Want to get involved in the outdoors but feeling nervous or unsure where to start?
We've got you covered!
Below, we’ve put together some introductory resources for a few different outdoor activities, as well as places to go, gear to consider, and safety tips to keep in mind! This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it is a great starting point.
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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 :)
Starting resources for different activities!
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Day Hikes: this can mean anything from a walk around the park to an all-day intense trail. If you’re not sure what to wear or how to start, check out this post - it covers everything you need to know to have a great hike! If you don't know where to go in Kingston, check out our Kingston Field Guide webpage.
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Plants and Wildlife: Did you know over 100 species of birds are regularly seen in Kingston? 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.
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Camping: Below, we have created a slideshow with some of the most important tips for planning and preparing for a safe trip outside.​ For more camping-specific resources, check out the Parks Canada Learn to Camp program. Ontario Parks also has a blog with 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? Consider joining the Crown Land Camping in Ontario facebook page for resources and information!
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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. Alternate resources for gear we don't carry may include gear rentals from your local outdoor equipment store, buying non-name brand and/or second-hand equipment from sources like Facebook Marketplace or thrift stores, or purchasing gear at discounted prices from businesses like The Last Hunt.
QOFEI's camping 101 tips and tricks!
