WATER

  • OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

    Splash Culture: Global water beliefs and symbols for our kids

    Water is life. It nourishes us, sustains ecosystems, and connects people across every corner of the globe. But water isn’t just practical—it’s deeply cultural, symbolic, and spiritual. From myths and legends to religious rituals and conservation movements, water has shaped human history and imagination.

    In this post, Emily Liebel, a Utah mom of three and the creator behind @inclusivelibrary, explores global water beliefs and symbols for kids. From the mythology of Poseidon to the sacred Ganges River to Native American sweat lodges and modern-day water protectors. You’ll learn how water shows up in stories, religions, and conservation efforts across cultures, and how to introduce these ideas to your kids in age-appropriate, meaningful ways.

    This post is for parents, caregivers, and educators who want to deepen children’s respect for water—not only as a source of fun and play but also as something sacred and fragile. By connecting our kids to these global traditions, we can raise a generation that values both joy and stewardship when it comes to one of the world’s most important resources.

    Water around the world

    Water has universal applicability and respect. It is necessary for life but it has common importance in cultures, as well. All over the world, we find beliefs, history, symbols, and stories involving water. Water is also a joyful resource for many people. Sports, play, exploration, spirituality- you’ll find it all in the water. Once we realize all the ways water can connect us around the globe, we can teach our kids to respect and enjoy it fully. As we spend our summer months swimming, boating, and finding fun in water, we can also teach our kids to become a part of water conservation efforts based on connection and understanding.

    Symbolism of water

    Across every culture and time period, water has carried meanings that go far beyond its role in survival. It is both literal (something we drink, swim in, and rely on) and deeply symbolic, shaping the way people understand life, healing, and transformation.

    When we teach kids about the symbolism of water, we give them a richer appreciation of what they splash in every summer afternoon or drink from their water bottle after soccer practice.

    Water as life

    The most universal symbol of water is life itself. Every living thing, from plants to people, depends on water to survive. Ancient civilizations built their homes along rivers like the Nile and the Tigris because water meant fertile land, food, and community. Even today, entire cities are built around lakes, rivers, and coasts. Sharing these connections with children helps them understand that when they drink a glass of water, they’re tapping into something that ties all of humanity together.

    Water as serenity and peace

    Anyone who has ever sat by a still pond or listened to a babbling creek knows how calming water can be. The sound of flowing water has been proven to reduce stress and lower blood pressure, which is why fountains, streams, and even white noise machines are used for relaxation. When kids notice ripples spreading across a lake or their own reflection shimmering in the water, they’re experiencing firsthand how water symbolizes serenity and peace. It’s nature’s invitation to slow down.

    For more on this concept, check out our post on the Benefits of Blue Hours/Spaces.

    Water as Purity and Renewal

    Around the world, water has long been associated with cleansing and renewal. In spiritual rituals, it washes away sins, marks new beginnings, and purifies the body and soul. In daily life, water helps us clean our homes, our food, and ourselves. For kids, this idea of purification can be as simple as the feeling of a refreshing shower after a muddy soccer game—or as meaningful as seeing how cultures use water in sacred ceremonies.

    Water as Refreshment and Rejuvenation

    Think about how thirsty kids act after running around outside on a hot day—the desperate cry for water, followed by big gulps and sighs of relief. That physical experience of refreshment mirrors water’s symbolic role in rejuvenation. Water doesn’t just quench our thirst; it revives our bodies and clears our minds. In literature and storytelling, streams and springs often symbolize renewal, giving characters the strength to keep going. Sharing this perspective helps kids notice how water gives them energy, both physically and emotionally.

    Kid connection:

    Next time you’re by a lake, pool, or even at the sink washing hands with your child, ask: “What do you think water makes people feel?” Encourage them to think about how water can represent calm, joy, or even a fresh start. Kids often make the most profound connections when they link their everyday experiences to these bigger ideas.

    Religious beliefs and water

    Water isn’t just a resource—it’s sacred in nearly every religion around the world. Across cultures and faiths, water symbolizes purity, renewal, and life itself. It’s used in rituals, ceremonies, and traditions that help people connect to something bigger than themselves. Sharing these practices with kids not only teaches them about different cultures, but also encourages them to respect water as more than just something to swim or play in.

    Baptism and ritual cleansing

    In Christianity, baptism is one of the most powerful symbols of renewal, forgiveness, and belonging. Whether sprinkled or fully immersed, baptism uses water to represent washing away sin and entering new life. But Christianity isn’t the only faith that uses water this way. Judaism incorporates ritual baths called mikvahs, used for spiritual cleansing and renewal. In Islam, believers perform Wudu (washing the face, hands, and feet) before prayer, symbolizing purification of both body and spirit.

    Service and gratitude

    In the New Testament, Jesus washed his disciples’ feet as an act of humility and service. This symbolic use of water reminds believers of gratitude, compassion, and caring for others. In Islam, ritual washing before prayer carries a similar message of respect and preparation before standing in the presence of God.

    Water in Buddhism

    For Buddhists, water represents clarity, calm, and compassion. Devotees often offer bowls of water at household shrines or temples to symbolize generosity and a pure heart. During certain rituals, statues of the Buddha are ceremonially washed, representing renewal, compassion, and the cleansing of negativity.

    Hinduism and the sacred Ganges

    The Ganges River is more than just water to Hindus; it is a goddess named Ganga. Pilgrims bathe in her waters to wash away sins, families scatter ashes into her current to bless loved ones in the afterlife, and millions travel to her banks each year in one of the largest religious pilgrimages on earth. The Ganges is both sacred and practical, embodying the spiritual and everyday importance of rivers.

    Native American sweat lodges

    Among many Native American tribes, water is central to the sacred sweat lodge ceremony. Water poured onto heated stones creates steam that cleanses the body and spirit. The lodge itself represents the womb of Mother Earth, and the steam is thought to heal, purify, and restore balance.

    Kid Connection

    You don’t have to practice these rituals yourself to help kids understand their importance. Instead, you can:

    • Share stories: Tell kids how water is viewed in different cultures and religions around the world.
    • Practice reverence: When visiting a river, lake, or even a fountain, encourage kids to pause for a moment of quiet reflection.
    • Make parallels: Ask kids, “How do you feel after washing your hands or swimming? Can you see why people use water as a way to feel clean, calm, or new?”
    • Connect play with respect: Remind kids that water can be fun and sacred at the same time. We can splash in the pool, then talk about how others see rivers as holy.

    By weaving these lessons into everyday experiences, children begin to see water as not only a source of play and refreshment, but also as something powerful, symbolic, and deeply respected across cultures.

    Mythologies and water

    Beyond religion, myths and legends about water are woven into cultures all over the world. Water is often personified or deified, seen as a force of power, mystery, and life. These stories reveal both the awe and the caution people have always felt toward rivers, seas, and lakes.

    Greek Mythology: Gods and Boundaries

    • Poseidon: The Greek god of the sea, Poseidon, was both protector and destroyer. Sailors prayed to him for safe voyages, but storms were often seen as his anger. His dual role highlighted the unpredictability of the ocean—something people still feel when they face rough waters.
    • The River Styx: This mythological river separated the world of the living from the underworld. Crossing the Styx represented transformation and transition, reminding us of water’s symbolic role as a boundary between life stages.

    Celtic and Scottish Legends

    • Loch Ness Monster: In Scotland, Loch Ness is said to be home to “Nessie,” a mysterious creature lurking in the deep waters. While its existence has never been proven, the legend has endured for generations, showing how water inspires wonder, curiosity, and imagination.

    African and Afro-Caribbean Traditions

    • Oshun and Yemaya: In Yoruba and Afro-Caribbean traditions, Oshun (freshwater goddess) and Yemaya (mother of the seas) are powerful sisters tied to love, fertility, and protection. They embody water’s nurturing and life-giving qualities.
    • Mami Wata: Revered across parts of Africa and the African diaspora, Mami Wata is a water spirit often portrayed as a mermaid. She represents healing, fertility, and prosperity, but also danger and mystery—reminding us that water is both generous and powerful.

    Ancient Egypt: The Nile as Lifeline

    For the ancient Egyptians, the Nile River was not just a geographical feature, but also a symbol of destiny. Its seasonal floods delivered fertile soil for crops, allowing civilization to thrive. The Nile was considered divine, tied directly to their gods, and seen as both a gift and a force to be respected.

    Kid Connection:

    Water myths are a wonderful way to spark kids’ imagination and deepen their respect for natural places. Here are a few ways to bring them to life:

    • Tell stories at the water’s edge: When splashing at the beach, tell kids about Poseidon’s trident stirring the waves. On a lake, share the legend of Loch Ness.
    • Play pretend: Encourage kids to act out being sea gods, river spirits, or explorers searching for water monsters.
    • Connect stories to real places: Show kids pictures of the Nile, the Ganges, or Loch Ness and explain how these places inspired myths.
    • Compare and contrast: Ask your kids how Oshun and Poseidon are similar or different. What do these stories teach about how people feel about water?
    • Create your own family water myth: On your next hike by a stream, invent a magical creature that lives there and let your kids decide its powers.

    By connecting mythologies to play, kids begin to understand that humans have always used stories to explain the mystery of water, and they can do the same.

    Conservation efforts and water rights

    There are also many groups fighting to protect water as a real, living resource. Water is both a necessity and a sacred tool. So many of us want to protect and conserve water.

    Whanganui Water Tribes: In New Zealand, the Whanganui River is considered an ancestor by the Māori people. In 2017, the river was legally granted the same rights as a person. This means harming the river is treated the same as harming a community member. This groundbreaking recognition shows how traditional beliefs can influence modern conservation.

    Water Protectors and sacred paths: In the United States, Indigenous communities have led movements to protect water from pollution and misuse. Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and their allies lead protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline. They popularized the phrase “Mni Wiconi—Water is Life.” We Are the Water Protectors is a picture book written to carry these ideas forward to children.

    Organizations: Around the world, countless organizations fight for clean and safe water. Groups like Water.org, The Water Project, and charity: water work to bring clean water access to communities that don’t have it. Others, like local watershed alliances, focus on protecting rivers and lakes at home. Teaching children about these efforts shows them that water care is not just spiritual or symbolic—it’s something we can act on together.

    Kid connection:

    Let’s get our kids involved, too. Reading picture books, donating as a family to clean water charities, or even helping pick up trash at a local creek can connect their play to a bigger purpose. When they see water as both fun and fragile, they grow up with respect for it—and that’s where conservation begins.

    Final thoughts

    Water is more than something we drink or play in. It’s a universal symbol that connects people across cultures, religions, and stories. From baptismal rituals to the myths of Poseidon, from the sacred Ganges to the legal recognition of New Zealand’s Whanganui River, water carries meaning that reminds us of its power, mystery, and necessity. Teaching kids about these global perspectives helps them see water not just as fun, but as sacred and essential to all life.

    As parents, caregivers, and educators, we have the chance to make water education hands-on and meaningful. Whether it’s telling myths by the lake, reading picture books like We Are the Water Protectors, or simply practicing conservation at home, we can give our children both joy and reverence for water. When kids grow up understanding that water is fragile, valuable, and shared by everyone, they’re more likely to become stewards of this vital resource, and that’s a lesson that lasts far beyond summer splashes.

    What will you teach your kids about water?

    About the author

    Emily and her family have moved across the US multiple times, and the best things about each state have been the outdoor adventures and the public libraries! Now living in Utah, Emily has continued her love for both. She explores both mountain and city outdoor spaces weekly with her three kids and friends and attends library story times, as well as leads a local story time. Emily has a passion for children’s literature. She uses books to educate, promote inclusion, understanding, and justice, and inspire adventure and creativity. Emily loves how reading and being outdoors overlap in so many exciting ways!

    Follow Emily online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @inclusivelibrary

  • BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

    How to Get Started Snorkeling with Kids

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

    How to get started snorkeling with kids

    Snorkelling Fun for Little Adventurers

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

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

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

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

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

    kids playing uno at bottom of pool

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

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

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

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

    Start Small (Really Small)

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

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

    Goggles Come Next

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

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

    tips for teaching kids how to snorkel

    The Mask Moment

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

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

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

    Snorkel Skills

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

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

    snorkeling with kids

    Use Whatever Floats

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

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

    Do You Really Need Snorkelling Fins?

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

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

    tips for getting kids used to wearing a snorkel and mask

    What You’ll Need to Get Started Snorkeling with Kids

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

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

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

    Snorkeling Safety Tips for Kids

    Snorkeling Safety Tips for Kids

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

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

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

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

    best time and place to start snorkeling with kids

    What age can kids start snorkelling?

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

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

    Are full-face snorkel masks safe for kids?

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

    Where’s the best place to snorkel with kids?

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

    Final Thoughts on Snorkeling with Kids

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

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

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

    About the Author

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

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

  • BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

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

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

    4 Best Swimming Holes in Texas for Families

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

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

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

    McKinney Falls State Park – Austin, TX

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Mom Notes:

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

    Kid Score:

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

    Pedernales Falls State Park – Johnson City, TX

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Mom Notes:

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

    Kid Score:

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

    Canyon Lake Park – Canyon Lake, TX

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

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

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

    The only complaint was the lake grass.

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

    Mom Notes:

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

    Admission: $20 per vehicle. Worth it.

    Kid Score:

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

    Mom Score:

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

    Lake Travis – Austin, TX

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

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

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

    Round One: Sunshine & Sudden Storms

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

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

    Round Two: Post-Storm Redemption

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

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

    Mom Notes:

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

    Kid Score:

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

    Mom Score:

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

    What to Pack for a Texas Swimming Hole Adventure

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

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

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

    Must-Haves:

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

    Optional but Awesome:

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

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

    Safety Tips for Swimming Hole Shenanigans

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

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

    Keep Your Eyes on the Prize (aka Your Kids)

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

    Footwear Matters

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

    Know Before You Go

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

    Wildlife is… Wild

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

    Hydrate and Take Breaks

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

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

    Final Thoughts from a Soggy, Happy Mom

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

    You’re doing great.

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

    That’s the magic. That’s the win.

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

    About the Author

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

    Find Crystal on Instagram: @mrs.st.clair

  • OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

    How to Go Mudlarking: Fun Summer Adventure for Families

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

    Perfect family-friendly summer nature activity: mudlarking

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

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

    What is Mudlarking?

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

    –Merriam Webster Dictionary 

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

    -Cambridge Dictionary

    History and Origins of Mudlarking

    History & Origins of Mudlarking

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

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

    Modern day mudlarking wtih kids

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

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

    Why Mudlark?

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

    What is River Glass?

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

    How Do You Get Started Mudlarking?

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

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

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

    What Sorts of Treasure Can You Find?

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

    What Supplies Do You Need to go Mudlarking?

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

    Where can you Mudlark?

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

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

    Finding the Best Mudlarking Spots

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

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

    Identifying and Cleaning Your Finds

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

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

    What Can You Do with Your Treasures? 

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

    About the Author

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

  • FAMILY TRAVEL, LOCAL GEMS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, WATER

    Family Travel Guide to Innsbrook, Missouri

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

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

    What is Innsbrook?

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

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

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

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

    Midwest Family Getaway - Innsbrook Resort - Innsbrook Missouri

    Private lakeside community

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

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

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

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

    Innsbrook Resort - family travel

    Where is Innsbrook?

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

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

    Evenings at Innsbrook - firepit and smores

    Outdoor activities at Innsbrook

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

    Water activities at Innsbrook

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Innsbrook dock and kids - lake activities

    Fishing at Innsbrook

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

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

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

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

    Innsbrook fishing - fishing with kids

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

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

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

    Kid holding giant bluegill - Fishing at Innsbrook with kids

    Innsbrook hiking trails

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

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

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

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

    Biking at Innsbrook

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

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

    Pickleball at Innsbrook

    Resort amenities at Innsbrook

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Gorgeous family friendly private chalet Innsbrook - Happy Stay Chalet

    Where to Stay at Innsbrook

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

    There are three main types of properties available to rent:

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

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

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

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

    Happy Stay Chalet

    Our recent stay at Happy Stay Chalet was hands-down the nicest Innsbrook rental we’ve experienced—and that’s saying something after a half dozen plus trips. This place checks all the boxes for families.

    It’s beautifully updated (yes, it has a dishwasher and laundry!), super clean, thoughtfully decorated, and totally stocked with everything you could possibly need for a relaxing and fun getaway with kids. The vibe is cozy and inviting, but not overly “don’t touch that” fancy—just right for real-life families.

