure. They were wide-eyed and full of energy as they boarded the train, explored the remote northern town, and squealed every time they spotted wildlife.

    There’s a wide range of activities available, and many can be tailored to fit your family’s interests and comfort level. Whether you’re into boat tours, hiking, cultural experiences, or just watching nature unfold, there’s something for every age.

    Be Bear Aware

    Before diving into all the amazing things to do in Churchill and how family-friendly it is, it’s important to understand one key fact: you’re in polar bear country. While it’s absolutely possible to have a safe and memorable trip with kids, awareness and caution are essential.

    Polar bears are wild, powerful predators, and while most sightings happen on guided tours, they do occasionally wander into town. Locals take this seriously:

    • Car doors are left unlocked so anyone can take shelter if needed.
    • Warning sirens alert the town when a bear is spotted nearby. When you hear it, you head indoors immediately.
    • Certain areas are off-limits, like beaches or trails clearly marked as polar bear habitat.
    • Guides carry firearms for protection during excursions (not to alarm you, but to be prepared in case of emergency).

    As a parent, it’s important to stay close to your kids at all times. Never let children run ahead, and avoid quiet or unpopulated areas on your own. Talk together as you walk, keeping your voices loud, light, and steady helps avoid startling a bear. Always follow local advice, obey signs, and respect the boundaries in place.

    It may sound intense, but this awareness is part of what makes a visit to Churchill so unique. You’re not just visiting a town, you’re stepping into a truly wild environment. With the right precautions, it’s an unforgettable, family-friendly adventure you’ll be talking about for years to come.

    How to Get to Churchill

    Because of its remote location, Churchill is not accessible by road. You’ve got two options to get there: fly or take the train. Both are scenic in their own way, and both offer a unique adventure.

    Option 1: Flying to Churchill with Calm Air

    Calm Air is a regional airline that offers direct flights to Churchill from Winnipeg, Manitoba. The flight takes around 2 hours and gives you stunning aerial views of northern Canada’s wilderness—an unforgettable experience in itself.

    Pros: Fast, convenient, and great if you’re short on time.
    Cons: It’s more expensive than the train and may limit how much gear you can bring.

    Option 2: Riding the Train with VIA Rail

    VIA Rail operates a passenger train from Winnipeg to Churchill, which takes about 45 hours. It’s a long ride, but an incredible way to see Canada’s changing landscapes: thick boreal forests, glittering lakes, and finally, the stark beauty of the tundra.

    You can also opt to drive to Thompson, Manitoba, and catch the train from there, which shortens the journey to about 16 hours. That’s what we did. We made a 2-week road trip out of it, camping at various provincial parks along the way before catching the train in Thompson.

    Pro tip: The train is part of the adventure. Bring snacks, books, games, and enjoy the slow travel experience. It’s part of what makes a trip to Churchill so special.

    Our Churchill Train Adventure with Kids 

    Off in the distance, the train slowly came into view. Chugga-chugga, choo choo! I wish I could have heard our boys’ inner monologue in that moment, but their faces said it all: pure, wide-eyed joy. They stood in awe as the train rolled up to the platform, practically vibrating with excitement.

    The moment had finally arrived. And while playing with toy trains is fun, actually climbing aboard a real one? Absolutely magical.

    Because our train to Churchill left in the evening, we were treated to a lingering summer sunset as we began our journey. We headed straight to the observation dome, where we had a front-row seat to the breathtaking beauty of northern Manitoba. Miles of dense forest, sparkling lakes, and the rhythmic clickety-clack of the train crossing rickety wooden bridges. It was a Canadian train travel experience we’ll never forget.

    Since most of the 16-hour ride (from Thompson to Churchill) took place overnight, we eventually settled in for the night in our semi-reclining seats. With blankets, pillows, and a few trusty stuffies, we did our best to get cozy and grab some rest, though sleeping on a train with kids is always a bit of a gamble!

    Our boys are early risers, and 5 a.m. felt very early that day. But we made the most of it. Together, we crept quietly back up to the dome car and watched the world slowly wake up. As the train gently rolled along, the rising sun painted the sky in brilliant hues, deep blues and purples shifting into soft pinks and warm oranges. It was pure magic.

    By morning, the landscape had changed dramatically. The thick green forests had given way to sparse tundra, with scraggly trees and water-logged lowlands stretching in every direction. And thanks to one of the friendly VIA Rail attendants, we even caught a glimpse of a caribou bounding away into the distance – a thrilling first wildlife sighting before we’d even arrived.

    What to Do and See in Churchill?

    From wildlife encounters to dog sledding, historic sites to mural art, Churchill offers a wide variety of family-friendly adventures. But keep in mind—many of the area’s most exciting experiences are seasonal, so it’s important to plan ahead, know what you want to see, and time your trip accordingly.

    Here’s a breakdown of the top things to do in Churchill and the best time of year to enjoy each one:

    Polar Bear Tours

    Best time to go: October to November

    Hop aboard a massive, all-terrain tundra vehicle, designed to safely navigate the wilds of the north—and venture out to spot polar bears in their natural habitat. These guided tours are one of the main reasons people visit Churchill in the fall. It’s an unforgettable experience!

    Beluga Whale Tours

    Best time to go: Late June through August

    Every summer, about 4,000 beluga whales migrate to the Churchill River to feed and give birth. It’s one of the best places in the world to see belugas, and there are several family-friendly ways to get close to them:

    • Boat tours
    • Zodiac rides
    • Sea kayak or paddleboard excursions

    Some tours also include a stop at Fort Prince of Wales, a National Historic Site accessible only by water.

    Northern Lights Viewing

    Best time to go: February–March and August–September

    Churchill is one of the best places in Canada to see the aurora borealis, thanks to its location under the auroral oval. You can join a northern lights tour or simply step outside your accommodations and look up. Winter offers longer, darker nights, but fall skies can be spectacular too.

    Town & Area Sightseeing

    Best time to go: February–March and June–September

    Explore the quirky charm and rich history of Churchill with a guided or self-paced tour around town. Highlights include:

    • The Wildlife Management Area (keep your eyes peeled for polar bears!)
    • Polar Bear Jail
    • Miss Piggy Plane Crash Site
    • Cape Merry National Historic Site
    • Churchill Rocket Research Range

    Hiking Tours

    Best time to go: June–September

    Stretch your legs on scenic hikes that are both adventurous and educational. Popular routes include:

    • Ithaca Shipwreck trail
    • Sloop Cove to Prince of Wales Fort historic trail

    Always go with a guide if hiking in bear territory.

    Dog Sledding & Dog Carting

    Available: Year-round

    In winter, bundle up and glide through snowy trails on a traditional dog sled ride: a thrilling, hands-on experience kids will love. In summer, swap the sled for a dog cart and enjoy a fast-paced ride through the tundra behind a team of eager huskies.

    Churchill Northern Studies Centre

    Open year-round

    This subarctic research center offers guided tours where visitors can learn about local wildlife, environmental science, and sustainability. Great for older kids and curious learners!

    Museums, Culture & Local Shops

    Open year-round

    Want to dive into the history and heritage of Churchill? Don’t miss:

    • Small gift shops and stores along the main road
    • Itsanitaq Museum – Indigenous artifacts and local history
    • Parks Canada Visitor Centre – Wildlife and cultural exhibits
    • Arctic Trading Company – Locally made crafts and souvenirs

    Churchill Town Centre Complex

    Open year-round

    A surprising gem for families! The complex includes a school, health centre, library, fitness facilities, indoor playground, ice rink, pool, curling rink, and more. It’s the community hub and a great place for kids to stretch their legs indoors.

    SeaWalls Churchill Murals

    Available year-round

    Churchill is home to dozens of stunning outdoor murals created as part of the SeaWalls project, which brings awareness to ocean conservation and northern ecosystems. You can rent bikes, a car, or join a tour to see the artwork up close—it’s a fun way to explore town with kids.

    Best Time of Year to Visit Churchill

    There’s a small window—usually in August—when you might be able to experience all three of Churchill’s big natural attractions:

    • Polar bears (starting to move inland)
    • Beluga whales (still in the river)
    • Northern lights (just beginning to return)

    That’s when we went! Nature is unpredictable, and we knew we might not see everything on our list—but we also knew that any time spent exploring Churchill would be unforgettable, no matter what.

    How to Plan Your Churchill Trip

    There are two main ways to experience Churchill:

    1. Book an all-inclusive tour
    2. Plan your own DIY itinerary

    Option 1: All-Inclusive Tours

    Many tour companies offer all-in-one Churchill packages that include flights, hotel accommodations, guided wildlife excursions, and even some meals. For families who want a stress-free, fully organized experience, this can be a great option. You won’t have to worry about logistics, and you’ll be in the hands of experienced local guides.

    Option 2: Build Your Own Itinerary

    Our family chose the DIY route, and it worked really well for us. Planning our own adventure gave us the flexibility to:

    • Choose the specific tours we wanted
    • Travel at our own pace
    • Explore more budget-friendly accommodations and travel options (like camping and train travel)

    It took a bit more research and effort, but it allowed us to tailor the trip to fit our family’s interests, schedule, and budget.

    When to Book Your Churchill Trip (and How Long to Stay)

    Churchill is a bucket-list destination for many people, and spots fill up fast. Whether you’re traveling in summer to see beluga whales or in fall to spot polar bears, it’s important to book early, ideally several months in advance.

    I recommend:

    • Booking at least 3–6 months ahead for peak seasons (summer and fall)
    • Staying 2 to 4 days in Churchill, depending on how many activities or tours you plan to do

    If you’re combining Churchill with a longer Canada trip (like we did with a road trip through Manitoba), you might want to plan a little extra time for travel days, especially if you’re arriving by train.

