Rock climbing may seem out of reach (literally) and intimidating for a family outing, but my kids and I love it. It’s been rewarding to see them master the basic skills and scramble up a wall ahead of me. And it’s an easy activity to build a day or weekend …

Here’s a way to get get outdoors with your kids this summer: Visit a National Wildlife Refuge. Every state has them, and many are near a national park. The US Fish & Wildlife Service says these protected areas offer great views, robust visiting centers and outdoor activities, usually without the crowds …

Clomp, clomp, clomp. My legs are aching, my arms feel like they will be pulled from their sockets and I can’t even see the river I’m walking toward with a canoe, a load of gear and my son. I went over the list, checked it twice and made sure everything …