Local Outdoor Summer Activities That Are Low to No Risk

June 23, 2020

Summer is here, and while COVID-19 is still very much a concern, Kitsap County is currently in Phase 2 of Washington state's "Safe Start" re-opening plan. There are many great ways to get out and enjoy each day without doing anything that's high risk. We've compiled some low to no risk ideas for you with a variety of local resources. Our main focus: outdoor activities. Experts say indoor spaces are riskier than outdoors. For more on this, we recommend checking out NPR's article in which experts rate the risk of 14 summer activities. And now for our local suggestions!

Go camping

The Washington Post talked to three public health experts about the pandemic and asked them what they are willing to do and not do this summer. All three said they would go camping because it is relatively low risk if you stay with people in your household. You should also avoid large groups of people and make sure campsites are at least six feet apart. When it comes to using public restrooms, vigilantly wash or sanitize your hands. Here are some great Kitsap camping spots.

Get creative in your own backyard

If you have kids, break out the old sidewalk chalk and make murals and mazes. Or, get household supplies together to build one of these cool outdoor forts. For more classic fun, have a water balloon fight, create a scavenger hunt or paint with squirt guns. The possibilities are endless and these types of activities will help break up long days. Plus, there are many benefits to kids and teens spending time outdoors while maintaining social distance.

Explore a new trail by land or sea

We're so lucky to live in a place with so many great trails. The Kitsap Peninsula has thousands of acres of forested lands and open spaces to enjoy. Now is the time to hop on a bike or put on your walking shoes and check out a trail you've never been on before. State, county, and city parks are open now with safety guidelines to follow. Bainbridge Island's Bloedel Reserve offers timed tickets and everyone must have a ticket in order to enter.

Want to enjoy the outdoors by sea? We have variety of water trails to check out by kayak or boat. Check out the paddling routes available and the Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trail's interactive map. It features over 100 of the most popular access sites and includes information, directions, amenities and more.

Have a social distancing picnic

Although we all miss the pre-COVID-19 days of simply seeing loved ones and hugging people without a second thought, we can still get together as long as we practice social distancing guidelines to keep everyone safe, especially those who are high risk. One way to host a fun get-together is to have a picnic where friends bring their own food, utensils, and a blanket. Blankets should be at least six feet apart. If you don't feel like cooking, support a local restaurant by picking up your food and taking it to your backyard or the beach.

Although this summer isn't like any other, there are many ways that we can still get out and enjoy it. We wish you and your family a healthy, happy season of sunshine!