    Churchill Tour Companies & All-Inclusive Adventures

    Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive trip or want to book individual wildlife excursions, here are some of the most popular and reputable tour companies in Churchill. Many of them offer polar bear tours, beluga whale watching, dog sledding, and northern lights excursions, depending on the season.

    • Frontiers North Adventures – Known for their iconic Tundra Buggy® tours during polar bear season.
    • Natural Habitat Adventures – Partnered with WWF, offering immersive nature experiences.
    • Lazy Bear Expeditions – Offers both lodge stays and beluga/polar bear combo tours.
    • Churchill Wild – Specializes in luxury wilderness lodges and walking safaris.
    • Discover Churchill – Locally-owned, great for photography and educational tours.
    • Sea North Tours – Beluga-focused summer tours including kayaking and boat trips.
    • North Star Tours – Offers sightseeing, wildlife tours, and cultural experiences.
    • Blue Sky Expeditions – Dog sledding and dog carting year-round.
    • Wapusk Adventures – Family-friendly dogsledding and cultural programs.
    • Nanuk Operations – Limited info available; check locally or through tourism sites.
    • Sub-Arctic Tours – Small group and custom wildlife tours.
    • Beyond Boreal Expeditions – Guided nature and wildlife tours.
    • Kischikamee Wildlife Adventures – Indigenous-led tours rooted in culture and ecology (look for future updates online).

    Where to Stay in Churchill

    If you’re traveling with an all-inclusive package, your accommodations will be included. But if you’re booking à la carte, note that Churchill is a small town with limited lodging, and options fill up fast—especially during polar bear season and summer whale tours.

    Here are some of the most popular places to stay (book early!):

    • Iceberg Inn – Simple, budget-friendly option.
    • Churchill Bed & Breakfast – Cozy, locally hosted stay.
    • Bear Country Inn – Basic amenities, convenient location.
    • Tundra Inn – Popular for families, plus access to the Tundra Pub.
    • Seaport Hotel – Hotel and restaurant combo, walkable location.
    • The Aurora Inn – Apartment-style suites, good for longer stays.
    • Churchill Motel/Hotel – Local listing, call to book.
    • Polar Inn and Suites – Centrally located, clean and simple.
    • Bears Den Bed and Breakfast – Homey and welcoming.
    • Blueberry Inn – Quirky and cozy option with a local vibe.

    Where to Eat in Churchill

    Churchill may be small, but it’s got surprisingly good food—from home-style meals to hearty pub fare and even some upscale options.

    • Tundra Pub – Classic pub-style meals, right next to the Tundra Inn.
    • Seaport Hotel Restaurant – Sit-down dining with a variety of local dishes.
    • Lazy Bear Café – A local favorite with Arctic-inspired cuisine (try the muskox burger!).
    • Dancing Bear Restaurant – Great family-friendly spot with comfort food classics.
    • Ptarmigan Restaurant – Traditional meals with northern flair.
    • Churchill Hospital Cafeteria – Don’t let the location fool you—it’s affordable, filling, and surprisingly good!
    • Northern Store – Best place to grab snacks, groceries, or picnic supplies.

    How to Get Around in Churchill

    Once you’re in Churchill, getting around town is fairly straightforward; it’s a small community with just a few main roads. However, it’s important to understand that Churchill is polar bear territory, and precautions are necessary at all times, even in town.

    While many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, walking around isn’t something to take lightly. Locals are very aware of the risks and follow strict safety measures. You should too.

    Polar bears occasionally wander into town, and while sightings aren’t common on every street corner, they’re serious when they do happen. Locals leave their car doors unlocked in case someone needs to escape a bear. There are warning signs in areas that are off-limits (like certain beaches), and sirens sound when a bear is spotted nearby. When that happens, you head inside quickly and stay there.

    If you’re walking with kids, stay close together, speak loudly, and avoid wandering off down side streets or onto unmarked trails. Always read signage and follow local advice. Never let children run ahead or explore on their own.

    Most tour companies offer pick-up and drop-off for excursions, which is the safest and easiest option. As for car rentals, they aren’t commonly used or necessary. Most places are walkable with caution, and many areas outside town (like the Wildlife Management Area or polar bear viewing zones) are restricted and require permits, which are only available to licensed tour operators. The roads can also be rough and are not ideal for visitors to navigate alone.

    Bottom line: Plan to walk with care in town and let your guided tours handle any out-of-town travel.

    What to Pack for Churchill (With Kids)

    Packing for Churchill is a bit like packing for an adventure to the edge of the world, because, in some ways, you are! The weather can change quickly, the terrain is rugged, and you’ll want your kids to be comfortable (and dry) while exploring. Layers are key, and packing light isn’t really an option when you’re chasing belugas and polar bears.

    Here’s what we packed (and what we’re glad we brought):

    • Layers, layers, layers – Think base layers, fleeces, and a windbreaker or rain jacket. The weather in summer can feel cool, even in July.
    • Waterproof shoes or boots – There’s often puddles, wet grass, and muddy spots, especially near the water. Dry feet = happy kids.
    • Warm hats + gloves – Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially on boat tours.
    • Sunscreen + bug spray – The sun reflects off the water, and the mosquitoes? They are very real.
    • Binoculars – Our kids loved spotting belugas, birds, and (possibly) bears from a safe distance.
    • Small daypack – For snacks, water, and layering pieces when you’re out exploring.
    • Comfort items for the train – Think travel pillows, cozy blankets, stuffies, card games, and snacks. Lots of snacks.
    • Camera or phone with lots of storage – You’ll want to capture the magic.

    Optional but fun:

    • A notebook or journal for kids to document animals they see, draw murals, or write about their trip.
    • Reusable water bottles—Churchill has limited shops, and staying hydrated is important!

    The key is to be prepared for both chilly and mild weather and prioritize comfort. Churchill is casual, no need for anything fancy!

    Budget Tips: What Does a Trip to Churchill Cost?

    Let’s be real: getting to Churchill isn’t cheap. It’s a remote northern destination, and that comes with a price tag. But with a little planning and flexibility, it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s what we learned:

    Biggest costs to expect:

    • Transportation – Whether you fly (more expensive) or take the train (more time, less cost), getting there is a major expense. We saved money by taking the train from Thompson, rather than all the way from Winnipeg.
    • Accommodations – Options range from basic motels and B&Bs to full-service hotels. We booked early to snag a budget-friendly spot.
    • Tours – Beluga and polar bear tours are the highlights of the trip, and understandably, they’re priced accordingly. Expect to spend $100–200+ per person per tour.

    Budget-friendly tips:

    • Bring snacks and groceries – We stocked up in Thompson and used the Northern Store in Churchill for simple meals and packed lunches.
    • Choose one or two must-do tours, and fill the rest of your time with self-guided adventures like murals, hikes, and exploring town.
    • Travel with another family – Splitting costs on accommodations and car rentals can really help.
    • Book in advance – Everything from tours to lodging sells out quickly, and last-minute prices are rarely in your favor.

    If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience with your kids and want to make it count, Churchill is worth every penny.

    Family-Friendly Churchill Itinerary: 3 Days, 2 Nights with Kids

    Our Churchill itinerary was packed with adventure, learning, and unforgettable wildlife experiences. We spent two nights and three full days in Churchill and felt like we saw and did everything we hoped for. If you’re planning a short trip with kids, here’s a sample itinerary to help inspire your own:

    Day 1: Arrival + Kayaking with Belugas

    • 9:00 AM – Arrive by Train in Churchill
      Step off the train and soak in the fresh tundra air—your adventure begins!
    • 1:00 PM – Tour the Churchill Northern Studies Centre
      Take a Green Building Tour at the Churchill Northern Studies Centre and learn about sustainability, ecology, and life in the subarctic.
    • 6:30 PM – Sunset Beluga Kayak Tour
      Join Sea North Tours for a magical sunset kayak with beluga whales. Note: Age restrictions may apply, so plan ahead if traveling with younger kids.

    Day 2: Play, Polar Bears, and More Belugas

    • Morning – Play at Churchill Town Centre Complex
      Let the kids burn off energy in the indoor playground—also a great option if the weather isn’t cooperating.
    • 1:00 PM – Beluga + Fort Tour
      Hop aboard a boat with Sea North Tours for a beluga whale watching tour combined with a visit to the historic Fort Prince of Wales.
    • 4:00 PM – Polar Bear Tundra Tour
      Head out on a tundra vehicle tour with Great White Bear Tours to spot wildlife and explore the vast northern landscape.

    Day 3: Town Exploration + Departure

    7:30 PM – Depart by Train

    Morning – Explore Churchill’s Local Attractions
    Stroll through town, pop into local gift shops, and stop by the Parks Canada Visitor Centre to learn about the region’s history, wildlife, and Indigenous culture.

    1:00 PM – Wildlife Sightseeing Tour
    Wrap up your adventure with a final Wildlife & Sightseeing Tour with Discover Churchill.

    Our Family’s Favorite Churchill Experiences

    Beluga Whales

    We were standing on the rocky shore of Hudson Bay in Churchill, Manitoba. The cool summer wind was gentle and inviting, the salty air carried the smell of the sea, and the white-capped waves shimmered in the sunlight. We had just arrived by train to this world-renowned destination and couldn’t wait to see the bay.

    As we gazed out at the choppy water, something looked… off. The white shapes bobbing along the surface didn’t quite move like waves. I squinted, focusing on the surf—and then it hit me. They weren’t whitecaps. They were beluga whales.

    Standing together as a family, our mouths dropped in amazement. We were watching hundreds of beluga whales surfacing for air right in front of us. It was like the water was alive, belugas to the left, belugas to the right, surfacing, diving, and splashing in every direction.

    We’d read that in summer, around 4,000 beluga whales migrate to the Churchill River to feed and give birth in its warmer, shallow waters. Between July and August, it’s not hard to find them They are quite literally everywhere.

