The Healing Power of Nature for Families

How many times have you promised yourself that you’ll make it to the beach more often, take that family hike, or spend an afternoon at the park—only for the busyness of life to get in the way? As parents, planning an outing can sometimes feel like more work than it’s worth. But time and time again, I’ve found that once my son and I make it outside, we never regret it.

As a mother to a little boy who turns three in December, I’ve discovered that some of our most meaningful moments together don’t happen inside our home or surrounded by distractions—they happen outdoors, immersed in nature.

Living on the Oregon coast, we are incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by beaches, forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails. One of our favorite adventures was exploring the tide pools near Yaquina Head Lighthouse in Newport. My son and I gently poked around the rocks, searching for sea creatures and observing everything we could find. Another memorable outing was our hike to Drift Creek Falls near Lincoln City. The trail tested our strength, especially during some of the steeper climbs, but working through those challenges together reminded me that we are stronger and more capable than we sometimes realize.

We’ve also spent countless afternoons walking along the beach, feeling the icy ocean water rush in and out around our feet and letting the sand slip between our toes. Those simple sensory experiences—the sound of crashing waves, the salty air, and the cool water—have become some of my favorite memories with my son.

While playgrounds certainly have their place, I’ve noticed that forests, hiking trails, and beaches offer something different. Parks can sometimes feel overstimulating with large crowds and endless activities, but when we’re alone in nature, my son’s energy seems to expand in a peaceful way. He becomes fascinated by bugs, leaves, trees, and the little details around him. His worries seem to disappear, and honestly, so do mine.

Recently, after about a week without spending much time outdoors, we stopped along a trail near Regatta Park in Lincoln City. We sat together near the trees, and while my son was happily exploring the plants and leaves around us, I was reminded of how naturally children connect with the outdoors and how much they learn simply by observing and exploring.

Nature changes me as a parent, too. The initial work of planning a nature day—packing snacks, sunscreen, water, extra clothes, and getting everyone out the door—can feel overwhelming. But every time we make the effort, I’m grateful that we did. Once we’re outside, I feel my nervous system calm. I breathe more deeply, think more clearly, and move through the rest of the day with more patience and energy. Instead of reacting from a place of overwhelm, I feel grounded, present, and capable.

I’ve also noticed that our conversations change in nature. Rather than focusing on tasks or distractions, we find ourselves saying things like, ‘Look how beautiful the trees are,’ ‘Do you hear the birds?’ or ‘Look at all the colors in the sky.’ We become more present with one another and more aware of the beauty that surrounds us.

If you’re looking for affordable ways to spend time outdoors as a family, start small. Pack a picnic, grab some water and snacks, and visit a local trail or park.

My biggest advice is simple: choose one morning or afternoon, pick a location, pack what you need, and go without expectations. Take a walk, sit beneath the trees, listen to the waves, and let your children explore at their own pace.

Spending time in nature is more than just an activity. It’s an opportunity to reduce stress, reconnect with ourselves, create memories, and give our children space to learn and grow.

Five Favorite Family Nature Spots on the Central Oregon Coast

• Yaquina Head Lighthouse (Newport) — Explore tide pools and coastal views.
• Drift Creek Falls (near Lincoln City) — A family hike with a suspension bridge and waterfall.
• Regatta Park (Lincoln City) — Playground, trails, and lake access.
• New playground in Southworth Park (Waldport) — A great stop for active little ones.
• Nye Beach area park (Newport) — Pair a playground visit with a beach walk.

Nature Day Packing List

• Water bottles
• Snacks or picnic lunch
• Sunscreen
• Blanket
• Backpack
• Extra clothes
• Beach toys or magnifying glass