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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Bikingat 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.
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.
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.
Updated kitchenwith 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
If you’re dreaming of a family ski trip that doesn’t involve long lift lines, crazy resort prices, and crowds everywhere you turn, you’re in the right place. I’m Sara McCarty, mom of 3 ski fanatics and founder of Run Wild My Child. After spending spring break road-tripping through Western Montana with my family, I’m here to tell you: Montana is a total hidden gem for skiing with kids. In this post, I’m comparing three incredible Montana ski resorts—Blacktail Mountain, Whitefish Mountain Resort, and Lookout Pass—to help you figure out which one is the best fit for your family. We’ll cover the vibe, terrain, cost, family-friendliness, and what makes each mountain unique, so you can plan a trip that’s low on stress and big on adventure.
Perks of skiing in Montana: why it’s so great for families
When most people think of a “ski trip,” they picture Colorado or Utah, but after spending spring break skiing our way across Western Montana, I’m convinced Montana is one of the most underrated (and best!) ski destinations for families.
Perk: Space
The runs are wide. The lift lines are short. And there’s room to breathe, ski, and explore without feeling like you’re constantly dodging crowds. We skied at three different mountains—Blacktail, Whitefish, and Lookout Pass—and even during peak spring break season, we never had to wait in long lift lines and had runs on every mountain completely to ourselves.
Perk: Affordable
And while yes, the skiing is incredible (more on that below), the affordability completely blew us away. Lift tickets, lessons, and rentals were all so much more reasonable than what we’re used to paying at resorts in Colorado or even our small local hill back home in St. Louis. As a family of five, those savings added up fast—and honestly made the whole trip feel way less stressful.
Perk: Family-friendly
Another thing we loved about skiing in Montana was how genuinely family-friendly the vibe was. Every mountain we visited welcomed kids and families with open arms. The ski schools were encouraging and affordable. The staff were helpful and friendly. And there was just this relaxed, down-to-earth energy everywhere we went. (Zero judgment if your kid wipes out getting off the lift or needs a mid-mountain snack break.)
Perk: More than just skiing
Montana isn’t just about skiing, and we loved that. One day we were skiing fresh powder; the next we were dog sledding through snowy woods, soaking in hot springs, or exploring the cutest little mountain towns. It felt like the perfect blend of adventure and downtime, and our kids stayed active, happy, and mostly screen-free the entire trip.
If you’re looking for a spring break (or winter break!) trip that combines incredible skiing, outdoor adventure, fewer crowds, and a little bit of that magical “Wild West” charm, Western Montana should absolutely be on your list.
Getting to Montana
Getting to Montana is easier than you might think—and part of the adventure! For our trip, we flew into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) because we could use our Southwest points (closer to Big Sky, but farther from the other resorts). From there, we rented a 4WD Suburban (highly recommend Explore Rentals if you’re flying into Bozeman—they were amazing!) and made the scenic drive up to Missoula and Northwestern Montana.
Montana airports closest to ski mountains
If you want a more direct route for skiing Blacktail, Whitefish, and Lookout Pass, flying into Missoula International Airport (MSO) or Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell would be your best bet.
Missoula (MSO) is closest to Lookout Pass (about a 1-hour drive) and a great base if you want to explore Missoula itself. Also, from Missoula, you could ski Snowbowl (only 20 minutes from downtown Missoula), Lost Trail Powder Mountain (about 2 hours south), and Discovery Ski Area (about 2.5 hours east near Philipsburg)
Kalispell (FCA) is closest to Whitefish Mountain Resort (about 30 minutes) and is also an easy drive to Blacktail Mountain (about 1 hour) and Turner Mountain (a smaller, local hill near Libby).
Both Missoula and Kalispell airports are small, modern, easy to navigate, and super family-friendly, which means no long TSA lines, giant terminals, or sprinting across airports with cranky kids and ski bags.
Important tip:
No matter where you fly into, make sure you rent a 4WD or AWD vehicle. Montana roads are well maintained, but weather can change fast in the mountains (we had blue skies one minute and a full-on snowstorm the next). Having 4WD made us feel so much safer—especially with five people, five sets of skis, and a whole lot of snacks packed into the car.
Getting around was honestly half the fun. The drives between towns and mountains were absolutely beautiful—snowy peaks, frozen lakes, tiny towns with colorful old buildings—and totally different from anything we’re used to back home. I’d go back just for the road trip vibes alone.
Meet the Mountains: Family Ski Resorts in Western Montana
Blacktail Mountain Ski Area: A Laid-Back, Family-Friendly Hidden Gem
If you’re looking for a mountain that feels low-key, affordable, and super welcoming for families, Blacktail Mountain Ski Area is it. We absolutely loved the “mom and pop” vibe here—no flashy lifts, no mega-resort chaos—just wide-open runs, friendly staff, and plenty of space for kids to practice without pressure.
One thing that makes Blacktail unique is that you park at the top of the mountain (not the bottom!), so your first run is downhill. Locals like to say, “The first run’s free,” and it’s true—it’s such a fun way to start the day.
The terrain at Blacktail is mostly beginner and intermediate runs, with a few short blacks, ungroomed trails and tree runs thrown in. The wide trails and soft snow gave our kids a huge confidence boost, and we loved how manageable the whole place felt—easy parking, a cozy lodge, and rentals that didn’t involve standing in a massive line.
We booked a private ski lesson for our kids on the second day, and it was so affordable compared to bigger resorts. The kids all LOVED their instructors (shoutout to “Zack Dog” for being absolutely amazing with the boys). By the end of the lesson, all three kids were skiing black runs and the terrain park like champs!
Location: Lakeside, Montana, about 1 hour from Kalispell, 1.5 hours from Missoula Best for: Beginner and intermediate families, first-time skiers, laid-back days on the mountain Crowd Level: Very low, even on weekends, tons of families Cost: Very affordable lift tickets and rentals Lodge: Small, but mighty. Gift shop, rentals and ski patrol on the first level. Cafeteria-style restaurant with lots of tables on the second level. Bar/restaurant on the third floor. Note: My youngest (6) did have some issues getting on the lifts. The chairs were a bit higher than we’re used to and he needed help from an adult getting on safely (we found that out the hard way).
Whitefish Mountain Resort: Big-Mountain Adventure Without the Big Crowds
If you want the full “ski town” experience without the mega-crowds of places like Vail or Aspen, Whitefish Mountain Resort delivers. This is a true big-mountain resort—tons of runs, modern lifts, great restaurants—and yet somehow it still feels laid-back and manageable for families.
The terrain here is huge.
At Whitefish, you can access 11 chairlifts, a T-bar and two conveyor carpets, plus 111 named trails spanning 3,000 acres of terrain for skiers and riders of all skill levels. There’s something for everyone: groomed greens, fast blues, challenging blacks, terrain parks, glades, and endless powder stashes. The kids loved the backside of the mountain, where we practically had the runs to ourselves, and we never waited more than a couple minutes at any lift.
We stayed in a ski-in/ski-out condo at Kintla Lodge, right on the mountain (Chair 3), which made everything about the trip easier. No lugging gear through parking lots, no grumpy “are-we-there-yet” vibes—just clip in and go. The ski lockers on-site were also a game-changer.
Location: Whitefish, Montana, about 30 minutes from Kalispell Airport Best for: Families with mixed skill levels, skiers who want more terrain options, those looking for a “ski town” experience Crowd Level: Moderate (busier at summit, but still very manageable) Cost: Mid-range (more expensive than Blacktail/Lookout, but cheaper than Colorado or Utah) Lodge: Whitefish Mountain Resort Lodge is huge, with everything you need (and more). Multiple restaurants, shops, lodging, etc. Note: Plan to eat lunch at the Summit House at least once—the poke bowls and curry bowls were delicious!
Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area: A Powder-Lover’s Dream
Lookout Passwas probably the biggest surprise and most underrated mountain of our trip—and easily one of our favorite ski days ever.
This mountain sits right on the Montana/Idaho border, and it gets absolutely dumped on with snow. Thanks to its perfect position between moisture from the Pacific Northwest and cold mountain air, Lookout gets some of the best powder we’ve ever skied.
The vibe here is super chill, super local, and unbelievably uncrowded. We skied entire runs without seeing another person. Fresh, knee-deep powder everywhere. And best of all—no lines, anywhere.
Lookout’s terrain is mostly intermediate and advanced, so it’s better suited for confident young skiers or families who like a little adventure. Although, I stuck to blues and greens and had no problem at all, with a variety of run options available for a full day of skiing.
Our youngest went so hard charging the powder that he ended up needing a little ski patrol help (he’s fine now, and honestly, the ski patrol team couldn’t have been kinder or more professional).
Location: Right on the Montana/Idaho border, about 1 hour from Missoula Best for: Intermediate/advanced skiers, powder lovers, families who want untouched runs Crowd Level: Extremely low Cost: Very affordable lift tickets Lodge: Small and cozy. Cafeteria-style restaurant and a tiny gift shop. Note: Remember that you’re crossing into the Pacific Time Zone when you ski here!
Lift Ticket Pricing: 2024–2025 Season
One of the standout benefits of skiing in Montana is the affordability, especially when skiing as a family! Lift ticket prices add up quickly and it’s important to know ahead of time what you’re getting into. Compared to major resorts in Colorado or Utah, Montana’s ski areas offer significantly lowerlift ticket prices, making it an excellent choice for families.
Blacktail Mountain Ski Area
Adult (25–69): $70
Junior (13–18): $60
Child (8–12): $45
Senior (70+): $35
Note: Prices are consistent for weekdays and weekends. Purchasing tickets online in advance can offer additional savings.
Whitefish Mountain Resort
Adult (19–64): $110 (1-day), $99 (per day for 2+ days)
Teen (13–18): $94 (1-day), $85 (per day for 2+ days)
Junior (7–12): $55 (1-day), $48 (per day for 2+ days)
Children (6 & under): Free
Note: Multi-day tickets and advance online purchases can give you significant discounts.
Note: Online reservations can save up to $5 per ticket.
Comparative Pricing at Major Resorts
To put Montana’s affordability into perspective:
Vail (Colorado): $200+ per day (adult)
Park City (Utah): $180–$200+ per day. (adult)
Banff (Canada): $175 per day (adult)
Breckenridge (Colorado): $232 per day (adult)
Heavenly (Lake Tahoe): $232 per day (adult)
These comparisons highlight the cost-effectiveness of Montana’s ski resorts, especially for families planning multi-day trips.
Money-Saving Tips
Advance Purchases: Buying lift tickets online ahead of time often results in discounts. It’s super easy to do and can be done day of.
Multi-Day Tickets: Opting for multi-day passes can reduce the daily rate.
Season Passes: If you plan to ski multiple times, season passes can offer substantial savings.
Children’s Discounts: Many resorts offer free or discounted tickets for young children, especially when accompanied by a paying adult.
By planning ahead and taking advantage of these offers, families can enjoy a memorable ski vacation in Montana without breaking the bank.
How to Choose the Best Western Montana Ski Resort for Your Family
Each of the three mountains we skied—Blacktail, Whitefish, and Lookout Pass—offers something a little different. If you’re only skiing for a day or two, you honestly can’t go wrong. But if you’re planning a longer trip and trying to decide where to spend most of your time, here’s how to pick the best fit for your family:
Choose Blacktail Mountain if…
You’re looking for a super affordable, low-key ski day.
You have beginners, little kids, or first-time skiers who would benefit from wide, forgiving runs and a relaxed pace.
You love the idea of a “locals’ mountain” where everyone feels like family.
You’re okay with a smaller mountain where you’ll likely ski most of the runs in a day or two.
Pro tip: Blacktail is amazing for a day or two of relaxed family skiing, but if you’re staying for a longer stretch, you might want to combine it with skiing at Whitefish or exploring Flathead Lake to mix things up.
Choose Whitefish Mountain Resort if…
You want the full “big mountain” experience without the massive resort crowds or prices.
You have a mix of skill levels in your family (beginners to experts), want to try tons of different terrain, and don’t mind splitting up.
You want the convenience of ski-in/ski-out lodging (this is the only one of the three with on-mountain lodging)
If you want a Western town to explore, a variety of dining options, shopping, and other off-mountain activities.
You’re planning to stay in one location for your whole trip.
Pro tip: If you’re staying for more than a few days and don’t want to move accommodations mid-trip, Whitefish is absolutely the best choice. It’s big enough to keep everyone entertained all week without feeling repetitive, and the town itself has plenty to do off the slopes. We loved road-tripping around Montana, but if you’re looking to settle in and stay put, Whitefish is the way to go.
Choose Lookout Pass if…
You’re chasing massive amounts of fresh powder and wide-open, uncrowded runs.
Your kids are confident skiers who are ready for a little more challenge.
You want a super affordable, off-the-beaten-path adventure with a relaxed, old-school ski vibe.
You want to ski in two states and cross a time zone!
You’re happy skiing intermediate or advanced terrain.
Pro tip: Lookout is an epic day trip from Missoula, and the skiing is unforgettable. But since it’s a smaller, more rugged mountain, most families will want just a day or two here before heading back to a larger base like Whitefish or Missoula. Lodging options near the mountain are also incredibly limited, so expect a drive to/from each day you’re skiing here.
McCarty family’s favorite ski mountains
One of the coolest things about this trip was that every single person in our family fell in love with a different mountain for different reasons. Here’s what each of us picked as our favorite:
Dad’s favorite: Lookout Pass
Dad was all about Lookout Pass—and honestly, I can’t blame him. The powder was unreal, the backside of the mountain felt like our own private playground, and the snow was up to our knees in spots. It just kept coming all day long. He said it was one of the best powder days of his life, and he couldn’t wipe the grin off his face.
Mom’s favorite: Whitefish Mountain Resort
I loved Whitefish. The ski-in/ski-out setup was a total game-changer—no packing up gear, no schlepping tired kids back and forth, and the kids even had the freedom to ski on their own a little. I loved exploring the town of Whitefish (so charming!) and could have spent days checking out all the shops and restaurants. As a photographer, I was completely blown away by the views and the “snow ghost” trees. Just magical. It was absolutely stunning everywhere you looked.
12-year-old’s favorite: Lookout Pass
Our oldest couldn’t get enough of Lookout Pass. The powder, the tree runs, the fresh, untouched blacks on the backside of the mountain—it was heaven for a 12-year-old who’s all about fast runs, taking risks, and a little adventure. He was seriously devastated that we only had one day there and begged to go back.
10-year-old and 6-year-olds’ favorite: Blacktail Mountain
My younger two kids picked Blacktail as their favorite! They loved that they could ski almost every run on the mountain, without feeling overwhelmed or nervous. The confidence they gained was amazing to watch. Plus, the fun little tree offshoots and mini-jumps gave them just enough adventure without being scary. And having almost no crowds meant they could really spread out and just go. Plus, this was their first time on a “real” mountain, so that alone made the experience extra special for both of them.
Tips for planning a Montana ski trip with kids
A little planning goes a long way to make your Montana ski trip smooth, fun, and unforgettable. Here’s what we learned (and what we’ll definitely keep in mind for next time):
1. Best time to ski Montana
The Montana ski season typically runs from late November through early April. We went in mid-March and it was perfect—tons of snow, warmer temps, fewer crowds, and (bonus) cheaper lodging prices since it’s technically spring season. It’s amazing that you can still catch powder on the mountain, and have blue skies and warmer temps down in town.
2. Buy lift tickets online to save
One easy way to save money on your ski trip is by purchasing lift tickets online ahead of time. And don’t worry—you don’t have to plan months in advance. At most Montana resorts, even buying your tickets the morning of your ski day counts as an “advance” purchase and can save you a few bucks per ticket (which definitely adds up if you’re buying for the whole family!). The process is super simple: just hop on the website, pick your dates, pay online, and either print your tickets or pick them up at will-call. Easy, quick, and totally worth it.
3. Book ski lessons early
If you’re planning on booking ski school or private lessons, especially during spring break or a holiday weekend, reserve early. Montana ski schools are amazing and affordable, but spots fill up fast—especially private instructors for kids.
4. Choose lodging based on your vibe
If you want convenience, go ski-in/ski-out at Whitefish (it seriously made life so much easier). If you’re road-tripping like we did, cozy cabins near Blacktail or St. Regis give you that authentic “cabin in the woods” experience. Just know that moving locations mid-trip adds a little extra work (aka packing up tired kids and wet boots), so factor that into your plans.
5. Rent a 4WD or AWD vehicle
Absolutely do this. Montana roads are well-maintained, but snowstorms can roll in fast. Having a big SUV with 4WD made a huge difference in keeping us safe and comfortable (and fit all five of us + our gear without anyone getting buried under ski poles).
6. Pack for every kind of weather
Montana weather is wild. We had sunshine, snowstorms, and everything in between—all in the same day. Pack layers: wool base layers, waterproof outerwear, warm socks, gloves, neck gaiters, sunglasses and goggles, and lots of extra dry clothes for after skiing. And don’t forget swimsuits for the hot tubs and hot springs!
7. Don’t skip the non-ski adventures
Even if you’re there to ski, give yourself (and your legs) a little break every now and then. Carve out a little time for things like dog sledding, hot springs soaking, hiking, or just wandering through the mountain towns. It made the trip feel so much more well-rounded and gave everyone’s legs a much-needed break from the slopes.
Why Montana should be your next family ski trip
After skiing three different mountains, soaking in hot springs, dog sledding through the woods, and wandering around the cutest little mountain towns, I can confidently say that Montana completely stole our hearts.
Whether you’re chasing deep powder, teaching your kids to link their first turns, or just looking for a more affordable, less stressful ski trip, Western Montana is a total win. Every mountain we visited—Blacktail, Whitefish, and Lookout Pass—offered something different, but all three had the same welcoming, laid-back, family-friendly vibe that made the trip so special.
If you’re planning a spring break, winter break, or just dreaming of a new adventure, I can’t recommend a Montana ski trip enough. Beautiful mountains, friendly people, reasonable prices, endless outdoor fun—and memories your family will be talking about for years.
Ready to plan your Montana ski trip?
If you have any questions about skiing in Montana with kids, where to stay, what to pack, or how to plan your trip, feel free to reach out!
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.
If you’re planning a family trip to Yosemite National Park and looking for the perfect place to stay, you must check out Firefall Ranch. This brand-new, family-friendly resort just outside the park entrance made our recent mother-son adventure easy, comfortable, and unforgettable. With spacious private cottages, tons of outdoor activities, and quick access to Yosemite’s biggest sights, it’s an ideal basecamp for families who love both adventure and a little luxury. In this post, I’m sharing our review of Firefall Ranch and all the details of our Yosemite trip to help you plan your own visit.
*This post was created in collaboration with Firefall Ranch. Accommodations and some activities were exchanged for review purposes. All opinions expressed and all photos contained herein belong to the author.
Winter Weekend Getaway in Yosemite
Earlier this year, I had the chance to take my youngest son (6) on a mother-son adventure to Yosemite National Park—and it was truly unforgettable. We teamed up with my good friend (and Run Wild My Child contributor) Araceli and her son for a few days of exploring, hiking, laughing, and making memories in one of the most iconic outdoor destinations in the country.
This was my first-ever visit to Yosemite, and to be honest, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’ve always believed that you don’t have to travel far or visit a famous place to have an epic outdoor adventure—and I still believe that. But there’s no denying it: Yosemite completely blew me away.
The sheer size, beauty, and scale of the park is something you just can’t fully appreciate until you’re standing there in person, looking up at towering granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Firefall Ranch Review
For our trip, we stayed at Firefall Ranch, a brand-new resort located just 20 minutes outside the park’s Big Oak Flat entrance. We couldn’t have picked a better place for our family adventure.
Private cottages, endless outdoor activities, cozy spaces to unwind, a heated pool, and even a general store stocked with trail snacks and gelato—it had everything we needed to make the trip relaxing, easy, and fun. In this post, I’ll share an honest review of Firefall Ranch, what we loved about it, some tips for families visiting Yosemite National Park, and everything I wish I had known before our trip.
If you’re planning a family trip to Yosemite—or even just dreaming about one—here’s everything you need to know about where to stay, what to do, and how to make it a trip your kids will never forget.
Getting to Yosemite (Firefall Ranch)
Getting to Yosemite National Park and Firefall Ranch takes a little planning, but the journey is part of the adventure. Most visitors either fly into Sacramento (SMF), Fresno (FAT), or San Francisco (SFO) and drive in from there. Firefall Ranch is located just outside Groveland, California, about 20 minutes from Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat entrance on the park’s western side.
We made the drive from Lake Tahoe, passing through Sacramento, and while the drive was long, it was absolutely gorgeous. Rolling hills, winding rivers, towering forests—it’s hard not to be distracted by the scenery.
That said, parts of the drive were definitely not for the faint of heart. Some stretches of highway were narrow, steep, and winding, with sheer drop-offs and no guardrails in sight. If there’s any chance of winter weather, you’ll need snow chains or a vehicle with four-wheel drive, and always check road conditions before you set out.
Most of the roads leading into this part of Yosemite are two-lane highways, so traffic, road work, or accidents can easily slow things down. Give yourself extra time to get there, drive during daylight if possible, and make sure your camera is ready, because the views are worth every nerve-wracking turn.
Why we chose Firefall Ranch
When Araceli and I started planning this trip, we knew we wanted to stay somewhere comfortable, family-friendly, and close to the park entrance. Firefall Ranch checked all the boxes. The resort is brand new, having just opened in 2023, and it already had a growing reputation for being one of the best family-friendly places to stay near Yosemite.
Firefall Ranch is part of a small, highly regarded group of hotels (along with the nearby Rush Creek Lodge and Evergreen Lodge), all known for offering laid-back luxury and thoughtful amenities that make outdoor adventures easy and fun for families.
With private cottages, outdoor games, heated pools, on-site dining, a general store, and endless ways for kids (and adults) (and dogs) to stay busy, it seemed like the perfect balance between nature escape and modern comfort.
Plus, being just 20 minutes from the national park entrance meant we could spend more time exploring Yosemite and less time driving back and forth. After reading reviews and hearing great feedback from other outdoorsy families, we knew Firefall Ranch would be the right fit for our adventure. Spoiler alert: it absolutely was.
Accommodations at Firefall Ranch
We stayed in one of the larger cabins at Firefall Ranch, with two bedrooms and a loft for the kids, and it was absolutely perfect for our little crew. Traveling with kids means you’re basically packing for an expedition—luggage, gear, snacks, stuffed animals, random “must-have” treasures—and having all that space to spread out made a huge difference.
The cabin was thoughtfully designed, cozy, and packed with small touches that made it feel like home. The kids immediately claimed the loft space (of course) and spent the evenings playing games by the fireplace, which was everyone’s favorite hangout spot.
I personally fell in love with the wrap-around porch, which was the perfect place to sit, sip coffee, and read a book (or our magazine!). And in one of the most refreshing surprises of all, there were no screens! No TVs, no distractions—just lots of books, board games, puzzles, and actual family time.
The cottages also had fun and thoughtful features like heated bathroom floors (luxury!), a mini-fridge, a coffee maker, and a sink. I do wish there had been a full kitchen in each unit (because honestly, it’s so helpful when traveling with kids), but with two restaurants and a general store right on-site, we made do without it (and never really missed it).
The cabins are nicely spaced out across the property, so you’re never right on top of other guests. Our cabin was a short walk or quick drive to the main lodge and pool area. On the way up, we passed a pond with a little island, and the kids loved spotting the frogs, lizards, and other critters every time we went by. It was the perfect setup—close enough to everything we needed, but still quiet, private, and peaceful.
Amenities and activities at Firefall Ranch
One of the best parts about staying at Firefall Ranch was that there was so much for the kids to do right on-site. After a long day of adventuring in Yosemite, it was such a treat to come back to the ranch and let the kids burn off even more energy while we relaxed nearby.
The heated outdoor pool and hot tubs were hands-down the highlight for the kids. No matter how much hiking, climbing, and exploring we did during the day, they somehow always had enough energy for the pool. (Meanwhile, I was just thrilled to be soaking in a hot tub under the stars.)
When they weren’t swimming, the kids were busy taking full advantage of the outdoor games scattered across the property. There’s an 18-hole putt-putt course, frisbee golf, a rock climbing wall, volleyball courts, nearby hiking trails, foosball, and shuffleboard—enough activities to keep even the most restless kids happy. We loved how everything was close enough that they could explore safely while we sat nearby or wandered with them.