    Later, we joined a beluga whale watching tour in the estuary of Hudson Bay. It was a thrilling and humbling experience to be on the water, surrounded by these curious, gentle creatures. Belugas travel in pods and often swim alongside boats, playing in the wake and peeking above the surface with their signature smile.

    Our guides practiced ethical wildlife tourism, their boats were equipped with propeller guards or jet drives to protect the whales. They also dropped a hydrophone into the water so we could listen to the belugas communicating. We heard chirps, whistles, clicks… and some sounds that had the kids (and us!) giggling. Let’s just say belugas have a surprisingly impressive range of fart noises.

    We were also lucky enough to spot baby belugas, which are gray in color, swimming cheek-to-cheek with their mothers. When mama surfaced, so did baby. It looked like a perfectly choreographed underwater dance, a tender, graceful display of motherhood and connection that left us speechless.

    Wildlife and Sightseeing Tour

    Our Wildlife and Sightseeing Tour took us across Churchill and the surrounding area, exploring landmarks, local lore, and of course, searching for polar bears. While summer sightings aren’t guaranteed, we were incredibly lucky to see one—and the journey to get there was full of surprises.

    We started the day at Cape Merry, climbing around its old stone walls and cannons while learning about the area’s military history. Then we visited several colorful SeaWalls murals, created by artists to inspire protection of the Arctic’s fragile ecosystem.

    Like many tours in Churchill, this one involved a lot of scanning the horizon for white lumps that might be bears. (Spoiler: most were rocks.) Still, the anticipation made it exciting.

    We stopped by Miss Piggy, a crashed cargo plane perched dramatically on a hill. The story goes that after a mechanical failure, the crew walked safely back to town—an odd but beloved Churchill landmark. Next, we visited the outside of the Polar Bear Holding Facility (aka “polar bear jail”), where bears are temporarily held if they wander too close to town. At the time, the jail was empty—no naughty bears behind bars.

    We also explored the old rocket range, pressing imaginary buttons and pretending to launch rockets into the vast northern sky. It was pure childhood magic.

    Finally, just as the tour was wrapping up, we headed into the Wildlife Management Area—and at the last possible moment, our guide spotted a bear. There, sunbathing on a flat rock near the Hudson Bay, was a real, live polar bear.

    From a safe distance, we watched as the bear scratched its back, wiggled around to get comfortable, sniffed the air, and finally laid its head down on the rock, completely relaxed in its wild, northern home.

    It was a moment of pure wonder—and one our family will never forget.

    Polar Bear Safety in Churchill

    Polar bears are not like other bears. They’re apex predators, and they can be dangerous. If you’re planning a visit to Churchill, especially with children, it’s absolutely essential to understand polar bear safety protocols.

    Churchill takes bear safety seriously, and so should you. The town has its own “polar bear patrol” and clear safety guidelines for both residents and tourists. It’s not uncommon to see warning signs around town, and locals will tell you: never walk around after dark, stay close to your group, and be aware of your surroundings, especially in the fall when bears are most active.

    Here are a few quick safety tips to keep in mind:

    • Never wander outside town boundaries or onto the tundra without a trained guide.
    • Avoid walking at night or in low-visibility conditions.
    • Keep kids close and always in sight.
    • Follow the instructions of local guides and tour operators—they know what they’re doing.
    • Read the official Polar Bear Safety Guide on the Town of Churchill website before your trip.

    Despite their reputation, polar bears aren’t lurking on every street corner, but you are in their territory, and a little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring a safe and memorable visit.

    An Arctic Adventure We’ll Never Forget

    We went on a wild adventure all the way to Churchill, a tiny town at the top of Canada where polar bears roam and beluga whales swim in the sea. To get there, we rode a real train for hours and hours through forests, over rickety bridges, and into the wild, open tundra.

    We explored colorful murals, climbed around a crashed plane, and even saw the outside of a real polar bear jail. Just when we thought we might not see one, a polar bear appeared, lounging peacefully on a rock near the bay, calm, majestic, and completely at home in the Arctic.

    We kayaked with beluga whales, giggled at their underwater songs, and watched baby whales swim cheek-to-cheek with their mamas. We played, learned, wandered, and wondered.

    This trip was more than a vacation. It was a family adventure full of awe and discovery, a chance to step into a world unlike any we’d known before. Churchill gave us memories we’ll be talking about for years to come, and a deep appreciation for the wild, wonderful north.

    About the Author

    Carolyn and her family love nature and being outside in all seasons. Through Prairie Crew Adventures’ website and Instagram, Carolyn shares her passion for making the outdoors accessible and enjoyable for families. She shares practical tips, such as what to wear in winter when cross-country skiing, engaging kids on the trail, and crafting budget-friendly travel itineraries, like their memorable trip to Churchill, Manitoba to see beluga whales and polar bears.

  • INFORMATION, PHOTOGRAPHY, SUMMER

    Tips for Taking Beautiful Underwater Photos of Your Kids

    Capturing your kids’ joy underwater is pure magic! But, figuring out how to do it without blurry photos, fogged-up lenses, or ruined gear can feel intimidating. In this post, Virginia mom and professional photographer Wendy Cox shares her best beginner-friendly tips for taking underwater photos of your kids. From gear recommendations and lighting tricks to posing ideas and editing hacks, Wendy breaks it all down in simple, approachable steps. Whether you’re using a phone, GoPro, or waterproof camera setup, you’ll learn how to safely capture crisp, colorful, joy-filled images of your kids beneath the surface (and maybe have a little extra fun together in the process).

    pinnable image

    Beginner’s Guide to Underwater Photography

    “Mom, watch this!”

    How many times have we heard that phrase? I can’t even begin to count, especially when we’re at the pool. My kids want me to watch them jump in. They want me to see them do a handstand underwater. They ask me to watch while they hold their breath. When they cannonball, it doesn’t even count if I wasn’t watching it happen. 

    It can get a little repetitive after the 99th “Watch this!” – but grab a camera, and suddenly you’re the one saying it. Underwater photography turns ordinary pool play into something magical. With a few simple tools and techniques, you can capture bright, joyful memories of your kids that will last a lifetime.

    This beginner’s guide will walk you through everything you need to know about underwater photography, from gear and lighting tips to editing and creativity, so you can confidently take your camera (or phone) beneath the surface this summer.

    Best Underwater Photography Gear for Parents

    There are many choices when it comes to shooting underwater. The prices range from less than $20 to several thousand. For the purposes of this beginner’s guide, let’s talk about four of my favorite options for beginning your journey into underwater photos.

    1. Waterproof Phone Cases

      If you’re planning to only use your cell phone for photos, there are many great options. The least expensive option is a simple waterproof case that you slide your phone into. Here you still have access to the touchscreen, and most will even float in the water. Try this option from Amazon. 

      If you’re looking for a more advanced underwater system to use with your phone, I highly recommend this case from Aquatech. It’s at a much higher price point, but there are a couple advantages. 

      First, you can go to a depth of 10 meters with this case. The touchscreen is still completely accessible, and you have the option to use a bluetooth shutter grip. This allows you to have more control over when the picture is taken. 

      Second, the Aquatech case has the option to purchase an additional and phenomenal accessory. This six inch dome can attach to the case. When in use, you can get those coveted over/under shots. At around $200 for just this attachment, it’s a little pricey, but if you’re at a point where you’re ready to get more creative with your underwater photography, this is your best option.

      Pro Tip: Always test your case in shallow water first before diving in with your kids!

      2. GoPro

      Not all of us want to take out phones in the water with us…I get that! The point is to increase our time off screens, right? The GoPro camera is a great option here. I love not having the distraction of text messages, emails, or phone calls when I’m playing with my kids in the water. 

      My first GoPro was the Hero 5 that I bought back in 2017 (it still works great – and now my kids use it!). I currently have the Hero 10. The newest model is the 13 and can be purchased for about $300. This is a great price for such a versatile camera.

      One of my favorite parts of the GoPro cameras is that they can shoot in RAW. This is a type of file that allows for maximum versatility when editing your underwater images. We’ll talk about editing in a bit, but editing underwater photos can be a challenge. You want everything to work in your favor, and having a RAW image instead of a JPEG to work with is a game changer.

      The newest GoPro has all kinds of lens attachments and fun features. If you’re into taking videos underwater, this is definitely what you’ll want for that 4K video capability. The quality of GoPro videos is unparalleled for the price of the camera. They don’t call it the “official camera of fun” for no reason!

      3. DSLR/Mirrorless Camera Cases

      Perhaps you have started a photography journey already and are now looking to dive into underwater images (pun intended). You already have a DSLR or mirrorless camera that you know how to use well, and would prefer not to purchase more expensive gear.

      Enter the DiCaPac waterproof case. Depending on the camera body and lens you have, you can purchase a DiCaPac on Amazon for around $100. I used this for a couple years, and had no problems with water getting into the bag. I really enjoyed being able to use my “big” camera with manual controls underwater. I was at the point where I wanted to have complete control over all of the settings, and I couldn’t do that with the GoPro or my phone. 

      If you’re shooting in auto, I would recommend the GoPro. But if you’re shooting in manual, the DiCaPac will give you much more flexibility when taking underwater photos. 

      Now that you know what gear is best for your situation, let’s take a plunge into what to do when you’re actually taking the pictures.

      How to get Started with Underwater Photography

      Where to Start: Practice in a Pool

      When you begin shooting underwater, you will have the most success in a pool. Pools typically have clearer water than the ocean, rivers, lakes, or streams. They are the most controlled environment. You’ll want to get comfortable shooting in a pool before you move on to other bodies of water, if you have the option. 

      Start your underwater photography journey at a private pool, if possible. You’ll be worrying about lighting, position of your subject in the frame, holding your breath, getting the angle you want, and so much more. You definitely don’t want to have to worry about a thousand other kids getting in the way of your shot.

      Find a friend, neighbor, or family member with a pool and start practicing there. It will make things so much easier for you!

