Whether you’re traveling or staying home, this summer be sure to scout out your local, state and national parks this summer! It’s a hidden treasure trove of adventure!
All summer, we’ve been loving enjoying the Lake County Forest Preserves. And every time we travel, we love visiting the national parks and local preserves. This post contains affiliate links.
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Scout Out Your Local, State and National Parks this Summer
Have you been to the local parks in your area? If no, you don’t know what you may be missing out on. There are hidden gems in any state and just about any area of the country.
Make it a point this summer to explore as many of them as possible. It’s a fun and inexpensive way to enjoy the summer, get out there and explore nature. All the while you’re supporting your local community and the parks themselves.
Parks, no matter how big or small, need to attract visitors to make sure they receive the funding to stay in operation. Go do your part by exploring the parks in your area.
Start Local – Community Parks and Recreational Areas
Start with your local parks. Chances are good that there are quite a few different parks and natural areas within short driving distance that you haven’t been to. Make it a point to explore as many of them as you can this summer.
You never know when you might discover a favorite new spot – something you’ll want to come back to again and again all year. Plan trips to local parks and playgrounds with the kids, explore a new hiking trail, or pack a picnic for lunch or dinner.
If you enjoy camping, check out local parks that have campsites or camping parks in your area. You might have just as much fun camping for a night or two an hour away from your house as you would going much further away.
Discovering State Parks
State parks are another thing worth checking out. Each state has a website dedicated to their state parks and sites. Browse around and find out what’s available in your area. State parks usually require a fee to enter.
If you plan on exploring quite a few of them over the course of the summer, consider getting a yearly pass. In many areas you can get discounted passes at libraries and tourist centers if you’re local.
Call up the state park for more information and while you’re on the line with them see if they have special summer programs, tours etc. You’ll be amazed at how much your state offers through these parks.
National Parks Are Always Worth A Visit
Last but not least, don’t forget about National Parks and National Monuments. Do a quick search and see what’s within driving distance for you. Depending on where you live, there may be several different parks you can explore.
National parks are created for a reason and you know what you find there will be well worth the trip. If there’s nothing close enough for a day trip, it may be well worth spending the night somewhere close, or taking a mini-vacation at or near the national park.
No matter what you do, take the time to get out there and explore everything nature has to offer in your area. Take the kids fishing, or for a bike ride or a hike, pack a picnic and play at the park.
I did not know you can get yearly passes to state parks. That is nice to know!! Last summer I made a planner for exploring some of the state parks. I may have to revisit and maybe explore some them again. My son is a scout so we visit a lot of state parks.
Oh yes! You definitely can in a lot of states. Be sure to check it out.