    Here’s what we loved most about Happy Stay Chalet:

    • Waterfront location with private dock
    • Kayaks, paddleboards, and lifejackets included
    • Firepit (perfect for s’mores under the stars)
    • Updated kitchen with dishwasher and modern appliances
    • Washer & dryer because laundry happens
    • Hot tub for warm soaks under the stars (brand new!)
    • Fully-stocked kitchen with everything you need
    • Family-friendly travel items like travel crib, stepstools, nightlights, etc.
    • Cozy beds and lots of space to spread out
    • Pet-friendly (our pups were very happy campers!)
    • Board games, books, and thoughtful family extras
    • Super comfortable beds (and sleeps up to 8 people!)
    • Peaceful, quiet setting with beautiful lake views
    • Resort access to all the amenities such as golf, tennis, pools, restaurant, and horseback riding

    It’s the kind of place you walk into and immediately feel at home (my kids asked why we don’t just move here). Everything has been curated with families in mind—from the layout and furniture to the outdoor gear and entertainment options. It would be a perfect pick for a long weekend, a summer escape, retreat, or even a holiday getaway.

    If you’re looking for a place that balances comfort, adventure, and kid-friendliness (plus dog-friendliness!), Happy Stay Chalet is it.

    Happy Stay Chalet Innsbrook

    Nearby kid-friendly adventures

    While Innsbrook is perfect for unplugging and immersing yourself in nature, there are some delightful spots nearby that are worth exploring, especially if you’re up for a little outing with the family.​

    Big Joel’s Safari

    Just a short drive from Innsbrook, Big Joel’s Safari in Wright City is a family-owned petting zoo and educational park that’s a hit with kids. With over 60 species of animals, including camels, zebras, and lemurs, it’s a hands-on experience where children can feed and interact with various animals.

    My kids absolutely love Big Joel’s. They get a kick out of feeding the animals and loving on the goats. It’s become a must-visit whenever we’re in the area. ​

    Wright City Lavender Farm - Long Row Lavender - Things to do near Innsbrook with Kids

    Long Row Lavender

    Also located in Wright City, Long Row Lavender is a serene 15-acre farm that offers a peaceful retreat. Beyond the beautiful lavender fields, there’s a charming gift shop filled with handmade lavender products and a cozy café serving delicious treats. You can pick your own lavender bundles, explore the property, or sit on the swing overlooking the pond. We’ve enjoyed their lavender lemonade and lavender lattes, and often pick up some homemade goodies to take home.

    Innsbrook with Kids - family-friendly chalet

    Travel tips for visiting Innsbrook

    If you’re thinking about planning a family trip to Innsbrook (and I hope you are!), here are a few helpful tips to make your visit as smooth and stress-free as possible:

    • Book early, especially for spring, summer, and holiday weekends. The best rentals go quickly, and some families return to the same place year after year.
    • Double-check amenities before booking. Not all chalets (or other vacation rentals) are created equal—make sure you know if your rental has laundry, air conditioning, a dishwasher, or even lake access.
    • Bring your own groceries. There’s a small market on-site, but we always stock up at a grocery store on the way in (Warrenton has a few good options).
    • Don’t forget bug spray, sunscreen, and a flashlight. It gets dark (like really dark) at night, and if your kids are anything like mine, they’ll want to be outside as long as possible.
    • Pack layers. Even in summer, the temperatures can drop at night near the water.
    • Respect the peace. Innsbrook is quiet, and most people go there to unplug. There’s no through traffic, no noisy ATVs, and (blessedly) no party scene.
    Innsbrook house with hot tub - Happy Stay Chalet

    Final thoughts on Innsbrook

    Every time we pack up the car and head out to Innsbrook, I feel this little sigh of relief. It’s close enough to home that we don’t have to overpack, overplan, or stress (I mean, if we really forgot something important, we could be back home in 40 minutes).

    But once we’re there, it feels like we’ve really gotten away.

    The kids are outside from sunup to sundown, the dogs are living their best life, and I actually get to breathe. No schedules, no rushing, just slow, simple, good stuff.

    Whether you’re looking for a quiet weekend escape, a chance to reconnect as a family, a girls’ weekend away, a place for extended family to gather, or just somewhere to catch frogs, roast marshmallows, and let your kids paddle around like wild explorers, Innsbrook is one of those rare places that truly delivers.

    Innsbrook with pets - dog-friendly vacation rental - Happy Stay Chalet

    Innsbrook family vacation

    So if you’re craving a getaway that’s low-key, nature-filled, and full of opportunity for your kids to run wild (in the best way), Innsbrook is calling. From lakeside adventures to peaceful porch mornings and everything in between, it’s the kind of place that stays with you—and keeps you coming back, season after season.

    And if you’re looking for the perfect home base while you’re there, Happy Stay Chalet is the one I’d recommend again and again. (Tell Sarah I sent you!)

    About the author

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

  • FAVORITE GEAR, FRIDAY FAVORITES, SPRING, WATER

    Best Rain Gear for Outdoor Kids

    But what if it rains?! We’re firm believers that there’s no such thing as bad weather and a little rain shouldn’t slow you down! So, we’ve asked everyone we know for their rain gear recommendations and put together a great list of the best rain gear for kids to keep them warm and dry this spring. Keep this list on hand any time you’re in the market for new rain boots, rain jackets, rain suits, and accessories. We’ve included all our favorite outdoor kid gear brands, plus a few that we’ve heard super great things about. This selection should help you find the right gear for your needs, your kids, and your budget.

    UPDATED FOR SPRING 2025!

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    Best Rain Gear for Kids - best boots, rain jackets, rain suits & accessories

    The best rain gear for kids

    With winter slowly retreating and spring desperately trying to make its way in, a lot of us are stuck somewhere in the middle. April showers are sprinkling, but there’s not enough sunshine and heat to dry everything up. We call this the “Mud Season.”

    While it may still be cool and wet outside, after a (seemingly) lifetime of snow and ice, I think we’re all ready to get outdoors! Whether your family enjoys camping, fishing, or cross-country skiing, having the right rain gear for kids is essential for a successful outdoor adventure. When braving harsh weather conditions, make sure your kids are equipped with reliable waterproof rain gear.

    We get a lot of questions about how to dress your kids for this crazy in-between season that will keep them warm, but also protect them from all the mud, muck and dirt. Here’s a list of some of the best kids’ rain gear, including all our favorite brands and styles. We’ve updated this list for 2024 to include the latest new arrivals in waterproof rain gear for kids and kids’ rain jackets, perfect for tackling harsh weather conditions with ease.

    Best rain suits for kids

    Rain suits are such a great option when dressing your kids for outdoor wet weather. A rain suit is a one-piece full-body outfit that goes over your child’s clothes to keep them warm and dry when playing outside from head to toe. They usually run a bit big, so that they’ll fit well over lots of layers of clothing and outerwear. Some are even fleece-lined for an extra layer of warmth.

    Rain suits are an easy option for dressing your kids quickly with lots of protection. Most have stirrups at the bottom of the pant legs – don’t forget that these go OUTSIDE and OVER the bottom of your kids’ boots. This will help keep all the water out and their feet/legs nice and dry!

    Here are our favorite options for the best one-piece full-body rain suits for kids, chosen at different price points.

    Highest quality/price

    Polarn O Pyret ($129)

    Polarn O. Pyret makes a high-quality pile fleece-lined rain suit with a detachable hood. The suit has a soft, warm pile fleece lining to keep kids warm when playing outside in the rain and snow. The detachable hood is fastened with snaps and has elastic in the sides. While the waistband has elastic in the sides, and the rain suit has elastic wrist and ankle cuffs. The replaceable elastic stirrups keep the pant legs in place. Windproof material keeps chilly winds out and reinforced knees and seat keeps the suit from tearing/ripping when kids play hard outside. The quality of these suits can’t be beaten and if you’ve got multiple kids that you’d like to pass suits down to over the years, this is the way to go. 

    Villervalla (105$)

    Villervalla children’s outwear (jackets, pants, and one-piece suits) come in lovely colors and fun patterns for children of all ages. Their clothes are created with both design and durability in mind. The jackets feature clever button closures and the pants and one-piece suits have reflective bands to ensure that the children are visible even when it’s dark.  The shell overall has reinforcements on the knees and seat, with taped seams and reflective details. They’re waterproof and breathable, with a detachable hood, adjustable sleeves with cuffs and thumbholes. Available in the US at Biddle & Bop.

    Helly Hansen ($90-$150)

    Great for active kids who love playing outside, the Helly Hansen Guard playsuit is durable, comfy and waterproof. It features Helly Tech® Performance construction, is fully waterproof and breathable for long-lasting comfort, and made with PFC-free durable water repellent. This rain suit has a detachable and elasticated hi-vis hood, reinforced knees and seat for added durability and abrasion resistance, adjustable cuffs with straps and zip-secured hand pockets.

    Mid-tier affordable pricing

    Oakiwear ($59)

    Oakiwear makes a great one-piece waterproof rain and trail suit for toddlers and kids. Sizes start at 12 months of age and go up to big kids size 10/11. The suits have a neoprene ankle cuff for grip around rubber rain boots. Adjustable velcro straps on the wrist and ankle cuffs for a customized fit. The suits are made with Nylon Taslon PU coated fabric to keep the rain out, while also maintaining breathability. The rain suit includes a waterproof zipper, attached hood, fully taped seams and come in a variety of colors.  Oaki also offers a comprehensive 6-month warranty and excellent customer service.

    Wheat Kids ($68 CAD)

    Wheat is a Canadian company that makes a classic spring/summer rain suits for babies and toddlers (9 months to 3 years).  They come in a variety of beautiful muted colors (mustard, olive, anchor and powder). They’re waterproof and windproof with heat-sealed seams. The fabric wipes off easy with a damp cloth. Removable hood with elasticized opening, as well as elasticized sleeve and ankle cuffs. There’s an inside tab for hanging and an inside name and address label, plus a matching carry bag.

    Budget-friendly pricing

    Muddy Buddy ($29)

    Tuffo Muddy Buddy Waterproof Coveralls are a great affordable option for year-round play. With dual front zippers for quick, on-the-go changes, a generous fit for layering of clothing and easy movement, these coveralls are a big hit with kids. They’re constructed with rugged durable polyester fabric, with an elasticized hood with brim to shed water. The seams are sealed to ensure waterproof-ness with elasticized wrist and ankle cuffs fit over mitts and boots. They’re machine washable and come in five colors in sizes from 12 months to 5T.

    The best rain boots for kids

    There are a ton of options out there on the market for kids’ rain boots. However, not all kid’s rain boots are made to last. We’ve had quite a few pairs fall apart, crack, leak and fail to keep my kids’ feet warm and/or dry. Not all boots even make it through a season, yet alone can be passed down from kid to kid. Here are our favorite choices for rain boots for kids that are durable, high-quality and worth your money.

    Highest quality/price

    Polarn O. Pyret ($39 – $64)

    Polarn O. Pyret makes two kinds of kids boots, a classic striped rain boot, and a wool-lined winter rubber boot. Both boots are made from a waterproof material with a water column of at least 10,000 mm and BIONIC-FINISH® ECO water repellence, an eco-friendly technology free from PFCs. The classic rubber boots have 3M reflectors at the back, sturdy soles and reinforced rear sections for better durability. They are cute and striped and come in classic gender-neutral colors. The winter boots are made of recyclable SEBS rubber that is PVC-free and very lightweight. They have a removable, warm wool lining. In addition, the boots are machine washable. Sizes are from 4.5/5 (baby) to 1.5/2 (6-8 years). PO.P boots may have a slightly higher price than some other options, but we think they’re worth every penny, as you’ll be able to use them and pass them down for years.

    Bogs ($39 – $58)

    Bogs makes great rain boots for kids in two varieties – a classic rubber waterproof boot and a high waterproof insulated boot. The Bogs classic rubber boots are 100% waterproof, lightweight and flexible. Side handles make them easy to pull on. A non-slip outsole keeps kids steady on their feet. They have a cushioned footbed with a moisture-wicking lining. The insulated boots are waterproof and lightweight, made with a durable rubber over a four-way stretch inner bootie for dry feet. They’re made with 7mm Neo-Tech insulation to keep feet warm and comfortable in cold weather. Comfort rated to -30 Degrees F/-34 Degrees C, with sturdy handles that make it easy for little kids to get on and off. My oldest son has these insulated Bogs boots for winter hunting/fishing for years and we’ve never had an issue with the quality.

    Stonz ($59)

    Stonz makes a really great (and highly recommended) all-season neoprene boot for boys & girls. These rain boots are made of natural rubber with no harmful additives such as lead, PVC, phthalates, cadmium, etc. The paint is lead-free, and the glue is formaldehyde-free. Made of thick and soft rubber that makes them flexible and comfortable, yet rugged to last a long time. They have a 100% cotton liner that quickly wicks away moisture, so the boots dry quickly and the feet stay warm and dry.

    best rain boots for kids

    Mid-tier affordable pricing

    Oakiwear ($19 – $49)

    Oakiwear also makes a great rain boot for kids in two different styles – a classic rain boot with easy-on handles and a neoprene muck boot. The classic waterproof rubber rain boots with easy-on handles are made of 100% rubber and include topside handles for easy pull-on. These boots are sure to keep your kiddos dry in the rain and puddles. They come in a variety of colors, patterns, and designs (stripes, polka dots, sharks, flowers, camo, etc.), as well as classic solid colors. They run true to size and sizes range from size 4 (toddler) to 4 (big kid).

    The Oaki muck boots are ideal for rain, snow, and muck. They’re the most durable, warm, and comfortable neoprene boot on the market for kids. The proprietary OAKI vegan ox-tendon sole will outlast other boots and ensure the least amount of heel or tread wear. The 7mm thick neoprene is comfort rated to -36 degrees C.

    Hatley ($33 – $39)

    If you’re looking for the absolute cutest and most colorful boots around, you’ll find them at Hatley. Hatley’s rainboots are handmade vulcanized waterproof rubber, with slip-resistant soles and 100% cotton lining. They have a removable insole and are PVC-Free. Optional matching Fuzzy Boot Liners sold separately. Come in classic solid colors, prints for girls and prints for boys (which match their rain jackets). Available in sizes 4-7 for toddlers and 8-13 for little kids.

    Kamik ($30)

    Kamik Stomp rain boots are handcrafted to the highest standards, ensuring consistent quality, comfort and durability. Designed for stomping around in puddles, mud or whatever the day brings, these Canadian-made boots for kids are available in bright and fun colors to bring out smiles. Plus, they’re recyclable.

    Budget-friendly pricing

    Lone Cone ($20 – $25)

    Lone Cone is another awesome company that offers two types of rain boots for kids – a classic rain boot with handles and an all-weather neoprene mud boot. The classic rain boots are made with a proprietary rubber blend designed for better flex and rebound and reduced odor. Rubber resists water while keeping feet comfortable and dry. The all-weather neoprene boots are one-part snow boot and one-part insulated rain boot and protect your child from the elements all year round. They have 5mm self-insulating neoprene (comfort rated for sub-freezing winter weather) and a waterproof rubber shell that functions as a splash guard. Designed in Boise, Idaho, Lone Cone collaborates with local artists to create patterns inspired by the joys of childhood, as well as classic solids. Their newest prints include mermaids, horses, rainbows, sharks, dinos, and cars. All three of my kids have Lone Cone boots and love them!

    ZOOGS ($15)

    ZOOGS makes super cute classic waterproof rain boots for girls and boys. The boots are waterproof and fast-drying. A sturdy and durable rubber sole protects your children’s feet for long-lasting and assured safety. Easily dry and clean these rainboots with a simple cloth or paper towel. The lightweight PVC plastic remains highly flexible and comfortable.

    Crocs ($22 – $35)

    Crocs Handle It Rain Boots keeps those puddle-jumping feet cozy and dry. They have oversized handles that make them easy for kids to take these boots on and off, and also include a reflective heel logo for safety. A generous, roomy fit, plus extremely lightweight keeps on their feet for long periods of time. The material makes these rain boots extremely easy to clean – just wash in cold water and mild soap and allow to dry. They are available in a number of bright solid colors.

    Favorite classic raincoats & rain jackets for kids

    Every kid who plays outside needs a classic raincoat. Even if you have a full-body rain suit, a rain jacket is a must-have item for any outdoor kid who spends time outside. We’ve put together this list of the best classic rain coats and rain jackets for kids on the market. These have been tried and tested by our kids and recommended by our team members and online community.

    Highest quality/price

    Helly Hansen ($80-$120)

    If you’re looking for the best kids’ rain jacket on the market, this is probably it! Helly Hansen makes amazing gear for kids (and adults) that truly stands up in all weather conditions. Their kids rain jacket has HELLY TECH performance 2-layer construction, is waterproof, breathable and windproof. It has a fully seam sealed and a detachable hood. And because kids are all different sizes, they come with adjustable hems and cuffs for an optimized fit. Helly Hansen also makes an insulated version, if you’re looking for warmth, as well as rain protection.

