How to Travel to Connect with Nature

Looking for a way to connect with nature and bring the family on a trip everyone will love? From mesmerizing blue seas to towering green mountains to the animals that inhabit each and every bit in between, there is so much of our earth to be seen and explored and you don’t have to travel far for this experience. Right in our backyard in the USA there are diverse ecosystems and fun adventures to enjoy and learn about nature first hand. Check out the best ways to connect with nature and plan your next family adventure.

Photo by Syda Productions

Backpacking Trips

The best way to connect with nature is to jump right in and fully immerse yourself! What could be more fun than spending a weekend amongst the trees and the mountains, just you and your family? Grab your backpacks and head off. National Parks across the country offer backpacking permits and trails for you to hike along the mountains and spend your nights under the stars. From backpacking in Yosemite to camping along the lakes of Acadia National Park in Maine, there is so much of the US to explore. And by backpacking in these parks, you’re completely cut off from modern amenities. Pack what you need, and hike your way to the camp spot.

Photo by Acadia National Park

Camping Trips

If backpacking is a little too intense for you, try some of these other campsites around the country. Dinosaur National Monument in Colorado or Joshua Tree National Park in California are rated some of the most popular, kid-friendly parks for camping in the country. Pitch a tent or bring your RV in the designated areas, make some s’mores around the campfire, and spend your days exploring the park’s amenities. Many campsites have tons of activities, ranging from hiking, fishing, swimming, to bike riding, boating, and more.

Photo by National Parks Service

Snorkeling in California

The best way to learn about water ecosystems is definitely to see them with your own two eyes. If you’re traveling through the West Coast, make your way to California’s Santa Catalina Island, off the coast of Long Beach. The island is surrounded by clear, teal waters that make you think you’re in the Caribbean. Rent all the gear you need, grab your guide, and hit the waters. You’ll see tons of different types of fish and sea creatures, plus with a qualified guide, you’ll learn all about these different animals and their habitats. Turn your trip into a road trip to explore the best of California’s coasts while you’re at it.

Photo by Scuba Diver Life

Explore the Everglades

One of the more unique ecosystems in the United States is right in Florida! The Everglades National Park is a subtropical wilderness area, letting you not only experience nature, but learn about a part of nature you won’t get to see otherwise. The park lets you go camping, bird watching, boating, and biking, as well as the chance to view all the coolest wildlife from alligators to flocks of birds and more. Make your trip to the Everglades even more unique by turning it into a road trip across Florida — stopping at beaches, lakes, and more in between.

Photo by Romrodphoto

Take a Bike trip through New England

From snow-capped mountains, towering pine trees, changing colors in the fall, and stunning beauty all around — New England is the perfect backdrop for your family-friendly nature adventure and you can see all those natural wonders from the seat of your bike! Bike share and bike rental programs across the region allow you to grab all you need for your adventure. Check out trails like the Blackstone River Greenway in Rhode Island or the Island Line Trail in Vermont for the best of the forest and watery landscapes.

Photo via Youtube