It’s no secret that spending time in nature is good for you. Research has shown that there are countless benefits to spending time outside, from reducing stress levels to improving mental health. Most of us are aware of these benefits, but we often don’t take advantage of them simply because we don’t know how. And while people often stick to the same old activities like taking a long walk or camping, there are so many other ways to enjoy nature that are often overlooked. If you’re looking for a new way to appreciate the great outdoors, here are a few ideas to get you started.

 

Go Glamping

Have you ever wanted to go camping but were put off by the thought of sleeping in a tent? If so, glamping is the perfect solution. Glamping is a form of camping that is much more luxurious, and often includes amenities like beds, electricity, and even private bathrooms. This means you can enjoy all the benefits of nature without having to rough it. Unlike regular campers, glamper campers often stay in resorts or other designated glamping sites, which makes the whole experience much more comfortable and convenient. Glamping is becoming increasingly popular, so you should have no trouble finding a glamping spot near you. And while glamping is usually a bit more expensive than traditional camping, it’s still the perfect option for a special occasion or weekend getaway.

 

Visit a National Park

There are over 400 national parks in the United States alone, so there’s bound to be one near you. And while visiting a national park may not seem like a unique way to enjoy nature, there are countless activities you can do once you’re there. From hiking and biking to bird watching and stargazing, national parks offer something for everyone. You may also include your whole family in your trip by choosing a national park that offers family-friendly activities like ranger-led programs or Junior Ranger badges. No matter how you choose to spend your time, visiting a national park is a great way to immerse yourself in nature. Best of all, entrance to most national parks is free, so it’s a great activity for those on a budget.

 

Take a Nature Photography Class

If you’re someone who loves taking photos, why not take your hobby one step further by taking a nature photography class? There are tons of different courses available, both in-person and online, that can teach you how to capture the beauty of nature through your lens. You’ll learn about things like composition, lighting, and even post-processing, all of which will help you take better photos. Not to mention, taking a nature photography class is a great way to explore new places and get outside your comfort zone. And once you’ve mastered the basics, you can even start selling your photos as fine art prints or stock images.

 

Join a Hiking Group

Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities, and for good reason. It’s a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the beauty of nature. But if you’re not an experienced hiker, it can be easy to get lost or injured. That’s why joining a hiking group is such a great idea. Not only will you have access to experienced hikers who can help you navigate the trail, but you’ll also make new friends who share your love of nature. There are hiking groups available for all levels of hikers, so no matter what your experience is, you’ll be able to find one that’s right for you.

 

Volunteer at a Local Nature Reserve

If you’re looking for a way to give back to the environment, consider volunteering at a local nature reserve. These reserves often need help with things like trail maintenance, wildlife monitoring, and even educational programming. And best of all, volunteering is a great way to get to know your community and meet new people. You can find a list of local nature reserves on your state or national parks website, or by doing a simple Google search. So if you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy nature, consider giving back by volunteering at a local reserve.

 

Go on a Nature Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger hunts are a great way to get the whole family outside and enjoy nature. And while you can certainly create your scavenger hunt, there are also plenty of pre-made ones available online. All you need is a list of items to find and a camera (or phone) to take photos of your finds. Once you’ve completed the hunt, you can even turn it into a contest by seeing who can find the most items on the list. Not only is this a fun activity for the whole family, but it’s also a great way to explore new places and learn about the natural world.

 

 

Even though we’re surrounded by nature, it can be easy to take it for granted. But by trying one (or all) of these unique ways to enjoy nature, you’ll be sure to appreciate it even more. So next time you’re looking for something to do, consider one of these activities. Your mind (and body) will thank you.