Celebrate Independence Day with Hiking and Camping

Hiking and camping are time-honored American pastimes, so why not celebrate Independence Day with one or both of them? It’s a great way to celebrate freedom and the lovely American landscape. Here are some ideas for celebrating Independence Day with hiking and camping.

1. Backyard Camp Out
You don’t have to travel far for this Independence Day camping event. Here are some ideas on having a backyard camp out on the Fourth.

-Pitch a tent and bring the grill out to the “camp site.” Cook and eat dinner outside. Go for all-American food like hotdogs and hamburgers, and grill potato wedges for fries. Don’t forget the ketchup – and add a few drops of blue food coloring to the mayonnaise!

-In accordance with your local ordinances, restrictions, and location, light sparklers or set off Roman candles while you’re outside.

-Play lawn games and engage in other outdoor activities. After all, you’re outside all night!

2. Bonfire and Stories
In the evening, gather the family at an appropriate location such as a friend or family member’s farm or a state park. Bring after-dinner snacks such as s’mores and sit around the bonfire, telling stories about America’s founding. If you have a veteran with you, let him or her tell stories about serving in the military. You could also prepare readings for your bonfire, such as a reading of the Declaration of Independence or the famous poem, Paul Revere’s Ride.

3. Backpacking
One of the fun things about backpacking is the time you get to spend together as a family. There are no electronic distractions (no electricity at all, in fact!), and everyone has time to think and talk to each other. Why not start a family tradition of backpacking on Independence Day?

Backpacking can take the form of a camping trip that lasts multiple nights, or it can be a day trip only. If you are just going for the day, your backpacking gear does not have to be extensive. If you set up camp overnight, fly the flag at your camp site!

4. Day Hike
A day’s hike is another great way to celebrate Independence Day. Perhaps you could hike somewhere that ends in a location with a perfect view of the night’s fireworks. Or maybe you could hike to a place where you can set off your own (as long as it’s legal, of course). This can become a tradition in your family, and it can be a wonderful way to build memories.

Any of the above suggestions work for establishing family traditions. And as your kids age, they can bring along friends, too.