In a world where screens dominate our attention and schedules overflow with commitments, there is something profoundly liberating about stepping outside and immersing oneself in nature.

For families craving adventure and a break from the mundane, the great outdoors offers a vast playground of possibilities.

From hiking through rugged trails, to camping under a blanket of stars, outdoor adventures provide not only excitement but also opportunities for bonding, learning, and personal growth.

Thrilling Activities for All Ages

Outdoor adventures come in all shapes and sizes, catering to the diverse interests and abilities of every family member. For those with a thirst for adrenaline, activities like rock climbing and zip-lining offer heart-pounding excitement against the backdrop of stunning landscapes.

Treetop Quest, Gwinnett’s aerial adventure park, will challenge you physically and mentally as you maneuver from tree to tree through obstacles and zip-lines. Often referred to as Gwinnett’s best kept secret, the park is a hidden gem just 2 minutes from the Mall of Georgia at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center.

Treetop Quest’s largest park is conveniently located off highways 85 and 985. They have seven courses and a unique harness-free course. The hours are Monday-Friday 9:00 AM-5:30 PM and Saturday-Sunday 9:00 AM-7:30 PM. Ticket prices average $19.99-$39.99 per ticket, and they are currently offering $5.00 off when you purchase tickets online. The Buford location has an adventure for everyone! Be sure to check out their website.

Camping: A Gateway to Wilderness

Few experiences rival the magic of camping under the vast expanse of the night sky. For adventurous families, camping is not just a recreational activity; it is a lifestyle that fosters resilience, resourcefulness, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of life. Whether pitching a tent in a remote wilderness area or parking an RV at a designated campground, camping offers families the chance to unplug from technology and immerse themselves in the rhythms of nature. From roasting marshmallows around a crackling campfire to sharing stories under a canopy of stars, camping creates memories that last a lifetime.

My family personally loves Don Carter State Park located at 5000 North Browning Bridge Rd Gainesville, GA 30506. This park offers several choices for overnight getaways. Two-bedroom cabins are perched on wooded hillsides near the lake. One campground is designed specifically for RVs, while another primitive camping area is just for tents and hammocks. Don Carter is the only state park on Lake Lanier. Situated on the north end of the reservoir, the park offers outstanding recreation for water lovers. Boat ramps provide quick access to the lake and Chattahoochee River, while a multi-use trail welcomes hikers and bikers to explore the hardwood forest. Guests can stay cool at a large, sand swimming beach with bath house. My daughters especially love the beach area! There are so many fun activities offered at this state park. Every family member is sure to find something that they will love including biking, boating, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, paddling, swimming, picnicking, and kayaking.

There is a $5.00 entrance fee per vehicle into the park, which gives you access to all activities. If camping, you will need to make a separate reservation on the park’s website. The park’s hours are 7:00 AM-10:00 PM, and the office hours are 8:00 AM-5:00 PM.

Water Water Everywhere

The Sugar Hill Splash Park is tucked behind City Hall and borders a large outdoor space just above The Bowl with tables, umbrellas, and plenty of turf to spread out a picnic blanket. Visiting local splash pads is a fantastic way to get outdoors with the family this summer. Splash pads offer families a place where kids can run, jump, and skip through the fountains while parents enjoy relaxing in the sun with other families and friends. And the best part…it is free! There is absolutely no cost to enjoy the splash pad and the green space around the area. All you need to do is break out the beach towels, a blanket, and pack a picnic basket, and you are all set for a fun and exciting day that your kids will love.

Make sure to mark your calendars for Splash Night, an event that takes place ever last Friday in May-September from 5:00-9:00 PM. Splash Night brings residents, visitors, local food trucks, artists, bounce houses, and musicians into one event space for a night of fun. As the sun sets, settle in for an epic movie. You will even receive a free gift if you are one of the first 100 people to arrive.

May 31 – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

June 28 – Barbie

July 26 – Elf

August 30 – Back to the Future

Movies begin at sundown.

The Splash Park is in The Plaza at 5039 W Broad Street Sugar Hill, GA 30518. For additional information on upcoming events, you can visit their event page.

So, what will you do this summer?

In a world that often feels chaotic and fast-paced, the call of the great outdoors offers a welcome reprieve—a chance to slow down, reconnect with loved ones, and embark on unforgettable adventures. For the adventurous family, every trail blazed, every river crossed, and every tree climbed is not just a destination but a journey—a journey of discovery, exploration, and boundless possibility. So, grab your hiking boots, pack your sense of wonder, and set forth into the great outdoors.

The adventure of a lifetime awaits!

Sarah Jones
Preschool Coordinator

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