      Understanding Light & Weather

      Photography can be described as painting with light. Light is extremely important in any situation where photography is concerned. It will make all the difference in how your photos turn out. 

      Choose a Sunny Day

      When you’re just starting out with underwater photography, you’ll want to shoot on a sunny day. Light travels easily through the air around us, but not quite so easily through water. There is so much more that can distort, color, or obscure the light that we need to make a good image. Because of this, you’ll want the most light possible to begin with. That’s why shooting on a sunny day will give you the best results. 

      Time of Day Matters

      I recommend shooting at least two hours after the sun rises, or at least two hours before the sun sets. If you’re shooting in your own pool, make a note of any shaded spots during different times of day. Aim to shoot when most of the pool is in full sun, but not when the sun is directly overhead. 

      Shooting with the sun directly overhead will cause dark shadows under your subject’s eyes. Those shadows are extremely hard to edit. Make it easier on yourself and start with optimal lighting!

      Face the Light

      Your location in the pool is going to make a big difference. Place yourself in the pool with your back to the sun. Face your subject, and make sure they are facing you too. This should mean that they are also facing the sun. With their whole face illuminated, your image will have optimal lighting. 

      Composition Tips for Getting the Best Underwater Shots

      Get Close

      Your proximity to the subject is the second most important part when beginning to shoot underwater (Remember, your first priority is always lighting!) The more water you have between you and your subject, the harder it will be for your camera to focus. More water between you also means less light getting to your lens, and less clarity.

      When you’re as close as you can be to your subject, you’ll focus easier and have better chances at a crisp, bright image.

      Use Burst Mode

      Kids move fast! Use your camera’s burst mode (or continuous shooting) to take multiple photos in seconds. You’ll have a much better chance of capturing that perfect jump or underwater smile.

      Try Different Angles

      Get creative! Shoot from below as they dive in. Capture half-in, half-out “over/under” shots. Photograph their bubbles or ripples for artistic flair. There are so many different ways to shoot underwater and so many fun and interesting shots and details to catch – just start looking for them!

      What to Wear for Underwater Photos

      Color can make a dramatic impact on an underwater photo. Because the water appears blue in photos, wearing something blue will blend in with the background. My favorite colors to put my kids in when shooting underwater are red, yellow, and orange. These warm colors contrast extremely well with the cool blue of the water. 

      If you have a kiddo that is a strong swimmer and extremely comfortable in the water, it’s fun to try out a mermaid tail or even a tulle skirt. 

      Editing Underwater Photos

      Editing underwater photos is a challenge. If you follow the above suggestions, it will give you the best results straight out of the camera, but your photos will still need some editing to make them really pop.

      But, just a reminder, that if you’ve made it this far, give yourself a huge pat on the back! Be proud of yourself for taking the underwater photos, and bask in the joy of your little ones seeing themselves having an incredible time playing in the water. That’s the real reason we’re taking these pictures, right? We want our children to see their childhood through our eyes! We want to remember how much fun we had together every summer.

      If you are someone who edits in Lightroom, here are a few tips. Some edits I make on the majority of my underwater images are:

      • Bring up the contrast
      • Bring up the clarity
      • Warm up the skin tones with a masking brush
      • Play with the blue and aqua HSL sliders

      Best Presets for Underwater Photos

      My dear friend Sophia Costa sells some amazing underwater presets for Lightroom. You can purchase the presets through her website.

      Sophia is the queen of underwater photography. If you are ever in Hawaii I highly encourage you to book a family underwater session with her in the ocean. Her work is phenomenal, and the images she captures for you will be priceless. I had the incredible opportunity to learn from Sophia in person in Hawaii. Her connection to the ocean is apparent in her images. She taught me so much about shooting underwater, and I am constantly inspired by her work.

      Final Thoughts: Dive In!

      Spending time near water isn’t just fun, it’s healing. The benefits of “blue hours” (time spent by water) are well-documented for both kids and adults. It boosts our mood, creativity, and connection with nature.

      So this summer, don’t let those underwater moments slip away. Grab your camera, pick your setup, and start experimenting. Whether you’re capturing cannonballs, mermaid dreams, or underwater giggles, these are the photos your kids will treasure forever.

      If you need inspiration, have questions, or want to connect, you can find me on social media @wendycoxphotography. 

      May your summer be spectacular, your photos be phenomenal, and your memories be magnificent! 

      About the author

      Wendy is a married momma who recently moved from central San Diego, CA to Roanoke, Virginia. She’s raising 4 human kids, 2 goat kids, 4 chickens, and one grumpy cat. She enjoys gardening, hiking, camping, backpacking, going to the beach, and generally getting out-of-doors. Wendy is a family photographer and also works at several local elementary schools as the garden educator. She dreams of traveling to all 50 states and beyond, and believes that there is great beauty to be found in all parts of the earth, we just have to open our eyes to see it.

      Instagram: @wendycoxphotography
      Website: http://www.wendycoxphotography.com

    1. BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

      Best Swimming Holes in Texas: Beat the Heat at These Hidden Gems

      Looking for the best family-friendly swimming holes in Texas? You’re in the right place! In this post, outdoor-loving Texas mom of three, Crystal (@mrs.st.clair), shares her top picks for the best Texas swimming holes that are kid-tested and mom-approved. From the rocky magic of McKinney Falls to stormy fun at Lake Travis, these four spots offer cool water, wild adventures, and unforgettable summer memories. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor parent or just looking for a place to dip your toes, these hidden gems are worth the sunscreen and car snacks.

      4 Best Swimming Holes in Texas for Families

      If you’ve ever muttered “We just need to get out of the house” and found yourself googling “family-friendly swimming holes near me,” then welcome. You’re among friends.

      Texas summers are no joke and fall somewhere between “walking on the sun” and “spontaneous toddler meltdown season.” But we’ve managed to scout out a few magical spots where kids can splash, moms can breathe (kind of), and memories are made between flip flops and juice box explosions.

      Whether you’re new to outdoor parenting in Texas, or a seasoned sherpa of snacks and soggy towels, these four family-tested swimming holes in the Lone Star state will cool you down and cheer you up.

      McKinney Falls State Park – Austin, TX

      A.K.A. the place where your kids will definitely find “dinosaur tracks” and almost definitely get wet

      If you’re looking for a classic cannonball-and-floatie swimming hole… this might not be it. But if your crew thrives on toe-dipping, turtle-spotting, and yelling “MOM! THERE’S A SNAKE!” while you pretend to be chill about it, McKinney Falls is your kind of magic.

      We hit the Upper Falls, which wasn’t exactly swimmable unless your version of swimming includes yelling “Watch your footing!” every two seconds. But it was an epic obstacle course of mini streams, climbing rocks, and the world’s tiniest “tadpole puddles.”

      In the larger, actual swimmable portion of the area we were in, we still decided not to swim. We saw turtles. We saw snakes. (Again: snakes.) So, we did not swim with them in the actual watering hole, despite the begging. But we did explore, splash, and discover what my kids claimed were dino tracks.  They’ve found dino tracks in a Target parking lot, so at this point, I just roll with it.  Either way, they were thrilled.

      It wasn’t a huge hike to get to the actual “fun” part of the park; and that’s one of my favorite parts about this park.  The walk to the water was short, sweet, and totally doable, even stroller-friendly if you’re brave. (We weren’t. Ours stayed in the car.)

      There were also numerous walking trails and other swimming areas in the park that we did not explore.  There was a lot to do here, and we’re excited to go back and explore more for sure! 

      Mom Notes:

      • Sunscreen is non-negotiable. Shade is minimal.
      • Water is essential. Unless you prefer car-warmed Capri Suns, like me (JK)
      • Prepare for mud. It’s a feature, not a flaw. 
      • Admission: $6/adult, kids under 13 are free.

      Kid Score:

      7/10 – Would’ve been a 10 if mom hadn’t ruined their dreams of snapping turtle friendship.

      Pedernales Falls State Park – Johnson City, TX

      Also known as: the day I climbed 200 stairs and survived a surprise gas station detour

      We rolled into Pedernales right at 8:00 a.m., which felt like winning the Outdoor Parenting Olympics.  Or would have except we rolled in on an empty tank of gas, but that was a problem for later. First stop: the scenic side. No swimming allowed, but climbing, exploring, and rock-sliding were a win!

      We climbed around on the rocks, explored little erosion-cut paths and caves, and found what can only be described as nature’s version of a waterslide.  

      After they ran wild, we still needed to conquer the gas problem. We paused for Doritos, apple juice, and a brief existential crisis before heading to the actual swimming side.

      Yes, there are stairs. No, it’s not that bad. Yes, you will feel accomplished once you hit the river.

      The river was shallow, clear, and perfect for potion making. The kids were scooping up plants, splashing in the water, skipping rocks, and throwing pebbles. I sat on a rock and absorbed the joy until someone got sand in their eye. (It was me.)

      Mom Notes:

      • Bring snacks, shoes with grip (and maybe just check the gas level in the car).
      • The river area is great for littles! Calm, clean, and creative.
      • Admission: $6/adult, kids are free.

      Kid Score:

      10/10 – There was a “huge” rock they could slide down; and they got to splash in the water. 

      Canyon Lake Park – Canyon Lake, TX

      The one where we finally, actually swam, and avoided the grass monsters

      By this point in summer, I just wanted water deeper than a puddle. Canyon Lake delivered. Although it’s alarming how much the water level has decreased over the years. 

      We found a fishing pier first, where the kids collected “together shells” (aka clams) and tried to catch fish with sticks, maybe also squabbled a bit. Then we hit the enclosed swim area; and it was total perfection.  Deep enough for cannonballs, shallow enough to chill, and best of all, it’s enclosed by a water bridge so I could let them splash without mentally rehearsing rescue drills.

      The only complaint was the lake grass.

