Things to Do When in the Outdoors: The Ultimate Guide to Outdoor

Discover the Great Outdoors – Adventure, Exploration, Camping, Fishing & Survival!

There is something special about getting outside, breathing fresh air, exploring beautiful landscapes, and experiencing everything nature has to offer. Whether you enjoy hiking through mountain trails, fishing in peaceful lakes, camping beneath the stars, kayaking down scenic rivers, or simply spending quality time with family, outdoor recreation offers something for everyone.

America is home to some of the most spectacular outdoor destinations in the world. From snow-capped mountains and beautiful national parks to crystal-clear lakes, sandy beaches, enormous forests, and rushing rivers, there are countless opportunities to explore. Outdoor adventures can be exciting, educational, relaxing, and even life-changing.

At Survival Merchandise, we believe that outdoor recreation and emergency preparedness go hand in hand. Having the proper camping equipment, survival tools, emergency supplies, outdoor clothing, and first aid products can make your adventures safer and more enjoyable.

Let’s explore some exciting outdoor activities, interesting destinations, and essential equipment that can help you make the most of your next adventure!

Hiking and Exploring Mountain Trails

Hiking is one of America’s most popular outdoor activities. It provides an excellent opportunity to explore nature, enjoy beautiful scenery, improve physical fitness, and discover places that cannot be reached by automobile.

From easy walking trails to challenging mountain climbs, there are hiking opportunities for virtually every experience level. You can explore wooded trails, mountain passes, waterfalls, desert landscapes, and breathtaking overlooks.

Some excellent hiking destinations include:

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Yosemite National Park, California

Zion National Park, Utah

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina

Glacier National Park, Montana

Acadia National Park, Maine

Before heading out, pack plenty of drinking water, snacks, a first aid kit, navigation equipment, a flashlight, appropriate clothing, and an emergency shelter. Even a short hike can become challenging when weather conditions change unexpectedly.

Camping Under the Stars

Camping is a fantastic way to disconnect from everyday distractions and reconnect with nature. Whether you prefer primitive wilderness camping, established campgrounds, tent camping, or RV adventures, spending a night outdoors can create memories that last a lifetime.

Imagine sitting around a campfire, preparing dinner, listening to the sounds of nature, and looking up at a sky filled with stars.

Some excellent camping destinations include:

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Olympic National Park, Washington

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Big Bend National Park, Texas

Custer State Park, South Dakota

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Essential camping equipment includes a quality tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, portable cooking equipment, water containers, fire-starting supplies, weather-resistant clothing, and emergency lighting.

Remember to check campground regulations and fire restrictions before traveling. Never leave a campfire unattended, and completely extinguish it before leaving.

Fishing in America’s Beautiful Lakes and Rivers

Fishing is an enjoyable outdoor activity that combines relaxation, patience, skill, and adventure. Whether you enjoy freshwater fishing, saltwater fishing, fly fishing, or ice fishing, America offers thousands of outstanding fishing opportunities.

Fishing can also be a wonderful family activity. Children can learn patience, responsibility, environmental awareness, and basic outdoor skills.

Some popular fishing destinations include:

Lake Michigan – Excellent opportunities for salmon and trout fishing.

Lake Okeechobee, Florida – Famous for largemouth bass.

Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada – Beautiful scenery and trout fishing.

Lake of the Woods, Minnesota – Known for walleye and northern pike.

Colorado River – Numerous fishing opportunities throughout the Southwest.

Kenai River, Alaska – Famous for salmon fishing.

Chesapeake Bay, Maryland and Virginia – Popular for striped bass and other saltwater species.

Bring appropriate fishing rods, reels, tackle, fishing line, bait, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a first aid kit. Always check local fishing licenses, seasons, and regulations.

Kayaking and Canoeing

If you enjoy spending time on the water, kayaking and canoeing are excellent ways to experience the outdoors from a different perspective.

Paddling allows you to explore quiet lakes, winding rivers, coastal waterways, and beautiful wilderness areas. You may encounter wildlife, discover hidden coves, and enjoy scenery that is inaccessible by road.

Popular destinations include:

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota

Florida Everglades National Park

Lake Powell, Arizona and Utah

Colorado River, Arizona

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin

Buffalo National River, Arkansas

Always wear an appropriate personal flotation device, check weather conditions, understand water currents, and carry emergency communication equipment.

Exploring National Parks

America’s national parks protect some of the country’s most extraordinary natural environments. They offer opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, camping, photography, fishing, scenic driving, and outdoor education.

Some parks are famous for enormous mountains, others for unusual rock formations, spectacular waterfalls, ancient forests, or breathtaking desert landscapes.

A few must-see destinations include:

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: One of the world’s most recognizable natural wonders. Visitors can hike scenic trails, enjoy spectacular viewpoints, and experience the enormous canyon landscape.