    Polarn O. Pyret ($39 – $106)

    Polarn O. Pyret offers three varieties of raincoats and rain jackets for kids. The waterproof jacket ($106) is perfect for layering over bibs or other outerwear. It’s PFC-free, waterproof and windproof, with a removable hood and a full zipper with chin guard. The unique snap-in solution makes it easy to attach it to the wind fleece inside the jacket. We have one of these shells and it really is top-notch durable gear. The second option is a pile fleece-lined waterproof rain jacket ($76). This jacket is windproof and PFC free and perfect for cold, rainy days. The jacket has a striped front and back, and solid color sleeves, with a detachable hood fastened with snaps. Finally, the classic striped rain jacket ($39 – $54) is windproof and waterproof, with a detachable hood that is fastened with snaps and the inside of the collar is lined with soft fleece.

    REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket ($80)

    REI Co-op makes some great gear for kids. Their Rainier Rain Jacket is a family favorite. This jacket has a 2.5-layer recycled ripstop nylon shell with HydroWall™ membrane that shields them from rain and wind up to 50+ mph, while staying breathable and dry on the inside. The taped seams provide waterproof protection; a nonfluorinated durable water repellent (DWR) finish helps moisture bead up on the surface. The hood has a rain brim, hook-and-loop adjustment tab in back, and elastic on the sides of the opening for a comfortable fit. Adjustable cuffs seal out the elements and reflective details help with visibility in low-light conditions.

    North Face ($49 – $55)

    The North Face makes a few really fantastic rain jackets for kids. We particularly love the Zipline (for infants/toddlers 0-3 months through kids XL) and the Resolve jackets. They’re durable, lightweight and weatherproof with a hood and breathable mesh-lining. The full-length front zipper with Velcro® closure keeps rain out, as well as the elastic cuffs.

    Mid-tier affordable pricing

    Reima ($45)

    Reima makes outstanding quality outerwear for kids! You can’t go wrong with anything from their outdoor collection of rainwear or winter/ski wear. The Reima Lampi waterproof rubber rain jacket is top-notch. The waterproof fabric and welded seams mean this jacket is excellent for VERY wet surroundings: active play and outdoor life in heavy rain or wet snow. The ample sizing means your child can layer up underneath and wear this jacket all year round. Comes in a variety of great solid colors.

    Oakiwear ($40- $50)

    Oaki makes two really great affordable and durable rain jackets for kids. Their lightweight rain jacket is a perfect for spring and summer rain (and layering), with a silky polyester interior lining, ensuring that it will remain heated to a comfortable temperature. This jacket is completely rainproof and designed with kids’ outdoor adventures in mind and offers total weather protection, from light showers to heavier storms. Oaki also offers a warmer lined waterproof rain jacket. This jacket has a waterproof outer shell and is perfect for wet and cold weather days. The inner lining is made of a soft, comfy cotton/polyester fabric that will keep kids warm and dry. It’s the perfect thickness to insulate without restricting them. 

    Hatley ($54)

    In addition to the adorable boots described above, Hatley’s rain jackets are just as cute and durable. They’re PVC-Free, 100% waterproof, fully-lined for warmth with a front snap closure and front patch pockets. Jackets are machine washable and come in a variety of adorable prints and bright colors (with matching boots and accessories).

    Budget-friendly pricing

    Columbia ($29 – $50)

    Columbia offers a large variety of rain jackets for kids in various colors, patterns and heaviness. The boys Rain-zilla and Glennaker jackets are both lightweight, waterproof and affordable. The girl’s Rain-zilla and Arcadia jackets are great options for full waterproof protection that will keep your little one warm and dry.

    LL Bean ($39)

    The LL Bean kids Discovery Rain Jacket is one of the best on the market and a rainy-day essential at a terrific price. The jacket packs in its own pocket – making it easy for kids to take wherever they go. It’s designed using the same materials and details you’ll find in the adult version, with rugged, waterproof nylon fabric, taped seams and a breathable mesh lining. And it has a 3M™ Scotchlite™ back triangle and zipper to enhance low-light visibility. It has underarm vents for breathability, internal storm flaps and elastic cuffs to keep the weather out and a fleece-lined chin guard to prevent chafing.

    The best rain gear for kids - Oaki rain suit

    Best rain pants for kids (or full rain sets)

    Polarn O. Pyret ($38 – $66)

    Polarn O. Pyret makes regular or fleece-lined solid color windproof and waterproof rain pants that match all their rain jackets and shells. The pants have adjustable suspenders and welded seams that make them completely waterproof. The replaceable elastic stirrups keep the pants in place.

    Dirdriksons ($85)

    Dirdriksons makes some of the highest-quality rain gear for kids on the market. Their 100% waterproof and durable rain sets for children are available in both Galon and breathable fabrics. Waterman, Slaskeman and Stormman sets are some of the favorites. They are equipped with comfortable functions that make rainy and playful days easier. All sets are completely waterproof and windproof. Some are fleece-lined for extra warmth. For maximal security, the coveralls and jackets have detachable hoods and visible reflectives in all directions. They have a PFC-free finish. You can also purchase Dirdriksons (and many other awesome brands) at MK Nordika.

    Reima ($45)

    The Reima Lammikko rubber waterproof rain pants are just the right pants to wear for sitting in a puddle! Sizing available in from 9 months to 9 years in a variety of fun solid colors like yellow, candy pink, rose blush, navy and so on! Made from recycled materials and always PVC-free, Reima has a great range of rain gear that can be paired together to create an entire rain outfit for any age.

    Puddlegear ($65)

    Puddlegear  Bib Rainpants are PVC and phthalate-free, wind and water-proof. Double knees are for added protection (square pattern and heat-sealed into the seams) in the same color with Euro pops to adjust the sides. There are reflective strips for added visibility and optional boot straps. They come in a variety of solid colors, with matching rain jackets, rain mittens and hats.

    Patagonia ($80)

    Patagonia makes great rain pants for toddlers and kids. These rain pants have a 3-layer, waterproof/breathable H2No Performance Standard shell, which provides a high level of comfort, performance and long-lasting waterproof durability. The entire garment is seam sealed to keep out water. They have stretchy, elasticized straps that are comfortable and secure with easy on/off buckles, plus they’re adjustable to accommodate growth spurts.

    Best rain gear for outdoor kids

    Best rain accessories for kids

    Polarn O. Pyret Rain Mittens ($19 – $23)

    Polarn O. Pyret makes a great waterproof rain mitten for babies, toddlers and kids. The solid colored rain mittens have elasticized cuffs, are windproof and waterproof, with welded seams. These mittens are a staple for outdoor school children.

    Outdoor Research Rain Rain Go Away Hat ($20-$30)

    Keep your kid’s head covered in any weather with a wide brimmed hat with a long cape in the back. This kids’ Rain Rain Go Away hat from Outdoor Research lets wet weather roll off without a fuss. It’s waterproof and breathable, made from lightweight fabric. It has a UPF 50 (so it also can serve as a sun hat), with a foam-stiffened brim at the front, a cape at the back, and a seam-taped crown. OR has another kids’ rain hat version called the Seattle Rain Hat, which doesn’t have the long back cape, which is a great option for older kids.

    Abeko Rain Mittens ($32)

    Abeko children’s rain mitts are waterproof and fleece-lined, which makes them warm and practical for cool wet weather.  All Abeko rainwear is eco-conscious and healthy rainwear.  The products are PVC and Phthalate free – certified by Oko-Tex to be free of over 100 harmful chemicals.

    Puddlegear Mittens ($32)

    Puddlegear makes rain mittens and hats to match their rain jackets and pants. The rain mittens are lined in soft fleece to keep those little hands warm. They’re soft and flexible for easy on easy off.  They’re quick drying and wipe off easily. And they extend up the arm to midway between the wrist and the elbow with wrist elastic to keep water out. Puddlegear also makes a great SouWester Hat ($34), which is fleece-lined for warmth, with ear flaps and a small reflector on the back.  It comes in 3 colors (red, pink, navy) and in 2 sizes (fits ages 0-7).

    Oakiwear Umbrella ($19)

    Oaki umbrellas are just as cute as the jackets and boots and come in matching colors and patterns. Kids can operate the umbrella themselves with a pinch-proof open/close slider mechanism. The curved wooden handle is easy for little hands to hold onto and hangs nicely on a coat hook or rack.

    Hatley Umbrella ($19)

    If you’re looking for a matching set of jackets, boots and accessories, Hatley makes the cutest combinations. Their umbrellas are designed with kids in mind and feature a wooden handle for a classic look. They are 23″ long and 28″ wide when opened – the perfect size for a kid.

    Rain sets for kids

    Western Chief Rain Set ($85)

    Western Chief has a few options for kids if you’re looking for an adorable matching rain set for your child (jacket, boots, and umbrella). For little ones, Western Chief Signature Rain Sets offer durable and stylish options to keep your toddler or little kid dry during rainy days. Protect your little ones from the elements with Western Chief Family’s range of waterproof jackets, perfect for all your outdoor escapades.

    How to save money on kids’ rain gear

    When it comes to outfitting your kids with high-quality rain gear and outdoor equipment, we know that price can be a factor. There are several savvy shopping strategies to consider when purchasing quality kids’ outdoor gear so that you don’t break the bank.

    First and foremost, keep an eye out for off-season sales. Many retailers offer substantial discounts on rain gear and outdoor gear during the off-season when demand is lower. By planning ahead and purchasing items like rain suits, jackets, and boots during these sales, you can secure top-notch gear at a fraction of the original cost.

    Another excellent way to save money on kids’ rain gear and outdoor equipment is by exploring second-hand stores and resell apps (and marketplaces). Thrift shops and online resale platforms often feature gently used items that are still in excellent condition. Kids grow quickly, so it’s not uncommon to find rain gear and outdoor gear that has only been lightly worn. Additionally, shopping second-hand is both budget-friendly and eco-friendly, reducing waste by giving these items a second life.

    For those seeking brand-name gear at discounted prices, the REI Outlet is a treasure trove. REI offers a wide selection of discounted items, including rain jackets, hiking boots, and camping gear. By shopping at the REI Outlet, outdoor enthusiasts can access high-quality gear from trusted brands at prices that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re preparing for a family camping trip or simply need to update your kids’ outdoor wardrobe, these money-saving tips ensure that you can enjoy the great outdoors without overspending.

    Best rain gear for kids

    Outfitting your kids with the best rain gear sets them up as weatherproof warriors, ready to tackle any outdoor adventure with confidence and comfort. Whether it’s jumping in puddles, exploring the great outdoors, or simply walking to school on a rainy day, quality rain gear ensures that kids stay dry and protected from the elements. By investing in durable jackets, reliable boots, and essential accessories, you provide them with the tools they need to embrace rainy days with enthusiasm. Remember, the right rain gear keeps kids dry and fosters a sense of resilience and joy in the face of nature’s whims. So, gear up, head outside, and let the rainy day adventures begin!

    What are your kids wearing in the rain?

  • FAMILY TRAVEL, LOCAL GEMS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, WATER

    Southern Illinois: Murphysboro & Shawnee National Forest

    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. 

    Exploring Southern Illinois - Murphysboro Shawnee National Forest

    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.

    Ferne Clyff State Park - Big Rocky Hollow Trail Ferne Clyff State Park - Big Rocky Hollow Trail

    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 - Illinois - Hiking with Kids - Nature Trail Giant City State Park - Illinois - Hiking with Kids - Nature Trail Giant City State Park - Illinois - Hiking with Kids - Nature Trail

    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.

     Exploring Ferne Clyff State Park with Kid - Southern Illinois - Big Rocky Hollow Trail Exploring Ferne Clyff State Park with Kid - Southern Illinois - Big Rocky Hollow TrailExploring Ferne Clyff State Park with Kid - Southern Illinois - Big Rocky Hollow Trail

    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 - Pontoon Rental - Strider Kinkaid Lake with Kids Fishing with Kids Kinkaid Lake - Southern IllinoisKinkaid Lake - Southern Illinois - Murphysboro

    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 wall murals

    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.

    Murphysboro, Illinois wall murals - Big Muddy Monster

    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.17th Street BBQ - Murphysboro 17th Street BBQ - Murphysboro, Illinois - Best BBQ in the Midwest

    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 All Day - Eat At Faye - MurphysboroFaye - Downtown Murphysboro - Patio & Cafe

    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 - Murphysboro, IllinoisWhiffle Boys Pizza

    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 - Murphysboro

    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!  Little Cabin in the Woods - AirBNB - MurphysboroLittle Cabin in the Woods - AirBNB - Murphysboro

    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.

    Exploring Southern Illinois with Kids - Lake Fishing

    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!

     

    Sara McCarty - Founder of Run Wild My Child

    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.

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, FAMILY TRAVEL, FISH, HIKE, NATIONAL PARKS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

    Family Adventure Travel: Lake Clark Resort Alaska

    Are you looking to take your family adventures to the next level?  Here at Run Wild My Child, we believe adventure trips create everlasting bonds in families.  This is why a family adventure trip is one of our favorite ways to vacation! They not only create core memories, but they’re a way to pass along the spirit of adventure, resilience, and confidence to our children.

    Today, we’re excited to share a family vacation in a place so wild that it will take your breath away…a place where you are guaranteed to see bears, caribou, eagles, tundra, glaciers, waterfalls, mountains, and turquoise lakes in the most incredible backcountry setting.  Let Araceli Gonzalez, a California mom of three, introduce you to Lake Clark Resort. Lake Clark Resort is located in remote Southwest Alaska and offers access to Lake Clark National Park and Katmai National Park. It’s just one hour from Anchorage and is a beautiful farm lodge and adventure resort for outdoorsy families! Let’s take you on a tour! 

    *This post was sponsored by Lake Clark Resort. All opinions expressed and photos contained herein belong to the author.

    Lake Clark Resort, step into the WILD 

    Lake Clark Resort is in Port Alsworth, Alaska, a quaint little town about 100 miles southwest of Anchorage.  It is home to less than 200 people and is only accessible via plane or boat.  It is truly a community surrounded by wilderness, beautiful mountains, glaciers, sandy beaches, salmon runs, brown bears, and a gorgeous coastline! You will be blown away by the blue and turquoise waters of Lake Clark. The area is also home to many active volcanoes.   

    The most amazing part is that Port Alsworth is right in the middle of Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, a park so WILD it took our breath away. Because of it’s exclusive and remote location, staying at Lake Clark Resort gave us a direct connection to the most wild and remote parts of southwest Alaska. The resort offers all-inclusive accommodations, complete with tours and adventures for the entire family. 

    Experience wild Alaska

    In my opinion, the tours and activities offered through Lake Clark take you into Alaska the way it is truly meant to be experienced.  A place where you will experience Alaskan hospitality and visit the most untamed places Alaska has to offer. Cozy cabins, home-cooked Alaskan meals, and the wildest adventures for the entire family!

    We had the incredible opportunity to spend some time at Lake Clark Resort earlier this month and had the WILDEST experience. We were amazed by the beautiful location, fantastic accommodations, stellar meals, and unbelievable guided adventures. 

    Sounds pretty unbelievable, right?  Let me take you into the WILD! 

    Getting to Lake Clark Resort

    Lake Clark Resort is located in Port Alsworth, the headquarters for Lake Clark National Park and Preserve. The resort is special for many reasons, but one of the best highlights is its access to the remotest parts of Lake Clark National Park and Katmai National Park—only accessible by boat or plane!

    Our trip began in Anchorage, Alaska, where we took a one-hour scenic flight directly to the resort. We departed from Merrill Field, a small airport in Anchorage, and set out on a scenic flight over Lake Clark Pass, where we flew over glaciers, glacial streams, and the most beautiful mountain range.  The resort takes great care in planning and designing packages for small groups and families.  We packed our bags, and the resort took care of all the planning, making it easy for busy families. 

    Upon landing at Lake Clark Resort, we were immediately blown away by the views and stunning mountain range surrounding the resort.  The resort sits right on Lake Clark with an uninterrupted view of Mount Tanalian and it is breathtaking! 

    Adventure travel made easy

    Lake Clark Resort makes it easy to vacation as a family. This is an ADVENTURE trip that’s guaranteed to leave lasting core memories on every member of our family. The resort offers adventure for all ages and interests, which makes it perfect for large families!  We were so impressed with the attention to detail and careful planning that goes into making it a memorable experience. 

    Our package was a well-rounded experience, giving us exclusive access to the most remote parts of Katmai National Park and Lake Clark National Park. Lake Clark offers customized packages and adventures ranging from day trips to weeks at a time, so you can fill a trip with daily adventures, or pick a few to do in between days at the resort.

