One of the greatest advantages of being able to take your RV out on the road is being able to spend time outdoors. For many, setting up camp and being surrounded by forests and mountains is the perfect form of relaxation. If you are looking for unique activities to fill your time on your next trip to the woods, we have some great ideas for you.
Although exploring your surrounding area on a hike can be an adventure, if you aren’t as mobile as you once were, you might want to try something a bit less strenuous. Hiking paths can be crowded and sometimes treacherous, taking away from the serene experience that you are looking for. The good news is, a day in the woods can be a wonderful experience without having to complete a grueling hike. From learning a new game by reading some paintball guides to picking up your binoculars and searching the treetops for local or exotic birds, there is never a lack of fun.
Let’s take a look at a few non-hiking activities for your next trip to the woods.
Paintballing
What could be more fun than declaring “war” on your family and friends and having an epic forest battle without the injuries? Paintballing has become a popular pastime for all ages across the country. It doesn’t take a lot of practice to point and shoot these unique paintball guns that will keep you entertained for hours. There are several paintball guides online so you can learn how to play. Head out into the woods and set up your camp behind some rocks or trees and take aim for some fun.
Bird Watching
There are over 1,100 different species of birds in the contiguous U.S. This means that no matter where you travel, you have the opportunity to see a bird species that is new to you. Before you arrive at your destination, do a little research on the birds of the area. You can print out a list of local birds with photos and descriptions to help you with your identification. A leisurely stroll into the woods with your binoculars can make for the perfect day of bird watching. You can even make it fun by competing with your family and friends to see who can spot the most species.
Mushroom Hunting
There are many varieties of edible mushrooms across North America. Some of the most common species including Chanterelles and Morels are fun to search for when you are spending the day in the woods. Although most mushrooms are harmless to humans, it’s never advisable to go mushroom hunting without the right knowledge or a mushroom identification book. There are many “look-alike” species that can be toxic.
Scavenger Hunt
There are so many things to discover when you spend the day in the woods. A perfect activity for the whole family is to plan a Forest Scavenger Hunt. You can download and print a variety of scavenger challenges from online sites to help get you started. Be sure to stay in a group and don’t let the kids roam too far on their own. The winner of the hunt should get an extra s'more to treat at your evening fire.
Heading into the wilderness for some fun and relaxation is a real treat. If you are looking for exciting things to do that don’t include a lot of hiking, try some of these activities for your next trip to the woods.