Dining at Firefall Ranch
Food was another big win. Firefall Ranch has two on-site restaurants—a fine dining option for those nights you want to treat yourself and a casual spot serving hearty mountain meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There’s also a general store stocked with trail-ready breakfasts and lunches, coffee, snacks, gifts, games, gear, and even gelato (because obviously no trip is complete without ice cream).
Between the restaurants and the store, we never once had to leave the property to hunt down food, which made the whole trip feel so much easier and more relaxed. We ate most of our meals in the casual dining room and everything was amazing. Do yourself a favor and order the spicy margarita with your dinner and the pancakes for breakfast!
Planned activities and guided adventures at Firefall Ranch
Another huge perk of staying at Firefall Ranch is the daily list of activities and excursions they offer. Every morning, there’s a full schedule of options for families, making it incredibly easy to stay active, explore the area, and try something new without having to plan everything yourself.
You can choose from a wide variety of on-property activities like archery lessons, nature walks, yoga, photography classes, meditation sessions, and arts and crafts. Most of these are kid-friendly (or even specifically designed for kids), and the relaxed, casual vibe makes it easy to jump in without feeling like you’re locked into a rigid schedule. We loved how approachable everything was—you could do as much or as little as you wanted based on your mood each day.
And if you’re looking to venture into Yosemite without the stress of planning or navigating, Firefall’s guided excursions are incredible. It’s like getting a backstage pass to Yosemite. Their professional guides (who work at both Firefall and Rush Creek) take care of all the logistics—driving, parking, timing—so you can focus on enjoying the park and soaking in all the insider tips and hidden gems you might otherwise miss.
You can pick from dozens of guided trips that include everything from driving tours of Yosemite’s most iconic spots to adventurous hikes, biking, snowshoeing, fly fishing, overnight backpacking, and even airplane rides over the park! It’s the perfect setup for families who want to maximize their time in Yosemite without feeling overwhelmed by all the options and planning.
We ended up doing the Giant Sequoia Hike (which I’ll share more about below), and I can honestly say that having so many adventure options right at our fingertips was a huge part of what made our trip feel so smooth, relaxed, and fun.
Exploring Yosemite National Park
Of course, the real star of the trip was Yosemite National Park itself. Even after seeing a million photos over the years, nothing prepared me for how massive, rugged, and jaw-droppingly beautiful this place really is.
Most of Yosemite’s famous sights are located in Yosemite Valley, a glacier-carved valley surrounded by towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, and iconic rock formations like El Capitan and Half Dome. If you’re visiting for the first time (especially with kids), this is where you’ll want to spend most of your time. It’s home to many of the park’s most accessible and family-friendly hikes, viewpoints, and scenic spots.
February in Yosemite
We visited in February, which comes with a few important notes:
Advanced reservations are required during February ($2) because of the Firefall phenomenon at Horsetail Falls (more on that later).
Entry fee is $35 per vehicle, valid for seven days.
Bikes aren’t available for rent in winter, but there’s a free shuttle that runs through the valley if you don’t want to drive and deal with parking.
Crowds were minimal in the morning (especially early!), but picked up in the afternoon as people arrived for Firefall.
Weather can change fast—pack layers and be ready for anything. We were breaking ice in the morning and stripped down to our t-shirts sitting in the sunshine by afternoon!
We started by hitting some of the most iconic stops in Yosemite Valley:
Tunnel View – One of the most famous and awe-inspiring views in the park.
Bridalveil Fall – A short, easy walk to the base of a stunning waterfall.
Yosemite Falls – The tallest waterfall in North America, accessible via a family-friendly trail.
Merced River – A gorgeous winding river flowing through the park.
El Capitan Meadow – Perfect for spotting climbers or just soaking in the views.
Everywhere you turn, there’s another postcard-perfect scene, and even the kids were impressed (between snack breaks, ice breaking, and rock-throwing, of course). We mostly kept things easy and flexible, which worked perfectly with two young kids in tow.
If it’s your first visit, my biggest piece of advice is: don’t try to do it all. Yosemite is massive, and trying to cram too much in will just leave everyone exhausted. Pick a few highlights, slow down, and soak it in. The magic here is in being present.
Hiking among the Sequoias: a giant adventure
One of the highlights of our Yosemite trip was the Giant Sequoia Hike we did through Firefall Ranch’s guided excursions. I knew the sequoias would be big, but nothing really prepares you for just how massive and ancient these trees feel in real life. It’s one of those moments where you instantly feel tiny in the best possible way.
Our guide made the whole experience easy and fun—he shared tons of interesting facts about the history of the grove, the trees’ incredible lifespans, how they survive fires and other challenges, plus told jokes to the kids. It wasn’t just a hike—it was a storytelling adventure that kept both the kids and adults engaged (no small feat when hiking with a six-year-old).
The trail itself was relatively easy and family-friendly—not too steep or long, and absolutely stunning the entire way. Firefall provided wrap-around-your-shoe ice cleats for our boots, which helped tremendously on any icy patches.
The kids ran ahead, picked up pinecones, checked out the sap icicles, and tried to “hug” the trees, which was hilarious because their little arms barely covered a fraction of the trunk. My son even stopped mid-hike, licked his lips dramatically, and announced, “I think the air tastes better here.” (You’re right, buddy.)
The highlight was being able to walk through one of the giant felled trees. It was massive and hollowed out enough that it created an incredible tunnel. It got a little tight in places (I definitely whacked my head a few times), but it was SO cool! The kids loved climbing on the tree and could have stayed there playing for hours.
If you’re visiting Yosemite with kids, hiking among the sequoias is a must. It’s an easy win—adventurous enough to feel exciting without being too difficult, and the chance to see these giant trees up close is something your kids will remember forever. Bonus points for doing it with a guide who handles the navigation and makes it even more interesting with stories and insider knowledge.
Bonus: seeing Yosemite’s Firefall (or not!)
If you visit Yosemite in February, you might get the chance to witness the park’s famous Firefall phenomenon at Horsetail Fall.
For a few weeks each year, the setting sun hits the waterfall at just the right angle, making it glow bright orange and look like molten lava pouring down the cliffside. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of sight—but there are a few things to know before you plan your whole day around it.
First, viewing Firefall takes some work. The Park Service enforces strict parking restrictions during this time, and you’ll likely need to park far away and walk a mile or more to get to the best viewing spots.
There’s no guarantee you’ll actually see it—conditions have to be just right with clear skies, flowing water, and the perfect timing. Plus, after the sun sets, you’ll be hiking back in the dark, which adds another level of challenge if you’re traveling with kids.
We had initially planned to stay and watch it, but by late afternoon, the kids were completely done. After a full day of hiking, climbing rocks, and exploring, they had zero interest in waiting around for “another waterfall”—even if it glowed like lava. Instead, we headed back to Firefall Ranch where they happily swam in the heated pool under the stars. Honestly, no regrets.
Tip: If you want to catch Firefall, plan ahead, pack headlamps, lots of snacks, and be prepared for a late night and a lot of walking. But also know—it’s okay to skip it if it’s just not in the cards. The real magic of Yosemite is everywhere.
Practical Tips for Visiting Firefall Ranch and Yosemite with Kids
A few things we learned (sometimes the hard way) that might help make your family adventure even smoother:
1. Book early. Firefall Ranch is still pretty new, but word is getting out fast. If you’re visiting during popular times—especially spring break, summer, or Firefall season in February—you’ll want to reserve your cottage early.
2. Plan for driving time. Even though Firefall Ranch is close to Yosemite’s entrance (20 minutes), the park itself is huge. Expect at least 30–60 minutes of driving from the hotel to get to popular trailheads and sights inside the valley, depending on where you’re headed.
3. Be flexible with weather. Especially if you’re visiting in winter or early spring, be ready for snow, rain, sunshine, and everything in between. Pack layers, waterproof gear, and check road conditions daily. You may need snow chains or a vehicle with four-wheel drive if a storm rolls in.
4. Bring snacks and water everywhere. There’s food available at Firefall Ranch and in the park, but it’s still smart to pack your own, especially with kids. Snacks solve 90% of outdoor complaints in my experience.
5. Take advantage of the on-site activities. The daily activities at Firefall Ranch are a great way to fill in gaps on your trip without needing to leave the property. Whether it’s yoga, archery, crafts, or swimming, it’s nice to have options that don’t involve hopping back in the car.
6. Don’t try to do it all. Yosemite is massive. You won’t see everything in one trip (and trying to will only stress you out). Pick a few highlights, leave plenty of time to explore at a kid’s pace, and soak up the magic.
7. Enjoy the downtime. One of my favorite parts of this trip was the slow, cozy evenings at Firefall Ranch. No screens, no distractions—just kids playing board games by the fireplace or splashing in the pool while the grownups relaxed. Leave some unplanned time in your schedule—it’s worth it.
Final thoughts: Firefall Ranch and Yosemite with kids
Our stay at Firefall Ranch made our Yosemite trip feel easy, comfortable, and truly unforgettable. The combination of adventure, space to relax, kid-friendly activities, and thoughtful touches turned what could have been a stressful national park trip into one of my favorite memories with my son.
Yosemite itself is beyond anything photos can capture—wild, beautiful, humbling—and having a peaceful, cozy home base like Firefall Ranch made it even better.
If you’re planning a family trip to Yosemite, I cannot recommend Firefall Ranch enough. It’s the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and laid-back luxury, and it gives kids and parents the space they need to truly enjoy the experience. Book early, pack your sense of adventure (and snacks), and get ready to make memories you’ll be talking about for years.
We’re always on the hunt for stunning destinations that combine jaw-dropping scenery with unforgettable outdoor activities, and we’ve hit the jackpot with this one! Today, we’ll take you on a tour of El Capitan Canyon – a family-friendly glamping gem that truly has something for everyone. Think peaceful mornings with a hot cup of coffee at the on-site café, bike rides to the beach, llama feedings on scenic hillside hikes, and poolside dips to cool off. And when the day winds down, there’s nothing like gathering around the wood-burning fireplace to bask in the tranquility. California mom of three, Araceli Gonzalez, is here to show you why El Capitan Canyon is a must-visit destination for outdoorsy families. Just 17 miles from Santa Barbara and walking distance from El Capitan State Beach, let’s dive in and explore this camp-like experience with all the modern-day comforts!
*This post was sponsored by El Capitan Resort. All opinions expressed and photos contained herein belong to the author.
El Capitan Canyon, explore along the California Coast
Along the Central Pacific California coast, near Santa Barbara, you will find El Capitan Canyon. The resort is nestled in the Santa Ynez Mountains, offering endless opportunities for activities and outdoor adventures.
El Capitan Canyon has been a beloved retreat since the 1970s, originally a rustic private campground that’s now transformed into a serene rural glamping escape. Spanning 300 acres just a short walk from El Capitan State Beach, it’s the perfect place for families to unplug, reconnect, and soak up some fresh air. Picture this: evenings spent around a glowing campfire, stargazing under an open sky, and falling asleep to the gentle murmur of a creek winding its way through the canyon. Sounds dreamy, right?
All accommodations at El Capitan Canyon are thoughtfully designed to give you that cozy, camp-like experience while still offering a touch of luxury. Imagine sleeping in a Cedar Cabin or an Adventure Yurt, complete with beautiful willow beds and wood-burning fireplaces to keep you warm and comfortable. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel a sense of calm wash over you, with quiet creeks babbling nearby and stunning canyon views all around. It’s a little slice of ZEN heaven—and yes, there’s even a llama farm!
Explore El Capitan Canyon Resort
El Capitan Canyon is just a short walk from El Capitan State Beach, but what really wowed us was the sheer number of activities offered right at the resort. Our first stop? The Market Cafe, where we grabbed fresh, locally brewed coffee and a delicious breakfast. The cafe is conveniently just steps from the cabins, making it the perfect spot to start the day. There’s nothing like sipping a hot cup of coffee while soaking in those gorgeous canyon views—talk about a peaceful morning!
For the kids, the highlight was hands-down the llama farm. They’d been buzzing about it since we arrived, and it did not disappoint. The hike to the farm was about a mile through the canyon, and the journey itself was breathtaking, with stunning views of the Central Coast along the way and glimpses of the ocean from the top.
Once we arrived, the magic really began. The kids got to feed the llamas and even had the unforgettable experience of bottle-feeding a baby lamb. Watching their excitement and connection with the animals was incredible. It was such a unique way to spend the morning, surrounded by natural beauty and a peaceful sense of adventure. A perfect start to our day!
Hiking trails
El Capitan Canyon truly brings together the best of California’s natural beauty. With views of the Gaviota Coast, the Pacific Ocean, and the Santa Ynez Mountains, this resort is an outdoor adventure family’s dream. The landscape is absolutely stunning, and there’s no shortage of hiking trails to explore right from your doorstep.
One of the highlights is the Selma Rubin Trail, where you can join a docent-led hike to learn more about the area’s unique ecology. The entire resort is surrounded by serene spaces and over 2,500 acres of protected State Park land, offering endless possibilities for exploration. Whether you’re up for a challenging trek or a gentle stroll, there’s a trail for everyone.
For families, the kid-friendly trails are a must-try, especially the hike to the llama and goat farm, which is a big hit with my little ones. Maps and directions are conveniently provided at the resort, so all you have to do is lace up your hiking boots and get out there! We loved this hike!
Cruising down to the beach
One of the best perks of staying at El Capitan Canyon is the complimentary adult beach cruiser bicycles available to all guests. Naturally, we couldn’t resist hopping on and pedaling our way to the beach! The ride to El Capitan State Beach is quick and easy, either by bike or on foot. It’s a lovely scenic journey that instantly puts you in a beachy, relaxed state of mind. Once we arrived, we spent the afternoon cruising along the shoreline, soaking up the salty breeze and letting the kids explore the beach and the tidepools. It was such a simple yet magical way to connect as a family and enjoy the beauty of the coast.
After our beach adventure, we headed back to the resort. The kids couldn’t wait to take a dip in the heated swimming pool. Watching them splash and laugh in the water while we lounged nearby was the perfect way to wind down after an active day. The pool area is thoughtfully designed, offering plenty of space for families to relax and play.
And these are just a few of the incredible activities El Capitan Canyon has to offer. From hiking trails and farm visits to beach rides and poolside fun, there’s no shortage of things to explore. Want even more adventure? Check out all the Nearby Attractions—there’s truly something for everyone
Explore along the coast
The Central Coast is brimming with opportunities for adventure and exploration for families, and we took full advantage during our stay at El Capitan Canyon. Here are some of the highlights from our trip—each one adding its own unique charm to the experience.
Solvang
Known as “The Danish Capital of America,” Solvang is a must-visit destination just a short drive from the resort. Walking through the quaint streets feels like stepping into a real Danish village. It’s complete with charming architecture, historic windmills, and an unbelievable lineup of European bakeries and boutique shops. We couldn’t resist stopping at several bakeries to sample buttery Danish pastries. They’re famous for Aebleskiver (a fluffy, pancake-like treat that’s as fun to say as it is to eat!). The kids were enchanted by the holiday decorations and had a blast riding the Wooden Street Car and the iconic Solvang Trolley. Whether you’re visiting during the festive season or not, this little village is a delight and absolutely worth the trip.
Ostrich Land
We made a stop at what is considered a Central Coast landmark, Ostrich Land in Buellton, CA. This one was a huge hit with the kids! They loved feeding the massive ostriches and watching their funny antics up close. We also got to meet the emus, who were surprisingly friendly and curious. It’s a unique, hands-on experience that’s both entertaining and educational, making it a perfect stop for families.
Santa Barbara
Just 17 miles from the resort, Santa Barbara offers endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you’re strolling down State Street to shop and dine, exploring the fascinating marine life at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center, or relaxing on the sandy shores of East Beach, there’s something for everyone. The city is full of vibrant culture and natural beauty. Plus, it’s close enough to El Capitan Canyon to make a fun day trip or an evening excursion.
These destinations made our Central Coast getaway even more memorable and offered a little something for everyone in the family. If you’re planning a stay at El Capitan Canyon Resort, make sure to carve out time for a few of these stops—you won’t regret it!
Evenings at the Canyon
Evenings at El Capitan Canyon are truly something special—dare I say, magical. There’s a sense of calm that settles over the resort as the sun dips behind the canyon walls, and the glow of twinkle lights and fire pits creates the perfect setting to unwind. One of our favorite spots was the Canyon Market sitting area, where families gathered to share stories, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the crisp evening air.
A highlight for us was the BBQ kit from the Canyon Market. We went with the Canyon Diamond Ranch Smoked Baby Back Ribs Kit, which came with a full rack of tender, pre-cooked ribs, tangy BBQ sauce, garlic bread, and a selection of sides. After heating everything up, we feasted by the cozy firepit outside our cabin. There’s just something about good food, firelight, and being surrounded by nature that makes everything taste better. It was one of those moments where we could fully relax and soak in the magic of the outdoors—no distractions, just great food and family time.
Wine & Tastings
For wine lovers, El Capitan Canyon doesn’t disappoint. The Canyon Market features an impressive selection of wines from the Santa Barbara County wine region, as well as the Santa Rita Hills and Paso Robles—all renowned for their exceptional vintages. I couldn’t resist grabbing a bottle of local pinot noir to pair with our BBQ dinner, and it was the perfect complement to our evening under the stars.
If you happen to visit during the summer or a holiday weekend, don’t miss their Friday night wine tastings. It’s a fantastic opportunity to sample local flavors while mingling with other guests and learning more about the world-class wine scene in the region. Even if wine isn’t your thing, the atmosphere alone is worth experiencing—laid-back, welcoming, and quintessentially California.
Dining
The Canyon Market Café quickly became one of our favorite stops during our stay. What we loved most was the emphasis on fresh, regional ingredients and made-to-order dishes. From hearty soups and crisp salads to stacked sandwiches and daily specials, every meal felt thoughtful and delicious.
Breakfast was a daily treat for me, especially their Santa Barbara Roasting Company drip coffee. There’s nothing like starting your morning with a steaming cup of expertly brewed coffee while taking in the serene canyon views. Whether you choose to dine in the cozy café or take your meal back to enjoy on your cabin deck, the quality and care in each dish is undeniable. It’s the kind of dining experience that makes you feel connected to the region—simple, fresh, and full of flavor.
Something for everyone….
One of the most unforgettable parts of our stay at El Capitan Canyon was how beautifully it balanced two seemingly opposite experiences: the peaceful serenity of nature for us grown-ups and endless entertainment for the kids. It’s rare to find a place where everyone in the family feels equally fulfilled, but this canyon retreat nailed it.
For us, the magic was in the simplicity. The lush natural surroundings, the sound of the creek winding through the property, and the warm glow of the firepit in the evenings all made it so easy to unplug and disconnect. There’s something so freeing about being able to set aside the chaos of everyday life and just be present. No deadlines, no notifications—just the rhythm of the canyon and the joy of watching the kids discover new things.
Speaking of the kids, they had the time of their lives! From hiking to the llama farm and feeding the animals to splashing in the heated pool and riding bikes to the beach, they were constantly entertained in the best way possible—by nature itself. Watching them run free, climb trees, and giggle about feeding a baby lamb reminded us why we love these kinds of trips so much.
What we loved most was how accessible the adventure felt. Every activity encouraged us to get outside and explore without feeling overwhelming. Whether it was a leisurely stroll on the trails or just sitting quietly with a cup of coffee while the kids played nearby, it was the kind of experience that recharges your soul and strengthens family connections. El Capitan Canyon really does have something for everyone, and it’s a place we’ll treasure in our memories for years to come.
Add the California Central Coast & El Capitan Canyon to your bucket list
Looking for an unforgettable family adventure? Add El Capitan Canyon to your must-visit destinations! This one-of-a-kind, camp-like retreat offers an experience that perfectly blends outdoor exploration with relaxation, making it an ideal getaway for families. The mantra at El Capitan Canyon is truly “something for everyone,” and we couldn’t agree more. During our stay, we felt a deep sense of calm, completely surrounded by the natural beauty and serenity of the Central Coast.
With the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Ynez Mountains, and everything in between right at your doorstep, this destination is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re hiking, biking, beachcombing, or just soaking in the views, every moment feels like an adventure waiting to happen.
Conveniently located just off the 101 Freeway, a short drive north of Santa Barbara, El Capitan Canyon is easy to get to, yet feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle. Trust us—this Central Coast gem deserves a spot on your bucket list!
Is the California Central Coast on your bucket list?
About the author
Araceli is a wife and momma to three wild and adventurous littles. She believes that nature and free play are truly the foundation of a beautiful childhood. Araceli and her husband have made it a priority to raise their children with a strong bond to the great outdoors. Araceli is a working mom with an extensive career in Project Management. She’s creative and crafty and loves collecting houseplants. As a family, they love exploring wild places, and she loves documenting their adventures.
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Instagram: @roaminggonzalez
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Get ready to be surprised because Southern Illinois is a hidden gem! When you think of Southern Illinois, you probably imagine flat farmland and endless cornfields, but this place is so much more than that. Hidden away in this region are lush forests, pristine lakes, towering moss-covered bluffs, and rock formations that make you feel like you’ve stepped into Jurassic Park. It’s a breathtaking landscape that’s often overlooked, but trust me—it’s a paradise for outdoor-loving families.
Recently, my kids and I had the chance to spend three incredible days exploring Southern Illinois (particularly Jackson County and the Murphysboro area), and we absolutely LOVED everything about it. Today, I’m going to walk you through everything we did on our trip—from boating and fishing to hiking and all the food we ate along the way. We’ll cover all the family-friendly activities you can do in the area, practical tips for visiting, and why this underrated destination should be at the top of your family’s travel list.
*This post was sponsored by Southern Illinois Tourism. Accommodations and some activities were exchanged for review purposes. All opinions expressed and all photos contained herein belong to the author.
Southern Illinois
Murphysboro is a small, charming town nestled in Jackson County, in Southern Illinois. Located about 90 miles southeast of St. Louis, this picturesque town is the perfect base camp for exploring all the outdoor offerings and activities in the area, including the Shawnee National Forest and Kinkaid Lake. Known for its laid-back vibe and friendly locals, Murphysboro is quickly becoming famous for its proximity to endless outdoor adventures, its thriving barbecue scene (home to the renowned 17th Street Barbecue), and its unique history as a former coal mining town. It’s also part of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, making it a great spot for parents looking to unwind after a day of outdoor fun with the kids.
Getting to Murphysboro is easy, whether you’re driving from St. Louis, Chicago, Nashville, or other nearby cities. The town is located just off Illinois Route 13 and Illinois Route 127, making it accessible from all directions. Historically, Murphysboro was founded in 1843 as the new county seat after a fire destroyed the original Jackson County courthouse. Murphysboro is just a quick 10-minute drive from Carbondale, home to Southern Illinois University, making it a convenient spot for families visiting the area. Its close proximity to the Shawnee National Forest also makes it an ideal base for exploring the forest and enjoying its endless outdoor activities.
Shawnee National Forest
Shawnee National Forest is an outdoor lover’s paradise! Stretching across 289,000 acres of lush forests, rolling hills, rugged cliffs, and scenic riverways, this is a true hidden gem in Southern Illinois. The forest is divided into several distinct areas, each offering its own unique landscapes and activities. Garden of the Gods is perhaps the most iconic spot, known for its breathtaking sandstone rock formations and panoramic views. Other popular areas include Little Grand Canyon, with its challenging hiking trails and picturesque overlooks, Giant City State Park, where families can enjoy rock climbing, horseback riding, and picnicking, and Ferne Clyff State Park, with its waterfalls and rocky cliffs. No matter where you go, Shawnee offers something for everyone, from easy, kid-friendly hikes to more adventurous treks for experienced hikers.
The forest was established in 1939 as part of a reforestation effort following the depletion of the region’s original forests due to agriculture and logging. Today, it’s a protected area teeming with diverse wildlife and plant species. Shawnee is home to deer, wild turkeys, foxes, and even the occasional bobcat. Over 200 species of birds, including bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, and woodpeckers, that make the forest their home.
Getting around
Because Shawnee National Forest spans such a large area, getting around can be a bit of an adventure in itself. There are no major roads that cut through the forest, so visitors will need to travel by car to reach different trailheads and areas of interest. Many of the trails are well-marked and easy to access, but it’s a good idea to have a map or GPS handy, as cell service can be spotty in some areas. Also, be sure to check local websites before you go (Garden of the Gods was closed during our visit due to road construction).