      Long, mysterious, slightly grabby. All three kids avoided it like it was cursed.

      Mom Notes:

      • Zero shade. None. Bring your own or become jerky; or even better, get in the water with the kiddos!
      • Pack like it’s a beach day:
        • Cooler
        • Sunscreen
        • Water bottles (plural)
        • Towels
        • Floaties
        • Goggles
        • Your last shred of patience

      Admission: $20 per vehicle. Worth it.

      Kid Score:

      8/10 – Points lost to the “creepy ankle grabbers.”

      Mom Score:

      9/10 – Perfect setup. Docked one point for grass monsters as well. 

      Lake Travis – Austin, TX

      Where the water’s warm, the kids never stop, and the tent takes flight

      This one’s for the seasoned moms who know that no matter how many stakes you use, Texas wind doesn’t care.

      Lake Travis was supposed to be calm, sunny, and relaxing. We found a beach-style entrance with shallow water, which is perfect for my crew of “confident splashers.” And the kids PLAYED. ALL. DAY.

      Round One: Sunshine & Sudden Storms

      We were thriving with wake boards, boat waves, and duck floaties. My kids also threw “sand balls” into the water, tried to skip rocks again, and dug their toes into the sand.  With my head in my book, and my husband’s turn for eyes on the littles, we were smooth sailing with no sibling arguments this morning.

      Then the air turned cold. A sprinkle. Then a full-on gust that sent our shade tent tumbling down the beach like it had a personal vendetta. My husband chased it. I held the duck floatie like it was the last life vest on the Titanic.  I would have never heard the end of it from my four-year-old (who has to have it; but refuses to use it for fear of it blowing away).  This is her second pink duck floatie, she might be a bit traumatized from losing her first one.  The little ones ran to take shelter in the car while my husband and I packed up everything we could and got out of there. 

      Round Two: Post-Storm Redemption

      Once the storm passed and the remaining tent staked in, the fun resumed. Sandcastles. Wave jumping. One kid even napped in my lap. It was a summer miracle. We stayed there for a good chunk of the day; and even when it was time to leave, my littles did not want to go. 

      The shoreline was a little rocky, but we survived barefoot. Water shoes would’ve been smarter. 

      Mom Notes:

      • Check the weather. Then check it again.
      • Arrive early to beat the crowd and claim your zone.
      • Tent stakes matter. 

      Kid Score:

      9/10 – They wanted to throw the sand balls at each other. I said no. Still bitter.

      Mom Score:

      8.5/10 – Great water, great vibes. Slight tent trauma.

      What to Pack for a Texas Swimming Hole Adventure

      Because nothing ruins the vibe faster than forgetting the towels… or snacks. Definitely the snacks.

      If you’re heading to a Texas swimming hole with kids, you’re not just going for a dip, you’re moving in for the day. Think less “quick swim” and more “waterlogged nomads with a Costco-sized cooler.”

      Here’s what we packed (and a few things I wish I had):

      Must-Haves:

      • Sunscreen
      • Water bottles (plural—hydrated kids = fewer meltdowns)
      • Snacks (double what you think you need)
      • Towels (yes, each child needs their own, even if they promise to “just drip dry”)
      • Swimsuits + backup clothes (somehow, they will end up wearing both at once)
      • Water shoes (for rocks, mysterious mud, and general Texas terrain)
      • Floaties/life jackets (especially for the littles who want to “swim alone” but can’t)
      • Hats + sunglasses (for the fashion AND the function)
      • Plastic bags (for wet clothes, trash, or catching frogs—don’t ask)

      Optional but Awesome:

      • Cooler with real food (PB&Js, fruit, juice boxes that aren’t boiling hot)
      • Bug spray (Texas mosquitoes do not mess around)
      • Goggles (for underwater explorers and wannabe mermaids)
      • Shade tent or umbrella (some places have ZERO shade—looking at you, Canyon Lake)
      • Camp chairs or a picnic blanket (for tired feet and tired moms)

      Pro tip: Keep a basic “swim bag” packed in the car all summer long. It has saved us so many times when a spontaneous splash sesh suddenly becomes Plan A.

      Safety Tips for Swimming Hole Shenanigans

      Because nothing says “fun mom” like being paranoid in a cute swimsuit.

      Let’s be honest, kids are like tiny stunt doubles with no self-preservation instinct. And while these swimming holes are magical, they also come with their fair share of “be careful!” moments. Here are a few things we’ve learned the sweaty, muddy, possibly snake-adjacent way:

      Keep Your Eyes on the Prize (aka Your Kids)

      • Most of these spots don’t have lifeguards. That’s you now. Congratulations.
      • Even shallow water can be slippery or fast-moving. And kids will definitely attempt things they saw in a cartoon once.

      Footwear Matters

      • Sharp rocks, mossy steps, and mystery mud await.
      • Water shoes = worth every penny. Barefoot? Bold. (But… I’ve done it.)

      Know Before You Go

      • Check the weather. Texas storms are sneaky and sometimes show up with wind that launches your tent into another zip code.
      • Cell service is spotty at best in some parks—download maps, save the address, and let someone know where you’re headed.
      • Be aware of flash flooding warnings, especially after rain. Some parks will close access to swimming areas for safety.
      • On the other hand, a lack of rainfall may turn some swimming holes into nothing more than mud puddles.

      Wildlife is… Wild

      • We saw snakes. Like, actual real snakes. Are they aggressive? No. Were my children screaming like it was a horror movie? Absolutely.
      • Also: turtles, frogs, birds, and whatever mysterious creature was rustling in the grass near my foot. Let nature do its thing—but keep your eyes open and your distance if needed.

      Hydrate and Take Breaks

      • Between sun and splashing, it’s easy to overdo it. We build in snack + shade breaks every hour-ish. Not for the kids. For me.

      Bottom line? You don’t need to be a wilderness expert. You just need to be prepared enough to keep everyone safe and semi-sane. And if all else fails, throw them a fruit snack and tell them to sit down for five minutes. Works every time.

      Final Thoughts from a Soggy, Happy Mom

      Swimming holes are a rite of summer, and Texas has some hidden gems that are perfect for memory-making with grass monsters, rogue tents, and all. Whether you’re braving the snakes at McKinney, making potions at Pedernales, escaping the sun at Canyon Lake, or chasing gear down Lake Travis, know this:

      You’re doing great.

      You packed the snacks. You showed up. You got them outside. You let them get wet, wild, and wonderfully messy.

      That’s the magic. That’s the win.

      Now go shake out those towels and start planning your next splash.

      About the Author

      Crystal is a mom of three with some sort of a camera always in hand (because let’s face it, every family moment needs to be documented, even if the older kids are over the paparazzi). By day, Crystal’s an accountant, but come the weekend, it’s all about the great outdoors. Between school, work, and surviving the chaos, her family squeezes in as many adventures as they can, from exploring parks to simply enjoying each other’s company. Life is a whirlwind, but while they’re still little and letting mom hug them a little too much, she’s trying to enjoy every second of it!

      Find Crystal on Instagram: @mrs.st.clair

    2. OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

      How to Go Mudlarking: Fun Summer Adventure for Families

      If you’re searching for an easy, budget-friendly summer activity to get your kids outside, mudlarking might be your new favorite adventure. In this guide to mudlarking with kids, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this fascinating hobby—what it is, where it comes from, how to get started, and why it’s the perfect way to spend a hot afternoon by the water. In this post, Jessie Lehson of Wineberry Woods covers the origin of mudlarking, where to go mudlarking, and what you’ll find when mudlarking with kids. Let’s grab our collecting bags and head to the creek!

      Perfect family-friendly summer nature activity: mudlarking

      It’s hot. It’s sticky. Getting outside in the height of summer can feel like more trouble than it’s worth. Where we live it routinely soars into the 90s and beyond. We do not live near a beach. What’s a nature loving family to do?

      Head to your local creek, stream, river or lake and go mudlarking!  

      What is Mudlarking?

      mudlark: a person who grubs in mud (as in search of stray bits of coal, iron, rope)
      specifically : an urchin who grubs for a living along the tide flats of the English 

      –Merriam Webster Dictionary 

      mudlarking: the activity of searching the mud  near rivers trying to find valuable or interesting objects.

      -Cambridge Dictionary

      History and Origins of Mudlarking

      History & Origins of Mudlarking

      Mudlarking has surprisingly gritty origins? Back in 18th and 19th century London, “mudlarks” weren’t just hobby treasure hunters—they were usually impoverished folks (sometimes kids) who made a living scouring the Thames River at low tide for anything they could sell: bits of coal, scrap metal, bones, you name it. It was a tough, dirty way to survive.

      These days, mudlarking has thankfully evolved into more of a quirky pastime than a matter of life or death. Modern mudlarks still comb riverbanks in England (and all over the world) hoping to discover little pieces of history—a centuries-old clay pipe, a Victorian coin, or, in our case, a nicely frosted chunk of river glass. So, when you head out mudlarking with your kids, you’re participating in a tradition that spans generations, just with a lot more sunscreen and snacks.

      Modern day mudlarking wtih kids

      We love to search along rivers and streams for river glass, bits of pottery, fossils and interesting rocks in the summer. I was talking to a British friend about our treasure hunts recently and she said, “oh, you are mudlarking!” I was immediately taken with that descriptor, it sounds so much more exciting and whimsical than “looking for stuff in the mud,” which would have been how I described it. (Not that there’s anything wrong with playing in the mud, mind you.)

      After some more research, I discovered that mudlarking was once a source of income for impoverished Londoners during the 18th and 19th centuries. It has since come to mean something much less serious, but I don’t let that stop me from calling my children urchins.       

      Why Mudlark?