    Lake Clark Resort family adventures

    Here are a few of the adventures Lake Clark Resort offers:

    • Katmai National Park – A trip by float plane to Katmai National Park, complete with guided bear viewing. This adventure included travel to the icon Brooks Camp home to Alaska’s notorious brown bears in the most remote location of Katmai National Park and Preserve. This national park sits in the most remote backcountry and is only accessible by float plane. 
    • Volcano tour – A tour over the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes home to active volcanoes. This valley was created by the largest volcanic eruption of the 20th century and we saw waterfalls and glacially carved lava flows throughout the Valley. 
    • Fishing – A guided boat tour around Lake Clark complete with catch-and-release fishing around the lake.  Stops along incredible pristine turquoise water beaches.  Lake Clark Resort has access to some of the area’s best fishing! 
    • Exploration – A stop at the Joe Thomas Cabin and a hike to a hidden waterfall through lush Alaskan forest.
    • Hiking – A hiking trip through Lake Clark National Park to Tanalian Falls and Kontrashibuna Lake.  

    Day one: a trip to Katmai National Park Brooks Camp 

    Have you seen iconic Alaskan photos of brown bears feasting on salmon as they jump through a waterfall? Well, if you want to experience that first-hand, Brooks Camp is arguably the most famous site in the world for bear viewing. People from all around the world travel here to catch a glimpse of the notorious brown bears feasting during the salmon spawning season in the summer months.  And the best part…Lake Clark Resort offers direct access to Katmai National Park, a remote park in Alaska only accessible by float plane.

    Katmai is home to the notorious Alaskan brown bears and it is definitely a place you will want to add to your bucket list. We departed from Lake Clark Resort early in the morning to get ahead of the crowds. Our guide and pilot for the day was very familiar with this area and helped make our trip a seamless experience. 

    We started off our morning with a homemade Alaskan hot breakfast at the lodge. Every morning before we departed for our adventures, I looked forward to a hot cup of coffee and a variety of homemade Alaskan jams. We then made our way to the float plane, departing right from the resort.  The resort provides a sack lunch, which always includes a baked good that my kids always looked forward to. We set out and flew over Katmai National Park taking in views of the wildest scenes Alaska offers. 

    Brown Bears at Brooks Camp

    Lake Clark Resort offers direct access to Brooks Camp, and it only took us a little over an hour by float plane. Flying over Katmai National Park was an amazing experience. Looking down on wild scenes from above was incredible! Webcams are set up throughout Brooks Camp, allowing access and viewing into this incredible location. Take a look here at Brooks Camp Webcams!

    Upon arrival at Brooks Camp, all visitors are required to attend a brief bear safety talk outlining park regulations.  Lake Clark Resort took care of all the planning, and our guide was exceptional! We made our way to the viewing platform, where we were able to see brown bears in their natural habitat. It was an EXTRAORDINARY experience.  Seeing these magnificent bears in their natural element was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

    Prime viewing season is from July – September.  Our visit took place in late June, and we were able to catch sight of plenty of bears, including the magnificent “Chunk” who assumed his position right at the center of the falls. This was definitely a core memory and a thrilling experience for our kids. We spent all morning enjoying views and this scene from the viewing platform. It was something we will treasure forever.  This was very much backcountry Alaska, and you have to come prepared to fight off huge mosquitos and unpredictable weather, but it is worth it!   

    “To the lover of wilderness, Alaska is one of the most wonderful countries in the world.” John Muir

    Day two: a guided boat tour around Lake Clark

    On day two, after a hot cup of coffee and homemade cinnamon rolls, we set out on a guided boat tour around Lake Clark. My husband and kids were excited to fish around Lake Clark—catch-and-release fishing at its finest! Our Captain and guide for the day were intimately familiar with the area, down to the best fishing holes hidden around the lake. We were impressed!

    Lake Clark is over 40 miles long and offers access to outstanding fishing holes, pristine turquoise water beaches, and gorgeous waterfalls. The waters of southwest Alaska are known for having a great variety of fish. You can catch Arctic Char and Grayling, Rainbow Trout, and Salmon, among others. Fishing trips are available by floatplane and boat; Lake Clark Resort has private access to some of the area’s best fishing! 

    Alaska hiking and fishing

     The kids caught plenty of fish and we then made our way to a sandy beach.  The resort packed us a lunch, which we enjoyed from a picturesque spot overlooking the most gorgeous mountain range.  We enjoyed a day full of sunshine, exploring sandy beaches along the lake! Since the sun was out, the kids quickly made their way into the lake for cold plunges.  We built forts and enjoyed our lunch along the banks of this gorgeous lake! 

    After our picnic lunch, we made our way and explored these beautiful streams and inlets along the lake.  It is hard to appreciate the color of the water from these photos.  Wild and pristine water in all different shades of blue and turquoise.  We walked up the stream while the kids explored and took dips in the beautiful lake.  We saw moose tracks and even bear prints in the sandy areas.  While we didn’t see any more bears in the wild, we did spot eagles and the biggest beaver dam we have ever seen! 

     

    Waterfall hikes and Joe Thompson Cabin

    Our boys have been looking to walk behind a gushing waterfall, but the opportunity has never presented itself. It has been on their list for a while, and our amazing guide made it happen! Our guide led us down a trail to a gorgeous waterfall cascading down from the mountain ridge—the most pristine water we have ever seen. This particular waterfall had a trail leading to the back of the waterfall. The boys carefully made their way and walked behind it, and it was everything!

    We also stopped to visit the famous Joe Thompson Cabin, located inside the Lake Clark National Park. It’s a small public-use cabin with rustic accommodations, available to the public, and would make for a really cool camping experience!

    Hiking Lake Clark 

    We also enjoyed hiking through Lake Clark National Park.  The Visitor Center sits right at the entrance to Lake Clark Resort.  We packed bear spray and packed plenty of water and made our way to Tanalian Falls. 

    Trails right from Lake Clark lead to the Falls and to Kontrashibuna Lake. It is only about a 4-mile round trip hike to the falls and just a bit further to Lake Kontrashibuna.  For those more adventurous and willing to take on a more steep challenge, you can hike to the top of Tanalian Mountain, an 8.6-mile trail to the top.  The Tanalian Trails are a great way to explore Lake Clark National Park and explore the gorgeous and lush fields and forest. 

    Enjoy your stay at Lake Clark Resort 

    As soon as we arrived at Lake Clark Resort, we were greeted by beautiful views. Lodging at the resort includes a stay in a cozy cabin with all the amenities, including maid service. The cabins are heated and have covered porches, where we could relax while taking in amazing waterfront views. Lodging also includes home-cooked Alaskan meals served in the main lodge.

    A Lake Clark Resort stay offers something for everyone, whether you enjoy fishing or simply want to experience the beauty of the Alaskan backcountry. Lake Clark Resort will ensure you hit all your quintessential Alaskan bucket list experiences. Breathtaking scenery, wildlife viewing, rafting, hiking, flightseeing, photography workshops, bear viewing, and camping are some of the many activities Lake Clark Resort offers.

    All-inclusive Alaskan hospitality (and good food)

    Our stay was all-inclusive, complete with home-cooked Alaskan meals served in the main lodge. And believe me, the food was something we looked forward to at the end of the day.  A slow evening enjoying home-cooked Alaskan meals was the perfect way to end each adventurous, action-packed day.

    Homemade baked goods and warm rolls were also favorites! Steak, chicken, and salmon dinners were complete with salads and wonderful sides. The blueberry sparkling lemonade was also a favorite. We also enjoyed the homemade desserts and made-to-order lunches, and the kids loved the children’s menu!

    For breakfast, we were delighted with the smell of homemade cinnamon rolls, pancakes, eggs benedict topped with smoked salmon, and so much more! All the beauty of the Alaskan Backcountry with all the cozy amenities of an all-inclusive resort! 

    Alaska’s Midnight Sun 

    One of the most memorable things for us was experiencing the midnight sun during our evenings at Lake Clark. From the end of April through August, a phenomenon known as the midnight sun takes over Alaska. The sun shines for up to 24 hours, and it is WILD.

    This is due to the tilt of the Earth, which keeps Alaska in sunlight for 24 hours. The sun dips below the horizon but will never fully set. We took in views of gorgeous pink skies and a beautiful rainbow over Mount Tanalian.  

    “Adventure begins in the land of the midnight sun.” John Muir

    Build confidence and resilience through adventure travel

    Lake Clark Resort is the most amazing place for an unforgettable ADVENTURE-filled family vacation.  It is rare to travel into the remote backcountry and still enjoy cozy accommodations, relaxation, and all-inclusive amenities for the entire family.  This was truly one of the wildest experiences we have ever been on and one that our children will remember for years to come! 

    If you are looking to step out into the wild, Lake Clark Resort will be your guide and take you into Alaska’s most wild and remote backcountry experience.  Your kids will leave more resilient and more confident, and it will fill them with a love for nature and love for adventure that is sure to stay with them for years to come! 

    Add Alaska and Lake Clark Resort to your bucket list

    As I look back on our unforgettable adventure to Lake Clark Resort, it’s clear that this destination offers a unique and unparalleled adventure experience for families. From witnessing majestic wildlife in their natural habitat to exploring awe-inspiring landscapes of Alaska that include everything from glaciers to vibrant turquoise lakes, Lake Clark Resort is a true gem for any family seeking a deeper connection with nature and each other.

    The breathtaking scenery and the spirit of adventure instilled in every activity create memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re searching for a vacation that combines the thrill of the wild with the comfort of a welcoming lodge, look no further. Add Lake Clark Resort to your family adventure bucket list—you won’t be disappointed!

    LAKE CLARK RESORT 
    PORT ALSWORTH, ALASKA
    1006 Beaver Pond  Road
    Port Alsworth, AK 99653

    Phone: 907.781.2208 
    Phone: 888.440.2281
    email: galsworthjr@gmail.com

    Is a trip to Alaska 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.

    Find more from Araceli in the following locations:
    Instagram: @roaminggonzalez
    All RWMC posts: Araceli 

  • BEACH, CHALLENGE, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARENTING, WATER

    Benefits of Blue Hours: The Wonder of Water Awaits

    Water is all around us! Whether it’s the rhythmic lullaby of ocean waves, the tranquil serenity of a mountain lake, or the playful tinkling of a babbling brook, water possesses an uncanny ability to heal, inspire, and rejuvenate. Perhaps you’ve heard about the benefits of “green spaces” and their positive effect on children’s physical and mental health. Green spaces, such as parks and forests, can calm a child’s mind, help them focus, and reduce their anxiety. But, just as beneficial in other ways are the lesser talked about “blue spaces.” Today, marine biologist, photographer, writer, and South Florida mom of two, Bethany Augliere, sheds light on the powerful benefits of spending time near and around water, called Blue Hours. We will delve into the transformative magic of water, exploring why it is essential for our well-being, and how embracing the beauty of “Blue Hours” can lead to a richer, more fulfilling life. So, take a deep breath, unwind, and prepare to immerse yourself in the powerful world of water’s restorative wonders.

    “If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water.” ~ Loren Eiseley 

    Our attraction to water

    Humans have an innate and profound attraction to water, and this connection is deeply rooted in our evolutionary history and our basic biological needs. Water comprises about 70% of the human body. Water covers more than 70% of Earth. Humans spend the first 9 months of our existence in a watery womb. We require water for various physiological functions, including digestion, circulation, temperature regulation, and waste elimination.

    Our attraction to water may be instinctual, as our ancestors needed to locate and consume freshwater sources to survive. But water also provides a natural playground for humans. From swimming in oceans and lakes to kayaking down rivers or simply relaxing on a beach, water offers a wide range of recreational activities, as well as natural therapy for stress relief. 

    Many of us have heard that green space, or time in nature, benefits the body and mind, especially to combat all our time behind screens and inside under fluorescent lights. Less attention has, though, been paid to blue spaces —  areas around rivers, lakes, oceans, and ponds. Recognizing the importance of water and “blue spaces” in our lives can lead to a deeper appreciation of its value and the need to protect and preserve this precious resource for future generations.

    Freediver swims with manta ray in Florida.
    Photograph of Bethany Augliere by Nicodemo Ientile

    Ocean memories

    Childhood is a time of wonder and exploration, a period when the world’s mysteries are unveiled through the lens of innocence and curiosity. For many of us, some of the most cherished and enduring memories of our early years are those spent in those blue spaces near water. These experiences aren’t just fleeting moments in our past; they lay the foundation for a lifelong connection with nature. The time we spend as children near water not only forms indelible memories but also fosters a profound bond with these environments that can shape our relationship with the natural world throughout our lives. 

    Some of my best memories involve water, from my childhood to just this past summer. When I was growing up, the water was like a second home. My dad’s parents lived on a lake in northern Virginia, and my mom’s parents lived five minutes from the beach in Long Island, New York. I spent my childhood learning how to bodysurf and boogie board with my grandma, cousins, and friends. We often got tossed in waves, emerging from the water with sand burns on our legs. In the winter, we took family trips down to the Florida Keys. I loved snorkeling in the tranquil waters, scuba diving on coral reefs, and kayaking in mangroves. I have fond memories of searching for hermit crabs with my little brother at the shore’s edge.

    Atlantic spotted dolphin in the Bahamas.

    Blue space and mental health 

    Today, Western countries are experiencing a rise in mental health issues, including social anxiety, especially among young people, which is linked to increasing social media use and academic and social pressures. Among all disease groups worldwide, mental disorders are the leading cause of years lived with a disability. We all have stress, but how can we better cope with that stress?

    Get outside and see some blue!

    Blue Mind Theory

    The Blue Mind theory, popularized by marine biologist and neuroscientist Wallace J. Nichols, Ph.D., is the mildly meditative state people fall into when they are near, in, under, or on water. This theory posits that spending time near or around water (be it oceans, lakes, or rivers), triggers a neurological and psychological response that promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being. By immersing ourselves in the sights and sounds of blue spaces, we tap into a deep-seated connection with water that calms our mental state, encourages creativity, inspires reflection, and fosters a sense of interconnectedness with the natural world. 

    Blue spaces vs. green spaces

    Spending time in both green spaces (parks, forests, meadows), and blue spaces (near water) can offer a range of benefits to physical and mental well-being, yet they provide distinct experiences due to their unique characteristics. The key difference between green and blue spaces lies in their sensory experiences. Green spaces provide a predominantly visual and olfactory experience, with lush landscapes and the smell of vegetation. In contrast, blue spaces engage multiple senses, including visual, auditory, and tactile sensations. The sound of water and the feeling of coolness in the air or on the skin contribute to a more holistic sensory experience.

    A kid and dog look at the sunset in Florida Keys.

    Benefits of blue spaces (and spending time near water)

    The presence of water has an inherently calming effect on the human mind. The benefits of spending time in blue spaces come from 4 main ways: physical activity, stress reduction, providing a space for socialization, and the environmental factors that impact health. Experts have found that spending time in blue space lowers the risk of stress, anxiety, obesity, heart disease, and even premature death.

    Some scientists claim that bodies of water can unlock problem-solving and creativity and that water’s color, sound, and feel can lower pulse rates. Water’s ever-changing patterns and reflections often inspire creativity and introspection, making it a source of artistic inspiration and personal insight.

    The rhythmic sounds of waves, the reflection of the sky on the water’s surface, and the cool breeze all contribute to a sense of serenity. Blue spaces are associated with improved mood and increased feelings of happiness and relaxation. Being near water can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

    Like green spaces, blue spaces also offer opportunities for physical activity, such as swimming, kayaking, or boating. These activities promote physical fitness and mental well-being. Swimming, hiking, exploring, enjoying the company of friends, soaking up vitamin D, it all happens when exploring blue spaces. Many people report feeling a profound connection with nature when near water, which can foster a sense of interconnectedness and environmental stewardship.

    Benefits of blue spaces for kids

    A recent study reveals that recreational exposure to blue space as a child can have a major impact on a person’s adult mental health and can encourage them to maintain a healthy relationship with nature into adulthood. In the study, respondents shared their experiences with blue space during childhood, including how frequently they visited it and how comfortable their parents were allowing them to be in and near water. In a nutshell, more blue space exposure as a child results in better adult mental health and a greater propensity to spend recreational time in nature as an adult.

    And not only that, but adults who had familiarity and confidence around coasts, rivers, and lakes, were more likely to spend recreational time in nature during adulthood, leading to continued benefits. 

    Spending time recreating in blue spaces can also help with your child’s social skills and behavior. Another study found that higher beach attendance each year during childhood was associated with decreased total difficulties and peer relationship problems and increased pro-social behavior.

    Freediver with shark in Florida.

    Turning a love of water into a career

    While you won’t find this in the study, to me, there’s no question that spending so much time in and around water as a child made a profound impact on who I became and sparked a curiosity that turned a passion into a career.  I whole-heartedly believe that being in and around the water is good for my mind and body, and I feel lucky I had the exposure I did to lakes and oceans as a kid. I truly feel that’s where my love for the water began and shaped the person that I am now. 