Giant City State Park
Inside Shawnee National Forest, Giant City State Park is a must-visit destination. Located just 20 minutes southeast of Murphysboro, this park is known for its stunning sandstone bluffs, dense forests, and winding trails that offer activities for all ages. From hiking and rock climbing to horseback riding and picnicking, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The park also features a historic lodge with cabins and a popular restaurant serving up classic Southern comfort food, perfect for recharging after a day of adventure.
During our visit, we hiked the Giant City Nature Trail, and it was absolutely incredible. The trail is about a mile long and takes you through towering, sheer rock faces that make you feel like you’ve stepped onto the set of an Indiana Jones movie. The kids had a blast scrambling up the rocks, weaving through narrow passageways, and exploring the massive boulders scattered along the trail. It’s a relatively easy hike, but the dramatic landscape and unique rock formations make it feel like an exciting adventure. For families with younger kids, it’s the perfect balance of fun and manageable, with plenty of spots to stop and take in the awe-inspiring views.
Ferne Clyffe State Park
Ferne Clyffe State Park is another Southern Illinois gem, located about 45 minutes southeast of Murphysboro and inside Shawnee National Forest. With towering bluffs, wooded trails, a gorgeous lake, and beautiful waterfalls, this park was a HUGE hit with my kids. The park is well-known for its outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing. For families, the variety of trails makes Ferne Clyffe a fantastic spot to explore with kids, offering both easy and more adventurous options. During our visit, we hiked two of the park’s most popular trails: the Big Rocky Hollow Trail and Bork’s Waterfall Trail, both of which were fun and full of exciting discoveries for the kids.
Best kid-friendly hikes
The Big Rocky Hollow Trail is an easy, short hike, perfect for younger children (totally flat and right off the parking lot). The trail follows a creek bed, leading to a dramatic rock amphitheater where, after a good rain, you’d normally find a huge waterfall cascading down. Although the waterfall wasn’t flowing during our visit due to dry weather, the kids still had a blast. They spent most of the hike following the creek, catching frogs, and exploring the small caves and crevices along the trail. The rock formations and shaded forest make it feel like a magical hideaway, and we spent plenty of time just letting the kids scramble and play.
Bork’s Waterfall Trail is another easy walk, but the highlight is—no surprise—the waterfall, which can be especially impressive after a recent rain. Although we didn’t catch any running water during our visit, we still enjoyed the hike for its beauty and peaceful atmosphere (we didn’t run into a single person on this trail!). The trail is surrounded by lush greenery, and there are plenty of spots where the kids can explore small rock shelters and hidden nooks.
To truly experience the waterfalls in action, the best time to visit would be after a rain when the creeks are full and the falls are flowing. But even without the waterfalls, Ferne Clyffe’s trails offer plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration, making it a wonderful destination for families looking to connect with nature.
Kinkaid Lake
Kinkaid Lake, just a few miles outside of Murphysboro, was one of the highlights of our trip. We spent an entire day soaking up the sun on the lake, fishing, and swimming. It was glorious! We rented a pontoon from Lake Stride Watersports, conveniently located right by the marina, and let me tell you, this lake was so private and peaceful—especially during the week when it wasn’t crowded at all. The kids loved every minute of it, especially playing on the giant lily pad that came with the rental. They spent hours jumping off the pontoon, swimming around, and just being kids.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a lake day without a little fishing, and Kinkaid Lake didn’t disappoint. The boys managed to catch a few bass, which made their day, but the lake is actually known for something even bigger: muskie and crappie. This spot is a local favorite for fishing, and if you’re serious about casting a line, Kinkaid is one of the best places in Southern Illinois to do it. Muskie fishing is better in cold weather, so we’re already planning a trip back.
Thrill seekers and risk takers!
One of the coolest features of Kinkaid Lake is the massive cliff that towers over the water. This giant bluff isn’t just for admiring from afar—people actually climb it and jump into the lake below. Naturally, my little thrill-seekers couldn’t wait to give it a try, and it ended up being the highlight of the whole trip. They must have jumped off that bluff a dozen times, and each time they came out of the water with the biggest grins on their faces. For any family with adventure-loving kids, this is a must-do.
Overall, our day on Kinkaid Lake was one of those experiences we’ll be talking about for a long time. Between the swimming, fishing, and cliff jumping, there was never a dull moment. If you’re in the Murphysboro area, renting a boat and spending the day on the lake is a no-brainer—just be prepared for some exhausted (but happy) kids by the end of the day.
Murphysboro, Illinois
Murphysboro’s downtown Main Street is the epitome of small-town charm, with its adorable storefronts, colorful wall murals, and friendly, welcoming atmosphere. As you stroll down the streets, you’ll notice the giant vibrant murals that capture the town’s history and spirit, adding a creative artsy touch to the setting (and providing a great backdrop for photos!). The local shops are full of character, offering everything from unique handmade crafts and antiques to local produce and specialty foods. The downtown area is also home to a variety of delicious restaurants, from cozy diners to coffee shops and ice cream parlors. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a family meal, the dining options in downtown Murphysboro are sure to please. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel right at home, with a small-town vibe that’s impossible not to love.
Festivals and downtown fun
Murphysboro is not just known for its outdoor beauty and small-town charm; it also has its share of quirky local legends and lively festivals that draw crowds from near and far. One of the most intriguing tales is that of the Murphysboro Mud Monster, a Bigfoot-like creature said to have been spotted near the Big Muddy River in the 1970s. The legend of the Mud Monster has become a beloved piece of local folklore, inspiring an annual festival that celebrates all things strange and spooky, with costume contests, games, and activities perfect for kids. Be sure to get a photo at the Mud Monster mural in downtown Murphysboro!
Murphysboro also hosts the popular Apple Festival each September, where families can enjoy parades, carnival rides, live music, and all things apple—from pies to cider. And for barbecue lovers, Murphysboro is home to the renowned Praise the Lard BBQ Cook-Off, an event that attracts pitmasters from across the country to compete and showcase their best smoky creations. Between the delicious food and the fun events, these festivals are a great way for families to experience the town’s community spirit and rich traditions.
Where to eat in Murphysboro
17th Street Barbeque
The food highlight of our trip, without a doubt, was dinner at 17th Street Barbecue. Hands down, this was the best BBQ we’ve ever had—no exaggeration. 17th Street Barbecue is a legendary spot in Murphysboro, known far and wide for its award-winning barbecue. The restaurant was founded by Mike Mills, a true BBQ icon, who earned the nickname “The Legend” after winning countless BBQ championships, including the prestigious Memphis in May World Championship. Today, the restaurant is run by his daughter, Amy Mills, who has continued the family tradition of serving up world-class barbecue. The place has racked up awards, features in national publications and TV shows, and is pretty much a pilgrimage site for BBQ lovers.
The menu is packed with all the BBQ staples you’d expect—ribs, pulled pork, brisket, wings—and trust me, they’re all amazing. We went for the pulled pork sandwiches, a rack of ribs, and wings, and tried all the sauces (pro tip: you’ll want to try them all and then buy the sampler pack to take home). Everything was cooked to perfection. The ribs were fall-off-the-bone tender, the pulled pork had the perfect smoky flavor, and the wings were packed with flavor. The sauces—ranging from tangy to sweet—were the perfect complement to the meats, and we couldn’t get enough of them. If you’re anywhere near Murphysboro, this is a must-visit, no questions asked.
Faye
For breakfast and lunch, we absolutely loved Faye, another gem owned by Amy Mills. This adorable cafe, located right in downtown Murphysboro, is the perfect spot for any meal—whether you’re grabbing breakfast, brunch, lunch, or just popping in for a coffee and sweet treat. It’s got a fun combination of a cafe/diner vibe mixed with a specialty food store, so naturally, we couldn’t resist picking up a few fun items to take home. For breakfast, we had biscuits and gravy (so good), crispy bacon, yogurt, and lattes, and everything was delicious. We also grabbed lunch sandwiches to-go—perfect for our day out on the pontoon—and, like breakfast, it did not disappoint.
The cafe itself is a stunner, with a gorgeous vintage automobile feel that makes it a fun place to hang out. There’s also a huge, gorgeous outdoor patio with tables for eating outside on nice days. And yes, I know it’s weird to talk about bathrooms, but seriously—don’t skip checking them out. They’re awesome! Faye is the kind of place that nails both the food and the vibe, so whether you’re looking for a sit-down meal or something quick to go, it’s a must-visit when you’re in town.
Whiffle Boys Pizza
Whiffle Boys Pizza was a hit with the whole family. The kids devoured the pepperoni pizza while I went for the BBQ chicken pizza, and we all agreed it was delicious. The cheese sticks, though? Total game changer—they disappeared in about two minutes flat. The menu at Whiffle Boys is huge, so deciding what to order took a while, but you really can’t go wrong with anything. The restaurant itself is super kid-friendly, with big tables, tons of windows, and plenty of space to spread out. Bonus: they even have a drive-thru, so if you’re looking for a quick, easy dinner after a day of adventures, you can swing by and grab your pizza to go. We loved it!
Mileur Orchard
And for a little break from hiking and outdoor adventures, we were super excited about checking out Mileur Orchard. Known for its fresh apples, peaches, and local produce, this orchard is the perfect spot to pick up some farm-fresh goodies and enjoy a peaceful afternoon. We hit up the orchard and shop on our way out of town to grab some fresh peaches. The country store offers a great family-friendly experience with local goodies, handmade items, and freshly picked fruit products like jams, cobblers, and slushes!
Where to stay
When it comes to finding a place to stay in Murphysboro, there are a few options depending on your family’s needs. If you’re looking for something easy and kid-friendly, the brand-new Holiday Inn Express & Suites is a solid choice. It’s got a pool (which is always a hit with the kids), modern amenities, and is super convenient if you want to be close to town.
We decided to go for something a little more rustic and stayed in this adorable hunting cabin in the woods, and it was perfect. The cabin had three beds, tons of privacy, and the kids’ favorite feature: a hot tub out back. It was only a quick 7-minute drive to downtown, but the cabin felt super secluded and peaceful. We absolutely loved it. To top it off, there was a lake at the house next door, and the owner gave my kids permission to fish there. They ended up catching some of the largest bass I’ve ever seen! They fished until sunset—I literally had to drag them back to the cabin! If you’re looking for a private, relaxing place to stay, I can’t recommend it enough.
Three days wasn’t enough
Even after spending three jam-packed days in the Murphysboro area, there’s still so much we didn’t get a chance to do. It’s one of the reasons we’re already planning our next trip back—there are just too many hidden gems to explore! One spot we can’t wait to visit is the Pomona Natural Bridge. This natural stone arch is tucked away in the forest and offers a short, easy hike that’s great for families. From what we’ve heard, it’s an incredible sight and makes for a fun, quick stop. Plus, it’s one of those places that will make you feel like you’ve discovered something really special.
Another must-see on our list is the Little Grand Canyon. It’s a bit more of an adventurous hike, but the views from the top are supposed to be spectacular. The trail takes you through rugged rock formations and deep canyons, and it’s known for its stunning overlooks. This one is for the more experienced hikers or families with older kids who are ready for a challenge, but it’s definitely something we want to tackle on our next visit. We’ve heard the views alone are worth the effort!
We also had our eye on the Quetil Trail, a beautiful, shaded trail that follows an old railroad line and offers a peaceful walk through the woods. It’s a great option for families looking for an easy hike or even a bike ride. The trail is known for being serene and not too crowded, which is perfect when you want to escape into nature without a bunch of people around.
Not even to mention all the amazing lakes in the area for fishing! There’s so much to do!
Visit Murphysboro
All in all, our trip to Murphysboro and the surrounding Southern Illinois area was an unforgettable adventure! We had so much fun! From spending peaceful days on Kinkaid Lake to devouring the best BBQ we’ve ever had, we made memories that we’ll be talking about for years. My kids are already planning our next trip back (and this time, we have to bring Dad!).
But, the best part? There’s still so much more to see and do. Whether your family loves hiking, fishing, exploring small-town charm, or just kicking back and enjoying nature, this area has it all. We’re already planning our next trip back to check out more hidden gems—and we highly recommend adding Murphysboro to your family’s travel list. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
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.
In Everglades National Park, the wonders of Florida’s diverse ecosystem come to life! Today, Bethany Augliere, a Florida mom and marine biologist, is here sharing her personal insights, tips, and recommendations for an unforgettable family adventure in this magnificent wilderness. Navigating the Everglades with kids can be a thrilling and educationally-enriching experience, and in this post, we’ll provide valuable tips on when to visit, what to expect, the best kid-friendly hiking trails, what you can expect when encounting unique marine and wildlife, camping recommendations, and much more. Are you ready to discover the Everglades?!
Everglades National Park with kids
As someone who lives in South Florida with two adventurous young kids, I know that the Sunshine State offers so much more to families than trips to theme parks, including 11 national parks. These public lands range from the gator-filled swamps of Big Cypress National Preserve to the well-intact remains of Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park. But, perhaps the most famous is the 1.5 million-acre subtropical wilderness (equivalent to the size of Delaware) of the Everglades National Park in South Florida — a personal favorite.
The Everglades National Park is also an international treasure, a World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, a Wetland of International Importance, and a specially protected area under the Cartagena Treaty. The Everglades is a massive park — the third largest in the lower 48 — and has so much to offer families. You can easily tailor your trip to meet the specific needs of your family, whether that includes a trek through a cypress swamp in a slough slog, kayaking the seagrass meadows of Florida Bay or an exhilarating airboat ride.
The Everglades is one of our favorite places for wildlife viewing and is home to iconic species like American alligators and roseate spoonbills to threatened animals, including the West Indian manatee and even American crocodiles. Yes, Florida even has crocodiles! The Everglades is the only place in the world to see both crocodiles and alligators co-existing.
History of the Everglades
The Everglades once covered 11,000 square miles of South Florida. 100 years ago, water flowed down the Kissimmee River into Lake Okeechobee, then south through the Everglades, and finally, into Florida Bay. The shallow. slow-moving water created the many habitats known in the Everglades, like ponds, sloughs, sawgrass marshes, and hardwood hammocks. While water in the Everglades is often referred to as swampy, the truth is, it’s more like a slow-flowing river. In fact, the Everglades were dubbed the River of Grass by Marjory Stoneman Douglas in 1947.
Everything changed when early colonial settlers in the 1800s began to develop the region into farmland and communities. Developers dug canals to drain the wetlands. This alteration of the natural water flow in South Florida continued. In 1948, Congress authorized the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to construct a system of roads, canals, levees, and water-control structures stretching throughout South Florida to continue draining the wetlands. As a result, the Everglades are now 50% of what they once were.
The alteration of the wetlands—combined with increasing population—damaged the natural system. According to the National Park Service, with the support of many early conservationists, scientists, and other advocates, Everglades National Park was established in 1947 to conserve the natural landscape and prevent further degradation of its land, plants, and animals.
Crocodile or alligator?
As I mentioned above, the Everglades is the only place in the world to see both crocodiles and alligators. How do you tell the difference between crocodiles and alligators?
Crocodiles have a pointer, v-shaped snout, while alligators have a rounder, u-shaped snout. Alligators are more numerous in Florida and typically found in freshwater, while the more rare and elusive crocodile prefers salty or brackish water, as well as freshwater.
When an alligator has its mouth shut, only their upper teeth are visible. When a crocodile has its mouth shut, it shows off a toothy grin with both upper and lower teeth visible.
Lastly, alligators have a darker, almost black color, while crocodiles tend to be a lighter tan color.
Things to know before you go – Everglades National Park
Three main entry points exist for the park: the Gulf Coast Visitor Center, which is closest to Naples and south of Everglades City, the Shark Valley area that can be accessed by US 41 (also known as the Tamiami Trail) and the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center in Homestead — the park’s main headquarters. Personally, I’ve spent the most time exploring the Homestead entrance.
The three entrances are not connected due to the swampy terrain of the park. Therefore, you won’t be able to enter the park in one region and drive through it to the others. They are also in different parts of the state. You’ll want to pick one region to explore in a day. As of right now, there is no advance reservation system needed to enter the park.
The Gulf Coast visitor access area serves as the gateway for exploring the Ten Thousand Islands, a maze of mangrove islands and waterways that extends to Flamingo and Florida Bay accessible only by boat in this region. I’ve never explored this region of the park from this entrance, but it is on my list. The original Gulf Coast Visitor Center was destroyed by Hurricane Irma in September of 2017. The temporary Visitor Contact Station was destroyed by Hurricane Ian in 2022. Visitor services are limited.
All park visitors are required to pay an entrance fee, which is $35 per vehicle. You can also use an interagency annual pass to enter. Visitor centers and entrance stations have set operating hours, but the park remains open 24/7.
When to visit Everglades National Park with kids
South Florida has two main seasons: wet season (which runs from June through October), and dry season (which runs from November through May). The dry season is more popular due to lower and more comfortable temperatures, lessening of mosquitoes, and an abundance of wildlife.
In the dry season, temperatures reach average highs of 77°F and lows of 53°F. Sometimes, strong cold fronts bring even chillier weather!
I have to warn you, in the summer, the bugs are bad — really bad. During cooler months, the insects such as mosquitoes and biting flies may still occur in some areas and at dusk and dawn. Come prepared with mosquito repellent, and maybe even head nets or bug jackets.
One thing about the dry season that makes for better wildlife viewing is lower water levels due to less rain. This means that the animals gather around water holes. There have been times when I’ve seen dozens of large alligators all in one small section of a trail. And during winter, the birdwatching is exceptional as many species fly south for warmer temperatures and breeding. In fact, the Everglades National Park is the most significant breeding ground for wading birds in North America, and it is a critical stopover habitat for birds migrating along the Atlantic Flyway, such as the Yellow-throated Warbler.
Everglades National Park nature trails for kids
Hiking in the Everglades means you can explore a variety of habitats, from tree islands to swamps, sawgrass marsh, and wet prairie. Most hikes are short, interpretive, flat trails that are perfect for young kids, especially because you can often see a lot of wildlife.
At the start of the Royal Palm Information Station and Bookstore, in the Homestead entrance, you can find two must-see trails, the Anhinga Trail and Gumbo Limbo Trail. Additionally, Ranger-led walks and talks are conducted here, and the visitor station includes a small bookstore, restrooms, and vending machines.
Kid-friendly hiking trails
Anhinga Trail: This trail is one of my favorites and if you do nothing else in the Everglades, you should do this! It’s a short 0.8-mile loop on a paved path with a boardwalk over the water. It always has good wildlife viewing, like gators, turtles, osprey, anhinga, cormorants, purple gallinules, black vultures, snakes and more. On this trail (and all trails really) I recommend taking your time and observing the wildlife. You’ll see anhingas swimming in the water and popping up with their bill piercing a fish they then juggle to toss down their throats. After a dive, they’ll often jump up to a branch and spread out their wings to dry their feathers, since they lack the oil glands other birds have to stay dry.
Gumbo Limbo Trail: This 0.4-mile trail winds through through dense forest. It includes views of the famous Gumbo Limbo, affectionally known as the tourist tree. Why? Because its peeling red bark looks like the skin of a sunburnt tourist!
Pinelands Trail: An easy 0.4-mile paved trail through a pine forest, one of the many habitats found in Everglades National Park.
Mahogany Hammock Trail: This 0.5-mile boardwalk trail meanders through a dense, jungle-like hardwood hammock. Plants include gumbo-limbo trees, air plants, and the largest living mahogany tree (Swietenia mahogani) in the United States. Because the park is so remote, this trail’s parking lot is one of the best to view the International Space Station if you take an evening star walk or drive,
Pa-hay-okee Trail: This is a very easy .2-mile boardwalk loop where you can view the iconic sawgrass prairie.
Eco Pond Trail: This half-mile loop around a pond is great for bird watching.
Bobcat boardwalk: A short, easy 1-mile out and back trail through a sawgrass slough and hardwood forest. This trail is accessed at the Shark Valley entrance.
Otter Cave Hammock Trail: A 0.5-mile out-and-back rough limestone trail through a tropical hardwood forest with small footbridges over a small stream. Check at the Shark Valley Visitor Center for the current conditions of the trail; it sometimes can be flooded during the summer.
Exploring Everglades via boat
If you know anything about me, you know I love the water. In the Everglades, you can explore the water — both fresh and salt — in a variety of ways. One thing to note is that water levels vary drastically by season, and some trails can become dry and require carrying the canoe or kayak. The trails also vary from beginner to advanced, and can be as long or short as you want, depending on where you go. So, always check conditions before you head out, stay within your limits of paddling, and have a plan.
Remember too, this is the home of crocodiles and alligators, which you will undoubtedly see. Keep a safe distance when observing the large reptiles— especially during breeding season when males are more active and territorial, and give lots of space to nesting mothers.
Kayaks and canoes
You can bring your own kayak or canoe, and there are also two places to rent canoes and kayaks within the park, one in Flamingo at the Homestead entrance and the west side of the park at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center.
Boat tours and airboats
Flamingo also offers two 90-minute boat tour rides, one into the Everglades freshwater backcountry and another into Florida Bay. When it comes to taking boat tours with kids, I recommend bringing a lot of snacks and water to keep them occupied, especially if they are younger. Flamingo is one of the best places to see crocodiles and manatees, so be sure to spend some time walking around the marina.
Boat tour tickets may be purchased in the Marina Store. Visit http://www.flamingoeverglades.com or call (352) 701-6581 for more information. Boat tours of Whitewater Bay and Florida Bay depart from the Flamingo Marina located next to the Flamingo Visitor Center (38 miles into the park, 50 miles from Homestead, Fla).
I’ve only ever done one airboat ride in my life, and the one I went to fed marshmallows to wild alligators, which upset me. I’ve heard of other places where they feed and jump in with the human-habituated wild alligators. If you want to do an airboat tour, I recommend going with a company that is partnered with the National Park Service. They have a list of operators here. If you’ve never done an airboat ride, know that they are LOUD. I wouldn’t recommend it for a sensory sensitive child and for infants or toddlers, just make sure to request noise-cancelling headphones to protect their ears. The airboats are also fast and open, with no railings on the side. If you bring squirmy toddlers, be prepared to hold them tight.
Camping in Everglades National Park
If you’re interested in camping, there are just campgrounds in the park: Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground. Both are accessible from the Homestead entrance and accommodate tents and RV’s with a limited number of group sites. You can make reservations with Everglades Guest Services or by calling 1-855-708-2207.
The Flamingo campground, which is at the very end of the park — about 45-minutes from the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center — offers solar-heated showers, two dump stations, picnic tables, grills, and an amphitheater for seasonal Ranger programs. And newly available are safari-style Eco tents, complete with fans and electricity (I haven’t tried these out yet, but they look nice)!
Long Pine Key campground is open seasonally November-May, and is just a few miles from the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center. This campground has cold showers, restrooms, a dump station, and a fill station.
Shark Valley tram and bike rentals
If you’re headed to the Shark Valley entrance, the 15-mile path is best viewed via a 2-hour tram ride or bike ride (I don’t recommend walking it). Halfway through the trail, there is a 45-foot high observation tower, a water fountain with a water bottle refill station, and restrooms.
The two short hikes great for walking and kids (mentioned above) can be started close to the visitor center, where you can also purchase tickets for the tram or rent bikes. If you have young kids, you can also request bikes with seat attachment for children up to 40 pounds.
If you decide to bike, note that there is virtually no shade on the path. Also, Florida is the lightning capital of the U.S. Check the weather so you don’t get caught in a storm. Most of the thunderstorms occur during the mid to late afternoon hours, so the best riding times are in the morning when it’s still a little cooler.
If you opt for the tram, the tour operator gives you lots of info about the Everglades, the animals, the history of the observation tower, and more.
Prices for the tram ride:
Adults (13-61) $31.00
Seniors (62+) $24.00
Children (3-12) $16.00
Slough slog
Most people wouldn’t dream of stepping foot off-trail and into the gator-infested waters of the Everglades. But that’s exactly what happens if you decide to take a slough slog. Unless you are going with someone who has gone before and knows what they are doing, I suggest doing this with the NPS ranger-led program,
You’ll trek through a a sawgrass prairie before making your way into the shallow, swamp-like body of water of a cypress dome — a freshwater forested wetland that appears like a tree island. The name comes from the dome-like shape of treetops, formed by smaller trees growing on the edge where the water is shallow, while taller trees grow at the center in deeper water.
