Nothing beats a hot summer day and outside activity with friends and family. Whether you’re looking to get active, explore nature, or just relax, there are plenty of fun outdoor activities to enjoy during the summer months. In this blog, we’ll be outlining seven of our favorite outdoor summer activities that are perfect for individuals, friends, and families. So, grab your sunscreen and let’s get started!
Hiking
One of the best things about summer is the chance to get out and explore nature, and hiking is the perfect way to do this. Whether you prefer easy walks or challenging treks, there are plenty of hiking trails to suit all skill levels.
Hiking is an excellent way to stay healthy and active, as it can provide numerous physical and mental health benefits. Studies have shown that hiking regularly can reduce stress levels, improve overall mood, and even decrease the risk of developing certain health problems like
heart disease. Hiking is also a great way to increase muscle strength, improve your balance and coordination, and can be easier to do consistently than locking yourself in a gym.
Biking
Biking is a great way to get exercise and explore your surroundings. From leisurely rides through the park to challenging mountain bike trails, there’s something for everyone. If you don’t have a bike of your own, many parks and rental shops offer bike rentals.
Biking is an excellent form of cardiovascular exercise, as it increases your heart rate and strengthens your cardiovascular system. Regularly biking can help reduce the risk of developing heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and other health conditions related to poor heart health. It also helps improve overall endurance levels by increasing oxygen intake and utilization efficiency.
So not only are you getting outside to soak up the sun and see the area around you, you're strengthening your muscles and improving your heart and and lungs, too! You can even use your bike to do some quick errands. If you only need a couple of things from the store, throw on a backpack and get pedaling. It saves same gas and acts as a nice outdoor workout for you.
Swimming
When the weather gets hot, nothing beats a refreshing dip in the pool or a swim in the lake. Swimming is a great way to cool off and get exercise at the same time. Plus, it’s a fun activity to do with family and friends.
If you, or someone you know (even better!) has a pool, you can play all sorts of pool games. Of course you can choose to just lounge around on a float or dive for rings in the pool, but the age-old game of "Marco Polo" is always fun. Or you can play Shark! Shark starts off with one person in the water acting as the shark, and all the other players on one side of the pool. The shark calls out "SHARK!" and everyone has to jump in the pool and try to swim to the other side without getting tagged by the person acting as the shark. Anyone who is tagged stays in the pool and becomes another shark; anyone who safely made it across the pool without being tagged gets out and tries again. Continue this until only ONE swimmer remains.
If you live close a natural body of water like a pond, lake, or river, you probably won't be playing any pool-style games, but you can still have fun. Swimming in a lake or a pond can be very relaxing as they are surrounded by nature, but be careful and stay alert. If you're in nature, so are animals, so beware of anything that may be swimming with you! Check with local authorities to ensure any potential swimming holes are safe.
Camping
Camping is a classic summer activity that many people look forward to all year. Whether you enjoy sleeping in a tent or renting a cabin, camping is a great way to disconnect from technology and enjoy nature. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you go and bring along plenty of supplies. We've put together a quick little list of the top things you should bring with you on your camping trip.
A Tent: You will need a tent to sleep in while camping outside, unless you're in an RV or renting a cabin.
Clothes and Shoes: Make sure to bring clothes and shoes that are suitable for the weather outside so you stay comfortable. It never hurts to plan for the best but prepare for the worst. Even if you check the weather forecast and it says blue skies, pack that light raincoat or bring an umbrella just in case. If you're not doing a huge hike into your campsite, you'll be happy you have the extra items.
Sleeping Bag or Blankets: You need something warm and cozy to keep you warm at night when it gets cold outside, and a good sleeping bag is a great choice for camping. There are so many types of bags out there with different qualities, so choose your gear wisely. If you're camping in the summer you probably don't need a bag that will keep you warm in -50 degree temps! And if you're hiking a long way to your campsite you might want to make sure you bring a lightweight bag vs a bulkier and heavier bag.
Food and Drinks: Bring food and drinks so that you can have a nice meal during your camping trip! And don't forget a camping stove, fire starter, collapsible pot, etc. Food is no good if you can't cook it, too!
Flashlight or Lanterns: Having flashlights or lanterns with you will help you see when it gets dark outside, so make sure not to forget these! A headlamp is a great option as well since you can keep your hands free while still illuminating the area you're looking at!
Fishing
If you’re looking for a relaxing and rewarding outdoor activity, fishing is a great choice. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, there’s something exciting about waiting for that big catch. Plus, fishing is a great opportunity to spend quality time with friends and family.
Make sure you get your fishing license and understand the areas where fishing is allowed and where it is prohibited. Familiarize yourself with the kinds of fish you are likely to catch in your are and prepare your gear and bait accordingly.
Keep in mind that some fish are edible and some are better off to release after catch. Size, season, area you're in - they all play a role in whether or not you can eat what you catch, so know the rules before you set out.
Playing Cornhole
Cornhole is a game that’s perfect for backyard barbecues, beach days, and camping trips. The game involves tossing regulation cornhole bags towards a target board, and it’s easy to learn and fun to play. Plus, it’s a great way to engage in friendly competition with friends and family.
Cornhole is an incredibly fun outdoor activity for the summertime! It's a great way to get outside and enjoy the sunshine with family and friends of all ages. It’s easy to learn how to play, so it a perfect game for anyone who has never tried it before.
Before you hit the road, make sure to pack all the necessary cornhole supplies and don’t forget to bring some beanbags! You can find classic cornhole bags or weather-resistant bags made specifically for outdoor games. And don’t worry if you don’t own a set of boards, you can find a ton of great designs online!
Having A Picnic
Sometimes, the best outdoor activities are the most simple. One of our favorite summer activities is having a picnic in the park or on the beach. Pack a basket with your favorite foods and drinks, and settle in for a day of relaxation and people watching.
There aren't a whole lot of "rules" when it comes to picnics. Throw something down on the ground to sit on (or don't!) and break out some food and drink. You can be as simple or as fancy as you want. Some folks like to bring a basket of fancy foods. Many others prefer something simple and easy to travel with, like a bag of snacks or premade sandwiches. Whatever you want - it's your picnic!
Get Out and Enjoy The Great Outdoors
Summer is a time for adventure, relaxation, and making memories with loved ones. No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the summer months. From hiking and biking to swimming, fishing and cornhole games, these outdoor activities are sure to keep you entertained all summer long. So, grab some friends, get outside, and make the most of this beautiful season!