Want to get involved in the outdoors but not sure where to start or feeling nervous? We’ve got you covered!

Below, we’ve put together some beginner resources for a few outdoor activities, as well as places to go, gear to consider, and safety tips to keep in mind (adapted from this great guide prepared by TheBlackOutdoors)! This isn’t an exhaustive list but just meant to be a starting point.

Remember: there is no one way to enjoy the outdoors! Everyone’s relationship with the outdoors will look different. Whether you’re outside for a 5-day camping trip or having a family picnic at the park, the goal is to have fun and be comfortable in whatever you do :)

Activities

• Day Hikes: this can mean anything from a walk around the park to an all-day intense trail. If you’re not sure where to go, what to wear, or how to start, check out this post - it covers everything you need to know to have a great hike!

• Plants and Wildlife: Did you know over 100 species of birds are regularly seen in Kingston? Or that you can find plants with exploding seed pods? Or that there are moths that look like they stepped out of Pokemon?
  It can be surprising to learn just how many cool species there are around us (even in the city!). Luckily there are lots of great resources to start identifying and learning about the life around you. People often pick a group of species to get started with, like birds or plants. But you can start wherever and however you like - the most important thing is to just have fun and be curious! Check out our Field Guides and Species ID page for more species and resources.

• Camping: Outdoor gear stores can have helpful beginner resources for camping & other outdoor activities, on topics including camping gear, tent set-up, cooking, and more helpful tips! Here are a few to check out: SAIL blog; Cabela’s Guides; REI Youtube
  For more camping-specific resources, check out the Ontario Parks Learn to Camp program. They also have a glossary that defines lots of terms about camping and the outdoors, and other introductory blogposts on various outdoor activities. Interested in camping on Crown Land? Check out the Crown Land Camping in Ontario facebook page for resources and information!

• Gear and Equipment: Some outdoor activities require specific equipment or apparel, and it can be hard to know where to start, or to commit to buying something if you don’t know whether or not you like the activity yet! We have compiled lots of different outdoor equipment and apparel that you can rent out for free through our lending library.