During a slough slog, the water could get up to your waist at some points. It’s quiet, peaceful (or maybe a bit nerve-wracking), and as you journey into the cypress trees covered in air plants, it feels like entering an entirely different world — like something out of a fantasy film. You might pass an alligator hole, hear the prehistoric call of a great blue heron, glimpse owls, snakes, tree frogs and more. Seriously, watch where you put your hand because mine has come a bit too-close-for-comfort to a resting cottonmouth. It’s honestly one of my favorite things to do in the Everglades and share with any willing friend who will join me! If you have younger kids, just check with rangers about water levels.
Ranger-led programs and Junior Ranger program
Like many US national parks, the Everglades has tons of ranger-led programs and walks, from guided hikes and bird-watching to slough slogs and guided paddles.
We love the Junior Ranger program at the National Parks and state parks when they have them, and have done them at several across the country. We recently even did a Junior Refuge Manager Program at the Arthur M. Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in South Florida, which was new to us. I highly recommend doing this as an activity during your trip.
The Everglades provides an online digital copy of the booklet you can request as well, and free coloring pages are provided on the website.
Robert is Here fruit stand
As a side note, if you’re going to the Homestead entrance, a stop at the Robert is Here Fruit Stand is a must. The fruit stand is family-owned and operated and specializes in rare and exotic fruits and vegetables, like canistel, guava, dragon fruit, sapodilla, and mamey, mostly grown right on the farm. Every day, the staff hand-cuts the fruit for their smoothies and milkshakes. I personally love the key lime milkshake or any smoothies with guava and passionfruit.
Have you ever been to Everglades National Park?
About the author
Bethany Augliere is a marine biologist, conservationist, and storyteller. She has always been inspired to encourage people to fall in love with nature and explore their own backyard, in hopes of instilling a desire to help protect the Earth and its creatures — especially the ocean. Her work has brought her eye-to-eye with giant tiger sharks, playful dolphins, curious manta rays, and gentle manatees. Now, as a mom, she aspires to share those adventures with her family, whether it’s kayaking in the Everglades or searching for shark teeth on the beach.
In the heart of the scenic Ouachita Mountains, Mena, Arkansas, is a hidden gem for families wanting to experience the upcoming solar eclipse on the line of totality. With incredible outdoor experiences, historical charm, and a wide variety of unique indoor and outdoor kid-friendly activities, Mena is the perfect destination for those seeking a memorable family getaway and the ideal location to witness the eclipse with your family. Arkansas mom of two, Nichole Holze, will show us all the unique experiences that Mena has to offer families, including a detailed itinerary for your trip. Let’s explore the charm and adventure that make Mena, Arkansas, a must-visit destination for families seeking a one-of-a-kind getaway.
*This post is part of a sponsored series of blog posts with Arkansas Tourism about the total eclipse.
Experience the total eclipse in Arkansas
A total solar eclipse is a magical experience. My children and I traveled to Casper, Wyoming for the last eclipse and lived out of our minivan camper for a month on the road. The high point of our trip was experiencing the eclipse along the line of totality. We camped in a field directly on the center line of totality and experienced it in a way that was absolutely magical. We will never forget that life-changing experience.
If you didn’t get a chance to experience the last solar eclipse along the line of totality, don’t worry! There’s is another eclipse coming up this April 2024, and I’m thrilled to help other families have that same experience in my home state of Arkansas. The center line of totality for the 2024 eclipse bisects the state, and most of Arkansas will have excellent viewing.
One of the cities to experience totality in is Mena! Keep reading for family-friendly things to do in Mena, Arkansas, and check out our recommended itinerary. This is the first post in a series all about some of the best places to view the eclipse in Arkansas, and what you can do with your family while you’re there!
Where is Mena, Arkansas?
Mena, Arkansas, is a charming town in west-central Arkansas. It’s near the Oklahoma border, surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest. It is in the direct line of totality for theApril 2024 total solar eclipse. Mena will experience totality for four minutes and 8 seconds!
There are several festivals and events just for the eclipse happening as well. It’s a great place to visit, and there are lots of family-friendly things to do in Mena, Arkansas, and the surrounding areas. The Ouachita National Forest and mountains are nearby, and there are plenty of open spaces to play, explore, and experience the total solar eclipse!
Outdoor things to do in Mena, Arkansas
Some of the family-friendly things to do in Mena, Arkansas, include visiting the state parks! The town is lucky to have two beautiful state parks close by. Arkansas State Parks are wonderful things for families with kids of all ages to visit. There are always activities going on, so be sure to check the state park’s calendar so you don’t miss anything!
Queen Wilhelmina State Park
One of the most iconic state parks in the western half of Arkansas is Queen Wilhelmina State Park, just a quick drive up the mountains from downtown Mena. The route has two options, and I recommend taking the Talimena Scenic Drive. It’s a beautiful route that winds through the Ouachita Mountains from Mena, Arkansas to Talihina, Oklahoma. There are overlooks and scenic pull outs along the way.
In the spring, the route is dotted with wildflowers as the forest comes alive, and it’s beautiful! Be sure to plan some extra time to enjoy your drive up the mountain and back down. The entire mountaintop park is a great place to view the eclipse.
Things to do at Queen Wilhelmina State Park
A unique thing about Queen Wilhelmina State Park is the lodge that sits perched atop the mountain. It’s a great place to stay but also a great place to just visit for the day. There is a restaurant called The Queen’s Restaurant, open daily from 7 AM to 9 PM. They have a great menu that includes some gluten-free options. The park is also home to Mountain Glory Train Station, an adorable mini train that takes all ages on a scenic ride around the mountaintop.
Family-friendly things to do in Queen Wilhelmina State Park also include going on a tour of the Wonder House and grabbing a photo next to the big steam engine. The visitor center has a cute gift shop, and the interior of the lodge has some neat history to read.
There are a few hiking trails, too. Lover’s Leap is a beautiful trail that goes around the top of the mountain with an overlook halfway through. The Reservoir Trail is another great hike for kids. Both trails are around one mile.
Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area
Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area is a beautiful park that’s only about forty minutes from Mena. It’s a unique state park destination that’s actually one of the top whitewater kayaking spots in the state. There can be class IV and class V drops when the weather is right, including the legendary “skull crusher.” The water is only high enough for kayaking in the spring or after significant rainfall, but the Cossatot River is beautiful all year long.
The state park visitor center is a must see for families because of the wonderful nature center. It has some great hands-on learning opportunities. A playground sits next to the visitor center, and so does the Waterleaf Interpretive Trail, which is about one mile long and partially ADA accessible.
Other kid-friendly recommended hikes in Cossatot River State Park:
Harris Creek Trail – just over 3 mile loop, moderate to challenging
River Corridor Trail – 12 miles, following the river, you can hike sections of it. Ed Banks to Sandbar is a favorite section. You can park at both the Ed Banks river access and the Sandbar access.
More remote areas of Cossatot River State Park
Part of what makes Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area one of our family’s favorite places to visit is the remoteness of the park. If you stop at the visitor center and ask about the Sandbar area and The Falls, they’ll give you directions for how to get there. It’s about a thirty-minute drive down the forest road.
Things to remember: 1) You’ll lose cell service, so save a map offline. 2) Please practice Leave No Trace principles and pack in what you pack out. 3) Both areas have campsites that are first come, first serve and do not have hookups. There are pit toilets at the Sandbar campground and The Falls campground.
Here are some practical tips for heading out into this remote area:
For older children and the adventurous: pack a picnic lunch in a backpack, wear water or hiking shoes with good grip, and spend the day out on the boulders at the falls area (also known as “sheeps den”). It’s a very scrambly hike over large boulders, but there are lots of great swimming holes and places to play. It’s a great place to watch the eclipse if you don’t mind being more remote. Talk to the park interpreters for more details about how to prepare and what to expect.
For a calmer water play experience on the river: pack a lunch, water clothes and shoes, and some chairs and head to the sandbar area for the day. The visibility will not be quite as open, but it’s a great spot to sit and enjoy the beautiful Cossatot River. It’s a calm area that also has great fishing by the low-water bridge.
Digging for crystals in Mena, Arkansas
Another family-friendly thing to do in Mena, Arkansas, is to go hunting for quartz crystal! The Ouachita mountain range is a hot spot for quartz crystals, and Mena has its own place to go crystal digging.
Board Camp Crystal Mine is located just southeast of Mena and it’s a great place for kids and adults of all ages, because kids under 16 dig for free!Digging for quartz crystal is a bucket list experience and you can even dig for crystals while you enjoy the total solar eclipse! Board Camp Crystal Mine offers a more holistic approach to crystal digging, and while they do not open any large rock veins in the earth, they welcome surface hunting and shallow digging to find the treasures.
Bigfoot and the UnXplained
In 2016, Board Camp Crystal Mine started having odd and unexplained events. So many, in fact, that they shut down their yearly folk music festival to focus on understanding what was going on. From strange lights, to levitating rocks, to Bigfoot footprints, they’ve had a little bit of everything happen at their property.
As an add-on to crystal digging or its own experience, you can go on one of their “unexplained tours” to learn all about what has transpired at their property over the last six years! Whether you believe or not, it’s a fascinating learning opportunity.
Blue Zip Line and Farm
Did you know that there’s also a zip line? It’s one of the best family-friendly things to do in Mena, Arkansas.Blue Zipline and Farm offers a full zipline tour, along with camping spots with RV hookups. They have 160 acres and can offer full concierge services to set you up with a wide range of experiences, including ATVs, fishing, and hiking.
The zip lines are so much fun for families, and there are two really fast lines at this place! All participants must sign a waiver. The requirements are at least 5 years old, at least 60 pounds, and no more than 275 pounds. Children aged 5 to 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Be sure to reserve your time slot ahead of time, especiallyduring the eclipse festival!
Other outdoor adventures near Mena, Arkansas
There are so many family-friendly things to do in and around the Mena area and so many great outdoor adventures. Because of its location in the Ouachita National Forest, there are lots of outdoor recreation opportunities. Here are some more fun ways to explore the outdoors:
Buckeye Mountain and Caney Creek Loop – 10-mile hiking loop, one of our most favorite hikes in Arkansas. This is a strenuous hike, especially for a day hike. My children have done it with me, but please be prepared for a hard day hike. It’s also a great backpacking loop. Catch a sneak peek of the trail here.
Disc golf is another great free, family friendly thing to do in Mena, here’s agreat course.
Parks and playgrounds inn Mena, Arkansas
Mena, Arkansas, has several wonderful parks within the city limits as well. The parks have lots of wide open spaces that are a great place to view the total solar eclipse. Be sure to plan out your day to arrive early and grab a spot.
Janssen Park – the large park near downtown Mena. It offers a playground, splash pad, basketball court, natural spring and beautiful walking paths. The park also features a 100-year-old log cabin that’s said to have been a hideout for Jesse James!
McMillan Park – seasonal swimming pool, pavilions, playgrounds and picnic area.
Aubrey Tapley Park – sports fields, tennis courts, two playgrounds, and a walking/biking trail.
Indoor family-friendly activities in Mena
While Mena, Arkansas, is a hot spot for outdoor recreation, there are still plenty of things to do indoors in the town. The historic downtown is charming and offers great specialty and gift shops to explore.
Here are a few of our favorite indoor things to do in Mena, Arkansas:
Thehistoric KCS train depot. This beautiful train depot has a free museum with lots of great history about the area, as well as the Chamber of Commerce. Be sure to stop outside for a photo with the fully restored 1939 police cruiser!
In our family, finding all the local coffee shops and cafes is a must! Mena has several great spots that are family-friendly and a must-see when you’re in town for the total solar eclipse in Arkansas.
Our personal favorite, which is a one-stop shop for coffee in the morning and a tap house and pizzeria for dinner, is The Ouachitas.
TheQ on Main serves coffee, ice cream, and a limited food menu. It’s also cute as can be and full of great photo ops.
Sherwood Bistro is right across from the historic train depot. It has a great food menu, plus good coffee! PS – they have gluten-free bread and lots of baked potato options for allergy-friendly meals.
Cossatot Grounds Cafe is on Highway 71 in nearby Wickes and a great place to stop on your way to or from Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area. They also share a building with a Mexican restaurant, and both have food menus.
Family-friendly places to eat in Mena
Our number one favorite place to eat in Mena is The Ouachitas. They have a great menu with a range of options. But best of all, they have a gluten-free crust for pizza and hard cider on tap for adults with gluten allergies. It’s also a beautiful restaurant with a newly added outdoor dining porch.
For lunch, American Artisans Eatery and Bistro have gluten-free bread and a full menu of options.Cruizzers Drive In is a great place for families and is a retro-style drive-in restaurant, with some photo characters out front for photo ops.
Simple Simons is another great spot for pizza. For an upscale dining experience, check outChopping Block Steakhouse, and be sure to make a reservation ahead of time if you do!
Where to stay in Mena, Arkansas
The best place to stay in Mena, in my opinion, isOuachita Wilde Luxury Tents. At the time of this publishing, they are not booked yet for the eclipse! This beautiful space is run by a mother-and-daughter team and features multiple glamping tents in a gorgeous private setting not far from downtown Mena. They can also do mobile setups and backyard parties.
Sample itinerary for the eclipse in Mena, Arkansas
To help take the stress out of planning your trip, here’s a day-by-day breakdown with an itinerary of family-friendly things to do in Mena, Arkansas.
Day before the eclipse
Pack a lunch.
Grab coffee and breakfast at Cossatot Grounds Coffee Shop then drive to Cossatot River State Park-Natural Area
Enjoy the visitor center and learn about the park, try the Waterleaf Interpretive Trail.
Hike the Harris Creek Trail Loop.
Drive to the Falls area and enjoy a picnic lunch.
After lunch, explore the Falls area, or head to the Sandbar area to play.
Drive back to where you’re staying and get cleaned up.
Dinner at The Ouachitas in downtown Mena.
The day of the eclipse
Grab coffee and breakfast at The Ouachitas.
Explore downtown Mena.
Get to your eclipse viewing location AT LEAST two hours before the eclipse begins. Totality occurs at 1:45 PM, so plan on being in your post by 11 AM at a minimum. I’d recommend going earlier. Bring some games and activities, and don’t forget your eclipse glasses!
Check out the KCS Historic Train depot and grab a photo with the police cruiser.
Go digging for crystals at Board Camp Crystal Mine. Pack a lunch to stay the day or head back to town for lunch when you’re done.
Lunch at American Artisans Eatery and Gallery.
Go ziplining at Blue Zip Line and Farm.
Dinner at Chopping Block Steakhouse.
Dessert at The Q on Main.
Experience the total solar eclipse in Mena, Arkansas
A total solar eclipse is an incredible event. This will be the third time in Arkansas history to experience a total eclipse. The last one was in 1918! Viewing it as a family is sure to be a memorable event. There are so many unique family-friendly things to do in Mena, and it’s the perfect spot to view the eclipse.
The top three locations I would recommend to view the eclipse are 1) Queen Wilhelmina State Park, 2) any of the city parks in and around Mena, and 3) Board Camp Crystal Mine or Blue Zip Line.
For the adventurous, I recommend The Falls area at Cossatot River State Park, or anywhere along the ridgeline on the Buckeye Mountain Trail. I hope you and your family get to have the experience of a lifetime and that you enjoy exploring all that the Mena, Arkansas, area has to offer!
Have you made plans for the April 2024 eclipse yet?
About the author
Nichole is a writer, content creator, and family travel and adventure influencer residing in southwest Arkansas. Though she and her husband are originally from the Midwest, they’ve lived in Arkansas for ten years now and are thrilled to call it home. They have homeschooled their children from the beginning of their educational journey. They have a now 12-year-old son and 9-year-old daughter, along with a one-year Direwolf Dog puppy. Nichole is an avid outdoor adventurer and road tripper and has been taking her kids on adventures by herself since they were infants, it’s all part of what she calls being responsibly brave. She is also on the Executive Team for Run Wild My Child and has contributed to Wild and Free. Be sure to follow her on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date with all of their shenanigans.
There’s something truly magical about standing at the edge of one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, Niagara Falls. The thundering rush of water, the mist that kisses your skin, and the sheer power of nature’s spectacle – it’s an experience that leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of adults and children alike. But when you’re planning a visit to this destination with little ones in tow, the information out there can be confusing. Today, Amy Eastin, Kansas City mom of three, is sharing her family’s most recent trip to Niagara Falls with kids. This post is filled with tips, advice, and recommendations to ensure that your trip is not only awe-inspiring but also as smooth as the waters of the falls themselves.
Planning a trip to Niagara Falls with kids
Niagara Falls is one of the most iconic natural wonders on Earth. It’s a spectacular display of the raw power and beauty of nature. Located on the border between the United States and Canada, this awe-inspiring phenomenon is formed by the Niagara River, which connects the Great Lakes of Erie and Ontario. As the river rushes over the edge of the Niagara Escarpment, it plummets in a breathtaking cascade, creating three majestic waterfalls: the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls.
What makes Niagara Falls an irresistible tourist destination is its sheer magnificence. The deafening roar of the cascading waters, the thick mist that envelops visitors, and the mesmerizing play of colors as the sun reflects off the falls all combine to create an otherworldly experience.
The falls are not only a visual feast but also a testament to the geological and hydrological forces that have shaped our planet. Visitors can get up close on boat tours, walk along scenic viewpoints, and explore various attractions in the surrounding area. The Niagara region offers a harmonious blend of natural grandeur, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.
Which side of Niagara Falls should you visit?
There are two cities called Niagara Falls. One is in New York state, and the other is in Ontario, Canada. Experiencing Niagara Falls from the New York side and the Canadian side offers distinct yet equally breathtaking perspectives of this natural wonder.
On the US side, visitors get views of the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls up close, allowing for an intimate connection with the falls’ raw power and misty embrace. Goat Island is a small island located in the Niagara River, within Niagara Falls State Park in Niagara Falls, New York, between the Bridal Veil Falls and the Horseshoe Falls. Goat Islandis a destination for tourists visiting the falls on the U.S. side. It has several viewing points, including from Terrapin Point. Goat Island is connected to the U.S. mainland by two bridges that carry foot, car, and trackless train traffic, and to the smaller Luna Island by a pedestrian bridge. Goat Island is largely wooded and is interlaced with foot trails. The Cave of the Winds tour elevator provides access down to the foot of the falls.
On the Canadian side of the falls, the Horseshoe Falls takes center stage, providing a sweeping, panoramic view that showcases the grandeur and vastness of Niagara Falls. The Canadian side also boasts a lively promenade, vibrant gardens, and an array of attractions that offer a different kind of experience, including a stunning illuminated night view.
While both sides offer unique and unforgettable encounters with the falls, the American side showcases the falls’ intensity, while the Canadian side offers a broader, postcard-perfect perspective, making it no wonder that many travelers choose to explore both sides to appreciate the full spectrum of this natural marvel. If you want to experience both sides, the Rainbow Bridge is located between the cities of Niagara Falls, Canada and Niagara Falls, NY. Crossing the bridge costs $5.00 for a vehicle, or pedestrians can cross for $1.00.
We chose to stay on the Canadian side, so for this article, I am providing information about things you can do in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada.
Viewing the falls
You can’t go to Niagara Falls and not see the falls themselves. While there’s lots more to do in the area, this is the main attraction!
Viewing and experiencing Niagara Falls for the first time is nothing short of a sensory overload and a profound encounter with nature’s grandeur. As you approach the falls, a distant rumble gradually transforms into a thunderous roar that reverberates through the air. The mist, carrying with it the faint scent of fresh water fills the air and settles on your skin.
When the falls finally come into view, there’s an almost instinctual gasp as you witness the sheer power and magnificence of this natural wonder. The towering columns of water, their brilliant whites contrasting against the deep blues of the Niagara River, are awe-inspiring.
There is a long stretch of viewing areas along the river going up to the falls themselves called the Fallsview Trail. The upper part of the falls are called Horseshoe Falls, and nearby are the smaller, but no less grand, American Falls.
Niagara Falls USA Observation Tower provides the only panoramic view of all three Niagara Falls, including the American Falls.
Niagara Falls at night
Viewing Niagara Falls at night, when the waters are artfully illuminated by lights, is a magical experience that adds an entirely new dimension to your visit. As the sun sets and darkness descends, the falls become a canvas of radiant colors, with ever-changing hues that dance across the water’s surface.
To make this experience even more extraordinary, fireworks displays light up the night sky, casting a vivid, explosive contrast against the gentle, flowing beauty of the falls.
Every night from mid-May through Canadian Thanksgiving, fireworks are shot off over Horseshoe Falls. Fireworks start at 10 p.m. People start arriving around 9 p.m. to get a good spot. If it is a weekend or the summer, I recommend getting there early if you want to be in the front row.
The combination of illuminated falls and dazzling fireworks turns the Niagara night into a truly enchanting and unforgettable sensory feast, evoking a sense of wonder and awe that remains etched in the memory of all who witness it. If you’d like to see the falls lit up without the crowds, wait until 10:30 p.m. when the fireworks crowd clears out.
Boat tours
Families planning a visit to Niagara Falls should consider a boat tour. Seeing the falls from a boat tour gives you such a unique and up-close perspective of the falls. It’s an experience that’s not only exhilarating but also educational. The boats take visitors right to the base of the falls, where the sheer power and majestic beauty of the cascading waters are awe-inspiring. No wonder that boat tours are the most popular thing to do in Niagara Falls.
After viewing the falls from land, we couldn’t wait to do a boat tour. We rode with Niagara City Cruises. Tickets for tours are sold in half-hour time slots. I recommend getting your tickets early if you have a specific time you would like to take the tour. The tours take 20 minutes and run all day during the busy season. Because the tours are so short, even the littlest kids can handle the tour without getting too restless.
To get to the boat, you will go down a ramp or stairs to an elevator (consider this if you’re traveling with a wheelchair or stroller). On your way out to the boat, you will be given a red poncho to put on. You will definitely want to wear this unless you want to look like you stepped out of the shower! They do have kid-sized ponchos available, but for little kids, it might be too long. We taught our daughters to walk like princesses holding their ponchos up with both hands so they didn’t trip.
My kids were captivated by the thunderous roar of the falls, the mist that enveloped them, and the thrill of getting so close to the falls. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience, offering a unique opportunity for kids to connect with the powerful forces that shape our planet.
The boat is completely full of people with very little room to move around. We were lucky and were some of the first people on our boat, so we got a corner of the top deck. The boat leaves quickly and goes right up to the falls, so the spray of the water will completely cover you. Make sure anything you don’t want to get wet is safely stored under your poncho. After your tour, you discard your poncho and take the elevator back up.
Tunnels under the falls
Another fun way to see the falls is by walking in tunnels underneath them at Journey Behind the Falls.
This is such a unique and immersive perspective. As you walk closer to the falls, you can feel the earth-shaking power of the cascading waters overhead. The thunderous roar of the water reverberates through the tunnels, and the dimly lit, misty atmosphere adds an element of mystery and adventure to the experience.
For the tour, there are reserved time slots, and they do sell out, so I recommend getting your tickets early online. When it’s your time to go, you will still have to wait in line. We waited for 45 minutes to an hour. Bring snacks and something for the kids because they will be bored.
For this experience, you will also get a poncho. You will walk through underground tunnels to be directly behind the falls. All you will see is rushing water. There is another observation area where you get to walk out and stand at the base of the falls. The spray of the waterfall will get you very wet! The view and experience are similar to the boat ride, but it is less crowded, and you get to see the falls from a different view.
Viewing Niagara Falls from a Ferris wheel
You can not only view Niagara Falls from below, but also from high above! Observing Niagara Falls from the top of the Niagara SkyView Ferris wheel gives you a breathtaking panoramic view of the falls and the surrounding landscape.
My kids loved this. The wait was relatively short even though we were there during peak season. The slow rotation of the wheel allows ample time to soak in the magnificent vista, capturing the grandeur of Niagara Falls from a fresh perspective while adding an element of whimsy and delight to the experience. We rode it during the day, but you can take night rides too. Each family gets their own compartment which is nice. There is a speaker that plays music while you look out at the view.