Yellowstone National Park: Famous for geysers, hot springs, wildlife, forests, rivers, and beautiful mountain scenery.

Yosemite National Park, California: Known for massive granite cliffs, waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, and incredible hiking opportunities.

Zion National Park, Utah: Famous for towering sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and spectacular hiking trails.

Glacier National Park, Montana: Offers mountain scenery, alpine lakes, wildlife, and extraordinary wilderness experiences.

National parks are excellent destinations for anyone interested in outdoor adventure, photography, camping, and wilderness exploration.

Mountain Biking and Off-Road Adventures

Mountain biking is an exciting way to explore trails, forests, hills, and mountainous terrain. From beginner-friendly paths to technically challenging downhill courses, there are thousands of trails across America.

Popular mountain biking destinations include Moab, Utah; Bentonville, Arkansas; Crested Butte, Colorado; Park City, Utah; and Sedona, Arizona.

For off-road enthusiasts, designated trails also provide opportunities to explore rugged terrain using appropriate off-road vehicles.

Always use approved trails, wear protective equipment, carry repair supplies, and understand the terrain before beginning your adventure.

Wildlife Watching and Nature Photography

You don’t have to climb mountains or travel hundreds of miles to enjoy the outdoors. Sometimes the best adventures involve quietly observing the natural world.

Wildlife watching and nature photography allow you to experience animals, birds, insects, plants, and beautiful landscapes in their natural environments.

Interesting wildlife destinations include:

Yellowstone National Park – Bison, elk, wolves, and bears.

Denali National Park, Alaska – Moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and other wildlife.

Everglades National Park, Florida – Alligators, wading birds, and numerous other species.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Black bears, deer, and abundant birdlife.

Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, New Mexico – Famous for migratory birds.

Bring binoculars, a camera, appropriate clothing, and a field guide. Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and never feed wild animals.

Exploring America’s National Forests

National forests offer enormous opportunities for outdoor recreation. Many provide camping, fishing, hiking, hunting, horseback riding, mountain biking, and scenic driving.

Unlike many heavily visited national parks, certain national forest areas offer a more secluded outdoor experience.

Some excellent destinations include:

White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire

Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina

Coconino National Forest, Arizona

Angeles National Forest, California

San Juan National Forest, Colorado

Superior National Forest, Minnesota

Before visiting, research access restrictions, fire conditions, camping regulations, and available facilities.

Hunting and Outdoor Skills

Hunting is another traditional American outdoor activity. Responsible hunters spend considerable time learning about wildlife, conservation, navigation, weather, and outdoor safety.

Depending on local regulations, hunting opportunities include deer, elk, turkey, waterfowl, and other game species.

Even if hunting isn’t your interest, learning outdoor skills can be extremely valuable. Consider practicing map reading, compass navigation, fire starting, shelter construction, water purification, and wilderness first aid.

These skills can help you become more confident and self-reliant in outdoor environments.

Always follow applicable hunting laws, licensing requirements, firearm safety rules, and conservation regulations.

Swimming, Beaches, and Coastal Adventures

America has thousands of miles of beautiful coastline, offering opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, beach camping, surfing, kayaking, and fishing.

Some outstanding coastal destinations include:

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Clearwater Beach, Florida

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Big Sur, California

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

San Diego, California

Beach adventures are especially enjoyable for families. Pack sunscreen, drinking water, appropriate footwear, towels, snacks, and basic first aid supplies.

Always pay attention to posted warnings, surf conditions, rip currents, and local swimming regulations.

Rock Climbing and Bouldering

For those looking for a more challenging adventure, rock climbing offers an exciting way to experience the outdoors.

Climbing requires physical conditioning, concentration, proper equipment, and training. Beginners should consider taking professional lessons or climbing with qualified instructors.

Popular American climbing destinations include Yosemite, California; Red River Gorge, Kentucky; Joshua Tree, California; Smith Rock, Oregon; and Red Rock Canyon, Nevada.

Never attempt technical climbing without proper instruction, equipment, and an understanding of climbing safety.

Discovering Waterfalls and Natural Wonders

There is something spectacular about discovering a beautiful waterfall hidden in a forest or tucked away in a mountain valley.

Waterfall hikes are excellent outdoor adventures because they combine exercise, exploration, and incredible scenery.

Some impressive destinations include:

Multnomah Falls, Oregon

Niagara Falls, New York

Yosemite Falls, California

Havasu Falls, Arizona

Cumberland Falls, Kentucky

Snoqualmie Falls, Washington

Tahquamenon Falls, Michigan

Research trail conditions before visiting. Rocks near waterfalls can be extremely slippery, and water levels may change rapidly.

Stargazing and Nighttime Outdoor Adventures

One of the most enjoyable outdoor experiences is spending an evening beneath a dark, clear sky.

Away from city lights, you may be able to see thousands of stars, planets, constellations, and even the Milky Way.