      • Everyone loves treasure hunting!
      • You are jealous of people who live near beaches and have huge sea glass collections (possibly speaking from experience here.)
      • You can find a stream, creek, river, or lake nearly everywhere.   
      • It’s a great way to entertain kids who are boooooored…
      • It’s something different to do in a park or natural area.
      • Mudlarking is great for mixed age groups and mixed attention spans.
      • It’s a great way to spend time outside and will keep kids occupied for quite a while.
      • Streams (especially in wooded areas) are often ten degrees cooler than the ambient air temperature.
      • This is a perfect activity for more urban areas– most mudlarking treasure begins its life as trash.
      • It requires little or no preparation/supplies. 
      • It doesn’t require much in the way of advance planning.

      What is River Glass?

      River glass is my favorite thing to look for while mudlarking. It is exactly like sea glass, except it comes from a river (or stream/creek) rather than the ocean. It’s actually easier to find too because it was common until painfully recently to just dump glass and other trash into bodies of water. As the glass gets broken up and churned around in the water for years, its edges smooth over and it takes on that distinctive frosty patina.    

      How Do You Get Started Mudlarking?

      One of the best things about mudlarking is that it’s extremely simple to do. 

      1. Find a stream/ river/ creek etc near you
      2. Go there
      3. Look for stuff
      4. You’re doing it! 

      You don’t need to spend hours researching the best places, you don’t need to go someplace exotic, you just need to get outside and look for cool stuff! 

      What Sorts of Treasure Can You Find?

      The area that you live in will largely determine what treasures you might find. We find tons of river glass, but we’ve also found fossils, pottery shards and so many interesting rocks. Sometimes we get distracted by interesting fish, but we leave them where they are! Arrowheads and other historic artifacts, crystals, and even lost jewelry can be found mudlarking. There are quite a few freshwater mollusk shells you might find too– we collect huge shiny river mussel shells! I have even heard of a place in England where a lego shipment was lost and legos now wash up on shore! Treasure is in the eye of the beholder… 

      What Supplies Do You Need to go Mudlarking?

      • You’ll probably want to bring something to collect your finds. We like to use what we call “collecting bags.” They are just cheap mesh drawstring bags. They hold on to treasures and let dirt and muck sift out. They are also great for no waste goody bags at parties! Pockets will do in a pinch. You can of course look and not collect if you prefer. 
      • Definitely bring a snack, my kids would never forgive me if I didn’t bring a snack. I thought they might outgrow that… they have not.
      • Boots or water shoes are a good idea, I don’t have this problem, but my children always seem to end up in the water.
      • Young kids might enjoy a magnifying glass. (It’s not at all necessary though.)
      • Some people bring metal detectors. We don’t, but if you have one it might be fun, especially for older kids. (magnet fishing too)
      • If you have a quieter child in your group, a nature journal is a great way to get some down time and draw treasures rather than running around looking for them. 

      Where can you Mudlark?

      The short answer is anywhere where there is water. Flowing water is usually best, but big lakes and ponds can work too. I find places that are really rocky seem to have the best success. (And by rocky I mean strewn with lots of little rocks, not big bouldery ones.) Practically, I like streams with trees and thereby shade in the summer, but that is of course, optional. I am not aware of any mudlarking regulations in the U.S. (you need a permit in the U.K.) but it’s always best to check for any local regulations.

      If you know that there have been settlements near the water at one time or another that is a good clue that there might be artifacts to be found. Sadly, people still drop glass bottles into the water today though, so it’s not a requirement. You might also check to see if there is a nearby fossil or mineral deposit or other point of interest.  

      Finding the Best Mudlarking Spots

      While you can technically mudlark anywhere there’s water and a bit of shoreline, some spots tend to be richer in hidden treasures. Look for places where people have gathered (and accidentally dropped stuff) for a long time—old bridges, picnic areas, fishing spots, or near historic towns. Bends in rivers are also great because the current naturally deposits debris there.

      We’ve found our best hauls in shallow, rocky stretches with lots of little stones to sift through. Shady spots under trees are a bonus in summer, both for keeping cool and for prolonging the stamina of small, easily-overheated urchins. If you’re not sure where to start, pull up Google Maps satellite view and look for accessible riverbanks or creek beds close to home. Just make sure you’re not trespassing, and always check if collecting is allowed in your chosen spot.

      Identifying and Cleaning Your Finds

      Part of the fun of mudlarking is figuring out what you’ve actually picked up. Is that a fossilized shell or just a weirdly shaped rock? A piece of pottery or a chunk of cement? (We’ve had debates.) For river glass, you’re looking for that smooth, frosted surface, shards that have been tumbled around long enough to lose their sharp edges.

      If you think you’ve found something old or special, a quick internet search can usually help you identify it. As for cleaning, it doesn’t have to be fancy, warm soapy water and an old toothbrush will get most of the grime off. Just be gentle if you suspect something is fragile. Once cleaned, you can admire your treasure hoard, proudly display it, or stash it away in a jar to remind you of your summer adventures.

      What Can You Do with Your Treasures? 

      You can treasure them, display them, or make arts and crafts with them! You can read more about different ways to display treasures on nature tables on my blog Wineberry Woods here. You can also find tutorials to make a river glass mobile or suncatcher! 

      About the Author

      Jessie Lehson is the author of seasonal children’s books and nature-focused curricula. She is the founder of a public nature school in Baltimore, MD, and the former director of an educational farm owned by Baltimore City Public Schools. A longtime teacher and professor of sculpture, Lehson is an illustrator and environmental artist. Lehson is an avid chicken keeper, urban homesteader, master gardener and permaculture designer. She is mom to two adventurous little boys who love nature.

    3. FAMILY TRAVEL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

      Houseboating Lake Powell with Kids

      Ever considered a family adventure that’s part camping, part boating, and 100% unforgettable? In today’s post, California mom Felicia Wong shares her family’s firsthand experience houseboating on Lake Powell, an iconic reservoir along the Arizona–Utah border known for its red rock canyons, hidden coves, and endless opportunities for fun on the water.

      From practical tips on renting a houseboat and meal prepping for a hungry crew to honest reflections about what it’s really like to spend a full week living off-grid on the lake, this guide will inspire you to consider a houseboat vacation of your own—whether you’re an experienced boater or total beginner.

      tips for houseboating with kids - Lake Powell houseboats

      Trying Something New: Houseboating

      A few years ago, if you’d told me I’d be spending an entire week living on a boat, I would’ve smiled politely and said, “That’s not really our thing.”

      So, when my brother, a boating enthusiast based in Arizona, invited us to join his family and friends on a houseboating trip on Lake Powell in 2021, I asked if we could just join for part of the week. He explained that bringing us back to the marina mid-week would be too difficult, so we committed to the full week and ended up having such a great time that we went again in 2023.

      Turns out, houseboating with kids is a magical mix of off-grid simplicity, water fun, and breathtaking views. If you’ve ever been curious about houseboating (or particularly, houseboating with kids on Lake Powell), here’s everything we learned about how to make it happen (even with grandparents in tow).

      What It’s Like Houseboating on Lake Powell with Kids

      Houseboating is kind of like camping… but on a floating RV. You sleep, cook, eat, swim, and explore — all with your boat as your home base!

      Lake Powell stretches over 180 miles along the Utah-Arizona border, winding through Glen Canyon National Recreation Area with hundreds of little coves and sandstone inlets perfect for anchoring and exploring. With little to no cell service or reception in the canyon, the vibe is blissfully unplugged and adventurous, with days that blend into each other in the best way.

      Our kids loved waking up to views of towering red cliffs and glassy water each morning. Every evening, we’d watch the sunset turn the canyon walls pink and gold—something none of us will ever forget.

      How to Rent a Houseboat on Lake Powell 

      We’re lucky—my brother has a share in a houseboat timeshare, which means he gets a set week each year at Lake Powell. If you have friends or family or know someone with access to a houseboat, it’s an amazing way to experience lake life!

      You can also rent a houseboat directly from the Lake Powell marinas at Wahweap, Arizona, or Bullfrog, Utah. The houseboat rentals typically include bedrooms, bathrooms, and a kitchen. Some even have a water slide! Depending on the size, houseboats can accommodate multiple families. You can add on smaller boats or jet skis to your rental.

      Anyone 18 or older with a valid driver’s license can drive a houseboat. Staff will walk you through how to operate everything, and you can opt for a complimentary captain to help get you in and out of the marina. Once you’re out on the lake, you take over.  The first thing you’ll need to do is cruise the lake to find your anchoring spot. 

      Pro tip: Most families anchor for the week in a protected cove with shallow beaches. It’s kind of like finding your basecamp in the wilderness—once you’re there, you’ll generally stay put for the rest of the trip.

      Fun Things to Do on a Lake Powell Houseboat with Kids

      I worried the kids (and I) would get bored spending a full week on a boat, but that couldn’t have been further from the truth! There was so much to do!  Some favorites:

      • Swimming right off the back deck (life vests are a must!)
      • Floating on tubes, lily pads, and relaxing in the calm coves
      • Fishing for bass and catfish
      • Exploring nearby slot canyons and surrounding rock formations
      • Evening games and stargazing from the top deck
      • Paddleboarding and kayaking (if you bring them)
      • Jet skiing, boating, tubing, water skiing, and wakeboarding

      One highlight was visiting Rainbow Bridge National Monument, one of the world’s largest natural bridges. It’s not only a stunning sight but also a sacred place for many Native American tribes. You’ll boat to the trailhead and then hike in for a closer look—definitely worth the effort.

      Houseboat Meal Planning & Tips

      Feeding a crew on a houseboat takes a little planning, but it’s a lot like prepping for a camping trip. Before arriving at Antelope Marina (where my brother’s houseboat is anchored), we stop in Page, Arizona, to stock up at Walmart or Safeway.

      Ahead of time, we chat with the other families and plan a group menu. Each family takes turns cooking. We map out breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks. Some hits: tacos, BBQ, pasta, and fish we caught fresh!