It’s a thrilling and unforgettable way to appreciate the falls and create lasting memories, offering a family-friendly adventure that will be cherished for years to come.
Clifton Hill
Clifton Hill, nestled in the heart of Niagara Falls, is a vibrant and whimsical entertainment district that beckons families with its unique blend of attractions and activities. The Clifton Hill area is brimming with colorful arcades, funhouses, miniature golf courses, and engaging museums. This area has tons of blinking lights, music, and interesting things to look at. The street is lined with arcades, play areas, carnival-type rides, restaurants, fair food, and more. It’s a place where fantasy comes to life, offering enchanting experiences such as the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, the immersive Butterfly Conservatory, and the spellbinding glow of the Dinosaur Adventure Golf.
Families can also enjoy delicious treats, ice cream, and various cuisines at the many restaurants and eateries, ensuring that both young and old are well-fed and entertained. With its lively atmosphere and an array of child-friendly options, Clifton Hill promises unforgettable family moments and is an essential stop for anyone exploring the wonders of Niagara Falls with kids.
We spent an afternoon exploring Clifton Hill. We got churros as we walked around. My kids loved all colors and decorations and begged to do every activity. We went to an arcade both nights we were in Niagara Falls, and we completed the Mystery Maze.
A quiet place to relax
We usually travel to places filled with nature and lots of open green spaces, like state and national parks. While our kids truly enjoyed everything there was to do in Niagara Falls, they also got overwhelmed by all the chaos, lights, music, and people.
Luckily, we found a cute garden close to the falls where they could explore and be in nature with very few people nearby. The Oakes Garden Theater is a beautiful, low-key outdoor area. My kids enjoyed finding a geocache there as well.
If you’re like us and crave solace, check out serene parks in the Niagara Falls area like Queen Victoria Park on the Canadian side. This lush, meticulously landscaped area offers not only a peaceful retreat from the bustling crowds but also the perfect setting for a picnic or leisurely stroll. In these green oases, you’ll find respite from the excitement, a moment to reflect, and a chance to connect with nature, making your exploration of Niagara Falls a truly balanced and rejuvenating experience.
The Niagara Whirlpool
The Niagara Whirlpool is a natural marvel created by the force of the Niagara River, located just a short distance downstream from Niagara Falls. It forms where the river narrows, creating a natural bottleneck that leads to a dramatic change in water flow, speed, and direction. This abrupt shift results in a powerful whirlpool. The Whirlpool is encircled by a striking gorge with cliffs rising to heights of over 300 feet, offering visitors a spectacular and unique vantage point.
While it may not receive as much fanfare as the adjacent Niagara Falls, it’s an awe-inspiring experience. You can explore the area by hiking along the gorge rim, taking a cable car ride, or, for the more adventurous, descending into the gorge itself. The cable car spans the gorge, so you can ride suspended above it. It looks thrilling, and yet perfectly safe!
We didn’t get a chance to visit it this time, but it’s on my list for our next visit. It’s a destination that complements a visit to Niagara Falls, providing a quieter, more contemplative, and equally impressive aspect of the region’s natural wonders.
Niagara Falls bus system
There is a bus system for tourists called WEGO, that has three different lines and will take you to all of the major tourist destinations. We used WEGO one of the two days we were there, and it was very convenient.
It’s difficult for our three little kids to walk long distances or up the steep Clifton Hill. Getting the bus pass made the trip more enjoyable for my kids and us because we weren’t having to wait on their little legs. The system was easy to use and goes by most major hotels in the area.
If you like walking and saving money, skip it! But if you’re looking for convenience when you’re traveling as a family, then I would recommend it.
Where to eat at Niagara Falls
Whether you’re looking for street food or sit-down restaurants, Clifton Hill has a ton of family-friendly eating options.
Street food
There are lots of kiosks with portable food like ice cream, churros, popcorn, and corn on a stick. Your family will love all the snack foods and they make it easy to eat and walk around.
Restaurants
There are lots of options for places to sit down and eat as well. Pasta, pizza, and burgers were popular options. We went to Rainforest Cafe one night, and my kids loved it! The restaurant is elaborately decorated with jungle plants from floor to ceiling. There are animatronic animals that move and make noises around the restaurant. Every 10-15 minutes, there is a “rainstorm” where the lights flicker, it gets dark, and there are sounds of thunder and rain. The portions were sizeable, and my kids loved the food. What kid complains about burgers and chicken nuggets?
Where to stay at Niagara Falls
We stayed at the Skyline Hotel and Waterpark. This was a relatively affordable hotel with kid-friendly amenities, including an indoor water park (for extra $). It was very family-friendly, but it was also somewhat dated. Be prepared for mandatory fees added to the cost when you check in (about $50 CAD for our two nights). The hotel does have a bus stop and also is close to Clifton Hill and Niagara Falls if you want to walk.
Niagara Falls is beautiful any time of year, but the winter can be particularly cold. I recommend planning your trip for June, July, or August. The weather during the summer is usually in the upper 70s or low 80s, with 7-8 days of rain a month. The summer months, from June to August, are the most popular for tourists due to warm weather and extended daylight hours. This is the prime time for boat tours and outdoor activities, but it can be crowded. If you go during the summer, I recommend avoiding the week leading up to Canada Day and the weekends if you can.
Spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) offer milder weather, beautiful foliage, and fewer crowds, making them excellent options for a more relaxed visit. For those who appreciate the serenity of a winter wonderland, the off-peak season from November to March showcases the falls adorned with ice formations, and it’s an ideal time for tranquility and unique photo opportunities. Ultimately, the choice of the best time to visit Niagara Falls hinges on your individual preferences, whether you seek vibrant summer energy, the colors of autumn, or the quiet enchantment of winter.
Our family had so much fun in Niagara Falls! I hope your family does too!
Niagara Falls with kids
In wrapping up our exploration of Niagara Falls, it’s clear that this natural wonder is not just a destination but a thrilling adventure waiting to happen for families of all kinds. Whether you’re setting out on a road trip or flying in from afar, the falls offer an unparalleled family vacation experience. For those with young kids, the boat tours offer fun things for little ones to discover. On the other hand, older kids might find the geological wonders and thrilling boat rides an exciting adventure of a lifetime. Together, Niagara Falls is the best way to create lasting memories on a family trip, as it caters to everyone’s sense of wonder and awe.
As a destination that boasts not only the grandeur of the falls but also the playful ambiance of Clifton Hill, it’s a great way to balance adventure with relaxation. So, whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll through lush parks or embarking on boat tours that bring you face-to-face with nature’s power, Niagara Falls has the power to unite and inspire the entire family. It’s more than just a sightseeing spot; it’s a place where the heart of every traveler, young and old, can be captivated by the sheer magic of nature’s grand design.
About the author
Amy is a Kansas City-based adventure mom to three kids. She loves exploring all that the middle of the USA has to offer, from hiking trails to family experiences, rivers, museums, and everything in between. Before kids, Amy traveled and lived around the world, rode camels, trekked through mountains, and occasionally danced with the locals. Now Amy is usually road-tripping with her kids (and sometimes her husband), getting outside, and exploring Kansas City. Amy is passionate about promoting the Midwest as a travel destination and encouraging families to get outdoors with young kids.
Philadelphia, known for being the largest city in Pennsylvania, is filled with many outdoor activities for families with children. From hiking or biking local trails to frolicking in playgrounds and splash pads to exploring piers, museums, and so much more, there is plenty for families to enjoy outdoors. Today, Philadelphia native and mom of 2, Crystal Sanchez, is sharing 25+ awesome things to do outside with kids in Philadelphia.
Philadelphia with kids
Nestled along the banks of the Delaware River, Philadelphia, often referred to as the “City of Brotherly Love,” is a treasure trove of American history, culture, and boundless outdoor adventures. When it comes to creating unforgettable experiences for the entire family, Philadelphia has an incredible array of options that will have your kids wide-eyed with excitement.
From sprawling parks and interactive museums to charming neighborhoods and captivating historical sites, the city offers a perfect blend of fun and education. In this post, we’re about to unveil a personally curated list of the best outdoor activities in Philadelphia with kids, ensuring that your family’s exploration is nothing short of remarkable!
Reasons to add Philadelphia to your travel bucket list
As the birthplace of American democracy and a melting pot of diverse cultures, Philadelphia’s outdoor spaces are more than just playgrounds; they’re gateways to discovery. Whether you’re a local looking to switch up your routine or a visitor eager to immerse your family in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, you’ll find activities that cater to all ages and interests. Get ready to embark on a journey of exploration as we dive into a wide range of outdoor escapades, where each step reveals a new layer of the city’s rich history and contemporary charm.
In this post, we’ll venture into the heart of Philadelphia’s outdoor wonders, exploring iconic landmarks, recreational spaces, and hidden gems that are sure to captivate the imagination of both young and old. Whether you’re wandering through historic streets, marveling at awe-inspiring art installations, or playing in a local splash pad, Philadelphia has something to offer for every member of the family. So, let’s unlock the secrets of this incredible city while enjoying quality time with your kids in the great outdoors.
Best outdoor activities for kids in Philadelphia
While Philadelphia may be your typical city, with towering buildings, busy streets, and an urban landscape, it is so much more than that. Throughout the city, there are many open green spaces and outdoor activities that families can enjoy together. Some of these places are so massive and engulfing that they almost make you forget that you are within the city limits when visiting.
Within the thousands of acres of dense forest and miles of trails, in Philadelphia, families can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, birdwatching, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and endless exploring without ever leaving the city.
Best parks for families in Philadelphia
Wissahickon Valley Park
With 1,800 acres of dense forests and over 50 miles of trails, Wissahickon Valley Park offers families lots of places to explore and activities to enjoy and it’s one of the best outdoor activities in Philadelphia with kids. With a creek running alongside many of the trails, there are sights and sounds to enjoy all throughout the park. My family enjoys coming here to bike and explore the wildlife, creek and historic points of interest. It’s common to see many locals out on leisurely walks or bike rides as well as families out fishing or wading in the creek.
Pennypack Park
Pennypack Park covers more than 1,600 acres of woodlands, meadows, wetlands, and fields located in the Northeast section of Philadelphia. While not as popular as Wissahickon Valley Park, it’s very similar. Pennypack Park offers trails for biking and hiking, as well as a lot of amazing opportunities to explore and observe the wildlife.
John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum
Serving as a refuge for rare plants and wildlife, this wildlife refuge spans over 1,000 acres and ten miles of trails. This Wildlife Refuge attracts hikers, runners, bird watchers, and anglers and is located in the Southern section of Philadelphia.
FDR Park
FDR Park offers the perfect opportunity for recreation and relaxation. With its abundance of recreational sites and sports fields, 40 acres of lakes for fishing, canoeing and kayaking, playgrounds, a skate park, and trails, there’s a little bit of everything for everybody at this park.
Smith Memorial Playground
This 6.5-acre playground is perfect for children age ten and younger. It is beautifully landscaped with state-of-the-art equipment and has an indoor and outdoor play space. Kids can climb, bounce, swing, ride, and even pretend to be a train engineer. The biggest highlight of the playground is the 1905 Giant Wooden Slide.
Dilworth Park
Dilworth Park features an interactive fountain, lush lawn, and tree grove seating areas, which feature a café. During the colder months, the fountain is transformed into an ice skating rink, which is enjoyed by children and adults alike. In the summer months, festivals, live music performances, outdoor movie screenings, and happy hour specials bring an audience to the park at all hours of the day and night. Our favorite time to visit this park is during the holidays when this park is transformed into a Christmas Village.
Franklin Square
Of Philadelphia’s original five squares, Franklin Square is the most child-friendly. With a mini golf course, fountains that dance to the sound of music, a playground, a carousel, and a cafe, it’s not surprising that this square is the most popular amongst families.
Sister Cities
Located on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Sister Cities Park is a welcoming space where young visitors can play in the Children’s Discovery Garden, which features winding pathways, scalable rocks, and a stream that leads you to a boat pond. Complete with a cafe and restrooms nearby, this is the perfect picnic spot for families. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors in the heart of the city.
Neighborhood Playgrounds
All throughout the city, you will find multiple playgrounds within each neighborhood. Many feature modern playground equipment, splash pads and sports fields.
Kelly Drive
While not quite a park, it is pretty close to one. Kelly Drive is one of Philly’s most popular biking and running sites. This nearly 9-mile loop takes you through a scenic route along the Schuylkill River with many landmarks along its route. During the warmer months, MLK Jr Drive is closed to vehicular traffic, which makes it a wonderful spot for bikes with little due to the open spacing.
Nature centers in Philadelphia
The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education
This nature center offers over 3 miles of hiking trails with several environmental art installations located throughout. With sensory gardens, an outdoor play space, and ponds and streams your little ones will have tons to explore here. This location also offers nature classes for families throughout the year.
Longwood Gardens
Pierre S. du Pont’s Longwood Gardens is a famed horticultural destination that will inspire kids with imaginative, child-size spaces filled with hands-on water features, handcrafted sculptures, and secret stairways — all part of the Indoor Children’s Garden in the Conservatory District. For warm weather fun, the Outdoor Children’s Garden offers a splashy Flower Fountain and plenty of seating for adults.
Kid-friendly museums in Philadelphia with outdoor experiences
Anne D’Harnoncourt Sculpture Garden
Located between the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Boathouse Row, this sculpture garden features large-scale contemporary works of art and is free for the public to enjoy. Children of all ages love this park. My boys love exploring the garden while also scaling surrounding rocks and boulders.
The Franklin Institute
Located at The Franklin Institute, Science Park is an outdoor play space that is open during the warmer months of the year. Featuring nets, ropes, and wonky play items, this play space is great for letting out some energy.
Adventure Aquarium
While not exactly outdoor, this aquarium is very nature-centric and great for the aquatic lover in your family. The two million gallons of water and 15,000 aquatic animals can’t help but impress. Just across the river in Camden, New Jersey, Adventure Aquarium has a Shark Bridge to cross; hippos and penguins to meet; stingrays to feed; and horseshoe crabs, starfish, and sharks to actually touch. The biggest wow here: Ocean Realm, a 760,000-gallon tank of sea turtles, stingrays, schooling fish and sharks, including an impressive seven-foot Great Hammerhead.
Independence Seaport Museum
Along with interactive exhibits to explore, the Independence Seaport Museum also has historic vessels to explore located just outside of the museum. The Cruiser OLYMPIA and Submarine BECUNA are two historic ships that you can walk through. Located nearby are also a variety of boats that can be rented.
Philadelphia Zoo
America’s first zoo and a forefront conservation organization, the Philadelphia Zoo is home to nearly 1,300 animals, many rare and endangered. The attraction has a first-in-the-world animal travel and exploration train system, Zoo360, enabling primates and big cats to move above and across the main visitor pathway. Exhibits include Big Cat Falls, McNeil Avian Center, PECO Primate Reserve and KidZooU, an interactive wildlife academy of dynamic displays, rare breeds, and indoor-outdoor learning. In addition to animal exhibits, you can take a spin on the carousel, ride on the train around America’s oldest zoo, feed the goats, and climb through the rope course.
Philadelphia Magic Gardens
This immersive mixed-media art environment, made of tiles, bottles, bicycle wheels, mirrors, and so much more, will offer kids plenty to look at and explore. I should mention that this art installation does have some minor nudity here and there, which is primarily seen through abstract artwork. I wasn’t too bothered by it, but I could see how someone else might be. Besides that, the entire installation is mesmerizing. There are fun scavenger hunt sheets located inside that families could use to further explore the grounds.
Elmwood Park Zoo
The 16-acre Elmwood Park Zoo is home to an animal collection of more than 100 species indigenous to the Americas, as well as African fruit bats and Asian red pandas. Many of the animals — the American bison, peregrine falcon, bald eagle, red panda, and American alligator — represent significant wildlife conservation success stories. The zoo also includes a spacious playground featuring interactive animal sculptures.
Philadelphia gardens and arboretums
Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center
Recognized as the third-best Japanese garden in North America, visitors are invited to explore the beautiful landscape, tour the house, and feed the koi fish.
Morris Arboretum
Across 92 acres of sprawling gardens and natural areas, Morris Arboretum & Gardens uses education and imagination to reveal a collaborative relationship with nature through lively exhibits for the whole family. Home to rare and magnificent plants and trees, this arboretum offers story times and classes for children and also features a whimsical railway measuring over 300 feet. The Garden Railway (running on select dates throughout the year) features a miniature world of trains, bridges and small-scale buildings made of natural materials on a quarter-mile track and is a huge hit for little kids. The Treetop Canopy Walk exhibition puts visitors 50 feet into the trees for a bird’s-eye view of the forest and includes a larger-than-life Bird’s Nest, and Squirrel Scramble, an expansive hammock-like net which kids can scamper through.
Bartram’s Gardens
Bartram’s Garden is a 50-acre public garden where visitors can go bird watching, stroll through the River Trail or flower gardens, and enjoy a spectacular view of the Philadelphia skyline. It is situated on the banks of the Schuylkill River and is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the United States. The garden was founded in 1728 by John Bartram, a Quaker farmer and botanist, who was a close friend of Benjamin Franklin. His garden became a center of scientific study and exploration. Today, Bartram’s Garden features a wide variety of trees, shrubs, and plants from around the world. Wander among the trees, birds, grasses and flowers – and then take the wooded path at the back of the gardens to the water, where you can catch a glimpse of the city skyline from afar.
Shady Brook Farm
Hundred-year-old Shady Brook Farm in Bucks County (just north of Philadelphia) is a real working farm and home to a fresh market, garden center, and plenty of pick-your-own opportunities. Seasonal festivals focus on what’s currently growing and feature hayrides, games and activities for the kids. Parents can enjoy a beer or cocktail and live entertainment at the on-site Stone’s Throw pub. During the winter, don’t miss the Holiday Light Show Drive Through Experience, with millions of lights illuminating acres of farmland and bonfire with hot cocoa and s’mores for purchase.
Best locations for adventurous families in Philadelphia
Philly Pumptrack
Perfect for bike enthusiasts, the Philly Pumptrack is the perfect location for young riders to improve their skills in a safe riding environment.
Treetop Quest Philly
Located among the trees, Treetop Quest Philly’s aerial adventure park will challenge you physically and mentally as you maneuver from tree to tree through obstacles and zip lines. This is a great option for older kids looking for a fun climbing experience.
Pain’s Park Skatepark
In addition to the above-mentioned skatepark at FDR Park, Pain’s Park is one of several skateparks located in Philadelphia. Located in the heart of the city, this skatepark is a popular location for skaters.
Delaware River Waterfront
The Delaware River Waterfront is made up of many piers as well as Penn’s Landing, the epicenter of it all. Penn’s Landing is the best place to take families with kids of multiple ages and interests, as it has a little bit of everything to offer: rides, skating, movie nights, a beer garden, and concerts throughout the summer.
In addition to Penn’s Landing, numerous piers are spread out along the Delaware River. One of many, Spruce Street Harbor Park makes for cool, summertime memories, with colorful hammocks, floating gardens, and beautiful trees adorned in technicolored lights. While it does look cooler at night, it’s still very enjoyable during the day.
Mural Tours
Recognized as the “Mural Capitol of the World,” Philadelphia has a stunning collection of Murals located all throughout the city. And they’re all free, which is one of the best things to do when exploring the city. You can easily come across a handful of murals while walking around and getting from place to place. If you are interested in this urban art collection, taking a tour through a third party could be a nice way to spend the day. Self-guided tours are also an option.
Sport Complex
Philadelphia is home to many popular sports teams. If sports are your thing, be sure to catch the Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field or the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park!
Best outdoor historical sites in Philadelphia
Independence National Historic Park
The Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall are two of the 25-plus attractions that make up America’s most historic square mile in Independence National Historical Park. The National Park Service’s Junior Ranger program gives kids a chance to earn a special badge sticker and certificate during their visit by attending at least one ranger program and completing five activities in the Junior Ranger Activity Booklet (in the visitor’s center).
Battleship New Jersey
Families can visit the nation’s most decorated battleship, docked just across the Delaware River on the Camden waterfront. The Battleship New Jersey offers self-guided tours of its seven levels and half-century of service, with experts available to answer questions in the Captain’s Quarters and Combat Engagement Center. You can even choose to spend a night aboard with an opportunity to fire saluting guns and sleep in sailor’s bunks during the award-winning Overnight Encampment program! Preschoolers can visit Jason’s Kids Kompartment, a safe play area with a kid-sized boat to captain, games, coloring books, and more.
Things to do outside in Philadelphia with kids
As you can see, Philadelphia is the perfect place to get outside and explore with your kids! Whether it’s a day of hiking through Wissahickon Valley Park or touring the popular Magic Gardens, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We hope this post will help your family have a great time visiting Philadelphia!
Have you ever been to Philadelphia?
What’s your favorite thing to do outdoors in the city?
About the author
Crystal is a photographer who homeschools her two young boys alongside running a newborn photography business. If she’s not photographing babies, she’s out with her family photographing their adventures together. Together they enjoy hiking, exploring nearby cities, biking, camping, going to the beach, amusement parks, and, of course, gathering with friends and family. Getting out and exploring with loved ones is their favorite way to spend their days.
Nestled amidst the breathtaking Sierra Nevada mountains lies a haven of natural wonder, where sparkling azure waters meet towering evergreens and snow-capped peaks. Welcome to Lake Tahoe, a year-round paradise that offers families a wealth of unforgettable outdoor experiences. Whether it’s the sun-kissed days of summer, the vibrant hues of autumn, the powdery snowscapes of winter, or the rejuvenating aura of spring, this stunning destination beckons families with a wide variety of opportunities for bonding, exploration, and cherished memories.
Today, we invite you to discover a treasure trove of family-friendly outdoor activities that embrace the unique beauty of Lake Tahoe. From thrilling water adventures that make a splash to hikes with stunning pararamic views, Lake Tahoe’s landscape transforms into a playground where children’s laughter mingles harmoniously with nature’s symphony. Let’s embark on a journey through the enchanting Lake Tahoe area, where the magic of outdoor exploration awaits!
Discover the magic of the Lake Tahoe area
The Lake Tahoe area stands as a veritable paradise for outdoor family activities, offering a unique blend of natural wonders and recreational opportunities that make it an irresistibly attractive destination. What sets this region apart and draws families from far and wide is its unparalleled combination of stunning landscapes, diverse activities, community, culture, and a deep connection to the great outdoors.
Nestled within the Sierra Nevada mountain range, Lake Tahoe boasts a striking alpine setting characterized by its crystal-clear, cobalt-blue waters reflecting the surrounding peaks. The picturesque beauty of the lake, flanked by lush forests and towering mountains, provides an idyllic backdrop for a wide array of family adventures. The Lake Tahoe area offers a smorgasbord of activities that cater to families throughout all four seasons. Whether you’re basking in the sun on sandy beaches during summer, witnessing the vibrant foliage of autumn, skiing through powdery slopes in winter, or witnessing the rebirth of nature in spring, there’s always a reason to pack your bags and head outdoors.
The region’s diverse terrain paves the way for an endless array of activities suitable for all ages. Families can indulge in water-based fun like kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding, and fishing during warmer months, while winter opens up a world of skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and snowshoeing options. The Lake Tahoe area is well-equipped with family-friendly amenities, including picnic areas, campgrounds, and recreational facilities. These offerings ensure that families can enjoy their outdoor excursions with the utmost comfort and convenience.
Top family-friendly activities in the Lake Tahoe area
The Lake Tahoe area is a veritable playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of activities that cater to every interest and season. From the sparkling shores of the lake to the towering peaks of the surrounding mountains, there are a myriad of activities that await.
In this post, we’ll cover our favorite hiking trails, some water activities and beaches, parks, resorts, and a few places a little outside of the lake that we love exploring with our families. We hope this post will inspire you to explore the extensive network of hiking trails that wind through lush forests, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain, and embrace the inviting waters of Lake Tahoe through activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, boating, and fishing. In the winter months, Lake Tahoe transforms into a winter wonderland, boasting world-class ski resorts and ample opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing (all of which we hope to cover in another post!).
For a short hike with big payoff, check out Angora Lakes in South Lake Tahoe. There is a 1/2 mile (one way) sandy trail that leads to beautiful the Angora Lakes. You can also rent kayaks or paddle boards, jump from the rocks into the alpine lake to swim, and even purchase lunch (including ice cream and fresh squeezed lemonade) from the Angora Lakes Resort. As you can imagine, it gets pretty busy, so show up early and bring $10 cash for parking!
