June is Great Outdoors Month and #TeamPublicLands at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service presents our top five list to get you outside. There are so many great activities, we hope to pique your interest.

America’s public lands, including national wildlife refuges, national fish hatcheries, parks, and forests, offer tremendous opportunities to explore and enjoy the great outdoors, most from sunrise to sunset every day. Hike, fish, observe, and photograph wildlife! Studies show that spending time in nature benefits physical and mental health, academic performance, and overall quality of life.

These wonderful places offer unique opportunities to see wildlife, but it’s always important to remember your personal safety. Make sure your equipment is in good working order and take the possibility of severe weather into account before departing for the outdoors. Visitor safety and wildlife conservation are our top priorities. Have fun on your adventure!

Watch Wildlife

Animals in national wildlife refuges, parks and public lands are wild. Visitors have the amazing opportunity to view mammals, sea turtles, birds, and many other species as they live and interact with each other in their natural homes. Just remember to keep your distance!

Visitors are responsible for their own safety and for the safety of the animals, too. Keep a safe and respectful distance from animals. No touching, no feeding, and no harassing.

No expensive equipment is necessary to enjoy wildlife watching.

All you really need is a good field guide for birding or butterflies and a decent pair of binoculars, smartphone, or camera. Even those aren’t necessary. Enjoy the experience of being out in nature!

Get Moving

Whether you like to walk, hike, ride horseback, or bike, there is a trail for you. We offer more than more than 2,500 miles of land and water trails at national wildlife refuges, national fish hatcheries, and wetlands.

Trails give visitors the chance to escape our modern world and experience new adventures. Be prepared for your walk or hike and know your limits. You can find a wide range of trails to accommodate different skills and capabilities.

You won’t miss out on the spectacular views, wildlife sightings, and connection with nature by choosing an easier trail for your adventure.

National Trails Day recognizes all the incredible benefits federal, state, and local trails provide for recreation and exploring nature.

Water is Open

Whether you’re in a boat, canoe, a kayak, or a rowboat, moving through the water is spiritually exhilarating. It’s a wonderful way to spend a few hours outdoors with friends or by yourself.

National Fishing and Boating Week is the perfect time to grab your poles and head on out to your nearest lake or fishing spot and create some memories with friends and families.

Before heading to the water, don’t forget to check updates on closures, restrictions, regulations, and other information