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October is the perfect month to get outside — the air is crisp, the leaves are turning, and there’s just the right amount of spooky in the atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, a mindful outdoor reset, or something playful to do with friends, October is full of opportunities to enjoy nature. Here are five of our favorite outdoor activities from the October Funtivity Card in the ExploreMore app: 1. Creepy Crawlies Close-Up 🕸️ Spiders are in their prime during October, spinning intricate webs that sparkle with morning dew. While they may seem spooky, spiders are crucial for controlling...

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National Public Lands Day 2025 is Saturday, September 27. National Public Lands Day is a nationwide volunteer day and a fee-free day at many federal sites. Learn what it is, why it matters, and 5 fun ways to celebrate near you. What is National Public Lands Day? National Public Lands Day (NPLD) is the nation’s largest single-day volunteer event for public lands, held every year on the fourth Saturday in September. This year that’s Saturday, September 27, 2025. It’s coordinated by the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) with support from agencies and partners across the country. NPLD is also a...

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By: Haley Cottey Download our nature activities booklet for free here. Why Outdoor Play Matters for Kids Daily time spent outdoors is essential for raising little explorers. Just one hour of outdoor play offers powerful developmental benefits: it strengthens the immune system, boosts fitness and agility, enhances concentration and mood, and nurtures problem-solving skills, imagination, patience, and an appreciation for nature. There’s truly no downside—just be sure to apply sunscreen, use bug spray, and supervise! 4 Simple Ways to Inspire Outdoor Adventure 1. Let Kids Get Dirty, Take Risks, and Learn by Doing Allowing kids to explore, get messy, take...

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  Enjoy Nature at Your Pace Spending time in nature isn't just for hikers and camping enthusiasts—everyone can reap the mental and physical benefits of Creation, even if you're not particularly "outdoorsy" (we will skip over the fact that I actually think that term is silly). From boosting your mood to strengthening your immune system, green spaces are powerful. Here are five simple ways to enjoy the fresh air—no rugged gear needed: 1. Explore a Community Garden, Farm, or Arboretum Love nature, but prefer a relaxed environment? Visit a local community garden, farm, or arboretum for a peaceful stroll among flowers...

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Recreating outdoors—whether hiking, backpacking, paddling, or camping—comes with unique risks. Even if you are at a city park, uneven terrain, unpredictable weather, wildlife encounters, and limited cell service all increase the chance of accidents or medical emergencies. Unlike urban environments, help isn’t always minutes away. Being trained in wilderness first aid can mean the difference between a minor incident and a life-threatening situation. Whether you are a hiking guide or just recreating with friends or even alone, some basic wilderness first aid knowledge can make all the difference in your exploration. Common Outdoor Emergencies You Might Face Sprains, strains, and fractures ...

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