Enjoy an easy 1.5 mile walk on a paved trail next to Lake Tahoe with beautiful pine trees, wild flowers, and beach access. Located in Stateline, in South Lake Tahoe, this is a great trail for families as it is nice and wide, with plenty of room for bikes and running. Stop and play at Nevada Beach with 180-degree views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and crystal-clear water! From Rabe Meadows you can also access a trail to Round Hill Pines Resort where you can stop for lunch, ice cream, and water sport rentals!
If you want a relatively easy hike that ends with a bird’s eye view of Lake Tahoe and all the snow-capped peaks, we highly suggest the Eagle Rock Trail. This hike takes you up to some of the most stunning views in the area. This 0.7-mile out-and-back trail near Homewood, California is generally considered an easy route. It takes an average of 26 min to complete. This is a very popular area, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring. Parking is limited, so avoid peak times to get a spot at the trailhead. The views at the top are totally worth it – we felt like we were on top of the world!
Want to visit Nevada and California in the same day?! Check out the beautiful Van Sickle Bi-State Park in South Lake Tahoe. This park boasts over 700 acres of backcountry bliss! You’ll enjoy incredible views of the mountains and Lake Tahoe. Located just behind Heavenly Ski Resort and Village, there are four different trail options for hiking, biking, horseback riding and sightseeing. Depending on the time of year, you may even find some little waterfalls. There are some old barns and log cabins to check out, too! When you’re done, you can meander through Heavenly Village for some pizza and ice cream!
This newer trail (opened in the Summer of 2019) is a paved, 2.6 mile family-friendly trail that starts in Incline Village (near Tunnel Creek Cafe) and ends at Sand Harbor – Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park. This trail is stroller and wheelchair-friendly. The views of Lake Tahoe are incredible, and when you get to Sand Harbor, the beach is one of the most beautiful in the area. You’ll find restrooms at the beginning and end of the trail, as well as food and drink options. Expect to pay a few dollars for parking and beach entrance. Bring your sunscreen, as this is an exposed trail!
Another new trail, just outside of Truckee is the Ridgeline Nature Loop in the Sawtooth Recreation Area of the Tahoe National Forest. Built by the Truckee Trails Foundation, this 1-mile loop complies with accessibility guidelines and is perfect for kids of all ages and abilities. The trail is flat, but there are plenty of opportunities to climb giant rocks, splash in the vernal pools, look for wildflowers, take in stunning vistas, and let your child run wild!
Glistening like a sapphire jewel nestled within the embrace of towering mountains, Lake Tahoe isn’t just a breathtaking sight to behold; it’s also a natural playground where families can dive headfirst into a world of aquatic excitement. With its pristine waters stretching out under the open sky, Lake Tahoe beckons parents and children alike to embark on an exhilarating journey of water-based wonders. From thrilling escapades that send ripples of laughter across the lake’s surface to tranquil moments of connection beneath the sun’s warm embrace, this aquatic haven offers an array of unforgettable experiences that cater to every family’s sense of adventure.
In our exploration of aquatic delights, we invite you to dip your toes into the multitude of fun water activities that await you and your loved ones in the remarkable Lake Tahoe area. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of water sports or the serenity of lakeside relaxation, the options are as boundless as the lake’s shimmering expanse. Join us as we navigate the shores of Lake Tahoe, uncovering a tapestry of aquatic adventures that are sure to make a splash in your family’s memory book.
This state park is tucked away on the Western shore of Lake Tahoe, with close to two miles of accessible lake front! There are beaches, piers, trails, a small store for snacks and drinks, and even an historic estate on the property. During your stay, check out the Nature Center where your family can learn about birds, mammals, biology, and ecology of the Lake Tahoe area. There are also miles of trails within the park, both paved and dirt. Sugar Pine Point truly is a special area! Image credit and recommendation from Araceli @roaminggonzalez
Stand-up paddleboarding
Lake Tahoe is (in our opinion) one of the BEST lakes in the world to stand-up paddleboard (SUP). The crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe serve as an enchanting canvas for unforgettable family adventures in stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. As you glide across the mirror-like surface, you’ll witness a captivating underwater world come to life beneath you, where curious fish dart through the translucent depths. The clarity of the lake not only adds a touch of magic to your paddleboarding and kayaking excursions but also provides a sense of security, allowing you to navigate with ease and peace of mind as you introduce your children to the joys of these water activities. With the backdrop of majestic mountains and the refreshing breeze against your skin, Lake Tahoe becomes the ideal playground for creating cherished memories while engaging in these soothing and invigorating aquatic pursuits.
It is an activity you must add to you list when planning your visit to Lake Tahoe. With an endless pristine shoreline and endless beaches to select from you will absolutely be blown away by these waters. Some of our favorite locations included the following: Sand Harbor State Park, Emerald Bay, and Zephyr Cove. Paddleboard rentals are available throughout the lake including daily tours and expeditions.
If you have the chance, we HIGHLY recommend a morning kayak trip on the lake with Tahoe Paddle Sports. This is a “must do” adventure when you’re in Lake Tahoe. The clear kayaks let you see 60 feet down into the clear blue water. Our guide was knowledgeable and great with the kids. We learned a ton about the history of the area, the lake, conservation efforts, local wildlife and marine life. But the BEST part…he took tons of photos of all of us kayaking together and sent them to me after the trip. They were such a lovely surprise!
If you’re looking for a place where you can drive right up to the water, camp, and bring your furry friends, Boca Reservoir is a great option! It is especially pretty during the mornings and evenings, when the wind is calm. Your family will enjoy swimming, picnicking, kayaking, paddle boarding, and boating. There are plenty of hiking options near the reservoir, and Lake Tahoe is just a short drive away if you want to make a day trip there. In the springtime you’ll find meadows with wildflowers nearby. The town of Truckee is just a 15 minute drive West, with tons of food, drink, and shopping options.
From Highway 89 turn onto Fallen Leaf Road, there are parking options along the road in dirt pullouts, and the lake is about a 15 minute walk through the trees. There are spots along the water to picnic and play. You’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of Desolation Wilderness and the water is clear and crisp! Generally from Memorial Day through the end of September, the Fallen Leaf Lake Store and Marina is open, and a great place to grab lunch and rent a paddle board or kayak.
Along the western shores of Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay State Park is a breathtaking natural sanctuary that beckons with its awe-inspiring beauty and rich historical significance. The centerpiece of the park is the iconic Emerald Bay, a pristine jewel-like cove framed by rugged cliffs and adorned with an enchanting island, Fannette Island, crowned by the charming Tea House. From this location hike to Eagle Falls and Eagle Lake. You will see gorgeous views of Emerald Bay as well as falls, and at the top you will be treated to the most beautiful alpine lake – Eagle Lake.
Visitors are treated to panoramic vistas of the azure lake waters against a backdrop of lush forests and towering peaks. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints, picnicking areas, and opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding. Whether exploring the historic Vikingsholm Castle, capturing the serenity of the bay’s crystal-clear waters, or delving into the park’s captivating stories, Emerald Bay State Park invites you to immerse yourself in the splendor of Lake Tahoe’s natural and cultural heritage.
With 72 miles of Lake Tahoe shoreline, the beaches of South Lake Tahoe beaches are plentiful and diverse in their offerings. If you’re staying in South Lake, you can easily soak in the rays as you take in the panoramic views of the towering mountain peaks that surround Lake Tahoe. Nevada Beach is 0.7 miles long and the widest sandy beach on the lake. It is one of Lake Tahoe’s dog-friendly beaches, has picnic tables, camping areas, and is wonderful for large groups and a popular place for kiteboarding. The sandy beach at Zephyr Cove is more than a mile long, has a huge grassy group event area, beachfront cabins, a campground, a ton of watersport rentals available. Baldwin Beach is a local favorite and has amazing views of Mt. Tallac. Camp Richardson Resort Beach and Marina also has a lot to offer, with lakeside restaurants, a family-friendly sandy beach and swim area, and a variety of water sport rentals.
If you’re up for a water adventure with kids, Tahoe Sailing Charters offers cruises on the crystal clear lake multiple times a day all summer long. Cruises leave out of the charming and picturesque Tahoe City and are the perfect way to experience the beauty of Lake Tahoe in comfort and luxury. The staff at Tahoe Sailing was top-notch and were great about letting the kids get involved and answering their questions. My kids got to steer the boat, help with the rigging, explore the cabin and even help pick the playlist! Watching the sunset on the sparkling water and feeling the wind through your hair was an incredible experience! It also worked up our appetites. So, we headed over to Za’s for dinner and drinks on their waterfront patio, surrounded by twinkle lights.
The Truckee River, meandering through the stunning landscapes of the Lake Tahoe area, offers a fly fishing experience that is both exhilarating and serene. This iconic river, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and diverse aquatic life, presents anglers with plenty of opportunities to cast their lines and immerse themselves in the art of fly fishing. With its riffles, pools, and deep runs, the Truckee River provides an inviting habitat for a variety of trout species, including rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. Whether you’re a seasoned fly fishing enthusiast or a novice eager to learn, the Truckee River’s tranquil currents and picturesque surroundings create an idyllic setting to refine your angling skills.
There are a number of places you can rent a powerboat around Lake Tahoe. If you get a chance to rent one, do it! Lake Tahoe is huge, and there’s no better way to appreciate the surrounding mountain views and the great expanse of the lake than to cruise in the middle of it on a fast-moving boat with the wind in your hair. When renting a boat, dockhands will walk you through the basics of operating a boat. Boats come equipped with radios for emergency communication, life vests for kids, and fenders should you wish to dock the boat and grab lunch at one of the public piers with lakeside dining.
Located on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe are the family-friendly Zephyr Cove Stables. Horseback riding in the Sierra’s is an amazing way to take in new and panoramic views of Big Blue. Kids ages 7 years and above can take in scenic views after being fitted for a horse and departing on a wilderness trail ride. Their courteous cowboys guide groups in and around the mountainous trails stopping on a plateau to take photographs of this awesome adventure. For the littles, kids can pet ponies back at the stables and adults can book dinner rides with good old-fashioned campfire barbecue.
When it comes to towering rock faces that are so grandiose that they catch a person’s eye, Tram Face of Palisades Tahoe ranks up there. This omnipresence of orange and red rock is a masterpiece of beautiful natural perfection. Now families can enjoy her beauty up close and personal with Alpenglow Expeditions’ Tahoe Via Ferrata. In inspiration of European mountain routes that use ropes, cables and fixed lines to assist groups in ascending majestic peaks, Tahoe Via Ferrata allows the same experience on Tram Face. The route is professionally executed to ensure a fantastic guided adventure that delivers on views, fun and adrenaline. The experience includes a harness, helmet and safety lanyard provided by Alpenglow Expeditions, and all guides are AMGA trained. Learn to navigate the rock face on the protected climbing route with permanent steel anchors and cables that keep participants safely connected to the rock 100% of the time.
Exploring a little farther out (just beyond Lake Tahoe)
Carson Valley, Nevada
In the Carson Valley, you’ll find the charming towns of Genoa, Minden, and Gardnerville. These quaint towns offer incredible hiking options, eateries, camping, biking, and so much more. Just 30 miles from Lake Tahoe, this area is a quiet option when you want to get away from the bustle of Tahoe for a bit. Some of our favorite areas are Mormon Station State Historic Park, Dangberg Ranch, and Topaz Lake. You’ll find plenty of local food and drink options in the Carson Valley, as well as incredible scenery.
This incredible outdoor area is just 40 minutes from Reno, Nevada, and less than 30 minutes from Lake Tahoe! This is an incredibly diverse area for hiking, camping, skiing, and snowshoeing. You’ll find mountain peaks over 10,000′ as well as alpine lakes and meadows. In the winter, this is a great area for snowshoeing, sledding, and cross-country skiing. Chickadee Ridge is a favorite for its stunning views of Lake Tahoe. The Chickadees will eat sunflower seeds right out of your hand after a fresh snow, too! You’ll find hiking trails, campgrounds, wildflowers, and restrooms here. Parking is free along Mt. Rose Highway. For food, head down to Reno or to Incline Village at Tahoe.
What’s left of the little mining town of Markleeville is about as cute and quaint as can be. Despite only being a few blocks long, Markleeville has a rich history and a lot of charm. We had the pleasure of meeting local historian and author Karen Dustman for a personal tour of Markleeville and the nearby Emigrant Trail. Karen and her husband were fantastic guides through the history of the town, its inhabitants, and local lore. We learned how the Comstock Lode found near Virginia City, NV and the subsequent silver boom triggered the city’s growth in the mid-1800s (and then led to its near demise when the industry collapsed).
The Alpine County Museum in Markleeville held the cleverly curated history of the area, from the silver boom to the present day. It’s home to the original school house, jail, and the only fully operational stamp mill. We then went on a short hike up the Emigrant Trail, where we experience first-hand the route taken by the earliest settlers, straight up the mountains. The route isn’t difficult to hike, but nearly unfathomable when you think of hauling wagons full of everything you own over these mountains. There are places along the trails where you can still see wagon wheel tracks on the rocks and date markings from the crossings.
While still right on Lake Tahoe, we thought the town of Truckee deserved its own shoutout. The area around Truckee is a great option for families exploring the Lake Tahoe area. There are dozens of lakes, biking, and hiking trails. Truckee is well known for its year-round outdoor adventures. Hiking, biking, skiing, climbing, skiing, fishing, and watersports, to name just a few. It’s the perfect place for any family looking for an active outdoor vacation. In the spring, hike through wildflowers; in the summer, enjoy the alpine lakes. During the Fall, enjoy the cool nights and warm days, and during Winter, there are a plethora of options for skiing, ice skating, snowshoeing, and sledding! Some of our favorite things to do include rafting the Truckee River, playing at Donner Lake, and biking the Legacy Trail.
We also highly recommend checking out the historic downtown Truckee area. This gem of a town is straight out of a postcard, with boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, book stores, coffee shops, and more. We had the most amazing pizza at Best Pies, and the kids loved the complimentary tabletop games. They also loved the old-fashioned soda shop and the toy store. I could have spent hours browsing the bookstore and checking out the little boutiques. But, of course, our favorite was the fly fishing shop. The staff was super kind to the kids and outfitted my son with a few favorite local flies and tips for fishing the area.
The town of Truckee is rich with history and there’s no better place to learn about it than the Museum of Truckee History and Old Jail Museum. We took a tour of both with the super knowledgeable and charming Greg Zirbel, President of the Truckee-Donner Historical Society. Dressed the part and in full character, we got to hear tales of the past and learn a ton of history in a fun and entertaining way.
In the heart of the Lake Tahoe area, a world of wonder awaits families seeking unforgettable outdoor adventures. From the exhilarating rush of paddling across crystal-clear waters to the joyous laughter echoing through scenic hiking trails, this enchanting destination caters to every family’s dreams of bonding, exploration, and shared experiences. As the seasons change, so do the opportunities, presenting a tapestry of activities that range from snowy slopes to sun-dappled shores.
Whether you’re marveling at the mysteries of nature, engaging in heart-pounding activities, or simply relishing the tranquil moments together, Lake Tahoe offers a treasure trove of kid-friendly family outdoor activities that will ignite a love for the outdoors and create cherished memories for years to come. So, pack your sense of adventure, embark on this journey, and immerse your family in the breathtaking beauty and boundless opportunities that the Lake Tahoe area has to offer. We hope this post, filled our favorite outdoor activities to do with our families has helped inspire you to visit soon!
We’ve said it before, and it’s worth saying again, “You don’t have to travel far for big adventures!” Discover the boundless wonders awaiting you right in your own backyard as we embark on a journey to uncover why our local state parks stand as the ultimate destinations for unforgettable family experiences. From enchanting day trips that captivate young minds to rejuvenating vacations that reconnect the family spirit, and exhilarating camping escapades that nurture a love for the outdoors – our state parks promise a tapestry of exploration and bonding, making them an ideal canvas for fostering togetherness and sowing the seeds of a lifelong affinity for the natural world. Join us today, as Katie Fox, North Carolina teacher and mom of two (and visitor to 50+ state parks across the US), delves into the myriad reasons why state parks are treasured landscapes tailor-made for creating timeless moments and instilling a sense of wonder in the hearts of both young and old.
State park adventures with kids
Planning a family trip can be a difficult, yet rewarding, task full of possibilities for fun, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you are planning a day trip, weekend adventure, or full-on family vacation, state parks make perfect destinations. In a world brimming with bustling cities and digital distractions, state parks serve as natural havens and offer an idyllic escape where parents, children, and adventurers of all ages can forge lasting memories amidst the embrace of Mother Nature. Not only are state parks all over every state in the US, and each one completely unique, but they offer so many different activities (many free!) that there is bound to be something for everyone in your family. They are a great place to explore with kids!
While the allure of national parks and bustling tourist hotspots is undeniable, there’s an often overlooked gem right in your local vicinity – state parks. These hidden treasures offer a unique and distinct charm that sets them apart from their grander counterparts. Choosing to visit a state park in your area holds a myriad of advantages that promise a more intimate, authentic, and immersive experience
There are over 10,000 state park-operated natural areas and 2,474 official state parks in the United States and every single state has more than one. Wyoming has the least state parks (with 11), while New York has 164 state parks! Every other state falls somewhere in between. This means, there is very likely a state park (or several) near you to explore!
And if you are like many families, you select your adventure destinations carefully because vacation days and weekend hours are in limited supply. You want everyone to enjoy the experience, and you want them to remember the trip fondly. This is a lot of pressure, but visiting state parks with kids pretty much guarantees your trip isn’t wasted!
Why? Because there are so many things to do, and almost all of the experiences are free or inexpensive. There is very likely something at a local state park near you for everyone in your family, making them a great spot for all-family fun.
Plus, while state parks are gaining in popularity, especially after the pandemic, they are still not as busy as National Parks (and usually much easier to access). Say goodbye to crowded attractions and long lines, and instead, embrace the tranquility of lesser-known trails, the warmth of local hospitality, and the joy of discovering a slice of nature that feels like a well-kept secret. By opting for a state park adventure, you’re nurturing a deeper connection to nature near you, supporting local conservation efforts, and savoring the satisfaction of exploring a destination that’s as unique and diverse as the region it (and you) calls home.
Activities available in state parks
While some state parks are designed to show off the main attractions, state parks usually offer a wide array of activities that cater to various interests and ages, making them perfect destinations for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and solo travelers alike. While every state park is unique and will offer particular activities based on the amenities and features of the park, here are some activities you can enjoy in most/many state parks:
Hiking: State parks often feature a network of well-maintained hiking trails that range from easy strolls to challenging hikes, allowing you to explore diverse landscapes, from lush forests to rugged mountains. It is almost guaranteed there will be at least one hiking trail to explore, and there is almost always one or more that are perfect for kids. Some parks have guided nature trails, great overlooks, waterfalls, swimming holes, and more that are great for little hikers.
Picnicking: Pack a delicious meal and enjoy a leisurely picnic surrounded by the beauty of nature. Many state parks provide designated picnic areas or pavillions with tables, grills, and scenic views.
Camping: Experience the joy of sleeping under the stars by camping in state park campgrounds. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, state parks offer a range of camping options. Some state parks even offer cabins, hotel-type lodging, or homes for rent.
Wildlife viewing: State parks are home to a variety of wildlife species. Bring your binoculars and camera to observe birds, mammals, and other creatures in their natural habitats. Check out the visitor center in the state park to get a list of what wildlife is in the area.
Fishing: Many state parks have lakes, rivers, and ponds where you can cast your line and enjoy fishing. Check local regulations and guidelines before you start fishing. Some states parks even have loaner fishing gear (rods, reels, tackle, etc.) that you can check-out and use for the day.
Swimming: If your state park has a lake, creek, stream, or beach, swimming can be a refreshing way to beat the heat during the summer months. Just make sure to check the state park website to ensure swimming is allowed before you go and if there is a fee.
Canoeing, kayaking, SUP: If there’s a water body within the park, you might have the opportunity to rent a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard along serene waters. Some state parks have local outfitters where you can rent kayaks/canoes/SUPs for the day (or by the hour).
Photography: Capture the beauty of nature, scenic vistas, and wildlife through your camera lens. State parks provide an abundance of photo-worthy moments.
Geocaching: Embark on a modern-day treasure hunt by participating in geocaching, a GPS-based activity that involves finding hidden containers (caches) using coordinates.
Nature walks: Many state parks offer guided nature walks led by park rangers, where you can learn about the local flora, fauna, and ecosystems.
Waterfalls: If you have a waterfall-loving child (or any family member), many state parks have waterfalls for you to find. Often these trails, especially when they are easier hikes or when swimming is allowed, are very busy trails. And busy trails often mean busy parking, so try to plan accordingly.
Rock climbing: Some state parks have designated rock climbing areas for both beginners and experienced climbers to challenge themselves and enjoy breathtaking views from the top.
Biking: Explore trails on two wheels by bringing your bike. Many state parks have biking trails that cater to different skill levels, including mountain biking.
Enjoy the nature around you: No matter which state park you visit, even if it is dedicated to local human history, there will be nature around you. It would be virtually impossible to avoid seeing nature at a state park but take a moment (or several) to sit and really watch the nature around you. See an ant? Watch what it does. Listen to the birds, cicadas, frogs, coyotes, and the wind in the trees. Look for lightning bugs at dusk or stay up and check out the night sky with less light pollution. Nature is all around you, you might as well enjoy it!
Interpretive programs: Participate in educational programs, workshops, and guided tours led by park rangers to learn about the park’s history, geology, and cultural significance.
Stargazing: State parks often provide a darker, less light-polluted environment, making them ideal spots for stargazing and observing celestial events.
Relaxation: Sometimes, the best activity in a state park is simply unwinding and enjoying the serenity of nature. Bring a book, practice yoga, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Remember to check the specific offerings and regulations of the state park you plan to visit, as activities may vary depending on location and season.
Finding the perfect state park to explore is easy!
If you are not picky about activity and simply want to explore a state park, simply pick one close to you. You will feel more comfortable and confident if you are new to exploring state parks with kids if you are closer to home. Plus, this option means the excursion is a day trip and makes planning and preparing easier.
If you have a particular activity you want to do, find a state park that offers some or all of those activities. Most states have websites for their state parks that list outdoor activities that can be done in each park. Some are very straightforward with how you can search by activity, some you have to dig a bit to find the right page, and others offer fun ways to give you the information (like Georgia providing a quiz to find the perfect park for your personality).
For instance, if you want to see a waterfall, you can use the state’s state park website to search for parks that have those options. If you’re into hiking, look for a state park with miles of trails for you to explore. Interested in horseback riding or soaking in hot springs? See if that’s an option! From sandy beaches to rock climbing, state parks have a lot to offer and are the perfect place to try something new with kids!
If you really cannot find what you are looking for on the state park website, you can always google the activity, your state, and the words ‘state park’ and see what the internet has to share.
Deciding when to visit a state park
Picking the best time to visit a state park is also pretty easy. It is all about doing a little research to ensure your trip includes everything you want.
If you have limited time and weekends and holidays are when you are available, obviously go when it is easiest for you. These are often the busiest times for state parks (and outdoor adventures in general), but the experiences are still worth the parks being a bit more crowded.
But even if time is not an issue for you, some parks are simply prettier, more accessible, and more comfortable during certain times of the year. Determining the best time to visit a state park near you involves considering factors such as weather, seasonal activities, crowds, and your personal preferences.
Start by researching the state park you’re interested in visiting. Look for information on the park’s official website, visitor’s center, or guidebooks. Learn about the park’s unique features, attractions, and activities that are available throughout the year.
Consider the weather and climate of the area. Different seasons offer different experiences and activities. Determine if the park has a peak tourist season, when it’s busiest, and an off-peak season, when there are fewer visitors. Visiting during the off-peak season might mean fewer crowds and a more tranquil experience. Also, check if the park hosts any special events, festivals, or programs throughout the year. These events can enhance your experience and provide unique opportunities to engage with the park’s offerings.
If the park offers camping or lodging, check if you need to make advance reservations. Some popular parks fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. You may need to book campsites well in advance of your trip, but not always! Also, be aware of the park’s opening and closing times, as well as any seasonal road closures or restrictions that might affect your visit.
