It is National 'Play Outside Day' and July is National Park & Recreation Month—a nationwide celebration of the ways parks, green spaces, and outdoor activities contribute to healthier, more connected communities. From local trails and scenic bays to playgrounds and beaches, the Alabama Gulf Coast offers endless opportunities to get outside and stay active. Whether you're hiking shaded trails, paddling calm waters, or gathering for a family picnic, the month invites everyone to embrace the outdoors and make the most of the region’s natural spaces.

National Play Outside Day is a grassroots movement that began in 2011 to encourage families to unplug and rediscover the simple joys of outdoor play. According to the National Play Outside Day website, this day was founded by Aaron Wiggans and Rhonda Abeyta, the initiative was created to push back against screen overload and reignite creativity, movement, and connection across all ages. It's a day to lace up your shoes, grab some sunscreen, and head outdoors for fresh air and fun.

Spending time outside isn’t just enjoyable—it’s good for you. Outdoor activity can lift your mood, reduce stress, and support physical health. For children especially, nature encourages imaginative play through hands-on experiences like climbing, building, and exploring. These shared moments—whether catching a sunset, playing a game, or stargazing—help build stronger family bonds and lasting memories. Since the day takes place in July, remember to hydrate and prevent heat exhaustion while participating.

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1. Beaches & Bay

• Gulf Shores and Orange Beach’s Public Beaches – Perfect for shelling, beach games, or family paddle boarding.
  
  
• Orange Beach Waterfront Park – Offers picnic shelters, bay access, and calm water ideal for kids and kayaking.
  
  

2. Gulf State Park

• Trails: Over 27 miles of multi-use trails, including the award-winning Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail—one of USA Today’s top U.S. trails for three years running.
  
  
• Lake Shelby: Fishing, canoeing, or kayaking on a scenic freshwater lake.
  
  
• Fishing Pier & Nature Center: A great place for both education and recreation.
  
  

3. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Traverse scrub forests, and marsh—home to sea turtles, migratory birds, and diverse wildlife. Trails like Jeff Friend and Pine Beach offer 5 miles of exploration.

4. Trails & Parks Beyond

• Fort Morgan Road Trail & Coyote Crossing – Ideal for biking or hiking.
  
  
• Baldwin County Bicentennial Park – Enjoy playgrounds, sports fields, and open green spaces.
  

Simple Ways to Celebrate Today

Choose any—or all—of these fun, low-cost ideas:

• Family picnic at Gulf State Park Pavilion or waterfront shelters.
  
  
• Bike ride or hike along scenic Gulf State Park trails.
  
  
• Shell hunting or wading on the sand at dawn or sunset.
  
  
• Nature scavenger hunt at Bon Secour or Bicentennial Park—spot birds, shells, plants.
  
  
• Games & sports: kickball, Frisbee, beach volleyball, or a casual game of catch.
  
  
• Stargazing tonight—head to less-lit beaches or bay shore for an unobstructed view.

This year, July 5th is a date to rediscover the simple pleasures of outdoor play. From bay breezes and beachcombing to biking and birdwatching, our region offers a wealth of natural playgrounds. Whether you’re with kids, parents, or friends, today is a perfect day to unplug, reconnect, and make lasting summer memories in the great outdoors.