Resolve to make 2025 the year you spend more time outside, enjoying fresh air and reconnecting with the wonders of nature. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or RVer or just starting out, now is the perfect time to set new goals, dive into some fun activities, and embrace all the amazing experiences that the outdoors has in store for you.
We’ve put together 25 outdoor resolutions to ignite your adventurous spirit, push your limits a little, and create some memories to help make 2025 your most exciting, fulfilling, and nature-rich year ever!
1. Elevate Your Campfire Cooking
Let’s be real – hot dogs are great to begin with, but after awhile, they can get pretty boring. Resolve to spice up your campfire meals this year with smoky breakfasts in a cast iron skillet, perfectly grilled kebabs, or indulgent, fancy s’mores.
Here’s a tip: kick things off with foil packet meals. Just toss in your favorite veggies, some protein, and seasonings, wrap it up, and let the fire do its thing. Feeling adventurous? Go for a Dutch oven dish like a campfire cobbler. Your camping buddies will definitely appreciate it!
2. Check Out a New National Park
You may already know that the U.S. is home to 63 jaw-dropping national parks – but how many have you actually visited so far? From Utah’s vibrant red rock formations to Montana’s breathtaking glacier valleys, choose one (or a couple) to discover in 2025.
Pro tip: Get an America the Beautiful Pass for unlimited access to parks. When possible, you might also consider going during the off-peak season for smaller crowds and reduced fees.
3. Give Winter Camping a Shot
Winter camping feels like being inside a snow globe – beautiful snowy views, peaceful nights, and no pesky bugs or crowds around. Snuggle in your tent after a day of wandering through snowy paths. Sounds pretty awesome, huh?
Just be sure to gear up with a sleeping bag designed for cold weather and a sturdy four-season tent. Start with something easy, like camping in your backyard or at a nearby site you can drive to, to gain some confidence before tackling bigger trips.
4. Minimize Your Camping Footprint
Are you a nature lover? Prove it by practicing the seven Leave No Trace core principles. Make sure to take your trash with you, stay on designated paths, and choose reusable items like silicone bags and foldable water bottles. Small adjustments like these can really make a difference.
Outdoor enthusiasts generate tons of waste yearly – literally. Do your part to keep wild spaces beautiful for the next generation!
5. Pick Up Basic Wilderness Survival Skills
Enhance your time outdoors by learning key survival skills. Just think about how cool it would be to find your way using a map and compass, start a fire without any matches, or find clean water when you’re out in nature. These skills are not just handy in emergencies; they also help you feel more connected to nature.
Start with the basics. Try practicing fire-making at home or learn to spot a few edible plants in your area. Lots of outdoor groups offer survival workshops, so see if there’s one close to you. Whether you’re looking to stay safe or just want to be more self-sufficient, these skills will definitely make you a more adventurous camper.
6. Try Canoe or Kayak Camping
Love the water? Dive into canoe or kayak camping! Paddle through through calm lakes or meandering rivers during the day, then set up camp along the shore at night. It’s tranquil, a bit challenging, and super rewarding!
Newbies might consider starting with a guided trip or picking a route that has easy access to campsites. Great spots like Minnesota’s Boundary Waters or Florida’s Everglades provide stunning views and a range of difficulty levels. Remember to bring dry bags for your gear!
7. Begin a Nature Journal
Embrace your outdoor escapades by starting a nature journal. Write about a stunning sunrise, or draw a wildflower, or list the birds you see. Journaling promotes mindfulness and helps you appreciate the small wonders around you.
No need to stress about making it perfect! Journaling is all about enjoying the experience, not creating a masterpiece. In the process, though, you’ll create a treasured keepsake brimming with memories and moments you might have missed otherwise.
8. Go Urban Camping
Who says you need to hit the road for hours to enjoy camping? Urban camping makes it easy to get outdoors right in your own city. Rooftop tents, backyard hangouts, or even special urban camping spots are fun ways to soak up the camping atmosphere without the long trek.
Urban camping is perfect for trying out new gear or introducing kids and friends to the camping experience. String up some fairy lights for a warm vibe, roast marshmallows over a little fire pit, and take a break from everyday life while staying close to home!
