My Outdoorsy Mom - Blog

Explore a variety of articles on outdoor activities, tips, and family adventures to inspire your next nature-filled experience with your kids.

10 Reasons Why Your Kids Need to Be Bored This Summer
Julianne Nienberg Julianne Nienberg

10 Reasons Why Your Kids Need to Be Bored This Summer

We’re officially halfway through summer—and if your kids are anything like mine, the phrase “I’m bored” has come up a few times

. But what if boredom isn’t something to fix? What if it’s something to welcome?

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Homeschool Curious? How Outdoor Play, Community, and One Mom’s Pivot Sparked a Movement | Morgan Bergstrom, Basecamped
Julianne Nienberg Julianne Nienberg

Homeschool Curious? How Outdoor Play, Community, and One Mom’s Pivot Sparked a Movement | Morgan Bergstrom, Basecamped

What happens when a burned-out corporate recruiter has a vision for something different—something more connected, flexible, and outdoorsy? She builds it herself. Meet Morgan Bergstrom, founder of the Basecamped app, in this inspiring conversation about family rhythms, homeschool curiosity, and the beauty of not doing it alone.

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Our Favorite Upper Peninsula Spots for Summer Family Travel
Julianne Nienberg Julianne Nienberg

Our Favorite Upper Peninsula Spots for Summer Family Travel

Looking to explore Michigan’s Upper Peninsula with your kids? In this episode of The My Outdoorsy Mom Podcast, Julianne shares her favorite UP destinations, RV camping tips, and family memories that will inspire your next trip north.

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Real-Life Family Travel Tips from Midwest Travel Mama
Julianne Nienberg Julianne Nienberg

Real-Life Family Travel Tips from Midwest Travel Mama

In this episode of The My Outdoorsy Mom Podcast, I’m joined by Kristen Keeler—mom of three and creator of Midwest Travel Mama. Kristen shares how her family went from backyard play to exploring hidden Midwest gems through road trips and affordable adventures. Whether you’re new to family travel or looking to make the most of weekends and school breaks, you’ll love her practical tips and encouragement.

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How to Do Mackinac Island on a Budget (Without Missing the Magic)
Julianne Nienberg Julianne Nienberg

How to Do Mackinac Island on a Budget (Without Missing the Magic)

Dreaming of Mackinac Island but worried about the cost? This episode of The My Outdoorsy Mom Podcast breaks down how to plan a budget-friendly day on the island, packed with insider tips, family-tested hacks, and a whole lot of scenic magic—without draining your wallet.

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Summer Is Coming: The Mindset Shift & Simple Hacks That Will Save Your Sanity
Julianne Nienberg Julianne Nienberg

Summer Is Coming: The Mindset Shift & Simple Hacks That Will Save Your Sanity

In this solo episode, I share a dose of real talk and hard-won wisdom for every mom preparing for summer break. From embracing boredom to building a simple summer bin, this episode will leave you feeling encouraged, empowered, and ready to enjoy the chaos of summer with less stress and more soul-filling simplicity.

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A Minimalistic Mother’s Day Gift Guide for Outdoorsy, Low-Key Moms
Julianne Nienberg Julianne Nienberg

A Minimalistic Mother’s Day Gift Guide for Outdoorsy, Low-Key Moms

Tired of Mother’s Day gift guides that don’t actually feel like they’re made for real moms? I’ve rounded up my favorite gifts for outdoorsy, low-key moms who just want to sip coffee outside, skip the foot spa, and maybe get a hike in. From park passes to cute gear, this guide is fully shoppable and mom-approved.

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How to Raise Kids Who Love Travel, Nature, and Adventure (Even in the Digital Age)
Julianne Nienberg Julianne Nienberg

How to Raise Kids Who Love Travel, Nature, and Adventure (Even in the Digital Age)

In this heartwarming episode, I chat with Lisa Stanworth—a mom of five, travel enthusiast, and host of the Choose Your Happy Place podcast. Lisa shares how her childhood shaped her love for the outdoors, how she keeps things simple and adventurous with kids from toddlerhood to the teenage years, and why walks, multi-generational travel, and tech boundaries matter more than ever. Whether you’re dreaming of big family trips or just want ideas for getting outside after dinner, Lisa offers down-to-earth advice you’ll love.

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The Best Affordable Rain Gear for Kids: My Top Picks for Wet Weather Play
Julianne Nienberg Julianne Nienberg

The Best Affordable Rain Gear for Kids: My Top Picks for Wet Weather Play

Rainy days don’t have to be a wash. I’ve rounded up my favorite affordable rain gear picks for kids—because getting outside in wet weather is way more fun when everyone stays dry (and your wallet does, too). These kid-approved finds are durable, budget-friendly, and made for mud-splattered adventures.

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How 15 Minutes Outside Every Day Transformed My Kids’ Independent Play
Julianne Nienberg Julianne Nienberg

How 15 Minutes Outside Every Day Transformed My Kids’ Independent Play

What started as a desperate mom move to survive the toddler chaos turned into one of the best parenting decisions I’ve ever made. Just 15 minutes outside every day—no fancy activities, no big expectations—transformed how my kids play. Here’s how a tiny habit grew our outdoor routine, built confidence, and gave me my sanity back.

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