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Exploration Ideas
Go backyard camping
If you and your kids aren’t quite ready to head off into the woods, try starting off with a night of camping in the backyard. Pitch a tent, and if you have a grill or fire pit, roast some marshmallows and hot dogs. Just like camping in the woods, be sure that you have plenty of bug spray, sunscreen, snacks, and water. You’ll also want to have a bucket of water handy whenever you have an open fire going.Create a maze
A great campsite activity is creating a maze using long branches. Start by helping your kids draw out the maze on a piece of paper. Then nominate someone to direct the placement of the branches. Use the map to guide you — but it’s okay if you wind up adjusting the arrangement of the branches as you go.
What to Bring
Plenty of water, even for short hikes — a gallon per person per day is a good guide
Snacks such as fruit or trail mix and empty bags to collect any garbage
Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen
Insect repellent
Warm layers and a lightweight rain jacket
Travel size first aid kit
Map of the area you’ll be exploring and your emergency contact numbers
A small flashlight and batteries
Resources
Safety Tips
Before you get on the trail make sure you have the local Forest Service Ranger District’s or Supervisor’s Office phone number with you. If someone gets hurt this should be the first number you call.
Always let someone know where you're going and what time you expect to be back.
Avoid going if a thunderstorm is in the forecast. Seek shelter in a car or house if you’re caught in a thunderstorm. If you're caught outside, the safest place to be is crouching in a cluster of trees — not in a clearing, out on water, or next to a lone tree.
Be mindful of the sun. Use sunscreen, seek shade, and drink plenty of water — even in the winter.
Animals have their own natural food supply so please don’t feed them.
Fruits and mushrooms can look tasty, but some are poisonous. To be safe, do not eat anything you find growing in the forest.
Railroad tracks are for trains only. Keep to the side and stay off the tracks.
Set a turnaround time when heading out that gives you plenty of time to get back before it gets dark. Expect to spend at least the same amount of time hiking back as you did hiking out.
Bring a small flashlight or another source of light with you if you'll be out close to sunset.