Summer is here! Not only do we have warmer weather, but we also have more hours of sunshine.
Getting kids outside can be harder than it was when we were kids. Gone are Saturday morning cartoons, replaced with on-demand 24-7 programming. Add in video games, phones, and other devices and it is hard to compete with the call of the outdoors.
I am teaming up with Claritin® to help to get families outside more! The Outsideologist Project is meant to help families get their kids outside for just one extra hour per week, and to foster a love of nature and the beauty of the world around us.
Here are my favorite ways to get outside with my kids in the Lincoln, Nebraska, area.
1. Hiking In Our State Parks
During the spring and summer of 2020, my husband and I decided to start hiking our many state parks. Each weekend, we would pick one and head out. We both love to hike and it was a way to get out of the house for a day. As we all remember, we were spending A LOT of time in our houses last year, so a day away from our house meant a lot to everyone. Not only did we discover different parks within a short drive of Lincoln but it also fostered a new found love of our state park system.
- Pawnee State Recreation Center
- Schramm Park State Recreation Area
- Platte River State Park
- Mahoney State Park
- Indian Caves State Park
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2. Jump in a Lake
When it gets super toasty in the summer, we head to one of the surrounding lakes to swim, build sandcastles, wave at the boats and just relax by the water. Don't forget to pack buckets and shovels! The best time to visit the lakes during the summer are the weekdays and weekend mornings. It gets pretty packed there otherwise, but it is still fun!
- Branched Oak Lake (We prefer Area #10)
- Pawnee State Recreation Park (I like Area #1)
- Stage Coach State Park
The only big drawback to lakes in Nebraska is the algae. There was a time that we loaded up the car, drove out to the lake and found a green layer of plant life covering the entire section of the lake that we had planned to enjoy. To quickly check and see if there is a harmful algal bloom at a lake just check out Nebraska's DEQ site here. They update it daily. Remember to practice swimming safety when at the lake – make sure a lifeguard is present and keep eyes on littles at all times.
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3. Go Fish!
Fishing is a wonderful way to connect with your family. Whether you are an avid fisherman or new to it, it is a great way to spend time with your children and spouse.
- Oak Lake Park. Lincoln, NE
- Holmes Park. Lincoln, NE
- Memphis State Recreation Area. Lincoln, NE
- Conestoga State Recreation Area. Denton, NE
- Pawnee State Recreation Area. Lincoln, NE
- Bluestem State Recreation Area. Martell, NE
- Wagon Train State Recreation Area. Lincoln, NE
- Stagecoach State Recreation Area. Lincoln, NE
- Branched Oak State Recreation Area, Raymond, NE
- Olive Creek State Recreation Area, Hallam, NE
4. Visit a Zoo
We have two great zoos in our backyard: the Lincoln Children's Zoo and the Omaha Children's Zoo, plus the Wildlife Safari Park! Visiting zoos not only teaches children about the importance of taking care of our environment, but it is also a wonderful way to enjoy the outside. Our favorite outdoor place at the Omaha Zoo is the new seal area; they are incredibly engaging creatures and so much fun. At the Lincoln Zoo, nothing beats feeding the giraffes!
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5. Walk in the Prairie
I love the Nebraska prairies and two of my favorite spots to visit and walk among the tall grass are at Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center and at Pioneers Park. The best part? Both of these places are free to visit. Just wear good walking shoes, bring water, and don't forget your binoculars for birding!
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There is so much to explore in Lincoln, Nebraska, but with ideas from The Outsideologist Project, you can discover the fun even from your own backyard! In fact, with The Outsideologist Project Kits, making the most of your family time outside has never been easier.
I was provided a complimentary kit from The Outsideologist Project and compensation for this article, but all opinions are my own.
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------------This contest has closed
Enter to win an Outsideologist Project Kit from the makers of Claritin®. Each kit includes items to inspire your child’s outdoor exploration as well as samples of Children’s and Adult’s Claritin® so Outsideologists of all ages can get the powerful, non-drowsy allergy relief they need to embrace the wonders of the outdoors. Use as directed. Click HERE to enter! NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the United States who are at least 18 years of age at time of entry. Sweepstakes commences at 12:00AM ET on 7/16/21 and ends at 11:59PM ET on 8/16/21. Subject to Official Rules at https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OKoHGMu9cg8htJrFilAV4UN8ydyvRki5mBEdRKfXLrs/edit. For prize descriptions see Official Rules.
Join us in getting one extra hour a week outside and get inspiration from the Outsideologist Project on Instagram and Facebook! Share your outdoor adventures using #GetOutside. Find Claritin® on Facebook & Instagram.