    As a young adult, I spent a decade studying wild dolphins in the Bahamas to film and photograph their underwater behavior as a marine biologist with the Wild Dolphin Project. I loved the water so much that I learned the art of freediving — holding your breath while diving until resurfacing. Descending beneath the surface with nothing but the air in my lungs is a sense of peace I often cannot find on land. My time underwater has brought me eye-to-eye with tiger sharks, great hammerheads, dolphins, manta rays, whale sharks, moray eels, sea horses, sea turtles, and countless other fascinating creatures. 

    Fear of what lies beneath

    While I have always loved water and have loved discovering what the open ocean holds, water can illicit fear and anxiety for some people. What’s lurking beneath the surface that I cannot see? Will I get bitten by a shark? The good thing is that countless ways exist to enjoy and benefit from blue spaces. You don’t even have to get wet if you don’t want to.

    For those who harbor a fear of open water and the mysteries it may hold beneath its surface, the benefits of blue spaces are still accessible and transformative without ever having to take the plunge. The simple act of being in blue spaces (near water), can offer a profound sense of calm and connection. The soothing sounds, the refreshing breeze, and the visual serenity of the water’s expanse can instill a deep sense of peace and tranquility. These moments allow one to breathe in the therapeutic essence of blue spaces, nurturing mental well-being, reducing stress, and providing a valuable opportunity to reflect and recharge while maintaining a comfortable distance from the depths that may elicit fear. In this way, the healing power of water remains fully accessible, catering to individuals with varying comfort levels, ensuring that everyone can experience the restorative embrace of nature’s watery wonders.

    Manta ray in Florida with a fishing lure hooked to her face

    Ways to start exploring blue spaces

    Blue space, which encompasses the sea and coastline, rivers, lakes, canals, waterfalls, and even fountains, has been used therapeutically for years. Whether you are already an outdoorsy family looking for new adventures or simply want to find yourself in more blue space, here are some ways you can incorporate water into your life.  

    Keep it simple

    If spending time in lakes or oceans is outside your comfort zone, then start small. Take a walk along a lake or stream, or sit on your patio and watch the rain. Take your little ones to jump in a puddle and watch the water splash or search for salamanders in a small creek. The point is to be intentional with your mind and time. Searching for places to explore water can often lead to finding cool new areas in general that you might not have otherwise found. 

    Kids enjoying a creek in Northern Virginia

    Try something new

    If you are feeling adventurous, try a new (to you) activity on the water, like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or tubing down a river. We started bringing a boogie board and skim board to the beach for my 4-year-old just so he could start getting comfortable with them. (We get most of our sports equipment second-hand from thrift shops or friends, especially when we are just starting to try stuff out). 

    Snorkeling

    Most people think you can only snorkel on tropical vacations to Hawaii or the Caribbean, but I often bring my mask and snorkel to lakes and rivers to see what I can find. This summer, I found a newt while snorkeling in a lake in Oregon. In prior years I’ve found giant snapping turtles, American eels, and landlocked salmon in the lakes of Maine or river otters and snakes in the freshwater springs of Florida, in addition to manatees. So, put on a mask and dip your head beneath the surface; you’ll never know what you are going to find. 

    Families kayaking with manatees in the Florida Keys

    Let them lead

    It can be tempting to want to push your kid into trying something new or something that you love. But pushing them is rarely an effective method and can often backfire. Let them lead and take it slow. When I was teaching my then three-year-old to snorkel, I’d take him to a calm lagoon area, let him stay where he could stand, and just dip his head under with goggles to look for critters. Finding calm, clear water is one of the best ways to start building confidence when swimming in lakes or the ocean.

    In Florida, if it’s windy and choppy at the beach, we often take the kids to little spots on the Intracoastal, an inland waterway system made up of natural inlets, saltwater rivers, bays, sounds, and man-made canals. It’s more protected than the beach, which means the water is much calmer and without waves. 

    Bring friends

    Nature is a great place to reconnect with friends and socialize. Adventure friends, shared joy, and positive peer influence can help us and our kids expand our horizons and potentially try new things we might not otherwise try. And parents might also feel more comfortable trying new things with more experienced parents nearby. I love being that positive influence, helping other families feel a bit more comfortable in the ocean if they are with us.

    Kid snorkeling in Florida next to a sea star

    100 Blue Hours movement

    My passion is to help others enjoy the water for their own mental and physical well-being. Ultimately, I also hope this inspires people to care about these vital ecosystems and take positive action toward the environment, whether it’s recycling more, shopping second-hand, minimizing single-use plastics, participating in beach cleanups or learning about a local endangered species.

    For this reason, I co-founded the 100 Blue Hours movement along with Brittini Arlene, a fellow marine biologist and water-loving mom.

    The mission: spend 100 hours in or around the water in one year. This averages to about 2 hours a week.

    The movement underscores the importance of reconnecting kids with the natural world. Spending quality time in blue spaces fosters a deep and lasting connection between children and the environment. These experiences instill a sense of wonder, respect, and appreciation for the natural world, encouraging future generations to become stewards of the environment. After all, “in the end, we will conserve only what we love, we will love only what we understand,” said Baba Dioum.

    Kids playing together in the waves at the beach

    Why 100 blue hours in a year?

    The goal of spending 100 hours in blue spaces over the course of a year is significant for several reasons, but it is also achievable, striking a balance between setting a meaningful target and ensuring it’s realistic for most families:

    100 hours represent a substantial amount of time spent in nature, which can lead to tangible physical and mental health benefits for children and adults alike. Regular exposure to blue spaces can reduce stress, boost mood, and promote overall well-being.  Setting a specific goal of 100 hours encourages families to consciously prioritize outdoor activities in blue spaces. This intentionality can lead to positive behavioral changes, such as reducing screen time and increasing physical activity.

    One hundred hours spread across 365 days provides flexibility for families to plan outings at their own pace. It allows for a variety of short and long visits, accommodating busy schedules and different seasons. 100 hours over a year adds up to meaningful and cumulative experiences. Over time, these experiences can shape a child’s perspective, fostering a deep and lasting connection with the natural world.

    We also think the goal of 100 hours over a year is attainable for families of varying backgrounds and access to blue spaces. It doesn’t require expensive vacations or extensive travel. It doesn’t require you to homeschool or forgo other meaningful activities. Many communities have accessible local water bodies, parks, or green spaces where families can spend quality time. While it encourages regular outdoor time, the 100-hour target is not overly demanding. It allows families to enjoy the process without feeling pressured to meet strict quotas, making the experience enjoyable and sustainable.

    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.

    You can find more from Bethany online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @wilder_seas
    Facebook: @bethanyaugliere
    Website: http://www.bethanyaugliere.com
    RWMC posts: Bethany Augliere

  • BEACH, FAMILY TRAVEL, HIKE, LOCAL GEMS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, WATER

    Family-Friendly Activities in/around Lake Tahoe

    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!

    kid-friendly outdoor activities lake tahoe

    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.

    Image credit and recommendation from Ashley @sage.and.summit

    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!). 

    Image credit and recommendation from Araceli @roaminggonzalez

    Best kid-friendly hikes in Lake Tahoe

    Angora Lakes 

    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! 

    Image credit and recommendation from Ashley @sage.and.summit

    Rabe Meadows

    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! 

    Image credit and recommendation from @sara_mccarty

    Eagle Rock Trail

    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! 

    Image credit and recommendation from Ashley @sage.and.summit

    Van Sickle Bi-State Park

    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! 

    Image credit and recommendation from Ashley @sage.and.summit

    Tahoe East Shore Trail 

    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!

    Image credit and recommendation from @sara_mccarty

    Ridgeline Nature Loop

    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!

    Image credit and recommendation from Ashley @sage.and.summit

    Water activities & beaches

    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. 

    Image credit and recommendation from Ashley @sage.and.summit

    Ed Z’Berg Sugar Pine Point 

    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.   

    Image credit and recommendation from @sara_mccarty

    Clear kayaking

    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!

    Image credit and recommendation from Ashley @sage.and.summit

    Boca Reservoir – Lake Tahoe National Forest 

    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.

    Image credit and recommendation from Araceli @roaminggonzalez

    Fallen Leaf Lake 

    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.  

    Image credit and recommendation from Araceli @roaminggonzalez

    Emerald Bay State Park 

    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.

    Image credit and recommendation from Araceli @roaminggonzalez

    Image credit and recommendation from @sara_mccarty

    South Lake Tahoe beaches

    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.

    Image credit and recommendation from @sara_mccarty

    Sailing

    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.

    Image credit and recommendation from @sara_mccarty

    Fly fishing

    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. 

    Image credit and recommendation from Michelle @wonderclubexplorers

    Boating

    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.

    Image credit and recommendation from @sara_mccarty

    Image credit and recommendation from Michelle @wonderclubexplorers

    More Lake Tahoe outdoor adventures for kids

    Horseback riding

    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.

    Image credit and recommendation from Michelle @wonderclubexplorers

    Climbing

    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.

    Image credit and recommendation from Ashley @sage.and.summit

    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. 

    Image credit and recommendation from Ashley @sage.and.summit

    Mount Rose Wilderness Area 

    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. 

    Image credit and recommendation from @sara_mccarty

    Markleeville, California

    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.

    Image credit and recommendation from Ashley @sage.and.summit

    Truckee, California 

    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.

    Image credit and recommendation from @sara_mccarty

    Best outdoor things to do in Lake Tahoe with kids

    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! 

    Image credit: Araceli @roaminggonzalezImage credit: Michelle @wonderclubexplorers

    Have you visited Lake Tahoe with your family?

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, WATER

    Share the Beach: Sea Turtle Friendly Beachgoing

    Our planet’s oceans are home to countless marvels, and one of its most captivating creatures is the sea turtle. These ancient marine reptiles have existed for millions of years, gracefully navigating the vast expanses of the sea. As beach enthusiasts, it is our responsibility to ensure that our presence does not disrupt the delicate balance of their habitat. By becoming sea turtle-friendly beachgoers, we can enjoy these magnificent creatures while actively contributing to their conservation.

    Today, Florida mom of two and marine biologist Bethany Augliere will delve into the essential practices and guidelines for observing sea turtles responsibly. We will explore how to create a safe environment for nesting females, safeguard hatchlings during their journey to the sea, and promote the overall well-being of these fascinating creatures. Additionally, we will discuss various ways to respectfully view sea turtles without causing harm or distress. Whether you are a dedicated conservationist or a curious beach lover, this post will equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect and appreciate sea turtles in their natural habitat.

    sea turtle friendly beachgoing - how to protect and respect sea turtles when you're at the beach

    Be a turtle-friendly beachgoer

    As the weather warms, families flock to the beaches to splash in the waves and dig in the sand. But, there’s another shore visitor — sea turtles, and they need our help to remain safe. Today, I’ll share with you some information about how to be a sea turtle-friendly beachgoer, and some ways you can responsibly view them. Let’s dive into the world of sea turtle-friendly beachgoing and discover how we can make a positive impact while enjoying these remarkable creatures in their stunning marine homes.

    Kid on beach in Cocoa Beach, FLA.

    All about sea turtles

    Sea turtles are marine reptiles adapted for life in the ocean. Though they require surfacing for air to breathe, some species can dive for more than an hour and up to 4,000 feet beneath the surface, swimming with their powerful flippers. Sea turtles play a crucial role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. As they feed on sea grass and jellyfish, they help keep the balance in the ocean by controlling the population of these organisms. 

    Seven species of sea turtles inhabit the Earth’s oceans: loggerhead, leatherback (the largest) green turtle, hawksbill, Kemp’s ridley (the smallest), olive ridley, and flatback. All but the flatback live in United States waters, and all six are listed on the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Unfortunately, sea turtles face threats due to humans from entanglement in fishing gear and marine debris, poaching of adults and eggs, pollution, vessel strikes, and habitat destruction. 

    A female leatherback sea turtle swims along the shore in South Florida.
    A female leatherback sea turtle swims along the shore in South Florida. 

    Sea turtle nesting season

    Females return to shore to lay eggs, often making long journeys to go to specific beaches year after year. While sea turtles nest around the U.S., including the southeast from about March to November and Hawaii from mid-April to September, 90% of nesting takes place in Florida. Large numbers of greens, loggerheads, and leatherbacks crawl ashore to lay their eggs. Two other species – Kemp’s ridley and hawksbill – also nest in Florida, but in very small numbers.

    As the sun sets, a female turtle makes her way up the beach from the sea, dragging her heavy body through the sand. Having watched nesting turtles many times for work, it looks exhausting —  I feel for those moms. Every so often, a turtle will begin nesting early in the morning at sunrise, but it’s less common. 

    Once she finds a suitable spot in the dry region of the beach, the female turtle digs a body pit, flinging sand with her flippers and shuffling her body. When the pit is ready, she works on the hole for the eggs, called a nesting chamber. She scoops out the sand with her back flippers and then enters a trance-like state once she begins to drop 80 to 150 ping pong-sized eggs, depending on the species. 

    Sea turtle nest, North Carolina
    A sea turtle nest in Ocean Isle Beach, NC. 

    leatherback hatchling swims in Florida waters.
    A leatherback hatchling swims out to sea after emerging from the nest. 

    Hot chicks, cool dudes

    About 60 days after the eggs are laid, depending on the temperature of the sand and other environmental conditions, the hatchlings emerge and crawl to the sea, usually under cover of darkness, which offers protection from predators.

    Warmer temperatures during a sea turtle nest’s incubation tend to produce female hatchlings. Cooler temperatures, which can result from rainfall or shade from a building or a tree, tend to produce eggs that will become males. 

    This means global temperatures and climate change could impact future populations of turtles. For instance, one turtle hospital in Florida has documented only female hatchlings for the last 4 years, which have also been the hottest years on record. Similarly, a 2018 study showed that 99% of turtles who originated from the warmer, northern region of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia were females. 

    Tips for helping sea turtles nest safely 

    With climate change, habitat loss, and other threats already present, it’s our job to be educated and responsible visitors to the beach to minimize our impact. The journey is not easy for the nesting females or hatchlings. So, here are a few guidelines to ensure you are not disrupting safe passage for the turtles. 

    1. Respect nesting areas

    Sea turtles typically choose sandy beaches with suitable conditions for nesting. Look for areas with soft, undisturbed sand above the high tide line. Nests are often marked by tracks leading from the ocean to the nesting site, resembling a series of comma-shaped depressions left by the turtle’s flippers. Many beaches with known sea turtle nesting activity will have signs or barriers indicating the presence of nests. Respect these signs and avoid entering or disturbing the designated nesting areas. These signs help protect the eggs and ensure the safety of the nesting females.

    Be aware of marked nesting areas on the beach and avoid walking or setting up beach equipment in these designated zones. Keep a safe distance from nests and do not disturb or touch them. Dispose of trash properly and never leave any items, such as plastic bags or food containers, on the beach. Sea turtles can mistake litter for food, which can lead to serious health issues if ingested.

    2. Lights out 

    Artificial lights can disorient nesting females and hatchlings, leading them away from the ocean. If you are living or staying at a beachfront property, keep lights off while not in use and close your blinds at night to avoid adding to the overall sky glow. Avoid the use of unshielded outdoor lighting fixtures. 

    Be mindful of using flashlights or even your phone when walking the beach at night. Sea turtles use moonlight for guidance when nesting and hatching, and lights and flash photography can confuse them and even cause them to move near parking lots and streets, or wander in circles and waste precious energy. 

    If you want some sort of light, use turtle-friendly lighting that is low in intensity, directed downward, and shielded from the beach. Using long wavelength light, which appears amber or red, will prevent sea turtle disorientations. Many phones have an option for nighttime or dark mode that produces less blue light. 

    3. Do not disturb 

    If you see a nesting female (or hatchlings), be sure not to disturb her, which could cause her to stop laying eggs and return to the ocean. Keep a respectful distance to avoid causing any distress or disruptions. Observe quietly and from a distance. Remember, the priority is to provide a safe and quiet environment for the turtles. 

    Nesting sea turtle on the beach with biologist in South Florida.
    Justin Perrault, Ph.D., a scientist from Loggerhead Marinelife Center, studies a nesting sea turtle on a beach in South Florida. 

    4. Leave No Trace

    Dispose of trash properly and never leave any items, such as plastic bags or food containers, on the beach. Sea turtles can mistake litter for food, which can lead to serious health issues if ingested. Before leaving the beach, fill in any holes or flatten sandcastles. These obstacles can impede nesting females and cause hatchlings to become trapped or disoriented on their way to the sea. Remember to grab your toys and buckets, and any beach chairs or umbrellas, too! 

