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solo kayaker

8 FUN THINGS TO DO BY YOURSELF OUTDOORS

outdoor things to do solo

Getting outside is the best way I know of to reduce stress, get some exercise, and recharge my batteries. During this era of social distancing, I wanted to put together a list of 8 easy and fun things to do alone outdoors. Day or night, these are fun and mostly free things you can do most anywhere and be rewarded with some much needed solitude, fresh air, and enjoyment. 

women - Gulf of Mexico Clearwater Beach Florida

Although each of these outdoor activities are things to do by yourself, you can bring the family or a small group of friends if you like. They are also great for teens and older children who crave more independence. These things/activities are ideal for any outdoor skill level. But you may find that you need a solo trip with a little time away from the kids. That’s okay! As a mom, I know firsthand that I need to take care of myself if I have any hope of taking care of others. Take care of you! These solo activities will help and you’ll have a great time.

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Eagle Creek Trail
Eagle Creek Trail in Orgeon

GO FOR A WALK/HIKE/RUN

Any and every outdoor adventure starts when you step foot outside the door. So that is where I start this list of outdoor activities. Grab your hiking/running shoes and set your own pace and just get out there. Most shelter in place orders allow for a walk around your neighborhood, so you can start there. Otherwise, head to your favorite trailhead, outdoor space, or park. 

As a bonus, research shows that walking barefoot in the grass or on a beach, also called grounding, can actually improve your mood and health.

GO STARGAZING

One of my favorite things to do alone as a kid was to look up at the stars. Now as an adult, I still enjoy heading out to an open area away from the city to watch the night sky, see shooting stars, or watch an orbiting satellite zoom overhead. Some areas can have considerable light pollution. So it can be helpful to find and use an online light pollution map to  help you find a dark sky. Find more stargazing activities here.

Stargazing

START A GARDEN

All you need is sunlight, a little dirt, and water to start a garden. If you don’t have a yard, you can grow a vertical garden or plant containers on a patio or windows. If you have never grown vegetables before, radishes are super easy as they are ready to harvest in about 30 days. If you have space, try your hand at a butterfly garden or a pizza garden (vegetables and herbs for pizza sauce and a few veggie toppings). 

READ IN THE PARK

There is nothing quite as good as curling up to read a book. Find a shady spot or hammock and dive into a new world within the pages. If you are looking for something new to read, try the Book of the Month club with new titles every month or these outdoor adventure books featuring women on Amazon. 

GO GEOCACHING

For this modern day treasure hunt, all you need is your smart phone and  download the free app Geocaching. Then you can set out in search of caches in your area. Learn about how to get started geocaching here.  

SKETCH OR JOURNAL

It’s extremely relaxing to sit outside and immerse your senses in nature. Grab a notebook, sketch pad, or journal to record what you see. If you are new to this or want to hone your skills before you head out, Craftsy offers some great online classes. I look a nature sketching class and an intro to creating a nature journal that I really enjoyed. You can read about the Craftsy digital classes here. 

canoeing in Whistler
River of Golden Dreams Photo Tourism Whistler

GO CANOEING, KAYAKING,OR PADDLEBOARDING

If you have a canoe, kayak, or SUP, grab it and your personal flotation device before heading to the nearest waterway. I find it 100% relaxing when I get out on the water. I can stop when I want, dip my toes in the water or go for a swim. It’s just a joy to listen to nature around me and go at my own pace.  Note: If you or your kids want to get into kayaking, start with these kayaking tips for beginners. 

outdoor things to do solo

GO FISHING

Fishing is another one of those fun things to do by yourself if you have the equipment. It doesn’t take much; a rod, reel with line, and a few lures or bait. You can spend hours at the lake, pond, or nearby river fishing. You can also do it while kayaking.

It feels great to get out and spend some time by yourself outdoors. These are just a handful of ideas to start out. Give them a try and enjoy getting outside more. 

What other fun things do you do by alone? Tell us about them in the comments below.

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Written by:
Nicky Omohundro
Published on:
May 12, 2020
Thoughts:
2 Comments

Categories: Get Outside

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About Nicky Omohundro

Nicky Omohundro is a travel and active family lifestyle blogger and social media influencer based out of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She shares stories, destinations, and ideas on food, family, health, and outdoor recreation to help families find their own adventures. Her spirit animal is a caffeinated squirrel fueled by coffee, real food, and the desire to seek new adventures.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. blankMichelle

    May 28, 2020 at 8:35 pm

    I love to go for a walk early in the morning before everyone else gets up. It’s so relaxing. Reading in the park is fun, too! This is a great list! You’ve given me some new ideas to try.

    Reply
  2. blankCombinations Play

    April 19, 2025 at 12:55 am

    Love these solo outdoor ideas! I’m picturing myself on the Eagle Creek Trail. Do you think it’s better to stargaze with binoculars for a closer look?

    Reply

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Hello, my name is Nicky, founder of Little Family Adventure. I'm a vivacious mother of three who wants to assist you in having "No Child Left Inside." With one teenager still at home and two young adults successfully out navigating the world, I'm out exploring the world and traveling with and sometimes without them to provide you with fresh food ideas, travel destinations, and family-friendly activities. Allow me to help you discover your own Little Family Adventure!

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