      Pro tip: pack more snacks than you think you’ll need. Sun + swimming = constantly hungry kids.

      What to Pack for a Family Houseboat Vacation

      Here are some of the essentials we recommend bringing on a Lake Powell houseboating trip with kids:

      • Life jackets for everyone
      • Swimsuits, rash guards, and sun hats
      • Reef-safe sunscreen (and plenty of it)
      • Water shoes (rocky beaches can be rough)
      • Dry bags for phones or valuables
      • Books, games, coloring supplies
      • Easy food staples and lots of water
      • First aid kit + motion sickness meds just in case

      Other ways to explore Lake Powell

      Not sure about a full week on a houseboat? You can still experience Lake Powell’s magic with shorter trips. Powerboats, watercraft, and jet skis are available for rent from the Lake Powell Marinas. You can also book a guided tour to places like Antelope Canyon or Rainbow Bridge. These day trips let you soak in the beauty of the lake without needing to sleep on the water.

      Final thoughts on houseboating

      Houseboating on Lake Powell is unlike any other family trip we’ve done. It turned out to be one of our family’s most memorable adventures—something I never would have expected when we first said yes. It’s unplugged, full of sunshine and splashy fun, and the kind of experience that invites you to slow down and really connect with nature and each other. We’ve appreciated beautiful sunsets over the water, counted stars from the top deck, and made lasting memories our family will cherish forever. 

      If you’re willing to try something a little different and step outside your comfort zone, this kind of trip offers the chance to unplug, connect with your kids, and soak up some of the most beautiful scenery.

      No matter where you choose to launch your own family houseboating vacation (there are gorgeous lakes and houseboats available to rent across the country!), I hope these tips and stories inspire you to start planning. You never know, you might end up loving it so much you’ll be back again and again, just like we were.

      About the author

      Felicia Wong is a Southern California psychiatrist, mental health and wellness advocate, and outdoor enthusiast who believes in finding the wonder in everyday life. As a busy mom in a two-physician household, she makes it a priority to unplug, get outside, and create meaningful experiences with her husband and tween boys. A photographer, vlogger, and storyteller, Felicia shares tips for living intentionally and embracing everyday adventure on Instagram and her blog, inspiring others to find joy in the outdoors. She values her close multigenerational family relationships and will often #BringTheGrandparents on adventures, showing that the outdoors is for every age.

      Passionate about diversifying outdoor spaces and recognizing that representation matters for Asian American families, she enjoys contributing to platforms like RWMC to help more people feel welcome in and access and enjoy outdoor spaces. As a family, you can find them camping, hiking, fishing, biking, skiing, and trying new activities together.

    4. FAMILY TRAVEL, LOCAL GEMS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, WATER

      Family Travel Guide to Innsbrook, Missouri

      If you’re looking for a peaceful, nature-filled escape that’s close to St. Louis but feels a world away, let me introduce you to one of my favorite hidden gems: Innsbrook, Missouri. I’m Sara, a mom of three and the founder of Run Wild My Child, and our family has been visiting Innsbrook for years. It’s one of those places that’s become part of our seasonal rhythm—whether we’re kayaking in the summer, hiking in the fall, or just soaking in the quiet, lakefront vibes year-round. In this post, I’m sharing everything you need to know to plan your own family getaway to Innsbrook, including what to do, where to stay, and why this spot should absolutely be on your radar.

      *Post created in collaboration with Happy Stay Chalet. Accommodations were exchanged for review purposes. All opinions expressed and all photos contained herein belong to the author.
      Family Travel Guide to Innsbrook, Missouri

      What is Innsbrook?

      Innsbrook is a gated, private lake community and nature retreat located in Warren County, Missouri.

      At first glance, it might seem like a quiet residential development in the woods, but don’t be fooled. Spread out over more than 7,500 acres of rolling hills, forest, and glistening lakes, Innsbrook is a unique blend of peaceful getaway, family-friendly vacation destination, and outdoor playground.

      Founded in the early 1970s as a secluded second-home community, Innsbrook was intentionally developed to preserve as much of the natural landscape as possible. Homes and chalets were designed to blend into the woods, and every effort has been made over the years to maintain its quiet, low-impact, nature-first vibe.

      Unlike a resort or country club, Innsbrook doesn’t have the flashy signage, scheduled activities, or bustling crowds—and that’s exactly why people love it. It’s the kind of place you find out about from a friend who’s been going for years, and once you visit, you immediately understand why they’ve been keeping it a secret.

      Midwest Family Getaway - Innsbrook Resort - Innsbrook Missouri

      Private lakeside community

      The community is home to more than 100 lakes (yes, really!), ranging from small fishing ponds to the expansive Lake Alpine, the largest and most popular for swimming, boating, and kayaking.

      There are over 100 miles of private roads and nature trails, beaches, waterfalls, and wildlife everywhere you turn. And, since it’s gated, traffic is minimal and the vibe is safe and secluded, making it ideal for families with young kids to roam and explore.

      Innsbrook is primarily made up of privately owned homes, many tucked into the woods and overlooking a lake. Some owners live there full-time, while others use their property as a weekend retreat or vacation rental. The rental properties range from rustic A-frame chalets and cozy cabins to modern, fully renovated lakefront condos and homes with all the amenities.

      Because it’s not a traditional resort, you won’t find front desk check-ins, on-site staff, or too much scheduled entertainment (although, there is some). Instead, you’ll find peace, privacy, and room to breathe—plus more frogs, fireflies, and sunsets than your kids will know what to do with. It’s the kind of place where you unplug, make your own fun, and reconnect with the people you came with.

      Innsbrook Resort - family travel

      Where is Innsbrook?

      Innsbrook is located in Warren County, Missouri, approximately 42 miles west of St. Louis, off Highway 70 (Wright City exit). This translates to about an hour’s drive (even less from the suburbs), making it an ideal destination for families seeking a quick escape from the city without the hassle of long travel times. ​

      While the community itself provides a tranquil retreat, nearby towns such as Wright City and Warrenton are just a short drive away, offering additional dining, shopping, and entertainment options. ​

      Evenings at Innsbrook - firepit and smores

      Outdoor activities at Innsbrook

      One of the best things about Innsbrook is the abundance of self-directed outdoor activities that allow families to connect with nature at their own pace. Whether you’re staying in a lakefront chalet or nestled in the woods, there’s no shortage of adventures waiting just outside your door.

      Water activities at Innsbrook

      One of the things that made us fall in love with Innsbrook right from the start was the water. The lakes here aren’t just pretty to look at—they’re the heart of the experience, especially for kids.

      During one of our very first trips, my kids discovered kayaking on the tiny lake right outside our rental. It was the perfect setup—I could see the entire lake from the dock, which gave me peace of mind, and they felt like brave little explorers paddling around on their own for the first time. We started out paddling together, but after a few practice runs, they were suiting up in their lifejackets and heading out solo (with me keeping a very close eye, of course). They were so proud of themselves, and honestly, I was too.

      Since then, we’ve returned many times, and we always try to book a place on a small lake where the kids can explore independently but still be within eyesight. It gives them this amazing sense of freedom and adventure, without sacrificing safety.

      Most rental properties at Innsbrook include some kind of water gear, whether it’s a kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or even a paddleboat. We’ve never had to bring our own, and many homes also have lifejackets stocked, which makes things so much easier for parents.

      If your rental isn’t directly on the water, larger lakes like Lake Alpine have public access points and even a small sandy beach area for swimming. (Gas-powered motorboats aren’t allowed, which means the lakes stay quiet and safe for paddling, fishing, and floating.)

      Whether your kids are paddling around a tiny cove, jumping off the dock, or just tossing pebbles into the water for fun, Innsbrook’s lakes are the kind of low-key, screen-free magic we all crave.

      Innsbrook dock and kids - lake activities

      Fishing at Innsbrook

      If you’ve got kids who love to fish—or kids you hope will learn to love fishing—Innsbrook is the place. My boys can spend hours out on the water with their poles, and honestly, some of our best memories here revolve around lazy afternoons with lines in the water and not a care in the world.

      Nearly every lake in Innsbrook is stocked with fish, and there are over 100 lakes to choose from. Most of the rental homes we’ve stayed in have had private docks or easy lake access, and many even come with a kayak or canoe and some basic fishing gear.

      The bass fishing is especially great, and in the winter months, many of the lakes are stocked with rainbow trout—which has become a bit of a family tradition for us.

      One of my favorite Innsbrook memories happened a few winters ago. My oldest spent a brutally cold day on the water fishing and ended up catching four trout from the lake near our chalet. He was so proud of himself—he cleaned the fish, built the fire, and cooked them all on his own for dinner! He still tells that story every chance he gets, and I genuinely think that experience gave him a huge confidence boost and a sense of independence that’s hard to come by these days. There’s just something about catching your own dinner that hits differently.

      Innsbrook fishing - fishing with kids

      Things to note: While you can fish in most of the lakes, some are private (especially those with homes that don’t allow guest access), so it’s best to stick to the lake your rental is on or check the Innsbrook property map for designated common areas like Lake Alpine or Lake Aspen.

      You don’t need a Missouri fishing license to fish at Innsbrook, but there are guidelines about what you can keep (especially for bass, crappie, and catfish), so take a quick peek at the current rules before you cast off.

      If your kids are anything like mine, they’ll be dragging you out to the dock at sunrise and staying out ‘til the s’mores are calling. And honestly? That sounds like a perfect day.

      Kid holding giant bluegill - Fishing at Innsbrook with kids

      Innsbrook hiking trails

      Innsbrook has seven designated trails, ranging from easy loops to longer woodland treks. The paths are well-marked and wind through everything from pine groves and open meadows to lakeshores and hidden creeks. Many of the trails are short and totally manageable for younger kids, making them great for a post-lunch stroll or a quiet morning nature walk.

