It’s National Camping Month, the perfect time for an outdoor adventure with loved ones. But what do you do when your colleagues, friends or family members aren’t as enthusiastic about nature as you are? Whether it’s the fear of wildlife, the overwhelm of the harsh elements, or just a general disinterest in the wilderness, getting your loved ones to enjoy the great outdoors can be a challenge. In this post we’ve rounded up our favorite tips and tricks to help the hesitant, skeptical adventurer embrace their experience in Mother Nature, even if they’re initially begrudging about it.
Start Small & Simple
If your friend or family member is new to outdoor activities or have had bad experiences in the past, starting with small, manageable outings can make a big difference. Consider low-commitment activities like short walks in a local park, an outdoor picnic, or a visit to a botanical garden. These small and simple outings can help ease them into the idea of spending more time outside without the overwhelm.
Focus on Their Interests
Find ways to incorporate their hobbies, passions and interests into outdoor activities. If they love photography, take them to a scenic spot where they can capture beautiful landscapes or wildlife. If they’re foodies, plan a trip to a farmer’s market or an outdoor cooking experience. By aligning with their unique interests, you can make the experience more appealing and enjoyable for them.
Don’t forget to provide a variety of options also. After all, monotony can kill enthusiasm. Keep things interesting by offering several selections – from kayaking and paddleboarding to cycling and camping, different activities can cater to different preferences. Experiment with different options to find what resonates most with your friends or family members.
Equip Them Properly
One major deterrent for outdoor activities is the discomfort and fear that comes with being unprepared. Ensure your friends or family members have all the right gear for the activity: comfortable footwear, layers of weather-appropriate clothing, insect repellent, sunscreen, hat and of course- a waterbottle and snacks. When they feel comfortable and protected (and energized!), they’re more likely to enjoy their time outside.
Enhance their comfort even further by choosing locations with amenities such as clean restrooms, shaded areas, and seating. For example, a park with picnic tables, restrooms, and a playground might be more inviting than a rugged hiking trail. As they become more confident and comfortable in the outdoors, you can gradually introduce more challenging environments.
Educate & Engage
Sometimes, a reluctance to embrace nature stems simply from a lack of understanding. To overcome this, try sharing fascinating facts about the environment, wildlife, or all the health benefits of being outdoors.
Framing outdoor activities as a way to boost health can make them more appealing, especially for those who are health-conscious. It’s true- the fresh air, physical activity, and natural light of Vitamin N(ature) is proven to improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
To further engage your companion, try hands-on activities like birdwatching, plant identification, or even a simple scavenger hunt. Education and awareness can transform indifference into curiosity and appreciation.
Make It Social
Sometimes, the best way to get someone excited about an activity is through social interaction. Invite other friends or family members who enjoy the outdoors. Group activities like a barbecue, a group hike, or a beach day can make the experience more fun and less about the nature itself. The focus shifts to quality human connection, and the outdoor setting becomes a secondary benefit.
Be Patient & Positive
Lastly, it’s important to maintain a positive attitude and be patient. Don’t push too hard or show frustration if they’re not immediately thrilled. Celebrate small victories and acknowledge their efforts. Positive reinforcement can encourage them to try again and gradually build a positive association with outdoor activities.
Remember to always lead by example. Your enthusiasm can be contagious. Share your positive experiences and what you love about the outdoors. Post photos, tell stories, and invite them along without pressure. Sometimes, seeing how much you enjoy nature can inspire them to give it a try.
Helping your loved ones develop their own love for the outdoors requires patience, persistence, creativity, and understanding. If you’re lucky, in time you can watch their begrudging attitude turn into genuine appreciation, and like you, they’ll want to return to nature again and again.
Ready to get outfitted for your next adventure? Our premium canvas wall tents are hand-sewn and ready for generations of exploration and recreation in the outdoors.
Interested in more tips and tricks about sustainable adventuring? SUBSCRIBE to our email list below, and receive monthly deals, news and insight from our team of trailblazers.