    If you want to help marine life even further, bring a grabber and a bucket and clean up trash as part of your family beach activity. Children can understand that even small actions can make a big difference in sea turtle conservation. Picking up trash, reducing plastic use, and spreading the word about protecting sea turtles can have a positive impact on their survival. Every little bit helps. 

    5. Avoid balloons

    Did you know that balloons pose a significant threat to sea turtles and other marine life? Balloons that are released into the air can end up in the ocean, where they are often mistaken for food by sea turtles. Sea turtles are known to mistake balloons for jellyfish, which are a common part of their diet. When sea turtles consume balloons, they can cause serious internal injuries or blockages. This can lead to malnutrition, organ damage, and even death. Balloons and their attached strings can also entangle sea turtles, causing them physical harm. The strings can wrap around their flippers, necks, or internal organs, leading to injuries, infections, or impairing their ability to swim and feed.

    To protect sea turtles and the marine environment, it is crucial to avoid releasing balloons into the air. Instead, opt for environmentally friendly alternatives for celebrations or events, such as using reusable decorations, bubbles, or kites. By making conscious choices, we can reduce the risk of harm to sea turtles and preserve the health of our oceans.

    Who to call for wildlife emergencies

    If you come across a nesting sea turtle or notice any signs of nesting activity, report it to the local authorities or sea turtle conservation organizations. They can provide assistance and monitor the nests to ensure proper protection. It’s also good to know the local numbers for sea turtle and other marine wildlife emergencies if you happen upon an injured or stranded turtle. A quick Google search for the state and sea turtle emergency will often bring up the right number. Here are a few: 

    • Florida: Call Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission hotline — (888) 404-3922
    • Georgia: Call DNR’s hotline — (800)272-8363
    • Hawaii: Call NOAA’s stranding response hotline — (888) 256-9840
    • Maryland: Call DNR’s hotline — (800) 628-9944
    • South Carolina: Call SCDNR’s 24-hour hotline — (800) 922-5431

    Ways to safely view and interact with sea turtles

    If you are interested in seeing sea turtles in the wild, including nesting females or hatchling releases, many nonprofit organizations and sea turtle hospitals offer guided nighttime walks. You can also visit a facility that houses or rehabilitates sea turtles to see them up close. 

    Some beaches offer organized sea turtle watch programs led by trained volunteers or conservation organizations. These programs provide educational opportunities to observe nesting turtles while following strict guidelines to ensure the turtles’ safety.

    One of my favorite places to view turtles in South Florida is Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC), a sea turtle research, rehabilitation, education, and conservation center located in Juno Beach, Florida. Kids can view turtle patients up close while taking a walk through the public outdoor sea turtle hospital and learn about their rescue event to, their diagnosis, rehabilitation process, and release plan from the volunteers and staff. 

    Some conservation organizations offer “adoption” programs where kids can symbolically adopt a sea turtle. This provides a fun and educational way to learn more about sea turtles while supporting their conservation efforts.

    In addition to helping save sick and injured turtles, LMC also conducts scientific studies on health, disease nest success, and more to aid in conservation and management efforts. 

    Here’s a list from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission that lists public walks and hatchling releases from other organizations and facilities. 

    A loggerhead sea turlte
    A loggerhead sea turtle receiving treatment at Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach, Fla. 

    Books about sea turtles for kids

    Help protect the sea turtles

    In conclusion, being a conscientious beachgoer is essential for the protection and conservation of sea turtles. Remember, every action, no matter how small, counts in the grand scheme of sea turtle conservation. By becoming conscientious beachgoers and actively engaging in efforts to protect and conserve sea turtles, we can ensure that these ancient marine reptiles continue to grace our oceans for generations to come. Let us cherish and safeguard their presence, embracing our responsibility as stewards of the sea. By following a few simple guidelines, we can make a positive impact and ensure the well-being of these magnificent creatures. 

    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.

    You can find more from Bethany online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @wilder_seas
    Facebook: @bethanyaugliere
    Website: http://www.bethanyaugliere.com
    RWMC posts: Bethany Augliere

  • BEACH, INFORMATION, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, PARENTING, WATER

    Beach Safety Tips for Parents

    Ah, the beach! A perfect spot for fun and relaxation. But going to the beach as a parent is a completely different experience than it was in those pre-child days. The days of bringing just a towel, sunscreen, and a book are over. While going to the beach with kids is definitely more work, it can also make for some of the best memories. As parents, we need to ensure our little beach bums stay safe and sound. No worries! Today, California mom Wendy Cox is here with some awesome beach safety tips that will make your family vacation a blast and worry-free. Follow these beach safety tips for parents and enjoy your seaside day.

    Research your beach

    Before your beach day, start by doing a little detective work to find the perfect spot for your family adventure. Consider beaches that offer a kid-friendly environment with amenities that cater to families.  Check if the beach has lifeguards on duty. Having trained professionals watching over the water can provide peace of mind. Seek out beaches that offer convenient amenities for families with children: restrooms, showers, changing facilities, picnic areas, playgrounds, parks, etc. 

    Also, consider the beach’s popularity and its typical crowd size.  Is the beach usually crowded or more secluded? Will there be other kids there for your kids to play with? Or would you rather have more space to spread out? 

    Look for amenities that enhance your family’s comfort and convenience, such as rental chairs or beach umbrellas. Is there easy access to parking? How far is the parking lot from the beach? Are there nearby shops or restaurants for grabbing snacks, ice cream, or refreshing drinks?

    Don’t forget to check out reviews and recommendations from other families who have visited the beach. Online travel forums, family-oriented websites, or social media groups can provide valuable insights and firsthand experiences. Pay attention to positive feedback about cleanliness, safety, and the overall family-friendliness of the beach.

    beach safety tips for parents

    Arrive at the beach early

    I’ve spent 13 summers at the beaches of Southern California, and to say beaches can get crowded is an understatement. It seems like the whole world is at the beach in the summer. Where we go, the parking situation is crazy, so I always attempt to get to the beach by 9 in the morning from June through August. It’s much easier to find a close parking spot during those morning hours. Because my husband is usually at work, I take all four of my kids by myself. That close parking spot makes all the difference when you have an arm (or wagon) full of towels, chairs, snacks, boogie boards, skim boards, sunscreen, umbrellas, sand toys, and the list could go on. 

    Another reason I like to get to the beach early is so that you can stake a claim on your space. There are fewer people at the beach in the morning, so you will have enough room to lay out all of your towels and toys and not feel like you’re crowding someone else. I like to be fairly close to the shore so I can still see my kids in the water without leaving my chair. I call that thinking smarter, not harder.

    Water, water, water!

    Chances are, if you’re spending a day at the beach, it’s a warm, sunny day. And spending all day building sandcastles can be thirsty and hungry work. It might mean a few extra pounds to carry or pull in the wagon, but you’ll want to bring lots of water! Your kids are going to get thirsty, and you’ll get thirsty. Pack a cooler filled with refreshing water and yummy, healthy snacks like juicy fruits (extra hydration) and energy bars. Remind the kiddos to take sips, even if they don’t feel parched.

    I also bring extra water in case we need to rinse anything off without it getting salty. I’ve been guilty of not bringing enough water, and we’ve had to cut some beach days short because we ran out of water. The fussiness that ensued was more than I could bear, so we left. Don’t let that happen to you!

    Take a photo and make a plan if you get separated

    You surely have thousands of pictures of your kids on your phone, but when you get to the beach, snap a quick photo of your kids in their swimsuits so you know what they’re wearing. This is a safety precaution that will be extremely helpful if you have a child that wanders off or gets lost. You will have something to easily refer back to the photo, just in case.

    It’s also a good idea to talk to your kids about how they can find you. Maybe you have a rainbow-colored umbrella, or a blue shade tent, or a yellow beach chair. Talk about these items so your kids know what to look for if they go refill a bucket with ocean water and need to make their way back.

    And speaking of having a photo on your phone, I also recommend bringing a bag or sleeve to carry your phone in. Even a simple plastic sandwich bag works great to keep the sand out of your phone when it’s in a bag or the cup holder of your beach chair.

    best tried and tested tips for parents when taking the kids to the beach

    Stay near a lifeguard

    I recently spoke with two local lifeguards and asked them for their best beach safety tips. Both lifeguards said that parents should stay near a lifeguard tower. This is especially true if you aren’t familiar with the beach or if your kids aren’t used to the ocean. It will be easier to get a spot near the lifeguard tower if you arrive at the beach early.

    Lifeguards are highly trained professionals who are experienced in identifying and responding to water-related emergencies. They are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to handle various situations swiftly and effectively. By setting up near a lifeguard tower, parents can rest assured that help will be readily available in case of an emergency.

    Lifeguards have a panoramic view of the beach and water from their elevated tower positions. They maintain constant surveillance over the area, actively scanning the water for any signs of distress or potential hazards. It’s easy for parents to get caught up in the excitement of beach activities and momentarily lose sight of their children. Lifeguards act as an additional set of vigilant eyes, keeping a watchful eye on all beachgoers, including children. They can help locate lost or wandering children and reunite them with their families quickly.

    Lifeguards are not only there for emergencies but also to provide important water safety education. Lifeguards are ready and willing to help you. When you get to the beach, feel free to walk up to a lifeguard and ask a few questions. You might want to ask them their best beach safety tips, or anything that might be helpful for that specific beach on that day. Tides, currents, wave height, and break are all important facts that the lifeguard will know. Sometimes they will also have a whiteboard listing the water temperature, tide times, and the sunrise/sunset. 

    Ultimately, setting up near a lifeguard tower provides parents with peace of mind. Knowing that trained professionals are nearby, ready to respond in case of an emergency, alleviates anxiety and allows parents to relax and enjoy their time at the beach with their children. It adds an extra layer of safety and reassurance, making the beach experience more enjoyable for everyone.

    Water safety for non-swimmers

    If you are at the beach with little kids who can’t yet swim or aren’t strong swimmers, ensuring their safety becomes a top priority. Always keep a close eye on children who can’t swim or are weak swimmers. Stay close to them at all times, especially when they are in or near the water. This way, you can quickly provide assistance if needed. Opt for beaches with shallow water and gentle waves, as these areas are more suitable.

    And have your child wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) when near or in the water. Ensure the device is appropriate for your child’s size and weight. Remember, inflatable toys or water wings are not substitutes for a life jacket and should not be relied upon for safety.

    why you should set up near a lifeguard at the beach with kids

    Watch the waves

    The entirety of my childhood existed within an hour of the Pacific Ocean. One of the phrases I heard so many times was, “Never turn your back on the ocean.” My mom told me this to emphasize the importance of watching and paying attention to the waves. By encouraging children to watch the waves, parents instill a sense of respect for the ocean’s power and unpredictable nature. Understanding the force of waves fosters a healthy appreciation for the water and reinforces the importance of caution and responsible behavior while enjoying beach activities.

    As an adult, the waves might not seem scary. But, to a child who is just a few feet off the ground, the waves can seem dangerous (and very large). Waves are a dynamic force of nature that can be powerful and unpredictable. By reminding children to watch the waves, parents help them develop a sense of wave awareness and understand their behavior. This awareness allows children to anticipate and react to waves appropriately, reducing the risk of being caught off guard or knocked over. By teaching your child to always pay attention to the waves, they will begin to feel more comfortable. 

    Waves have a pattern. Their rhythmic crashing can be soothing, but they are also very powerful and unpredictable. Waves can sometimes catch beachgoers, especially children, by surprise. Encouraging children to keep an eye on the waves helps them stay mindful of their surroundings and potential wave activity. This awareness enables them to adjust their position on the beach accordingly, moving to safer areas or stepping back when necessary.

    With younger children, start in the water with them. Jump over the waves together. Being in the water with them will show them how fun it can be and will help them feel how the water can push and pull them. Having your hand to hold will be a reassurance, and if they get knocked down, you’ll be right there to pick them up. 

    If you have a daring child that likes to push their limits, I recommend giving them a guideline of how far to go. You might want to start with staying at or below the knees. As their abilities increase, you can let them go in up to their waist and then beyond.

    beach safety tips for parents - how to keep your kids safe at the beach

    Pay attention to the flags

    You might notice some flags on the beach – these are very important signals and should be paid attention to closely to ensure safety and understand the current conditions. These flags serve as visual indicators that communicate important information to beachgoers. Flags provide a standardized system for conveying information about the conditions and potential hazards/risks at the beach. They serve as a clear and easily recognizable visual language that beach visitors can understand and follow.

    Now, let’s explore some commonly used beach flags and their meanings (please note that flag systems may vary between beaches and countries):

    Green flag:

    • A green flag typically signifies calm conditions, indicating that it’s safe to swim and enjoy the water.
    • It suggests that there are no significant hazards, such as strong currents or rough surf, present at that time.

    Yellow flag:

    • A yellow flag indicates moderate surf conditions and potential hazards.
    • It advises caution to swimmers, as there may be mild to moderate currents or waves that require increased awareness and swimming ability.

    Red flag:

    • A red flag represents hazardous conditions, such as strong currents, large waves, or rough surf.
    • It serves as a warning that swimming in the water is not recommended. Non-swimmers and inexperienced swimmers should avoid entering the water altogether.

    Purple Flag:

    • A purple flag is used to warn beachgoers of the presence of potentially dangerous marine life.
    • It suggests that there may be jellyfish, sharks, or other marine creatures in the area, requiring increased vigilance and caution.

    Checkered flag:

    • A checkered flag usually indicates that the area is designated for water sports, such as surfing or kayaking, and is not intended for swimming.
    • It signals that there may be specific activities (surfing only) or hazards in that particular section of the beach. When your kids are comfortable enough in the water to boogie board, skim board, swim, or surf, they will need to pay attention to the checkered flag. They will definitely not want to get in the way of the surfers! The checkered flags will show you how to stay safe by keeping you in the right area. 

    Familiarize yourself with the specific flag system used at the beach you’re visiting and pay attention to any accompanying signage or instructions provided by lifeguards. By being attentive to the flags at the beach, you can stay informed about the current conditions and potential hazards, allowing you to make informed decisions about entering the water and ensuring the safety of yourself and your family.

    beach safety and what the flags meancheckered flag at the beach means surfing - beach safety tips for parents

    Learn the stingray shuffle

    Part of what I love about the ocean is that it’s full of life. There are sand crabs to dig for, fish swimming around, floating kelp forests, and seaweed washing onto the shore. I’ve even seen pods of dolphins jumping out of the water at some of our San Diego beaches and seals and sea lions sunbathing on the sand. Most of the time, the sea life is harmless, but one you’ll want to beware of is the stingray. 

    Stingrays are commonly found in coastal areas with sandy bottoms. They typically bury themselves in the sand, making them difficult to spot. Accidentally stepping on a stingray can result in a painful sting from their barbed tail. Stingrays are usually docile creatures and sting as a defense mechanism when they feel threatened. 

    I’ve spent a lot of time in the ocean and have never encountered a stingray, but I do know people who have been stung. The treatment is to submerge the sting in hot water, which lifeguards can provide. The “stingray shuffle” is a technique used to prevent accidental encounters with stingrays, particularly in shallow coastal waters. It involves shuffling your feet along the sandy bottom instead of taking regular steps. The vibrations and movement created by the shuffle alert the stingrays to your presence, allowing them to swim away before contact is made.

    That’s all there is to the stingray shuffle! This one beach safety tip can save you a lot of unnecessary pain. 

    Raise your hand

    When you’re out in the ocean past where the waves are breaking, maybe waiting for the perfect wave to catch with your boogie board, know that you’re still visible to the lifeguards. If you notice yourself starting to get pulled by a rip current, or you just feel like you aren’t able to get back to shore, simply raise your hand. Raising your hand is a universal distress signal that alerts people on the beach, including lifeguards and other beachgoers, that you are in trouble and need assistance. By raising your hand, you attract attention and increase the likelihood of someone noticing your predicament.

    Get your hand as high above your head as you can get it, and wave until you see the lifeguard coming to help. Staying calm is key. By raising your hand, you conserve energy and avoid unnecessary swimming against the current, which can lead to fatigue and potentially worsen the situation. Instead, focus on staying afloat and signaling for help.

    Here is a video about how to avoid a rip current and how to successfully exit a rip current.

    beach safety tips for parents - keep kids safe at the beach

    Respect the ocean, but have fun!

    The ocean is my happy place. Swimming in the ocean makes me feel so incredibly free. While there are precautions that must be taken, spending time at the beach is extremely enjoyable. If you’re at the beach with other adults, I encourage you to ask them to take over, keeping an eye on the kids for a while, and alternate so you can take some time to get in the water yourself. Get your hair wet! Submerge yourself in the ocean, and just enjoy it! Feel the water ebb and flow. Bring a boogie board (more on boogie boarding with kids here) and catch a few waves. Riding on the power of the ocean is an unforgettable experience.