      To be honest, we don’t usually hike when we come to Innsbrook (the kids are too busy paddling around or fishing to be pulled off the water), but the one time we did hit the trails, it was awesome.

      We visited during the winter months, bundled up in layers, and set off with zero expectations—just looking to stretch our legs and explore. What we found was a quiet, snow-dusted trail that led us to a tucked-away waterfall, completely frozen over. The kids were amazed. They broke off icicles, tried eating them, and turned them into makeshift swords for an epic sibling duel right there in the woods.

      waterfall hike - hiking with kids in the winter - Innsbrook hiking

      Biking at Innsbrook

      While Innsbrook doesn’t have designated mountain biking trails, the extensive network of private roads and paths throughout the community is ideal for leisurely rides. These routes meander through wooded areas, around lakes, and past charming chalets, offering riders picturesque views and a peaceful atmosphere.​

      Not many rental properties come equipped with bicycles, so it’s advisable to bring your own. Currently, Innsbrook does not offer on-site bike rentals, so having your own equipment ensures you can fully enjoy the biking experience.

      Pickleball at Innsbrook

      Resort amenities at Innsbrook

      One of the things that makes Innsbrook so unique is that it can totally adapt to whatever kind of vacation vibe you’re looking for. If you want that country club meets lake life kind of experience—with golf, tennis, a pool, and a restaurant where someone else makes your dinner—you can absolutely have that here.

      But, if you’re more into the rustic, laid-back, “barefoot all weekend and maybe don’t even see another human” summer camp energy… that’s also 100% an option.

      Most of the time when we visit, we fall into the latter category. We skip the resort side of things completely. No golf, no pool, no restaurant—we stick to our quiet little chalet and our tiny lake, where the kids paddle around all day, the dogs nap on the deck, and we rarely (if ever) run into other people. It’s quiet, it’s peaceful, it’s our kind of perfect.

      That said, it’s really nice to know the resort-style amenities are there, especially if you’re visiting with extended family, friends, or just kids with different interests.

      There’s an 18-hole golf course (which my kids would totally be into—we just haven’t done it yet), plus tennis and pickleball courts, a full fitness center, and a zero-entry pool that’s great for younger kids or those who aren’t quite ready to jump into a deep lake full of fish. There’s even a restaurant and bar on-site if you’re not in the mood to cook (been there).

      One activity that’s on my Innsbrook bucket list is horseback riding. They offer guided trail rides through the woods, and every time I see someone trotting past on a horse, I promise myself we’ll try it “next time.” One of these visits, we’re going to make it happen.

      So whether you’re craving connection and quiet or a full-on family activity schedule, Innsbrook gives you the freedom to choose. You can do it all—or do absolutely nothing. And both options are kind of amazing.

      Gorgeous family friendly private chalet Innsbrook - Happy Stay Chalet

      Where to Stay at Innsbrook

      When it comes to places to stay at Innsbrook, you’ve got a lot of options—but it’s not as straightforward as you might think. Because of zoning regulations within the community, not all properties can be rented out, and not all lakes allow short-term rentals, so availability can vary quite a bit. But if you know what you’re looking for (and what you’re not), you can find something truly special.

      There are three main types of properties available to rent:

      • Chalets (the original wooden A-frames, often tucked into the woods or right on the lake)
      • Condos (mostly near the big lakes, with shared amenities)
      • Single-family homes (larger, often more modern homes—great for groups or extended family trips)

      We almost always stay in one of the classic chalets—those charming A-frame cabins that just feel like lake life. The ones we choose are usually right on the water, and it’s hard to beat the view from a dock or deck with a coffee in hand and kids splashing nearby.

      But a little heads-up: not all chalets are created equal. Some of them haven’t been updated in decades (plumbing quirks, no laundry, no dishwasher or garbage disposal), while others have been beautifully renovated and feel super cozy and modern.

      The thing I love is that each chalet is totally unique. Some have their own little sandy beach, others have sprawling decks overlooking the lake, and some come with hot tubs, fire pits, or kayaks. It’s kind of like lakefront Airbnb roulette—but in the best way.

      Happy Stay Chalet

      Our recent stay at Happy Stay Chalet was hands-down the nicest Innsbrook rental we’ve experienced—and that’s saying something after a half dozen plus trips. This place checks all the boxes for families.

      It’s beautifully updated (yes, it has a dishwasher and laundry!), super clean, thoughtfully decorated, and totally stocked with everything you could possibly need for a relaxing and fun getaway with kids. The vibe is cozy and inviting, but not overly “don’t touch that” fancy—just right for real-life families.

      Here’s what we loved most about Happy Stay Chalet:

      • Waterfront location with private dock
      • Kayaks, paddleboards, and lifejackets included
      • Firepit (perfect for s’mores under the stars)
      • Updated kitchen with dishwasher and modern appliances
      • Washer & dryer because laundry happens
      • Hot tub for warm soaks under the stars (brand new!)
      • Fully-stocked kitchen with everything you need
      • Family-friendly travel items like travel crib, stepstools, nightlights, etc.
      • Cozy beds and lots of space to spread out
      • Pet-friendly (our pups were very happy campers!)
      • Board games, books, and thoughtful family extras
      • Super comfortable beds (and sleeps up to 8 people!)
      • Peaceful, quiet setting with beautiful lake views
      • Resort access to all the amenities such as golf, tennis, pools, restaurant, and horseback riding

      It’s the kind of place you walk into and immediately feel at home (my kids asked why we don’t just move here). Everything has been curated with families in mind—from the layout and furniture to the outdoor gear and entertainment options. It would be a perfect pick for a long weekend, a summer escape, retreat, or even a holiday getaway.

      If you’re looking for a place that balances comfort, adventure, and kid-friendliness (plus dog-friendliness!), Happy Stay Chalet is it.

      Happy Stay Chalet Innsbrook

      Nearby kid-friendly adventures

      While Innsbrook is perfect for unplugging and immersing yourself in nature, there are some delightful spots nearby that are worth exploring, especially if you’re up for a little outing with the family.​

      Big Joel’s Safari

      Just a short drive from Innsbrook, Big Joel’s Safari in Wright City is a family-owned petting zoo and educational park that’s a hit with kids. With over 60 species of animals, including camels, zebras, and lemurs, it’s a hands-on experience where children can feed and interact with various animals.

      My kids absolutely love Big Joel’s. They get a kick out of feeding the animals and loving on the goats. It’s become a must-visit whenever we’re in the area. ​

      Wright City Lavender Farm - Long Row Lavender - Things to do near Innsbrook with Kids

      Long Row Lavender

      Also located in Wright City, Long Row Lavender is a serene 15-acre farm that offers a peaceful retreat. Beyond the beautiful lavender fields, there’s a charming gift shop filled with handmade lavender products and a cozy café serving delicious treats. You can pick your own lavender bundles, explore the property, or sit on the swing overlooking the pond. We’ve enjoyed their lavender lemonade and lavender lattes, and often pick up some homemade goodies to take home.

      Innsbrook with Kids - family-friendly chalet

      Travel tips for visiting Innsbrook

      If you’re thinking about planning a family trip to Innsbrook (and I hope you are!), here are a few helpful tips to make your visit as smooth and stress-free as possible:

      • Book early, especially for spring, summer, and holiday weekends. The best rentals go quickly, and some families return to the same place year after year.
      • Double-check amenities before booking. Not all chalets (or other vacation rentals) are created equal—make sure you know if your rental has laundry, air conditioning, a dishwasher, or even lake access.
      • Bring your own groceries. There’s a small market on-site, but we always stock up at a grocery store on the way in (Warrenton has a few good options).
      • Don’t forget bug spray, sunscreen, and a flashlight. It gets dark (like really dark) at night, and if your kids are anything like mine, they’ll want to be outside as long as possible.
      • Pack layers. Even in summer, the temperatures can drop at night near the water.
      • Respect the peace. Innsbrook is quiet, and most people go there to unplug. There’s no through traffic, no noisy ATVs, and (blessedly) no party scene.
      Innsbrook house with hot tub - Happy Stay Chalet

      Final thoughts on Innsbrook

      Every time we pack up the car and head out to Innsbrook, I feel this little sigh of relief. It’s close enough to home that we don’t have to overpack, overplan, or stress (I mean, if we really forgot something important, we could be back home in 40 minutes).

      But once we’re there, it feels like we’ve really gotten away.

      The kids are outside from sunup to sundown, the dogs are living their best life, and I actually get to breathe. No schedules, no rushing, just slow, simple, good stuff.

      Whether you’re looking for a quiet weekend escape, a chance to reconnect as a family, a girls’ weekend away, a place for extended family to gather, or just somewhere to catch frogs, roast marshmallows, and let your kids paddle around like wild explorers, Innsbrook is one of those rare places that truly delivers.

      Innsbrook with pets - dog-friendly vacation rental - Happy Stay Chalet

      Innsbrook family vacation

      So if you’re craving a getaway that’s low-key, nature-filled, and full of opportunity for your kids to run wild (in the best way), Innsbrook is calling. From lakeside adventures to peaceful porch mornings and everything in between, it’s the kind of place that stays with you—and keeps you coming back, season after season.

      And if you’re looking for the perfect home base while you’re there, Happy Stay Chalet is the one I’d recommend again and again. (Tell Sarah I sent you!)

      About the author

      Sara McCarty is the Founder of Run Wild My Child, a resource website, online community, podcast, and seasonal magazine all about connecting families through outdoor activities, adventure, and travel. Run Wild My Child offers busy parents helpful content about outdoor activities, nature crafts, kid-friendly travel, gear recommendations, parenting advice, and more. Sara’s a mom of 3, a wife, and a former corporate securities lawyer turned writer. She lives in St. Louis, Missouri, and is determined to raise her city kids to be as wild and feral as possible. You can usually find her family exploring a creek, fly fishing, hiking, duck hunting, camping, canoeing, biking, or geocaching.