Part 2: Get Back to Nature -- Adventure Awaits!

Summer can be a time of uncertain expenses with school-aged children in many activities that can burn up your budget in a hurry with unplanned meals, snacks and travel expenses. Your summer can still be full of family fun with a few money-savings tips.

If your family enjoys the great outdoors, be sure to include Mother Nature in your plans for low-cost summer fun. Consider the following adventures that won't burn up your budget:
  • State Parks -- Iowa has a number of state parks that offer hiking and a couple even offer caves to explore! Iowa parks do not typically charge a daily admissions fee for Iowa residents. Enjoy forests, beaches, parks and preserves!
  • Your own backyard -- Homeowners may consider an outdoor picnic, yard camp-outs, sleep-overs, stargazing, or even just an evening outside making s'mores. Just because you're at home doesn't mean you can't transform your space into something memorable.
  • Hike/trail walking -- Explore your area for walking trails and hiking paths. You never know what you might see along the way! Flowers, birds, deer and maybe some other critter could cross your path! Bring your camera!
  • Go Fishing -- Take your family fishing. Some states may offer a "free fishing weekend," with no license required. Check the requirements in your area.
  • Geo-caching -- The free official Geocaching app lets you search for treasure in many local places. The locations are endless! Bring a pen to sign the logbook inside the cache!