    When your children see you enjoying the ocean, it will make them more likely to do the same. Teach them to respect the ocean and its powerful waves and tides by respecting it and enjoying it yourself. 

    I wish I had the right words to describe how much I love the ocean. I can’t even pin down the exact reason why I feel so strongly about it. Maybe it’s the consistency of the tides, the strength of the waves, or the vastness of the waters. I’m not really sure, but I do know how I feel when I walk out of the ocean after a swim. I would describe it as walking on the clouds. I believe that the ocean is not to be feared but respected. 

    As you follow these beach safety tips, you will find what a beautiful experience going to the beach can be. I hope you make some wonderful memories with your children at the beach this summer and throughout your lives. 

    About the author

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

    You can find more from Wendy online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @wendycoxphotography
    RWMC posts: Wendy Cox

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, WATER

    Exploring Tide Pools on Cape Cod

    Nestled along the picturesque shores of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, lie an abundance of tidal habitats that beckon curious explorers of all ages. From sandy beaches to rocky outcrops, these captivating tide pools serve as an open-air classroom where kids can immerse themselves in nature’s wonders while fostering a lifelong love for the environment. Today, Lissy Perna, Cape Cod mom of two and founder of Get Outside Cape Cod, is here to help you and your kids explore the beauty of the tidepools of Cape Cod. 

    Exploring tide pools on Cape Cod

    Have you ever explored a tide pool with your children? For the kids living here on Cape Cod, it is as common a pastime as going to the playground. These miniature underwater ecosystems, teeming with fascinating marine life and hidden treasures, offer an incredible opportunity for discovery, learning, and unforgettable family adventures.

    As you embark on this enchanting journey with your children, you’ll witness their eyes light up with excitement as they uncover a wealth of marine creatures, from scuttling hermit crabs and colorful sea stars to elusive octopuses and vibrant anemones. While they may start off merely observing, their natural curiosity will soon drive them to ask questions, investigate further, and engage in hands-on learning experiences that ignite their sense of wonder.

    So, if you are planning a visit to Cape Cod with your children, make sure to add tide pool exploration to your bucket list. Don’t worry; I’ll give you all the insider info about having a successful tide pool exploring excursion that you need to make your adventure a success! 

    Why should you explore tide pools with your kids?

    What is better than a day at the beach? Splashing in the salty waves, building epic sandcastles, and perfecting your boogie-boarding skills are great ways to spend time in the sun. But, if you visit the beach at low tide, you’ll be amazed by what you can find! And your kids may become obsessed with this new activity at the beach! As the ocean tide recedes, giant puddles of water appear and teem with sea life. Crabs, worms, fish, and eels can be found if you investigate. This activity is a perfect hands-on learning experience for children and adults alike! 

    Beyond the joy of discovery, exploring tide pools also offers a chance to educate your children about the delicate balance of our ecosystems and the importance of environmental stewardship. As they witness the interplay between different species and witness firsthand the effects of tides and currents, they’ll gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all living things and the need to protect and preserve these fragile habitats.

    Moreover, this outdoor escapade provides a golden opportunity for families to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with one another. As you huddle together, searching for hidden treasures or sharing stories of your own childhood adventures, the bond between parent and child strengthens, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.

    So, whether you’re a Cape Cod local or planning a family vacation to this idyllic destination, take a break from the usual tourist haunts and venture into the realm of tide pools. Equipped with a sense of wonder and a willingness to learn, you’ll embark on a remarkable journey where curiosity and joy merge, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the natural world. Let’s dive into the magical world of Cape Cod’s tide pools and discover the endless possibilities that await your family in nature’s captivating classroom.

    What’s unique about the tide pools on Cape Cod?

    The tide pools in Cape Cod possess a unique charm that sets them apart from other coastal regions. Cape Cod’s tide pools showcase an impressive biodiversity of marine life. From tiny hermit crabs and sea stars to elusive seahorses and fascinating sea slugs, the tide pools of Cape Cod offer a rich tapestry of species to discover. The variety of habitats, including rocky outcrops, sandy stretches, and tidal flats, contribute to this remarkable biodiversity. Each location offers its own set of geological features and ecological characteristics, providing a diverse range of exploration opportunities.

    Cape Cod is renowned for its annual migrations of marine creatures, including horseshoe crabs and shorebirds. During certain times of the year, tide pool explorers may witness these fascinating natural phenomena as thousands of horseshoe crabs gather to spawn, or flocks of shorebirds feed along the shoreline. Such spectacles add an extra layer of wonder and excitement to the tide pool experience.

    In addition to the abundant marine life, Cape Cod’s tide pools boast breathtaking natural beauty. The rugged coastline, picturesque beaches, and dramatic rocky formations create a stunning backdrop for exploring the tide pools. The serene atmosphere and stunning vistas make every visit to the tide pools of Cape Cod a truly memorable experience.

    These special and unique characteristics of Cape Cod’s tide pools make them an exceptional destination for families to connect with nature, learn about marine life, and create lasting memories while exploring the captivating intertidal world.

    Best tide pools on Cape Cod for kids

    Here on Cape Cod, specifically in Brewster, the exposed sand left after the tide recedes is called “the flats.” This expanse of the ocean floor is the largest in North America! You can walk over a mile into Cape Cod Bay at dead low tide. But, if you can’t make it to Brewster, plenty of other Cape Cod towns have tide pools worth exploring. 

    Great beaches for tide pools on Cape Cod

    • Crosby Landing, Brewster
    • Thumpertown Beach, Eastham
    • Skaket Beach, Orleans
    • Town Neck Beach, Sandwich
    • Gray’s Beach, Yarmouth
    • Corporation Beach, Dennis

    You may notice these beaches are all on the north side of Cape Cod. We have found that the tide is much more extreme on the north side, so there are more tide pools! *Bonus, these beaches also tend to have calmer waves for your younger children to swim safely. 

    Does it cost money to go to beaches and tide pools on Cape Cod?

    It depends on when and where you go. There are fifteen towns on Cape Cod, and every town has different rules and regulations for its beaches. Please check the town’s website to see if you can buy a beach pass for the day or if you need a pre-purchased beach sticker or pass. Sometimes, your luck might be that low tide is before or after the time of day that a beach pass is required. Another option is walking or cycling to a beach to avoid paying the fees. 

    Checking the tide

    Once you’re ready to go on a tide pool exploring adventure and have chosen your location, it’s time to check the tide! When you visit the beach, it’s essential to be there at low tide or an hour or so before and/or after. The tide changes from high to low every six hours and varies about 45 mins daily, so the easiest way to check what the tide will be is to look at a tide chart. Some local businesses carry paper ones, and we always head to the Brewster General Store to pick one up. It stays posted on our fridge all summer long. Furthermore, another way to check the tide is by looking online. So, here is the most accurate website I’ve found.

    What to wear to explore tide pools on Cape Cod with your children

    When you want to go on a tide pool exploration, it’s wise to be dressed appropriately. Bathing suits or water-repellant clothing is the best option; you’ll surely get wet when exploring a tide pool! One thing my children often wear, and I recommend, is water shoes with a rubber sole, or even shoes like Crocs. This way, you can climb over rocks, sometimes covered with sharp barnacles, without injuring your feet. When we explore tide pools in the colder weather (beach season is year-round when you live on Cape Cod!), my children wear their waders or insulated boots for extra protection and warmth.

    Another item to consider wearing is a wide-brimmed hat. There isn’t any shade on the flats, so sun protection is essential! Also, a fun extra item that isn’t necessary would be polarized sunglasses. The polarization makes it easier to view the sea life under the water. Also, they provide additional protection for your eyes! If you wear sunscreen, please consider using a mineral-based and reef-safe brand. The chemicals used in many regular sunscreens harm coral and possibly other sea life. 

    Supplies for exploring tide pools with children

    Honestly, you don’t need any toys or supplies on your tide pool adventure. There have been many impromptu visits to the beach with my children when they didn’t bring anything. They used sticks, shells, rocks, and pieces of driftwood to entertain themselves.

    However, if you are to bring anything, this is what I recommend: 

    • bucket for collecting treasures
    • shovel for digging in the sand or picking up a crab
    • net for catching minnows or sand shrimp
    • field guide for identifying what you discover

    You can also use items you already have in your home! Bring a Tupperware container as a bucket, a large serving spoon as a shovel, or a sieve as a net! Just remember, glass items on the beaches are not a good idea!

    And, as always, for any adventure, I’d recommend always packing some snacks and water bottles to keep your kids fed and hydrated. You may also consider bringing a waterproof camera or a smartphone in a protective case to capture memories without risking damage.

    What creatures will you find while exploring tide pools on Cape Cod?

    The wonder of nature is that it is wild and unpredictable. This rule applies to tide pools on Cape Cod as well. Even after a lifetime of living on Cape Cod and regularly visiting tide pools, I still find species I never noticed before. I am constantly surprised by what I discover. So, here are some of the most common things you may find while exploring tide pools on Cape Cod:

    • Hermit crabs – these small crabs inhabit the empty shells of other creatures, such as periwinkles, mud snails, or moon snails. They are found abundantly in tide pools and can range in size up to two inches. 
    • Asian shore crabs – this type of crab is an invasive species. They are commonly found burrowed underneath rocks in the shallow tide pools.
    • Lady crabs – this type of crab is a fantastic swimmer. Beware, they are quite defensive, and their pinch is a little bit painful.
    • Bloodworm – this type of sea worm has a translucent body, and you can see its reddish bodily fluids through its exterior. 
    • Decorator worm – this type of worm forms a protective casing over its exposed body. They construct it with bits of shell, sand, and seaweed.
    • Ice cream cone worm – this type of worm creates a thin layer of sand around its body in the shape of a cone, hence the name.
    • Scallops – the ones you will find on the beach are bay scallops, and they are smaller than the ones found in the deep ocean. These bay scallops have dozens of small blue eyes if you look closely!
    • Oyster – this white shelled mollusk can be found in the bay on Cape Cod. They are known to produce pearls!
    • Quahog – this hard shell clam can range in size from millimeters long up to 4 inches. 
    • Sand shrimp – this light colored small shrimp can walk on the ocean floor with their small front legs.

    Tide pool etiquette

    Don’t worry, there aren’t many rules associated with playing in the tide pools, but a few are for your child’s safety and the safety of the living creatures you may encounter. We want you to encourage your kids to interact with the tide pool environment in a safe manner (for both your kids and the wildlife). 

    Try not to touch and only pick up what you can identify

    Try to teach your kids to observe and appreciate marine life without touching or disturbing it. I know this can be really hard! Kids learn by touching, but sometimes touching or picking up creatures can harm them or their delicate habitats. Encourage them to use their hands only when necessary, and even then, they should handle the creatures gently and with wet hands to avoid injuring them. Be sure to only pick up or touch what you know cannot hurt them (or hurt the thing you’re touching). You want to be sure that the creature can’t harm your child. A few types of worms have pincers, and they pack a punch with their bite!

    Leave no trace

    Emphasize the importance of leaving the tide pool area as they found it, without leaving any litter behind. Be sure to keep the creatures in their homes and take nothing and leave nothing. Remind your kids that tide pool creatures belong in their natural habitats. It’s important not to remove any animals, shells, or rocks from the tide pools. Explain that these creatures play vital roles in the ecosystem, and disrupting their environment can have negative consequences. This rule also applies to any rocks you turn over or other items you move in the tide pools. Show kids how to carefully turn over rocks to discover hidden creatures, but put them back exactly where they were. 

    Be gentle and mindful

    These creatures you find are small, but it doesn’t mean they are insignificant. Encourage your kids to be aware of their surroundings and to step carefully to avoid crushing or damaging marine life. Remind them to stay on the rocks and sandy areas, and to avoid trampling on seaweed or fragile plants.  Please remind your children to be gentle!

    Places to visit to learn more about sea life on Cape Cod

    After exploring the tide pools and beaches of Cape Cod, you should learn more about what you’ve found and other marine animals! Here are some places on Cape Cod that are worth the visit:

    Recommended books for learning about tide pools 

    Are you ready to go explore tide pools on Cape Cod?

    About the author

    Lissy lives near the ocean on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, with her husband, 2 rambunctious boys (aged 4 & 7), and an ever-growing number of pets. She grew up walking nature trails and finding joy in the beauty of nature. She now shares that love for local adventures with her community through her blog, “Get Outside Cape Cod.” Lissy knows that everyone can benefit from spending more time outdoors and wants to inspire and support families to do just that!

    You can find more from Lissy in the following online locations:
    Instagram: @getoutsidecapecod
    Website: Get Outside Cape Cod
    Facebook: @getoutsidecapecod
    RWMC Posts: Lissy Perna

  • FISH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, WATER

    The “We Try New Things” Mindset

    As parents, we want our children to grow up to be confident, adventurous, and open-minded about the world around them. One way to instill these qualities in our kids is by teaching them the importance of (and benefits from) trying new things. Children (and adults) often shy away from unfamiliar activities, foods, or experiences out of fear of the unknown. However, encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones and try new things can lead to a world of possibilities!

    Today, Jen Barnes, South Carolina mom of three teenagers discusses her family’s mindset of “we try new things.” She touches on why it’s essential for parents to not only teach their children about trying new things, but also to be willing to try right alongside them! By trying new things, we can foster a sense of curiosity and adventure in our children, and prepare them for a lifetime of growth and learning.

    the we try new things mindset pinnable hero of teen boy standing on a dock crabbing

    My “aha” moment

    What started out as a fun day excursion turned into an “aha moment” for me. I thought I was going to write an article about crabbing with kids in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. But that’s not really what this is about. Interestingly, this post morphed in my mind into the idea of writing about a mindset that I feel is imperative to raising confident, capable kids – the “we try new things mindset.”

    As the mom, I set the example for my kids. And while trying new things isn’t always at the top of my priority list, I don’t want my kids to be fearful or unwilling to try something new. I want them to be excited to discover, explore, learn, and embrace the unknown. I want them to be curious and up for a challenge.

    But that means that I have to practice what I preach! If I’m going to encourage my children to give something new a try, I’m going to have to do it too. I need to show them that it’s never too late to learn new things…even in your 40s. They need to see that it’s hard for me, too. They need to see me struggle. They have to see me nervous. And they have to see me get through it and feel the experience is worth it. 
    So, let me tell you about a recent adventure…

    teen boy standing on a dock learning to tie a throw net to his wrist

    Trying new things…crabbing

    A few months ago, I reached out to a special woman who I had been following on Instagram for about a year. Tia Clark was showcasing her crabbing experiences on the docks of Charleston, SC, and I was enamored. What a great idea for kids to learn how to do something quintessentially coastal!

    Crabbing seemed like the perfect outdoor activity to try with the kids and write about. The combination of outside time, sea life, and spending quality time with my teenager was going to make for the perfect writing assignment. 

    two teen boys standing on a dock with an instructor learning about large size commercial crabbing baskets

    You don’t know what you don’t know

    6:00 a.m. came very early on our day off school, but we had to hit the road so we could get down to the lowcountry in time for our crabbing lesson with Tia. I had my 14-year-old son and his best buddy with me, ready for our crabbing adventure.

    The first question they had was what we were going to do with Tia. Honest answer – I had no idea. We were going crabbing…that was all I knew! Sometimes it’s hard not to know the answers when your kids ask questions. But, you don’t know what you don’t know. However, you can always learn by trying something new! 

    I knew that I had to bring a South Carolina saltwater fishing license with me, but I wasn’t even sure what that meant. As a group, we later learned the money that comes from the licenses goes directly to partner organizations that are tangibly working to improve the waterways of South Carolina. For example, the SCORE program allows volunteers to help build manufactured wire reefs, which assist in habitat enhancement and shoreline stabilization. See! We were already learning something new!

    teen boy standing on a dock with a throw net in his hands checking his positioningteen boy standing on a dock pulling on a rope line to bring in a crab basket

    You never know where trying new things will lead you

    When we arrived at the docks to meet up with Art (Tia’s best friend and team member), we put our extra layers on to brace ourselves against the chilly wind. As we introduced ourselves, it become obvious that not one person in the group had ever been crabbing before. Looks like we were all trying new things on that Monday morning! 

    Tia and her team began to describe and explain what we should expect that morning. She wove in her own personal journey to the crabbing docks. After years of working in the restaurant and bar scene, putting in late hours, smoking cigarettes, and generally not taking care of herself, her health began to take a very negative turn. The lack of sleep and overall neglect had caught up with her body and her mind. Her previous working conditions became even more difficult with a restricted diet and new medical advice. 

    It turns out that a simple invitation can change the course of your life. In Tia’s case, that is exactly what happened. A family member asked her to join him on the docks to do some crabbing. Ironically, although Tia had been born and raised in Charleston, SC, she had never been crabbing before.

