Make Your New Year’s Resolution to Explore the Outdoors

The start of a new year is the perfect time to consider taking on a fresh challenge. If you want to step out of your comfort zone this year, why not make exploring the outdoors your resolution? There are many ways to start the new year exploring the great outdoors. Camping, hiking, or kayaking are great ways to explore the areas you live in, especially in Florida where I currently reside.

Camping

A great way to connect with nature is camping. Immerse yourself right in the heart of the outdoors. Whether you prefer camping in a camper, tent or even renting a cabin it is a fantastic way to get back to nature and explore your surroundings with the comforts of a basecamp nearby.

To find a camping site check your local state parks or county parks for reservations. Starting January 1st, 2024, Florida residents will get a month’s head start on camping reservations in the state parks. This is fantastic news for me! It can be a challenge to make reservations in the Florida State Park during certain times. This will give me a bit of a chance to score some awesome sites. Fingers crossed. Be sure to register your driver’s license on the Florida State Parks site to be eligible if you are a current Florida resident.

You can also find camping spots in the National Park Service. These are great sites, especially for those who enjoy tent camping.

Another great way to find campsites is to check out Campspot. The site will help to locate campsites in your area that will fit your needs.

Hiking

If getting more exercise is your New Year’s resolution, then why not combine it with exploring the great outdoors with hiking? There are fabulous trails to explore in every skill range. If you need help locating a trail near you check out AllTrails. This downloadable app will find trails near you and in your skill level.

Hiking is a fabulous and fun way to get your family outdoors. My kids loved Ravine Gardens State Park, here in Florida. It is a great spot for kids to get excited about being outdoors. Our most challenging hike with the boys was at Table Rock State Park in South Carolina. I was not prepared for the altitude on that hike! But the views were amazing.

Kayaking/Canoeing

A great way to keep your New Year’s resolution of exploring the outdoors is by canoeing or kayaking. It is currently manatee season in Florida and the perfect time to paddle the many springs and waterways in the state. If you live further north, you may have to wait for the coming spring to dip into the water.

Many state parks have canoeing and kayaking available. Renting a kayak or a canoe is a good option if you don’t currently have one, plus it helps to find out if it’s a sport you would enjoy before making a financial commitment.

Check out Paddling for location maps near you.

Another great resource to check out are tour groups for kayakers. If you are in the state of Florida, one of our favorites is Get Up and Go Kayaking. They know the best locations to explore and are very informative about the area. They have several tour locations throughout the state of Florida.

No matter how you choose to explore the great outdoors, get outside and begin the New Year with new adventures!

Disclaimer:  There are a few things with affiliate links above.  If you use the link to purchase through, thank you very much!  I may receive a small percentage for my recommendations.