Some outstanding stargazing destinations include:

Big Bend National Park, Texas

Great Basin National Park, Nevada

Death Valley National Park, California and Nevada

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah

Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania

Bring warm clothing, comfortable seating, a flashlight with a red-light setting, and a star chart or astronomy application.

Nighttime outdoor adventures are also an excellent reminder of why reliable lighting and emergency supplies are important.

Learning Wilderness Survival Skills

Outdoor recreation can be fun, but it also provides an opportunity to develop practical survival skills.

Learning how to survive in an unfamiliar environment can make a tremendous difference during unexpected emergencies.

Important wilderness survival skills include:

Building an emergency shelter.

Starting a fire safely.

Finding and treating drinking water.

Understanding basic navigation.

Identifying potential hazards.

Recognizing weather changes.

Administering basic first aid.

Signaling for emergency assistance.

Understanding food storage and wildlife safety.

A wilderness survival course can be an excellent investment for anyone who regularly camps, hikes, hunts, fishes, or explores remote areas.

Family Outdoor Adventures

Outdoor activities provide wonderful opportunities for families to spend time together away from television, computers, and everyday distractions.

Children can learn valuable skills while enjoying nature and developing an appreciation for the environment.

Some family-friendly outdoor activities include:

Nature walks and easy hiking trails.

Fishing and teaching children how to cast.

Family camping trips.

Bird watching.

Geocaching and outdoor treasure hunts.

Swimming and kayaking.

Campfire cooking where permitted.

Identifying trees, plants, and animal tracks.

Photography and nature journals.

Start with activities appropriate for everyone’s age and experience level. Bring extra food, water, clothing, and basic emergency supplies.

Outdoor Cooking and Campfire Meals

Cooking outdoors can be one of the most enjoyable parts of a camping adventure.

There is something satisfying about preparing a hot meal after a long day of hiking, fishing, or exploring.

Portable camp stoves, camping cookware, lightweight utensils, food storage containers, and insulated water bottles make outdoor cooking easier.

Popular camping meals include:

Breakfast burritos.

Campfire potatoes.

Grilled vegetables.

Hot dogs and hamburgers.

Foil packet dinners.

Trail mix and energy snacks.

Dehydrated camping meals.

Ready-to-eat emergency meals and MREs.

Always follow food safety guidelines, store food securely, and obey campground fire restrictions.

Exploring Deserts and Canyons

Desert environments offer some of the most unique outdoor experiences in America.

From enormous sandstone formations to colorful canyons and unusual desert plants, these environments provide excellent opportunities for photography, hiking, camping, and exploration.

Interesting destinations include:

Monument Valley, Arizona and Utah

Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Death Valley, California and Nevada

Arches National Park, Utah

Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

White Sands National Park, New Mexico

Desert adventures require special preparation. Carry sufficient drinking water, protect yourself from the sun, understand temperature changes, and avoid hiking during extreme heat.

Preparing for Unexpected Outdoor Emergencies

Even experienced outdoor enthusiasts can encounter unexpected situations.

A sudden thunderstorm, equipment failure, injury, lost trail, vehicle problem, or unexpected overnight stay can turn an enjoyable adventure into a serious situation.

This is why emergency preparedness should always be part of outdoor planning.

Consider carrying the following supplies:

First aid kit.

Emergency survival blanket.

Fire starter and waterproof matches.

Flashlight or headlamp.

Extra batteries or power bank.

Water filtration system.

Emergency food.

Multi-tool or appropriate survival knife.

Compass and physical map.

Emergency whistle.

Paracord.

Weather-resistant clothing.

Emergency shelter or tarp.

Never rely exclusively on a cell phone for navigation or emergency communication in remote areas. Let someone know your itinerary and expected return time.

Why the Right Outdoor Equipment Matters

Having the right equipment can make the difference between a comfortable outdoor experience and a difficult one.

Quality outdoor gear helps protect you from changing weather, improves comfort, supports emergency preparedness, and allows you to enjoy more activities.

Whether you are purchasing camping equipment, hiking accessories, survival tools, emergency lighting, water purification products, or first aid supplies, choose equipment appropriate for your destination and activities.

Don’t wait until an emergency happens to discover that your flashlight doesn’t work, your first aid kit is incomplete, or you don’t have a reliable way to purify drinking water.

Prepare before you leave home!

Make Outdoor Adventure a Regular Part of Your Life

You don’t have to travel across the country to experience the benefits of outdoor recreation.

A nearby state park, local hiking trail, neighborhood fishing lake, nature preserve, or campground can provide excellent opportunities to get outside.

Try something new every month. Visit a different park, learn a new outdoor skill, take a camping trip, explore a river, or introduce your family to fishing.

Outdoor adventures encourage exploration, self-reliance, physical activity, and an appreciation for America’s beautiful natural resources.

The more time you spend outdoors, the more opportunities you have to develop valuable skills and create unforgettable memories.