Consider the activities you’re interested in and when they are available. If you like fall leaves, there are quite a few state parks when fall would be an ideal time to visit. Love swimming in the pools or boating? Then summer is likely to be the best time to explore. If you are really into spring flowers, waterfalls, or mushrooms, then you need to look into when those are abundant at the state park you are interested in. If you want to experience snow or avoid snow altogether, then you need to consider these factors when you are planning which state park to visit. And some parks close all or some of their trails during the winter due to snow, so there are small windows of opportunity to hike these areas.
In other words, once you pick the park you want to visit, find the time of year that will suit your family best! It sounds more difficult than it is. There are very few parks that are likely to be closed completely, and even if the park has fewer visitors in the summer due to heat or fewer visitors in the winter because of snow, there will often still be something to do, learn, and explore.
Every state park is different, and each has its own activities to enjoy, but all have at least a couple of the following activities for your family to experience. To know exactly what is available at the state park you are interested in visiting, check out their website.
Stop by the visitor center
This is one of the very first things to do when you get to a state park! The visitor center often has some sort of informational display that is sure to teach your family something new. Plus, this is where you can chat with Park Rangers, grab junior ranger books, and find amenities.
Get your passport stamped
Many states have passport books available (either for free or for purchase) that you can take to each state park you visit to get a stamp. Some passport books include information on each state park, maps, etc. Include the date you visited and see how many stamps you can get!
See about a junior ranger program
If your children are interested in earning a badge or small souvenir, see if the state park has a junior ranger program. Many have this program, and they are often similar to the National Park Junior Ranger program, but each state park and state does it differently. This program is perfect for kids to learn all about the local plants, animals, and history, as well as reinforce responsible outdoor etiquette. And even if there isn’t a junior ranger program, many state parks will have something for kids to complete, like a nature bingo board specific to the park.
Learn about local history
Many state parks share local human history, folklore, and local historic sites in some capacity. Often there are displays, self-guided museum tours, interactive exhibits, and more to share this history with visitors. And if a Junior Ranger program is available, local history is often included in the materials, so even if you do not have a ton of time, you may still be able to read about some of the history.
Wildlife encounters
State parks provide a front-row seat to wildlife spectacles. Kids can marvel at the elegance of a soaring hawk, the playfulness of squirrels, or the gentle rustle of a rabbit in the underbrush. Maybe you’ll see deer, bald eagles, or moose. Maybe your kids will catch a crawdad in the creek or a catfish in the lake. These close encounters foster empathy and respect for all living creatures, encouraging children to develop a sense of responsibility toward their fellow inhabitants of the Earth.
Visiting local state parks is an enriching journey that fosters a profound connection between kids, families, and the natural world that envelops their own communities. These parks serve as immersive classrooms, where children can discover the intricate dance of nature and wildlife, leading to a heightened appreciation for their local environment and a deep-seated love for the planet as a whole.
State parks offer an interactive platform for kids to engage in hands-on learning. As families explore winding trails, vibrant meadows, and serene lakes, children encounter ecosystems teeming with life. They witness the delicate balance of flora and fauna, learning about the role of plants in oxygen production, the significance of pollinators, and the interdependence of different species.
Witnessing the splendor of state parks, families come to understand the significance of conservation efforts in their area. Kids learn about the importance of preserving these havens for future generations, prompting them to become stewards of their local environment. Planting the seeds of ecological awareness early in life can lead to a lifelong commitment to sustainability.
Visiting state parks helps children see themselves as part of a larger ecological tapestry. By observing the delicate balance of ecosystems, families develop a holistic understanding of how their actions can impact the environment. This awareness lays the foundation for responsible decision-making and a sense of accountability for the planet’s well-being.
Tips and tricks for exploring state parks with kids
Visiting state parks, or really adventuring anywhere with kids, often goes more smoothly if you have some tips and tricks to help you and your family along. There is really no wrong way to explore a state park with your kids, but you never know when you may need one or more of the following ideas while out exploring.
Plan ahead
See what activities are available at the state park and make a list of what you want to do while you are there.
Check to see if they have a state park junior ranger program and check to see if there are any age restrictions to make sure your kids can participate.
Look at the available trail maps found on the state park website. Once you find one (or five) you want to check out, use a trial app to see which ones are best for your family. Trail apps show you pictures and offer reviews, which may give you a better sense of what the trail is like.
Check prices and times for entry, rentals, tours, etc. This way you know when you need to be there.
Be prepared
Bring extra water, just in case there isn’t any available at the state park (there usually is, but you can’t be too prepared).
Bring bug spray and sunscreen because you never know what you may encounter.
Have an alternate plan in place just in case the trail you want is closed, boat rentals are sold out, or tours are full. Nature isn’t predictable and crowded days at the park happen. Having a backup plan ensures your family will still have a good time!
Grab a trail map at the visitor center and have the trails saved and easily to find in a trail app. You never know when you may need to look at the map. Plus, having the trail map can also come in handy if your child needs a distraction and loves to help.
Make it fun
Sometimes (all the time?), exploring with kids is hard. They complain, fall down, get bored, etc. and it can make the experience less fun. One way to help make exploring more enjoyable for all is to have a couple of tricks up your sleeve to make the adventure fun again. One favorite is to play Would You Rather. It takes no preparation and distracts kids while they walk or experience the park. For more hiking tips and a longer list of hiking games, check out A Beginner’s Guide to Hiking with Kids.
Bring a fun snack along to share at some point during your state park adventure. Maybe once you reach the midpoint or end of your hike or once your kids finish their Junior Ranger activities. The point is to share something special with them and enjoy it as a family.
Make a family goal to visit all the state parks in your state
We all make some variation of adventure goals. Whether your goal is to get outside more, hike more miles, try new outdoor adventures with your kids, or get out of your comfort zone a bit, state parks are perfect for helping you achieve your goal. In fact, you can set a goal (like getting outside more) and also begin working toward visiting all the state parks in your state.
Doing your own state park challenge is really a perfect outdoor adventure goal, even if you live in New York and visiting 164 state parks seems daunting. First of all, there is no time limit, so you can do this over the course of years! You can make it as easy or challenging as you want and totally set your own rules. Maybe you want to do one hike in each park you visit. Maybe you want to spend at least one-night camping in all the largest state parks. Chances are you’ve already visited one or two nearby state parks already, or live close to one that it will be easy to visit, so you can get started right away!
Tips for doing a state park challenge
If you want to participate in a state park challenge (visit all the state parks in your state), here are some tips and ideas to help you get started. Again there is no right or wrong way to visit a state park, and doing all of these ideas is not ideal. Pick one or two (or create your own) and do what works best for your family!
Start with a list of state parks
Make a list of all the state parks in your state, print it out, and have your children help check them off each time you visit one. Some states already have these in printable form, but it is easy enough to grab all the official state parks off your state’s state park website.
If you want to go the extra mile, check Etsy for printable state park checklists. There are some really beautiful state park checklists/maps. You could print a large map of your state and let the kids check off each park you visit.
Set your rules
Set criteria for what your family will count as completing a state park. Do you have to hike a trail, complete the junior ranger program, go camping, buy a magnet or postcard, stargaze, learn something, etc. This is just a fun way to get some buy-in from your family.
Sometimes having a consistent activity to complete in order to mark something off helps get everyone excited. Keep in mind, some parks are much smaller than others and may not have your requirement, so make sure there is some flexibility in your plan.
Create a plan
Create a planning list and make sure to include distance, entry fee, and available lodging. Which state parks do you want to visit first? Some may require quite a bit of driving (and a longer amount of time), so plan accordingly. Maybe there are a few close together that you can visit on the same trip? This list will help you know which state parks are day trips and which are further away and will require more planning (and possibly advance reservations).
Run Wild My Child has two Creative Team Members that have been working toward this goal. Here are some tips and tricks from them.
Kristen Ryan’s tips for doing a state park challenge
Kristen Ryan has visited 30 out of the 38 State Parks in Oklahoma
“We love to camp and hike but can’t always make it too far from home with little kids, dogs to take care of, and day jobs. Years ago, we started fitting in quick weekend getaways to adventure and explore our home state. As we began exploring different places, it soon became a goal to hit all the state parks in Oklahoma.
Our state has a passport activity book for kids where they can collect stickers at each state park they visit. They loved to be able to fill their books with new stickers at each new place explored. It helps get them excited at the idea of visiting new places.
We started small, looking for close by state parks to go hiking on a free day. On the weekends that we wanted more of an adventure, we would search out the further away parks where we could camp. One spring break, we decided to make a weeklong trip of it and went to the furthest away state park in Oklahoma, Black Mesa State Park. A beautiful area far from any close by town/city. Then, we worked our way back, hitting as many state parks as we could along the way. This was a fun way to turn it into a bigger adventure and camp at a variety of parks, seeing what each one had to offer. My kids still talk about that trip.
I think it is so interesting to see what hidden gems you can find in your own state. We are lucky in the sense that Oklahoma is very vast in its geography. Depending on where you are in the state, we have everything from plateaus, forests, rivers, high plains, grasslands, caves, sand dunes, lakes, and rolling hills. There is so much to see and learn. My family loves to talk about what has been our favorite park so far and our favorite places to hike or camp. Now, we are mostly left with a majority of the lake state parks on the east side of the state. These are great ones to hike at and then end the day with some water fun to cool down.
I highly suggest checking out your local state parks, even if it’s a long drive just to hike for the day. Make it an adventure, come back for a picnic, or stay for a sunset. Let the kids lead the way on your hike. You never know what kinds of great memories you will make along the way. I love those days when we really don’t have an agenda other than to be outside, and what better way than to explore where you live?”
Meghan Garriott’s tips for doing a state park challenge
Meghan Garriot and her family are not only trying to visit every official state park, but every state park-operated natural area and recreation area as well. They have visited 29 so far in Illinois.
“In 2021, my kids and I started our Illinois State Park Challenge. I bought a book with all the Illinois state parks and began looking at the map. I was surprised to see how many parks were close by that I had not only never been to, but had also never known were there!
By the end of 2021, we had visited 20 Illinois state parks together. Most of the parks we hiked at and played on the playgrounds, but there were a few we stopped to picnic at or stretch our legs at on our way to another destination.
Our State Park Challenge comes with no rules or end date, just a satisfying check in the box after visiting each one. We want to keep it simple and fun for our whole family. Visiting these parks is a fun way to prioritize local travel and visit places we often overlook.
As an added bonus, Illinois state parks are free to enter, so it’s a great way to spend some time with family without traveling too far and without spending much money. Throughout our challenge, we have come across so many places we likely would have never visited but now enjoy often. Each park has something new to offer, and it’s been fun learning as we go.
Some parks have great camping, others are better for fishing, and some have awesome bike trails. Through our state park challenge, we stumbled upon a sailing association at Eldon Hazlet state park, which led to my son’s first overnight camp experience, which was a sailing camp!
If you find yourself looking for something to do on a beautiful day, try visiting one of these local parks. They might surprise you with a fun day you didn’t know you were missing!”
The impact of visiting state parks
Visiting local state parks has a ripple effect that extends far beyond the park boundaries, contributing to the support of the local community, boosting tourism, and aiding in conservation efforts in your area. Here’s how:
Economic impact
When families and visitors frequent local state parks, they often spend money on various goods and services within the surrounding communities. This includes purchases such as meals at local restaurants, accommodations at nearby hotels or campgrounds, supplies from local stores, and even fees for guided tours or recreational activities. This infusion of funds helps stimulate the local economy, supports small businesses, and generates jobs.
Tourism promotion
State parks serve as magnets for tourists seeking immersive outdoor experiences. As word spreads about the beauty and attractions of these parks, more visitors are drawn to the area. This heightened tourism not only brings direct revenue but also encourages the development of tourism-related infrastructure, such as improved roads, better signage, and new recreational opportunities. Communities can capitalize on this increased interest by offering additional attractions and events, further enhancing the region’s appeal.
Conservation funding
Many state parks rely on visitor fees and permits to fund their operations and conservation efforts. When families visit these parks, the revenue generated often goes directly towards maintaining trails, protecting habitats, and supporting wildlife conservation initiatives. By contributing to these efforts, visitors play a crucial role in preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of the area for future generations.
Outdoor/nature education
State parks often provide educational programs, guided tours, and workshops for visitors of all ages. These experiences not only enrich the lives of those who participate but also foster a greater understanding of the local ecosystem and the importance of conservation. This knowledge can inspire individuals to become advocates for environmental protection and make more sustainable choices in their daily lives.
Local pride
A vibrant state park can become a source of local pride and identity. As a resident of the state, you may develop a strong attachment to your favorite local state park (we hope you do!), recognizing it as a valuable asset that sets your area apart. This sense of pride can lead to increased civic engagement and a collective commitment to preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. And living in a place that you are proud of and love can have a significant impact on your mood, attitude, and overall mental health. When you feel connected to your surroundings, it can provide a sense of security, belonging, and fulfillment. Furthermore, when you are happy with your surroundings, it can help to reduce stress levels and alleviate anxiety.
As parents, we have the power to kindle a lifelong passion for nature within our children, to witness their eyes light up as they encounter the wonders of the wild, and to instill in them a profound sense of wonder and appreciation for the world right outside their doorstep. Visiting local state parks is a great way to do this. The journey awaits, and the time to embark on exploring your area is now – for every step taken within the embrace of nature brings your family one step closer to understanding, cherishing, and safeguarding the beauty that resides in your own backyard. State parks are beautiful, offer so much to do, are great for families to explore together, and can not only give you a guide for vacation destinations but are budget friendly too! You never know what you’re going to find or what adventures are to be had at a state park near you.
Which state park will you explore next with your kids?
About the author
Katie is a full-time teacher and mom of two, located in North Carolina. Katie explores as much as possible, with a particular fondness for the adventures her family enjoys in state and national parks. When not trekking through the outdoors, Katie enjoys baking, consuming mochas from local coffee shops across the continent, practicing her photography skills, and soaking up as much knowledge as she can.
As an advocate for families exploring the great outdoors, Katie co-founded a Hike it Baby branch in her hometown in Northern California and tries to encourage families to get outside whenever possible. Katie has a Master’s degree in human development from the University of Missouri, Columbia, but her passion is really history and humanities (which is coincidentally what her Bachelor’s degrees are in).
You can find more from Katie online in the following locations:
Instagram: @hiking.motherhood
RWMC posts: Katie Fox
When you think of Atlanta, you may not think of it as a hiking city. Many locals go to North Georgia for all the kid-friendly hikes, but there are quite a few closer to the city that are worth your time. Atlanta is filled with many unique hikes, and you don’t have to go far to experience them. Today, India Tate, local Atlanta mom of two, outdoor adventurer, and founder of Our Wanderlust Life, is here to share the best kid-friendly hikes in Atlanta, Georgia. So, grab your hiking boots, and let’s go explore!
Exploring the kid-friendly hikes in Atlanta
Hiking in Atlanta doesn’t just mean you have to do urban trails. There are many kid-friendly hikes that don’t feel like you are in the city at all! Many of them are in secluded neighborhoods with lush vegetation and lots of green space. This makes you feel like you are far from the city and deep in nature.
Today, I’ll be covering 7 kid-friendly hikes and trails in the Atlanta area. Be sure to add these kid-friendly hikes to your list next time you are exploring Atlanta.
1. Sweet Water Creek (red trail)
Sweet Water Creek is a popular state park. One of the main trails to do is the red trail. This trail starts at the visitor center and takes you down a path where you are able to walk alongside the creek the entire way. The hike can be a bit rocky in certain parts, especially as you get closer to the end. With this being an out-and-back trail, once you get to the end of the trail, you must turn around and go back toward the beginning of the trail.
2. Sope Creek Paper Mill trail
This trail is one of the best kid-friendly hikes in all of Atlanta. There is so much history at Sope Creek, with the ruins once being the largest paper mill in the state during the Civil War. To access this trail, there are a few starting points, but the main entrance is off paper mill road.
The trail is easily accessible year-round, but even better in the summer when you can play in the shallow parts of the river. The main loop is 2.3 miles and takes you down to the ruins and access to the Chattahoochee River. Once you walk back up from the river access, you continue on the loop, which will take you around the lake and back to the main parking lot.
3. High Falls
High Falls is another state park in the Atlanta area with great hiking. This park offers camping and a few different hiking trails. The High Falls Trail takes you over to the beautiful waterfall. This trail is a quick 1-mile loop. You can park across the street in the main parking lot and then cross over to the trailhead.
Head down the staircase and get treated to the beautiful waterfall view that is High Falls. After visiting the falls, you will continue on the trail through the wooded forest and loop back around towards the start of the trailhead.
4. East Palisades bamboo forest
The bamboo forest on the East Palisades trail is such a hidden gem! Many locals don’t even know that it is there. This loop is about 4 miles and is considered moderate, but it is a very kid-friendly hike. If my 3-year-old and 4-year-old can do it with no problem, yours can too! Using the AllTrails app to map your hike is helpful for this particular trail because finding the trailhead can be a little tricky.
Once you park in the parking lot, you can either walk back down the road a little to access the trailhead from that end (which is a quick way to the bamboo forest if you don’t want to do the whole loop), or access the trailhead closest to the parking lot and make the full 4 mile loop. There is a lot to see and do on this trail, and once you start walking alongside the river, you will quickly approach the hidden Bamboo forest!
5. Vickery Creek
Vickery Creek is a local favorite, and for good reason! This hike leads to a stunning waterfall and is a great family outing experience. The loop is 2 miles, and you will cross over a bridge and end up at the popular waterfall along the trail.
This kid-friendly hike is also great if you want to just walk up to the waterfall alone and make a day of it. Vickery Creek runs along the Chattahoochee River, and on a day after rainfall, it flows heavily and is amazing to see!
6. Clyde Shepherd nature preserve
Clyde Shepherd is a true hidden gem right in the city of Atlanta. It’s tucked away in a neighborhood in Decatur. This nature preserve is funded by local donations. Volunteers of the neighborhood are the ones who continue to take care of it.
This park has a few trail options. The interpretive main loop that covers most of the preserve is 1.5 miles. There is a big pond (seasonal) that you can walk past on the loop as well as another small pond closer to the beginning of the trail. There are so many unique areas along this trail that make it a super kid-friendly hike. with over 300 species of native plants and animals, your child is sure to find something to keep them engaged for quite some time on this hike.
7. Cochran Mill (orange trail)
Cochran Mill Park features miles of hiking trails, a playground near the parking lot, and a few beautiful waterfalls! The orange trail is easily accessible and a great kid-friendly hike option. Once you cross the street from the parking lot, you will head over the bridge. The main waterfall is immediately to the right as you cross the bridge, and the kids have a lot of fun playing in the creek under the bridge.
If you want to do the entire loop, you will head left on the trail after you pass the waterfall and continue to make that loop. Along the trail, there are a few more waterfalls to see, and some you can even walk up to.
Best kid-friendly hikes in Atlanta
Atlanta is filled with so much more nature and outdoor fun than you might expect. It’s a big city, but one with a lot of amazing local green spaces, hiking trails, parks, and nature preserves.
If you are looking to get out in nature and out of the city, these trails are perfect for your next adventure! Which trail will you go on first?
Did you know about any of these hikes in Atlanta?
About the author
India is an outdoor adventure enthusiast, blogger, and travel photographer. She is also a single mom to two young boys (ages 5 & 4). India and her boys currently live in Atlanta, Georgia, where she grew up, and are always out exploring, whether that be camping, hiking, backpacking, and so much more. She loves taking road trips with her boys to new places at a moment’s notice and is grateful to be able to share this love of adventure with her kids.
Austin, Texas, is not only the Texas state capital, but it’s an outdoor adventurer’s paradise! Austin is sprinkled with plenty of hiking, biking and horse trails, swimming holes, amazing parks and playgrounds, beautiful flora and fauna, water activities, and so much more! It’s an ideal destination for families looking for outdoor adventures big and small. Today, Austin mom of two, Tiana Kubik, takes us on a tour of her family’s favorite outdoor locations and things to do outside with kids in Austin, Texas. With so many amazing things to do outside with kids, you’re going to want to add Austin to your family bucket list!
Best outdoor kid-friendly activities in Austin
Austin is the perfect place for family fun outdoors! With its vibrant culture, music scene, and delicious food, you can explore nature and enjoy a multitude of exciting experiences. But, did you know that the city also offers a plethora of outdoor activities perfect for families with kids?
A visit to Austin is a fantastic opportunity to explore some of the best outdoor explorations and scenic views! Austin has something for every outdoor enthusiast! Whether you’re looking to play, swim, eat, hike, bike, or just relax – Austin is the perfect place for making amazing outdoor family memories!
Best outdoor locations for kids in Austin
There’s a reason Austin is often ranked one of the best outdoor cities in the country. From cycling and hiking, to stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking – Austin offers an abundance of outdoor activities for kids (of all ages) and families and some of the best places for the whole family to explore.
With 300+ days of sunshine and an average temperature of 68 degrees, getting outside in Austin is easy! Here are a few of our favorite fun outdoor locations that need to be on your next Austin itinerary.
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
At the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, located just south of downtown Austin, visitors can explore 284 acres of lush gardens and natural areas featuring over 900 species of native Texas plants. Children will particularly enjoy exploring the interactive learning exhibits as well as participating in a fun-filled scavenger hunt that takes them on a full tour of the gardens (beware…some of the items are well hidden!).
The center also features a family garden, where children and adults alike can play and learn about the native plant life of Texas. Afterward, visitors can shop for eco-friendly gifts and souvenirs at the center’s gift shop or take a break to relax at the cafe.
Pioneer Farms
Take a journey through time at Pioneer Farms, an outdoor living history museum that showcases life in Texas from the 1800s to the early 1900s. Spanning over 90 acres of historic buildings, breathtaking gardens, and farm animals, this unique attraction is perfect for families looking for an immersive experience into the lives of pioneer settlers and Texas history. Touring homes and structures that were common during each time period, children can see how much things have changed, and maybe have some appreciation for not being made to sleep in the attic!
Pioneer Farms also makes for a great hike! With plenty of trails to explore and a serene backdrop, it’s a wonderful place for a leisurely nature walk. If you can, try to get there when they first open—you’re likely to have the grounds all to yourself for a bit.
Zilker Park
Zilker Metropolitan Park, located in Austin, Texas, is an outdoor lover’s paradise with so many fun things to do and so much fun to be had! With its sprawling fields and trails, Zilker Park offers the perfect opportunity for recreation and relaxation. For those looking to take a dip in nature’s pool, Barton Springs Pool is a must-visit. This natural spring-fed pool remains at a cool 68 degrees year-round, making it the perfect spot for a refreshing dip.
Hiking and biking trails stretch throughout Zilker Park, providing spectacular views of hills, trees, and lakes. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous journey, these trails are popular among locals and visitors alike. For those looking to play a game of soccer, basketball, or tennis, there is plenty of room for that too.
Zilker Botanical Garden is nestled within Zilker Park in the heart of downtown Austin. They have themed gardens, including the Taniguchi Japanese Garden, Hartman Prehistoric Garden, and Rose Garden, all interconnected with pathways for all ages and abilities. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors in the heart of the city.
For over 60 years, the miniature train is a popular destination, winding through the park while providing great views and photo opportunities. However, the latest train, The Zilker Eagle, has met several delays and won’t start again until the Fall of 2023. So, plan accordingly if you are looking to make a visit!
Butler Park
Located just south of downtown Austin, Butler Park is a hidden gem that offers stunning views of the city skyline. Take a stroll along Lady Bird Lake (a.k.a. the Colorado River) or play a game of basketball on one of the courts.
One of the best things about Butler Park (and one of the best attractions for kids in Austin) is the Alliance Children’s Garden. It’s an interactive outdoor space filled with all sorts of fun activities, from miniature hills and tunnels perfect for hide and seek, to a climbing rope and slides built into the face of a hill. Your kids will have a great time here! There are also several art opportunities (massive nature-inspired musical instruments) and a life-size chess set. Right next to this epic playground is the splash pad and the fun hill that your little one can summit on a spiral path. This makes Butler park a real one-stop spot for tons of outdoor fun.
Bonus: There is also easy access to food and shopping on Congress Ave, just a short drive away!
