Gas prices can be a significant expense when traveling. For those who want to have a fun, outdoor experience but don’t want to spend a lot of money on fuel, the following ideas may help.
Carpool to the Trailhead
Carpooling is an easy way to save money on fuel costs, as well as wear-and-tear on the car. This is a good idea for when there are several families or individuals that are going on a joint adventure with an organized group, where everyone can chip in a few dollars for gas. Some ways that carpooling can be an easy solution include:
- Youth camping organizations, such as Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.
- Church groups
- Local outdoor clubs, such as a hiking group.
- College outdoor clubs or recreation organizations.
Sometimes these groups have a designated vehicle, such as a van or bus, and so the fuel costs are already factored into the cost of the trip.
Taking Public Transportation
Public transportation is another cheap way to get to the trailhead. If there is a local bus system in the community, research the transit map to see if there is a stop near the trailhead or at a local park. If in a high-density metro area, does the bus, subway, or light rail system have stops at parks, or to natural recreation areas just outside of the city?
Walk or Bike to the Trailhead
Taking a human-powered option not only saves gas, but is also healthy for the body. There may be a local or state park or forest nearby. Communities such as Boulder, Colorado have built mixed pedestrian and bicycle routes so that residents can enjoy walks or jogs, and have hiking trails in the hills close to residential neighborhoods. If there isn’t a park nearby or trail, maybe there is a neighbor or friend that owns farmland, or a few acres next to a stream. Make sure to get permission ahead of time from the landowner to visit.
Finding Adventure at Home
Maybe the above ideas are not an option, and it is not possible, for one reason or another, to get to a trailhead. It still may be possible to enjoy the outdoors right in the backyard. During the summer, set up the tent in the backyard and enjoy a campout with the kids. If there is a lot of snow in the wintertime, construct a snow shelter in the backyard. During a clear night, stargaze with at telescope or star chart. These ideas can be a great way to begin to introduce camping to young children, as the house is just a few footsteps away with access to the restroom, or a solid roof if there is a storm.
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