9. Join a Trail Maintenance Crew
Show some love for the trails you enjoy by getting involved in volunteer trail maintenance. These dedicated folks put in a lot of effort to ensure hiking paths are safe and easy for everyone. You’ll not only help keep these areas in great shape, but also meet fellow outdoor lovers!
Trail maintenance can include everything from clearing away fallen branches to constructing water bars that help prevent erosion. Don’t worry if you’ve never done it before; most organizations provide tools and training. Plus, many programs offer some cool perks like free camping or meals!
10. Plan a Multi-Day Backpacking Trip
Swap out those day hikes for an unforgettable multi-day adventure! Imagine yourself exploring serene woodlands, your backpack filled with essentials, and falling asleep beneath a blanket of stars. It may seem a bit daunting at first, but once you dive in, you’ll be totally captivated.
Not sure how to start? Look for beginner-friendly trails like the Max Patch Loop on the Appalachian Trail or the Rae Lakes Loop in California. Take some shorter hikes to get comfortable with your gear and build your confidence before you embark on your journey.
11. Take a Weekend Break from Technology
When was the last time you really took a break from everything? Set a goal to disconnect for a weekend – no emails, no social media, just you and the great outdoors. Use this time to recharge, reflect, and enjoy the moment without any digital interruptions.
To make it easier, pick a campsite with limited or no cell service and let your friends and family know you’ll be offline. Bring along a good book, hiking boots or a fishing pole, and relish the joy of being fully present in nature. You might just find yourself wanting to make this a regular thing!
12. Take a Newbie Camping
Remember your excitement over going camping for the first time? Why not spread that excitement by taking someone who’s never been camping before? Showing a friend, family member, or co-worker the beauty of the great outdoors can be a memorable experience for both of you.
Choose a campsite that’s beginner-friendly with some basic facilities. Load up on tasty snacks and plan activities like stargazing or roasting marshmallows. Be patient and ready to help with any questions they might have. Seeing their joy as they witness their first campfire will help you relive the magic, too.
13. Take on a Tougher Hike
Make 2025 the year you challenge yourself by choosing a trail that’s a bit more demanding than your usual ones. Whether it’s a steeper path, a longer distance, or tougher weather, pushing your limits is a great way to boost skills and confidence.
Do your research – read up on trail reviews, study the maps, and make sure you’re physically ready with the right gear and snacks. Don’t forget to tell someone about your plans before heading out!
14. Discover Outdoor Photography
Take your camping experiences to the next level by taking photos of the gorgeous nature around you. No matter if you’re armed with a smartphone or a DSLR, diving into outdoor photography is a fun way to bond with the environment.
Experiment with shot framing, using natural light, and trying out different angles. There are plenty of apps and online guides to help you learn the ropes. Begin with simple subjects like sunsets, blooming wildflowers, or a clear night sky. Once you get the hang of it, your pictures will become cherished keepsakes of your escapades.
15. Join an Outdoor Clean-Up Day
Make a real difference by participating in a clean-up event in your community! Whether at a beach, park, or along a riverbank, these gatherings are perfect for meeting other nature enthusiasts while doing something good.
Look for local groups or websites like Keep America Beautiful to find nearby events. Bring gloves, trash bags, and a cheerful spirit. You’ll not only improve the area but also feel great knowing you helped keep it beautiful for everyone else.
16. Take a Chill Pill
Unwind and connect with nature by diving into relaxing activities like fishing or wildlife watching. These are all about patience and can give you some seriously calming, meditative vibes as you find yourself more in tune with the world around you.
Not sure where to kick things off? Check out local wildlife refuges and state parks. If you’re going for fishing, consider grabbing a beginner’s kit and checking if you need a license in your area. Remember, whether you catch a fish or spot a unique bird, the real joy is in the journey, not just the outcome.
17. Create a Welcoming Experience for All
Take some time to learn about outdoor accessibility and support groups that focus on diversity in nature. It can be as simple as inviting friends or family from different backgrounds to join your adventures. You can also spread the word by sharing helpful resources and teaching others about inclusivity. The great outdoors should be enjoyed by everyone, and your efforts to foster a friendly environment will make a big difference!
18. Discover Indigenous Land Histories
Make your outdoor adventures even more meaningful by diving into the stories of the Indigenous peoples who have long cared for the land you’re exploring. Many trails, parks, and campsites have deep-rooted histories that go back long before modern times, and knowing these stories can really deepen your appreciation for nature.