Mount Bonnell
A great way to experience the beautiful outdoors in Austin is a visit to Mount Bonnell. One of the highest points in Travis County, it offers stunning panoramic views of the city and its surrounding hills. The hike up to the summit is an easy one that kids can handle, making it a perfect pit stop for families looking to explore the area. Once they reach the top, everyone can take some time to explore the view and then choose to either take the steps down or take an adventure down the hill through the wooded path!
The Domain
I know, it sounds strange to suggest going to a shopping center for outdoor entertainment, but hear me out! If you’re looking for some retail therapy mixed with outdoor fun, The Domain is your place! It’s an upscale shopping center located north of downtown Austin. In addition to stores and restaurants, the Domain is described as being “situated in a beautiful park-like setting.” There are several spots for children to run, outdoor play structures, a splash pad, restaurants with outdoor seating, and fun interactive spots.
Visitors can find a variety of food options ranging from casual eateries to fine-dining establishments, and let’s be honest – kids will have plenty of room for dessert. For those in search of a healthy yet delicious option, Flower Child Restaurant offers great family-friendly options with an easygoing atmosphere.
Barton Creek
The Barton Creek Greenbelt has been a part of Austin life for generations; it’s seen by many as the “heart” of the city. This 12-mile stretch of unspoiled beauty boasts trails all along the creek, so you can go as far or as close as you’d like and travel by foot or bike! There are seven different access points to the greenbelt. So, you can plan to enter close to an activity you are excited about or just choose one at random and see what there is to explore.
For those who want to take it easy, swimming holes dot the area, offering a great way to cool off on hot summer days. There are also several limestone bluffs perfect for rock climbing! And if you’re feeling brave enough – some even recommend jumping into deep pools from them!
If that’s too much adventure for your taste, you can always take a leisurely stroll or bike trail down the creek. On your way, keep an eye out for turtles and fish, as well as birds like roadrunners and hummingbirds. Whatever activity you choose to do – make sure to bring plenty of water and some snacks to fuel your exploration.
Best outdoor experiences for kids in Austin, Texas
Go on a mural tour
Exploring the colorful murals of Austin, Texas, is a great way for kids to have loads of fun! From the famous ‘Greetings from Austin’ mural near South Congress and S 1st Street, your little ones will love competing to be the first one to spot it! Yummy tie-in: be sure to grab a sweet treat from La Pâtisserie, right next door!
You’ll also find plenty of other amazing spots for photos in this mural-filled city. Whether it’s the whimsical ‘I Love You So Much’ wall off South Congress or the iconic ‘Hi, How Are You?’ mural on 21st Street, there are plenty of vibrant backdrops to explore.
The greatest part is that your kids will love being outside and discovering all the wonderful artwork that Austin has to offer! So what are you waiting for? Start planning your mural excursion today!
City/neighborhood playgrounds
Exploring nature is an amazing experience, and Austin has no shortage of great outdoor places to explore. To balance the outdoorsy fun, there are also plenty of playgrounds throughout the city, providing more exciting recreational activities for those who want a break from traditional hiking and sightseeing.
Many of these play areas have been designed with a focus on creativity and innovation. From creative climbing walls to nature-inspired obstacle courses, Austin’s playgrounds are varied and exciting. Plus, many of them are located conveniently near greenbelts, creek trails, and other great outdoor destinations – allowing families to combine a bit of both worlds in their day outdoors.
Hike the various trails
From Barton Creek Greenbelt to McKinney Falls State Park, Austin has some of the most beautiful trails and parks in all of Texas.
The Greenbelt trail system spans over 20 miles of terrain, stretching across Zilker Park to Barton Creek, and beyond. With various loop trails and topography that ranges from easy to strenuous, there is something for hikers of all levels. You can explore the area by peeking over limestone bluffs or walking along a wooded creek bed. The Greenbelt offers plenty of unique photo opportunities as well!
Austin restaurants with outdoor play areas
Imagine being able to enjoy a delicious dinner and drinks while your kids get to run wild outside. What a dream come true for parents! Thankfully, the Austin area is home to some of the best family-friendly restaurants with outdoor play areas for kids.
Whether you’re looking for classic burgers and fries at Hat Creek Burger Company in Round Rock or cool off with ice cream at Phil’s Ice House & Amy’s Ice Cream South Lamar location, both spots have incredible outdoor spaces perfect for the little ones. Other local eateries like Hopdoddy Burger Bar or Whole Foods Market also have plenty of playground equipment and activities to keep your kiddos entertained!
Food trucks in Austin
Food trucks are a cherished part of Austin culture and provide an amazing way to try some delicious food. From tacos to BBQ sandwiches, there is something for everyone! It’s no wonder why people keep coming back for more. Not only are the meals delicious, but visiting a food truck can be an incredibly fun experience as well.
The history of food trucks in Austin dates back to the 1970s when locals began selling tacos from their pickup trucks. It then grew from there, becoming a beloved part of the local culture and eventually leading to other cities adopting the concept. Today, Austin has no shortage of delicious mobile eateries!
Food truck parks and festivals are also popular in Austin. People come from all over to try out the variety of dishes on offer and enjoy the lively atmosphere. There is often great music playing, making it a fun experience for everyone involved.
Horseback riding in Austin
With its rolling hills, lush green pastures, and breathtaking views of the city skyline, horseback riding in Austin is unlike any other. Whether your child is a first-time rider or an experienced equestrian, there are plenty of options to choose from that offer unique, family-friendly experiences.
For new riders, guided trail rides are a great way to explore Austin’s countryside while learning some basic riding skills. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with your little ones as they learn how to care for and bond with their horse. Check out Bee Cave Riding Center and Maverick Horseback Riding, both of which are great places to start.
For experienced riders eager to explore Austin’s trails, there are plenty of options as well. Many stables in the area offer group rides that accommodate different levels of riders so everyone can join in on the fun! And for those looking to take their equestrian skills to the next level, there are workshops and clinics available throughout Austin.
Renting a boat is a great way to explore Austin and see some amazing wildlife!
Lady Bird Lake sits right between downtown Austin and Zilker Park, providing an ideal spot for kayak rentals, where you can take in all sorts of wildlife, such as turtles sunning themselves atop rocks or fish swimming below water surface level. Rent a boat at one of the many available locations or take a guided boat tour, and experience Austin from a different perspective. Families will love the chance to explore this beautiful city while admiring the diverse wildlife that calls Lady Bird Lake home.
There are also tons of lakes and waterways that rent boats. Some with some super fun themes, like the donut boat!
Things to do outside in Austin with kids
As you can see, Austin is the perfect place to get outside and make memories with your kids! Whether it’s a day of hiking through Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center or relaxing at Butler Park, there’s something for everyone. So why not take the time to plan an adventure with your family this weekend? What kind of fun will you find outside? Be sure to share your experiences with us on social media! We can’t wait to hear all about it.
About the author
A city girl through and through, Tiana Kubik wasn’t always thrilled with outdoor adventures. However, learning the importance of nature + play through her journey to a Master’s in Early Childhood Education changed her heart. She still prefers the hustle and bustle of city life, and alternates between Chicago and Austin. She also has learned to love all that nature is and gives. Tiana has discovered unbelievably amazing North American destinations by traveling in a DIY converted Sprinter Van with her husband and two kids. She looks forward to new adventures and discoveries every day.
You can find more from Tiana in the following online locations:
Instagram: @usalongtheway
RWMC Posts: Tiana Kubik
With the weather getting warmer and thoughts of vacation on everyone’s mind, we’re in the mood to explore! If Europe is on your bucket list for exploring, then it’s your lucky day! While most people may think that Europe is mainly just big historic cities and stuffy museums, that’s not the case. Europe is filled with spectacular nature, as diverse in each individual country as the culture and language, which makes it the perfect place for hiking! Today, Belgian mom of two and outdoor adventurer, Tine of Kids del Mundo, is here sharing the best hikes for kids in Central Europe (Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg). We hope this post will inspire you to add some of these hikes to your next Central European vacation!
Exploring Central Europe with kids
What do you think of when you envision Central Europe? Many people automatically think of historical cities, large cathedrals, museums, and galleries. However, Europe is so much more than just city trips in crowded places.
Europe is filled with countries that all have very diverse backgrounds. It is so easy to go country-hopping across a few countries on a trip to Central Europe. You can go by train, by plane, by car, or even by bike! Each country is rich in nature, food, culture, language, and history. And because it is all so easily accessible, it makes Europe the ideal destination for your next vacation with kids.
Let’s introduce you to four countries you can combine during a two-week stay without taking the plane from one country to another: Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. Each of these countries has its own distinct personality.
Best hiking trails in Central Europe for kids
Central Europe is also home to some spectacular natural areas filled with great hiking opportunities, many of which are perfect for children. With rolling pastures, dense forests, snow-capped mountains, and alpine lakes, this is a region that begs to be explored.
Central Europe’s vast network of trails offers something for every family, no matter what your hiking level or childrens’ ages. If you are seeking a unique outdoor experience, then follow along on a trip through the less touristic place in Central Western Europe. Here are a few of our favorite hikes and trails in Central Europe:
Our family of four, known as Kids del Mundo, lives in Belgium, very central in Europe. We love exploring our country. We’ve always loved finding new places within our country and have spent years (particularly during the pandemic) exploring all that Belgium has to offer kids.
We’ll start our tour of the best hikes for kids in Central Europe here in Belgium. Next, we’ll cross borders to discover other mind-blowing trails on the west side of Central Europe. After reading this post, you will know why these Western-European countries are perfect to visit with kids.
1. Best hikes for kids in Belgium
Belgium is the fifth smallest country in the European Union. You may be most familiar with the large metropolitan cities of Brussels or Bruges, but did you know there are so many wonderful and kid-friendly nature hiking trails in Belgium?
The country of Belgium is an expert in combining outdoor adventure with art and culture. Interesting to know, Belgium has three different languages and regions:
Flanders – Dutch
Wallonia – French
East Cantons – German
Not bad for such a tiny country. You can imagine the rich history Belgium has. Are you ready to be amazed by these fun places? Your kids will thank you later!
Kid-friendly art hikes in Bosland
Bosland is a multi-municipal project in the province of Limburg, Flanders, where children have the lead. With more than 5000 hectares of forests, this place is filled with wonderful hikes and kid-friendly adventures. Bosland is located in the province of Limburg, a perfect starting point for visiting other regions in Belgium. If you want to experience Limburg in a unique way, you can book a stay in the Tears Alley (Tranendreef). Sleeping in a tent hanging in the trees is a fantastic way of experiencing this magnificent area.
Butterflies in Cat Forest (Kattenbos)
The most impressive woodland of all we found is in the Kattenbos (Cat Forest). Within Cat Forest, not only will you find yourself surrounded by the most beautiful nature, but as you explore the woods, the evolution of a butterfly is shown in statues and art.
Created by environmental artist Will Beckers, kids can hike and get a step-by-step art explanation of how an egg transforms into caterpillar, then into a chrysalis, and then into a butterfly. The sculptures are not there only to admire, but to play on! All of the pieces in this interactive art installation are made for kids to climb, jump, and swing on!
This hike is about 2.2km long, which is perfect for even the tiniest ones. Of course, the butterfly process is not the only reason why to go to Cat Forest. Further along, you will come across the windmill of Leyssen and learn more about the history of this region.
You can do several other hiking trails through the heathlands and the pine trees. Every trail is well indicated with different colors and easy to find through the amazing landscape. And if you happen to go at the end of August and the first half of September, the forest turns the color purple for the heath blooming! It’s spectacular!
The Sahara in Belgium
In Bosland, you will also find the Lommelse Sahara, an area in Lommel, not too far from the Cat Forest. Again, environmental artist Will Beckers created sculptures for this fun kid-friendly area. This time he didn’t build sustainable metal animals, but he made constructions out of natural material, usually found in the same woods.
The highlight in the woodlands of the Sahara, is the 30-meter-high watchtower in the center of the domain. It takes 144 steps to reach the top, but it is well worth the effort! The view from top is magnificent. On a clear day, the panorama will stretch out to 25 km. This location is not a coincidence. From this point on top, the view reaches the entire area of Bosland. A unique location.
With little ones, we recommend hiking the blue trail, which is 3,1 km. On this hiking trail, kids can play on two interactive art installations close to the watchtower. Not too far from the parking lot (and hidden in the woods), the masterpieces of Will Becker are waiting to be discovered. If you have older kids, there are longer trails, such as the red trail (2 km), which received the award of Best Hiking Trail in Belgium.
Giants in De Schorre (Belgium)
Our absolute favorite hike in Flanders is the “giants hike” of Thomas Dambo. We just love how the trolls are hidden in the forest of De Schorre in Boom (Tree), where each and every year, the famous dance festival Tomorrowland takes place. You’ve probably heard of the giants designed by Thomas Dambo. You might even have seen them in other cities and countries spread all over the world (e.g. Copenhagen, Chicago, Miami, Mandurah, and Puerto Rico).
What is so fun about finding giants with kids? In De Schorre, seven giants are well-hidden deep within the forest, and there is no indication of where they might be. This means you will have to go in between the trees to seek them out, making it such a fun adventure for kids. Kids can look for the giants following a path, but also check in between the trees and leave the paved path.
To access one of the giants, you even have to make quite a climb! Kids (and adults) can climb on and around the giants and enjoy the most beautiful views in the forest.The first time we went, we spent quite a bit of time outside and didn’t even find all the trolls! But honestly, we didn’t need a reason to return one more time. Each and every season, this forest looks different, making it a place you can return to again and again and never get tired of exploring!
There is also a fun barefoot trail in between the giants. And if the little ones have a bit of energy left at the end, they can also have fun on the outdoor playground while exiting the forest. De Schorre is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Central Europe and one not to miss! This adventure can be easily combined with a stop in Antwerp, making it the perfect combination of nature and history!
Waterfalls on the trail of de la Hoegne
If you are looking for the most gorgeous pristine nature, you will find it in the Belgian Ardennes. This area is filled with picturesque tiny European villages, and gorgeous rivers meandering through the lush and dense forests. This area will amaze you day after day. The hike of La Hoegne, which is the name of the river, is unique because the trail will lead you over the river via bridges and passages.
The trail starts at the parking lot at the beginning of the promenade. Because there is no bridge to the parking lot, you have to pass through the river to park. Kids love it! Don’t worry; usually, the water isn’t too deep, and you can pass with the car.
At the start of the trail, the river is at its widest. Follow along the signs (white with blue cross), which you can’t miss. The hike is beautiful and kid-friendly. And because hiking with kids always requires snacks and food, somewhere in the middle of the trail, you will reach an open space in the forest where you can sit for a picnic. At this location, you can choose a hike of 10km or 12km. This is well indicated.
When you reach this point, it also means you’re close to the peak of the valley. It looks like you stepped into a fairytale. Our girls still talk about this hike and how beautiful it was. However, note that because of all the tiny bridges and roots popping out everywhere, it is definitely not suitable for buggies or strollers.
A few more kid-friendly hikes in Belgium
If you are seeking more fun hikes with kids in Belgium, you should check:
Hoogstraten: Wortel Colony, De Mosten & Aschputten, The Strawberry tour
The Music Forest in Ronse
Terhills National Park in Maasmechelen
Hoge Venen in the so called Hoge Venen-Eifel Nature Park
2. Best hikes for kids in the Netherlands (Holland)
When you are in Belgium, you can easily hop over to the Netherlands. From different points of Belgium, you might even cross the border and back again while out exploring. The two countries are very linked and intertwined. The Netherlands are located between Denmark, Germany, and Belgium. The country’s city population density is very high which makes it the second most dense country in Europe (after Malta). However, outside of the cities, the Netherlands have beautiful wide open plains and plenty of nature to explore! The landscape of Holland (as we call the Netherlands), is just extraordinary.
Let me guide you to two of the most amazing areas in Holland…
Texel – West Frisian Islands
The West Frisian Islands (Waddeneilanden in Dutch) is a group of small islands on the North Coast of the Netherlands at the Wadden Sea. This region has been placed on the Unesco World Heritage List. Typical for the West Frisian Islands are the wide open meadows filled with wide open beaches and red lighthouses. Not only is the landscape truly remarkable, but the nutrient-rich sea attracts fish, and marine mammals and is a popular stopover for migratory birds. The largest island of the West Frisian Islands is Texel.
Texel is a perfect nature-filled place to spend holidays with kids. You can go island-hopping, seal-watching, bird-spotting, and hike through the diverse landscapes. The first thing that is already unique and unforgettable about this adventure is the way to Texel. With the car, you drive right onto the ferry and take it out to the island. The excitement the kids experience while making the line at the port of Den Helder is incredible.
Once you’re on the island, there are a couple of must-see attractions. One of those are the Dunes of Texel National Park. This park has a variety of nature going from pine trees to sand dunes at the beach. With such an incredible and diverse landscape, your kids will never get bored! The hiking trails for kids in the enormous dunes are superb!
Also, be sure to be on the lookout for seals on the beaches of the island. You can spot seals on the island year-round. If you miss the seals on the beach, like us, you can also visit Ecomare, a shelter with only one mission: nurturing and caring for wounded seals.
Biking in the Netherlands and Texel sheep
Did you know Dutch people are born on bikes? Well, not really, but it sure seems that way! Bikes are so integrated into their culture that you’ll inevitably feel the need to get on a bike when you’re in Holland. So, instead of hiking from one side of the island to the other, consider riding a bike so that you can really take in the nature around you and discover all the little villages along the way.
Texel is also known for its sheep. Yes, you have read that right…sheep! They are everywhere and beloved by the people on the island. Plan on visiting a sheep farm with your little ones while you’re there. And don’t forget the beautiful lighthouse of De Cocksdorp! It’s a classic beautiful red one that you can still visit! A stay on Texel will be one to remember!
Mast Forest (Mastbos)
North Brabant covers four national parks of the Netherlands (Loonse and Drunense Dunes, The Biesbosch, the Big Peel, and Border Park De Zoom-Kalmthoutse Heide), with a wide range of nature and biodiversity. They are all worth visiting. This region has so much nature, history, and culture.
Close to Breda, you will find one of the most diverse woodlands in Holland. In the Mast Forest, kids can run freely, go gnome-seeking, build camps, climb trees, and so much more. When our girls were little, we introduced them to hiking via the wonderful paths in the Mast Forest, so this forest has a special place in our hearts.
A magical gnome tour takes you through the forest. For one and a half hours, your little ones will run, climb and seek! With a bit of storytelling, this will be a day never to forget. But there’s more than gnomes. You have the wooden paths through the fields, follow the river the Mark, walk next the Galder Lake, a summer hotspot for families. But you can also stop at the nature playground Bouverijen. Building camps, climbing wooden logs and climbing over the water is such a fun activity for kids.
The Netherlands have so much more to offer, but these two spots are a great way to start exploring nature in Holland!
More Dutch hikes
If you are seeking more fun hikes with kids in the Netherlands, check out the following locations:
National Park the Veluwe
Biesbosch in South-Brabant
Utrechtse Heuvelrug
Oranjezon in Zeeland
Nature Monuments in Leikeven
3. Best hikes for kids in Germany
The Netherlands and Belgium border with Germany, so why not take advantage and combine all of these countries into one amazing trip?! One region we would definitely recommend that you visit with kids is the South Eifel region. Not only do you have beautiful nature and the most amazing hiking trails, but this area is so close to other amazing locations that it makes exploring easy for families.
Destinature Dorf
When we were exploring the area, the biggest (and most pleasant) hidden gem we found was the amazing hiking trails in Ernzen. When discovered this area a bit by accident when we were planning a visit to Müllerthal in Luxembourg. Seeking an authentic stay close to nature, we booked a stay in Germany, only minutes away from the Luxembourg border, in Destinature Dorf in Ernzen. Destinature Dorf is a nature village with the most powerful mission: sustainable tourism, using only natural and sustainable materials to build sophistically designed huts and tents connecting you with nature. This recently opened Nature Village has everything we needed as a nature-loving family.
Here’s a little secret. When you stay in Destinature Dorf in Ernzen, you can access another wonder of nature, Felsenweiher. There’s a set of stairs that leads you straight to the natural rock pond. We didn’t know this on our first visit, so one more reason to go back!
Devils Canyon in Südeifel
During our stay, we discovered some of the most beautiful places we have ever seen. This area guarantees an unforgettable holiday with your kids. If you want to score points, you can start off with the Teufelsschlucht Dinosaur Park in Ernzen. Just five minutes away from Destinature Dorf, you get to this incredible park, surrounded by nature. Next to the Dinosaur Park is the entrance of one of the most beautiful hikes for kids in Germany.
When you’re in the area, make your first stop at the Visitors Centre. That is where you will get more info on the different kinds of trails. We choose the shortest one, as our kids were very little at the time. In total, the hike was 1.8 km, but it takes over 2 hours to finish. It was magical! We found ourselves in a real-life fairy tale. The beautiful colors of the falling leaves, contrasting against the bright green of the moss, were mesmerizing! The trail took us to a canyon deep down the rocks. The view at the end of the gorge is breathtaking. The girls forgot about their tiredness and ran around enjoying the beauty of the site. Definitely, the Devil’s Canyon is a must when you are in Südeifel!
More kid-friendly hikes in Germany
If you are seeking more fun hikes with kids in Germany, you check out the following locations:
Schwarzwald in Germany
German Alpes
Fairytales Tour via Edersee
Vineyards in the Eifel Region
Berchtesgaden in Beieren
4. Best hikes for kids in Luxembourg
Believe it or not, only a couple of minutes away from Devil’s Canyon (above), you will venture into another country and find the famous Müllerthal Trail in Luxembourg. This trail highlights nature in its purest form!
Schiessentümpel Waterfall on the Müllerthal Trail
The Schiessentümpel Waterfall on the famous Müllerthal Trail in Luxembourg had been on our hiking bucket list for years! This romantic waterfall is the hotspot of Müllerthal. At 500 m from the waterfall, you can find small parking lot. There are two ways to get to the waterfall by foot. You can follow the sidewalk, which is less adventurous. Or, you can follow the trail close to the rocks. We recommend planning your visit to the waterfall very early in the morning, or late in the afternoon. This touristy hotspot can get quite busy.
From the waterfall, you will see signs for different trails that you can take to explore the area. All of them are well indicated. The most popular trail for families with kids is trail B2. To start this trail, we recommend parking in Berdorf, close to the Tourist Centre. From there, you easily get to the first canyon. When you go along the trail, you eventually will arrive at the highest point of the trail where you have an amazing view.
Via Kalktüfquell to Schwartze Ernz
If you go the other way, it will lead you to one of the most beautiful places. From the Schiessentumpel waterfall, we followed trail W7, a hike of 10km. We didn’t finish it completely and went straight to the Kalktüfquell, a source with clear water.
From the source, you get to the beautiful decking paths of the Schwartse Ernz. Get ready for a beautiful walk between the rock formations. But don’t stop there! Next, head to the castles of Beaufort, about 15 mins from the hiking sites. There are so many treasures to visit in this area.
If you prefer to stay in less touristic place than Müllerthall, then look into staying at the Nature Hotel Destinature in Germany. It’s only a 20-minute drive, and you will be quiet, and relaxed while connected with nature!
More Luxemburg hikes for kids
If you are seeking more fun hikes with kids in Luxemburg, you should check out the following hikes:
Hallerbach Trail with the castle of Beaufort
Obersauer starting in Esch-sur-Sûre
Hiking along the River of Clerve
Vianden at the river the Our
Hiking four European countries in one trip
We hope this post has inspired you to consider adding a few hiking trails to your next Central European vacation. Of course, you can always explore Europe in the classic way by hopping from city to city, but we highly recommend getting off the beaten path (or onto another kind of beaten path) and adding some nature to your trip! Each of these places are a bit less known and will give you an unforgettable holiday outdoors, connecting with your family and nature.
Have you ever been hiking in Europe?
About the author
Tine is a natural-born adventurer from Belgium. She met her husband while working and living in the Dominican Republic. Nine years ago, they moved to Europe and are still exploring European grounds. Her happy place is wherever her 2 girls are, but she spices up life by discovering unknown places, planning new adventures, and going outdoors as much as possible. She loves seeing life through the eyes of her little ones, which lifted it to a completely different dimension. Their family goal is to travel the world, living a location-independent lifestyle. The family is now working on a couple of projects to make this dream happen! In the meantime, they keep on exploring, and Tine keeps on writing and inspiring other families to explore just like them.
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