    Guess what…she loved it. She not only loved being outside, but she caught her own healthy dinner! So, she went back and did it again. And again. What began as an invitation to try something new became a central part of her life.

    Before she knew it, people were asking her to take them along to teach them how to crab. Her passion and enthusiasm are infectious. She even got the two teenage boys to invest! 

    teen boy standing on a dock getting instructions from a pro on how to pull the rope line in with the crab basket

    two teen boys standing on a dock with fishing poles trying to catch some live bait for the crab baskets

    Results of the “we try new things” mindset

    We absolutely loved our crabbing experience and learned so much. However, I’m sure it won’t surprise you that we are not starting our own crabbing business! The best part about trying new things is that you get to test out what you may or may not become genuinely interested in for future hobbies or passions. How would you ever know whether you like doing something if you never try it?

    We sincerely hope to go crabbing again because it is such a fun family activity, especially for those who live on or near the coast. The knowledge we gained was useful in giving us the confidence to do it again on our own. 

    teen boy kneeling on the dock with an pro showing him how to correctly and carefully pick up a crab without getting clawed

    Using travel and trips to try new things

    We love using travel as a way to put our “we try new things” mindset work! There’s always something new and interesting to try when you’re in a new location. Sometimes it takes a bit of research and planning, but it’s worth the extra effort.

    On our travels, we’ve tried other new things like surfing, food tours, walking tours, snorkeling excursions, fishing charters, art tours, museum tours, cooking classes, and others. Each of these experiences left an impression, taught us things, and provided us with amazing memories. Every time we try new things, we build up bravery and confidence in our children. We give them the courage to realize that trying new things, while sometimes scary, is also really fun. 

    You don’t have to love the new things you try

    But let me say, that just because you try something new doesn’t mean you need to love it and continue doing it. You can try fly fishing without it needing to become your next hobby. You can try surfing and decide it’s just not the sport for you!

    I often think about some of the interests my kids and I have had over the years. Those interests developed because we tried new things and gave ourselves a chance to experience something new. And there are plenty of things that we’ve tried once and never feel like we need to do again! But we’re still glad we tried.

    The biggest lesson, though, is that you are not stuck. You’re not too old to try new things. You can try new things at any point in life, so why not teach your kids early in life to have this mindset?

     

    teen boy standing on a dock holding a one-claw crab

    A note about trying new things with a guide

    I want to give a little plug to booking tours, guides, and excursions. If you want to try something new, please consider booking a guide or a tour, or an excursion with local experts that know what they’re doing and can teach you. This is how these people make a living, and it contributes to the local economy. They are usually experts in their activity and not only know what they’re doing but know how to teach others. They have local expertise and experience that will help enrich your experience well beyond trying this new thing on your own. What better way to try new things than to have someone who is a professional teach you how to do them? 

    Other adventures to inspire you to try new things

    When will you next use the “we try new things” mindset?

    About the author

    Jen has been married to her original adventure partner, John, for 20+ years. She is a mama to 3 teenagers who, although they have busy and independent lives, love to adventure in the outdoors when they can. Jen is a native of Chicago, but has lived in South Carolina for two decades and calls it home. She’s always planning the next adventure for herself or her friends, whether near or far. Hiking, kayaking, sailing with her family, or traveling the world is all about the experience and the journey. Her extroverted nature keeps her talking and smiling with anyone she meets along the way. She’s on a mission to show other busy families that traveling with teenagers is possible and fun!

    You can find Jen online in the following locations:
    Instagram: @gofamilyadventure
    Website: Go Family Adventure
    RWMC Posts: Jen Barnes

  • BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SUMMER, WATER

    Surfing 101: The Best Surfboards For Kids

    Has your child tried surfing? If your child can swim and they’re comfortable in the water, then they’re old enough to try surfing! Surfing is such a fun and active sport – nothing but the unyielding strength of the ocean powers your little surfer. If surfing is going to be part of your child’s life, you need to know how to find the right surfboard for your child and what are the best surfboards for kids. Today, Wendy Cox, California photographer and mom of four, is here to go over all the various surfboard options, what you need to look for when purchasing a surfboard, and the best surfboards for kids. Let’s walk through the process together. 

    *This post contains affiliate links.

    best surfboards for kids

    Things to consider when purchasing a surfboard

    When buying a surfboard for your child, you’ll need to take two important things into consideration: (1) your child’s size and (2) their surfing ability. The size of your child and his or her ability will be the two most important factors used to determine what board you want to buy.

    There isn’t a one-size-fits-all surfboard for kids. The right board for a teenager will be very different than the right board for a 6-year-old. Size and weight matter. You’ll also need to think about the skill level of your child. Is your cowabunga baby a daredevil that is excited to try turning down the barrel? Or maybe your little surfer is a bit more reserved and will most likely stick to riding the whitewash. Both of those scenarios are wonderful, but the surfboard that suits each child will be different. 

    best surfboards for kids

    Sizing of surfboards for kids

    As a general rule, the older, larger, and more skilled the child is, the larger the surfboard should be. This is a very loose guide to help you determine what size surfboard would be best for your child. However, this sizing chart does not take into account a child’s skill level. For kids with advanced skills and experienced surfers, we highly recommend heading to your local surf shop and speaking with one of their experts about the best board for your kid. 

    Child’s weight Ideal surfboard length/size
    Under 65 lbs  — 5’5 – 5’8
    66-88 lbs — 5’8 – 6’2
    88-110 lbs — 6’2 – 7’0
    110-130lbs  — 7’0 – 8’0
    Over 130 lbs — 9’0+

    Foam surfboards are great for kids

    Foam boards (aka foamies or soft-tops) are ideal choices for kids and beginner surfers because they are soft, buoyant, and light. Not only does this make them easier to carry, but easier to hold and ride. Soft boards are also easier for kids to paddle and stand up on, adding to their success of catching a wave. A soft top board will also be quite a bit lighter than epoxy surfboards or a fiberglass board, which means it won’t hurt your little surfer quite so much if they get hit by their own surfboard. 

    Where to buy a surfboard for kids

    There are quite a few places you can go to purchase a new surfboard. Prices for new foam surfboards range from $100-$500, depending on the quality, size, style, and performance attributes. Local surf shops will probably have a nice variety of surfboards for different ages, sizes, and skill levels. Their qualified experts will be able to help you find the exact right size surfboard for your child. You can also purchase a board from any of the big online retailers, outdoor specialty shops, or even on Amazon. Be sure to double-check the shipping costs before making the purchase. Surfboards can be fairly expensive to ship due to their large size and shape!

    If you’re looking for a super affordable option, surfboards can also be purchased second-hand from online marketplaces, consignment shops, or used sporting goods stores. A used surfboard in decent condition will still have a lot of life left. Be sure to inspect the board before buying and check for extensive damage or signs that it was buckled or folded.

    how to choose the best surfboards for kids

    Best surfboards for kids under 6 years old

    For kids under 6 years old, surfing is less about riding the waves and more about getting comfortable in the water and familiar with the waves. Your little one should start small and work towards building skills such as balance, coordination, and confidence in and on the water. Some kids may be nervous around waves or reluctant to go into the water with much surf. That’s totally normal and ok! Waves can be intimidating, and the last thing you’ll want to do is push your child beyond their comfort level (they’ll never want to try this again). 

    The best surfboard for kids under 6 isn’t even a surfboard; it’s a boogie board (or body board). Kids this age need something that’s easier to handle and better suited for their small size. Little kids can learn all the basics of surfing on a boogie board! 

    Here’s everything you need to know to get started boogie boarding with your kids. 

    best surfboards for kids

    Best surfboard for children ages 6-9

    If your child is a young surfer, around the ages of 6-9, I highly recommend this South Bay Board Co. Guppy beginner surfboard. This surfboard comes in 3 different sizes (5′ / 6′ / 8′ sizes), 3 different color choices, includes a leash, handle for easy transport, and safe round edge fins. This smaller board is the best beginner board for many reasons; here are a few of them:

    Weight

    A heavy surfboard is not ideal for a variety of reasons. First of all, it’s hard for kids (and adults) to carry. Secondly, if a heavy board hits you when you’re surfing, it will hurt more. A lighter board won’t cause as much damage. Finally, it’s also easier for kids to get past breaking waves with a lighter board. The South Bay Guppy Beginner Surfboard is known as a “foamie” (foam board). This soft surfboard is generally much lighter and easier for kids to maneuver than fiberglass boards. 

    Shape/width

    The Guppy has what is called a squash tail. This means that the tail of the board has a square shape but with more rounded corners. The squash tail allows the surfer to have both stability on the board as well as maneuverability. Some tail shapes will work better in bigger waves and others better in smaller waves, but the squash tail is made to perform in both bigger and smaller waves. It makes surfing easier for beginners.

    The nose of the surfboard is also important. Nose shape can make it harder or easier for a board to float. The rounded nose of the Guppy makes it easier to stay afloat, and makes paddling easier. 

    The Guppy has a wide chest area. One of the hardest parts of surfing is learning to stand up on the board. Popping up from being on your stomach to a standing position, and all while the board is moving, is difficult. Narrower surfboards are more difficult to pop up on. The wide chest area on the Guppy gives beginning surfers a hand up when they’re learning to stand on the board, and will help them catch surf quicker. 

    Easy transport

    My favorite feature of this surfboard is the built-in handle. Carrying a surfboard can be extremely difficult (especially for little kids)! Sometimes just getting to the shore with the board is enough to deter someone from trying to surf. The built-in handle on this board makes it easy for even the smallest little shredder to carry. Plus, because it’s a soft foam board, it’s lighter than traditional fiberglass boards. 

    Price

    It might be hard to believe, but this amazing little surfboard is less than $200. In the world of surfboards, it really doesn’t get better than that. It’s a really good option for any kid starting out with surfing and looking for their first board. The great board comes with a leash as well as the fins, which is not the case with every surfboard. 

    how to choose the right surfboard for your kids

    Best surfboard for teens and older kids (ages 10 and up)

    The weight limit on the Guppy is 125 pounds, so it’ll still be a great choice for your child for many years. However, if your child, tween, or teenager is approaching that weight you’ll be better off choosing a bigger board.

    The best surfboard for kids older than 10 (and reaching/exceeding 125 pounds) is the Wavestorm Classic 8-foot surfboard. If you’ve been at any surfing beaches in the last several years, you’ve probably seen these boards multiple times. Possibly one of the best perks of this board is that the weight limit is 200 pounds. Even adults can have a great time using the Wavestorm! They are carried at local big box stores as well as Amazon and are extremely popular among beginning surfers, and here’s why.

    Weight

    Similar to the Guppy, the Wavestorm is a foam board, also called a soft top. It doesn’t have the built-in carrying handle like the Guppy does, but the weight of the Wavestorm makes it hassle-free to carry for your older child or teen. This board weighs in at only 12.5 pounds. Again, the light weight of the board is an advantage because if it hits you the impact will be milder. 

    Shape

    The rounded nose and square tail of the Wavestorm make it ideal for beginners. Both of these details help your little surfer dude or dudette stand up easier and stay on the board longer. No one wants to go surfing only to fall off the board time and time again without ever standing to ride the waves. Other tail or nose shapes make standing up more difficult, but not on the Wavestorm. 

    Fins

    Another perk is that the Wavestorm has removable fins and can be used with 3 fins or 1. Using all three fins is best for a beginner, but once your surfer feels more comfortable on the board, you can remove the 3 fins and purchase a specialized single fin. The single fin increases speed and makes for a completely different ride.

    Waxing

    The Beach Boys sang about waxing down their surfboards, and now your kids can have that opportunity, too. Some foam boards aren’t meant to be waxed, but the Wavestorm isn’t one of those. It can be used either with or without wax, but your child will be able to stand up on a waxed board easier. Just be sure to wear a rash guard or wet suit because surf wax can cause a rash on the skin quickly. Ask someone at the local surf shop what wax they recommend. Different water temperatures require different types of wax.

    Price

    Surfboards can cost several thousand dollars. You’re getting a steal with the Wavestorm at a price typically just over $200. You might wonder about the quality of a board so relatively inexpensive, but even professional surfers use this brand. It really is one of the best surfboards for kids and adults as they begin their surfing journey.

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    Best surfboard for kids with advanced surfing skills

    If your child is a more advanced surfer, I recommend the Wavestorm Swallowtail. The shape of this surfboard is closer to a fishy performance board, with a semi-pointed nose and swallow tail. Even though it’s small, it has all the benefits of a soft-top surfboard, such as more volume and high-float for easier paddling and soft padded construction for safety.

    This is a great option when your child has mastered solid surfing techniques and has progressed past the capabilities of a larger soft-top board.

    best surfboards for kids

    Teaching kids how to surf

    Now that your child is ready with a board, it’s time to get your little grom on the water! (*Grom is short for grommet and means a young person that enjoys extreme sports.) In areas where surfing is a popular activity, you can usually find surf schools, surf lessons, classes, or surf camps taught by professional and experienced surf instructors that will go out in the water and teach you or your child what to do. You might even have a friend or family member who has more experience and can guide you through the learning process. 

    Start in the whitewash

    My kids learned how to surf by starting in the whitewash. This is the area near the shore where the waves have already broken and the white water is moving rapidly towards the beach. While still powerful with small waves, this type of water won’t smash you into the sand like some of the bigger waves can. They’re less intimidating and perfect for beginners.

    Take your newbie into the whitewash and point the board with the nose towards the shore. Have your little surfer lay on his or her tummy on the board, centered on the width but closer to the tail than the nose. You will stand in the water while holding the tail of the board, and when that whitewash comes, give the board a good push. Before you know it the wave will be carrying some precious cargo right along with it!

    Don’t worry if the first several attempts entail your child simply laying on the board. You could even encourage that so that they get a sense of what it feels like to be pushed by the wave. If your child has boogie boarded before, they will be familiar with the sensation. Laying down on the board a few times can still be helpful because the surfboard is bigger and a little harder to hold on to than a boogie board. 

    how to find the best surfboards for kidsteaching kids how to surf - surfing with kids

    Move from laying on the surfboard to standing

    When they’re ready, the next step can either be to get up on their knees or go straight to standing. You know your child, and you can probably guess which one he/she will choose to do. The more adventurous child will probably try standing from the get go, but a more reserved and cautious child might be completely happy with the knee position for a while. 

    Next up in the surfing process will be letting your child catch the whitewash without you pushing him. This is where paddling comes in.

    Paddling on the surfboard

    Surfing is a whole-body workout. Your surfer will use his arms for paddling, legs for standing, and core strength for balancing. Strong arms are essential for surfing. If a wave hits a static surfboard, the board might topple over or just keep floating where it is instead of riding with the wave. Paddling gives the board momentum that propels it with the wave and provides the speed needed to “catch” the wave.

    teaching kids how to surf

    Surfing the larger waves

    Once the whitewash is no longer a challenge, it’s time for the real waves! Now you can go past the whitewash, which sounds much easier than it actually is. Getting out past where the waves are breaking is not easy, especially with a surfboard attached to you.

    Getting past the breakers

    The best strategy for getting past the wave break is to watch the waves for a little bit. They typically come in sets or in a series of waves, one right after the other. After the set of waves, there will be a lull. Teach your child to notice the sets and the lulls, then time it so that he/she moves out into the waves during a lull.

    Getting out past the breaking waves is sometimes impossible without first getting hit by the wave. Walk into the water until about waist deep. There are a few methods you can use to get past the break, but I’ve found that the “turtle roll” method works pretty well. You can learn how to do that here. Be sure to keep the board pointed straight into the waves. This is so the momentum of the wave doesn’t slap into the broad side of the board and push it back towards the shore. 

    Surfing technique for kids

    The technique to surf the actual waves is similar to surfing the whitewater, but it’s important to watch the swell of the ocean and learn the correct time to start paddling. I found this video incredibly helpful. It addresses a variety of topics, from how to get past the waves to the best way to fall off of a surfboard. If you’re heading to Southern California and need some beach suggestions, this blog post has a list of 5 great beaches to consider.

    Now is also the time to get your camera ready because that smile is going to be priceless once she catches her first wave!

    best surfboards for kids

    Surfing with kids

    Marcel Proust wrote, “The real voyage of discovery consists not so much in seeking new territory, but possibly in having a new set of eyes.” Surfing opens a child’s eyes to a new view of the ocean. It allows the child to see the ocean from above, to almost walk on the water. The power of the sea is harnessed beneath her feet. She is immersed in one of the most beautiful environments.

    I hope this post has helped you find the best surfboards for kids and made surfing with kids a little less intimidating. Surfing truly is a magical experience and I’m so excited for your surfing journey to begin!

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    Additional resources

    If you’ve got a child interested in surfing, here are a few other posts that may interest you:

    About the author

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

    You can find more from Wendy online in the following locations:
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