Connect with the land in a more respectful and thoughtful way by checking out tools like the Native Land app to learn about the ancestral lands you’re visiting. You can also take it further by supporting Indigenous-led conservation projects or visiting cultural heritage sites.
19. Support Eco-Friendly Gear Brands
Choose outdoor gear from brands that prioritize the planet. Seek out companies that utilize recycled materials, uphold fair labor standards, and are open about their sustainability efforts. Your purchasing decisions can push the outdoor industry towards a more eco-conscious future.
Patronize brands known for their green practices, such as Patagonia or REI Co-op, and opt for durable products that stand the test of time. Whatever you’re in the market for, every item you buy can help lessen your environmental impact while you enjoy nature.
20. Host a Campfire Storytelling Night
Gather friends and family for a cozy night of storytelling by the campfire. Dive into spooky ghost stories, reminisce about fun adventures, or let your imagination run wild with some tall tales. It’s a classic way to connect, share laughs, and create lasting memories.
Get everyone involved by having some prompts ready. If there are kids around, encourage them to put their own spin on the stories. The warm glow of a campfire combined with the magic of storytelling can transform a regular night into something truly special.
21. Embark on a 52-Hike Challenge
Keep your energy up and your spirits high all year long with the 52-Hike Challenge – one every week for a whole year! It’s a bold yet doable goal that lets you discover new paths, breathe in the fresh air, and stay fit.
Kick things off by checking out hikes near you, then branch out to new areas as you go. Apps like AllTrails can help you keep track of your adventures and find exciting new trails. Whether you’re going for a casual walk or tackling a tough ascent, every hike gets you closer to your goal and strengthens your bond with the great outdoors.
22. Camp in All Four Seasons
Why stick to just summer for camping? Embrace the distinct charm of every season! Spring showcases blooming wildflowers and pleasant temperatures, summer gifts you with extended daylight and clear, starry skies, fall dazzles with colorful leaves, and winter reveals peaceful, snow-blanketed views.
Camping in all four seasons does take some planning, like dressing in layers for those chilly winter nights or packing extra water for hot summer days, but the benefits are incredible. Each season offers fresh sights, sounds, and challenges, ensuring your outdoor adventures stay thrilling all year long.
23. Stargaze in a Dark-Sky Certified Location
Swap out the city lights for the stunning view of the Milky Way by heading to a dark-sky park. These certified spots provide some of the best stargazing experiences around, thanks to their low light pollution. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the cosmos and gain a fresh perspective on life.
Bring along a cozy blanket, a thermos filled with hot cocoa, and a star chart to enhance your adventure. Keep an eye out for special events like meteor showers or guided stargazing sessions to make your trip even more memorable. Whether you’re identifying constellations or simply enjoying the beauty of the night sky, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.
24. Explore a Beautiful Trail on Two Wheels
Bikepacking is the perfect blend of cycling and camping, letting you dive deep into nature while covering more distance. Pack your bike with some lightweight camping essentials and set off on an adventure that’s both exciting and rewarding.
Consider routes like Oregon’s McKenzie Pass or the C&O Canal Towpath for stunning views and bike-friendly paths. If you’re new to bikepacking, start with shorter trips to get the hang of your gear, then gradually tackle longer rides. It’s a great way to challenge your stamina, and the sense of freedom and fresh perspective you gain makes every mile worthwhile.
25. Plan a Group Camping Adventure
Get ready to enjoy the great outdoors by organizing a camping trip with your friends or family! Whether you’re heading out for just a weekend or a longer escape, camping together is a fantastic way to create lasting memories.
To keep things easy and enjoyable, assign different tasks like planning meals, packing gear, and setting up activities. Pick a campsite that suits everyone’s comfort level, and spice things up with group activities like a campfire cook-off or a group hike. Sharing these experiences in nature will bring everyone closer and guarantee a blast for everyone involved.
Leslie is a travel writer, copywriter, and web designer who gets butterflies from telling stories through words and visuals.
Her voice comes from a place filled with passion, dreams, and lots of sugar. “Cake over steak” is her go-to motto.
With over 10 years of experience in crafting words, and years of embarking on travels that have taken this Montana girl to some incredible places, Leslie loves the adventures of both body and mind her writing takes her on.
To see what Leslie’s up to in the writing and design world, visit her website here.
