Even though the ground is cold, the trees are bare, and the nights are long – it’s time to be thinking ahead to sunnier times outside. If you enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, and traveling in the warmer months – January is a necessary time to prepare. In order to make the most of your family’s outdoor experiences, take advantage of these five reminders for your Seacoast outdoorsy family.
5 New Year Reminders for Outdoorsy Seacoast Families
1. Reserve Your New Hampshire State Park Campsites
One of the best ways to immerse your family in nature is by spending a weekend camping at a New Hampshire state park. New Hampshire opens state park reservation system on January 1st and busy summer weekends fill up! Not sure where to stay? Some of my favorite family-friendly campgrounds near the Seacoast include: Pawtuckaway State Park, White Lake State Park, and Bear Brook State Park. New to camping with your littles? Take a look at my tips for camping with babies and toddlers.
2. Purchase Your Resident Fishing and Hunting Licenses
For families who enjoy fishing and hunting, it’s crucial to start the year off right by obtaining the the necessary licenses. In both New Hampshire and Maine, your previous years licenses expire on December 31. For $45, I purchase a fishing license so I can help my kids fish in local waters the entire year (kids don’t need a license). Check out some local fishing spots to take them fishing near the Seacoast!
3. Purchase Your 2024 America The Beautiful Pass – or Get a Free One for Your 4th Grader
Consider making 2024 the year to visit America’s National Parks! This $80 pass will give your family (or carload) free entry into properties and places in the National Park System. I got one last year. While I only used it for one actual national park (Acadia) – it was used for multiple national monuments, the White Mountain National Forest parking lots, and national shorelines. What’s more, all US 4th graders receive a free pass through the Every Kid Outdoors program that encourages kids and their families to explore the great outdoors. One of our fellow writers documented taking advantage of this program with her family this past year!
4. Purchase Your New Hampshire Hike Safe Card
Does your family hike in New Hampshire? The New Hampshire Hike Safe Card is an essential purchase for those who frequent the state’s trails. This card provides emergency services coverage for hikers who may need assistance in case of an accident or unexpected situation. By purchasing the $35 family coverage ($25 individual), you contribute to funding of search and rescue efforts! If you are NH resident and already have a fishing or hunting license, then you already receive this coverage.
5. Register the Kids for Summer Camp:
Summer camp is an exciting prospect for many Seacoast kids! Our region offers a variety of outdoor camps where kids can engage in activities like kayaking, hiking, nature exploration, and more. Enrolling your children in a summer camp not only provides them with unforgettable experiences but also fosters a lifelong love for the outdoors. Now is the time to check out the available options and get registered. Check out our comprehensive directory of summer camps in the region!
These New Year Reminders Can Help You Get Outdoors This Summer
January’s cold days make summer seem far away. However, I hope these New Year reminders will provide opportunities for Seacoast families to get out and about in our warmer months. From camping under the stars to exploring national parks – make the most of the Seacoast and its natural beauty! Happy adventuring!
