Happy Father’s Day dads! How are you going to spend your day? Are you going to be driving from house to house or restaurant to restaurant like one father I know? There’s a better way. Get outside!

If you’re like me and it seems like your kids are growing up like weeds right before your very eyes, then you probably feel like I do that quality time spent together is more valuable than gold. But as they get older it gets harder and harder to find ways to really engage them in a meaningful relationship and conversation.

Fun Outdoor Activities for Father’s Day

In our family, the one thing that unites us is the quest for fun. Trouble is we all like different things, at least on the surface. However once we get started, we can usually find fun in each other’s favorite outdoor activities. The key is to find a little something for everyone.

Visit a State or National Park. If you have a big family with diverse interests, spending the day at a state park, usually can cover everyone’s favorite outdoor activities. You can hike, picnic, BBQ, ride a bike, rent a boat, fish, and swim in most state parks. And that’s a lot of fun! Hint: use our search feature on top of this page to find a park near you.

Go Disc Golfing. Combine you favorite sport of golf with their game of Frisbee. You might want to get out on the links today, but most kids find “old man’s” golf boring. However, they tend to fall in love with disc golf instantly. Many state parks have wonderful courses that are challenging and scenic.

Go Backpacking. This takes a little more commitment but even a one night backpacking trip will create memories that last a lifetime. If you have the equipment, it really doesn’t cost much, and you’ll have plenty of time to talk and get to know each other again.

Create a Learning Experience. Today, it seems like the kids are glued to their TVs, video games and phones. Do they ever really learn anything other than how to fudge a standardized test? Take them into the woods. There’s a lot to learn out there. Some you may need to learn together… You can teach them:

• To identify edible plants
• How to use a compass
• The difference between mammals and birds
• To identify the constellations over their heads
• How to start a fire with flint and steel or even just two sticks

Build a Fire and Share Stories. Your kids want to know who you are and who you were. There’s nothing like sitting around a campfire telling tales of days gone by. Let your kids talk too. They will share stuff about their lives that you have no idea about. You’ll give each other a precious gift that will last a lifetime.

Happy Father’s Day! Share a peaceful, relaxing day with your kids (or father), and remember to make your time together quality time by sharing, listening and loving one another.