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Play in Nature: Why Unstructured Time Outdoors Matters
What nature play is, why unstructured time outdoors matters for kids and adults, and simple ways to start, from stick forts to scavenger hunts and easy games.
Activities & Nature Play
Nature Play & Games
8 guides, starting with Play in Nature: Why Unstructured Time Outdoors Matters.
How to Play Spud
Learn how to play Spud, the classic outdoor ball game: what you need, step-by-step rules, who is out, common variations and tips for running it with groups.
Nature Forts: How to Build a Shelter From Sticks and Branches
How to build a nature fort from sticks and branches: choosing a site, simple lean-to and tepee designs, no-tools methods, safety checks and how to leave the site tidy.
Nature Scavenger Hunt Ideas for Trails, Parks and Yards
Nature scavenger hunt ideas for trails, parks and backyards, with formats for preschoolers, kids and adults, plus how to plan one, keep score and stay safe.
Orienteering Activities for Beginners: Games and First Courses
Beginner orienteering activities and games for kids and adults, from map-reading warm-ups to your first simple course, with the basic skills you need to start.
Outdoor Nature Games for Groups of Any Size
Outdoor nature games for small and large groups, from awareness and tracking games to tag variations, with simple rules, equipment notes and tips for adapting by age.
Outdoor Scavenger Hunt List of Items to Find
A ready-to-use outdoor scavenger hunt list of items to find by theme, including nature, color, sound and trail lists, plus tips on running a hunt and keeping it safe.
Things to Collect in Nature (and What to Leave Behind)
Ideas for things to collect in nature, such as leaves, stones and shells, plus what to leave behind, local rules, and ways to display and enjoy your finds.
Related topics
More in activities & nature play
Outdoor Hobbies & Adventures 7 guides, starting with Outdoor Hobbies Ideas to Get You Off the Couch. Outdoor Activities By Audience 5 guides, starting with Activities to Do Outside Any Day of the Week. Seasonal Outdoor Activities 6 guides, starting with Fall Season Activities for Crisp Days Outdoors. Outdoor Benefits & Biking 3 guides, starting with Benefits of Outdoor Recreation for Body and Mind.