Turkey season is long over and there are still a few months left to wait until deer season. The thought of this might have you hibernating the summer months away indoors. But that doesn’t have to be the case. There are plenty of activities you and your family can take part in on your property this summer.
Take a Hike
Lace up your hiking boots and explore the lay of your land. Hiking is one of the oldest and most popular pastimes in the world. Even if your land doesn’t have designated trails, you have the opportunity to explore wherever you want! The best part about hiking is you’ll never know what you’re going to find. You may discover a pond that was hidden by the trees or a new spot to set up a hunting stand. Of course, in the woods, you’re bound to run across some critters. Hiking is fun, but getting bit by a tick isn’t. Before heading out, check out our blog to learn ways to protect yourself from these irksome and sometimes dangerous pests.
Plant A Garden
If you don’t already have one, find a place on your land with optimal conditions to start a garden. You can plant your favorite vegetables to accompany fresh summer dishes, or plant your favorite flowers to add pops of color to your land. It might not seem like it would keep you busy, but maintaining a garden is actually quite time-consuming. Your days will quickly become filled, and you may even come to realize that you’ve had a green thumb all this time.
Plan A Picnic
Invite your friends and neighbors over for a picnic! All you need is a couple of old blankets or beach towels and something to carry your food in. Typically, picnics are held on flat pieces of land, but the location is really up to you and what your property has to offer. As for food, you can show off all the vegetables you grew in your garden or even make it a potluck event.
Go Fishing
There’s nothing like spending a cool, summer morning fishing and taking in all the sounds around you. In fact, many hunters enjoy fishing in the offseason, and if you have a body of water on your land, it’s an inexpensive way to get outside and take in the sights. Fishing on your private land probably won’t require a license, but if you have a flowing river or stream, it’s best to check with your local wildlife office.
Camp
Instead of driving to your usual campsite this summer, camp right there on your own land. Camping allows us to feel closer to the land and allows us to get in touch and build connections with nature. Become more familiar with the sounds and the lay of the woods, and you might just give yourself a competitive advantage in the hunting months to come.
Stargaze
When you’re out away from the light pollution of the city, you can see all the stars the night sky has to offer. Next time you’re camping or on your land after sunset, take a moment to stargaze. If you have children with you, try to see if they can spot any constellations. Instead of watching videos or scrolling through posts on their phones or tablets, their attention will be on the stars.
Host A Bonfire
Bonfires have a reputation as being a fall activity, but who’s to say you can’t have one in the summer? All you need is some dry wood, lawn chairs and good friends, and you have a fun-filled evening ahead. Of course, no bonfire is complete without smores and the best scary stories.