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Great Outdoors Month

Step outside and embrace the beauty of nature during Great Outdoors Month - with endless adventures waiting, there's no excuse to stay indoors!

Monday

1–30

June 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of June

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYTravel

SUBCATEGORYAdventure

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to embrace the beauty of nature and celebrate Great Outdoors Month on June 1! This month-long celebration was established in 1998 by President Bill Clinton to encourage people to spend more time outdoors and appreciate the natural world around them. It's a perfect opportunity to go on hikes, have picnics, go camping, or simply relax and take in the sights and sounds of the great outdoors. So grab your sunscreen and bug spray, because it's time to soak up some vitamin D and enjoy everything that Mother Nature has to offer!

TIMELINE

Great Outdoors Month Timeline

Great Outdoors Week

Establishment of Great Outdoors Week by President Bill Clinton to promote nature's benefits and encourage outdoor activities.

Great Outdoors Month Extended

Great Outdoors Week was extended to a full month by proclamation of President George W. Bush.

National Get Outdoors Day

Introduction of National Get Outdoors Day, aiming to inspire first-time outdoor experiences and combat indoor child syndrome.

Great Outdoors Month Across States

All 50 USA states, Washington D.C, and five territories proclaimed June as Great Outdoors Month.

#EscapetheIndoors Campaign

Launch of #EscapetheIndoors social media campaign, promoting the adoption of outdoor activities during Great Outdoors Month.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Great Outdoors Month

Go camping in a new place

Explore the great outdoors by going camping in a new location! Whether it’s a national park, a state campground, or a secluded spot in the woods, camping is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

HIKE

Hike to a scenic viewpoint

Find a nearby hiking trail and challenge yourself to reach a scenic viewpoint. Not only will you get some exercise, but you’ll also be rewarded with stunning views of nature.

PLAN

Plan a picnic in the park

Gather some friends or family and plan a picnic in the park! Pack some tasty snacks and drinks, and spend the day enjoying each other’s company while surrounded by the beauty of nature.

TRY

Try a new outdoor activity

Challenge yourself to try a new outdoor activity, such as kayaking, rock climbing, or horseback riding. You may discover a new hobby that you can enjoy for years to come.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer for an environmental cause

Show your appreciation for the great outdoors by volunteering for an environmental cause. Whether it’s a beach clean-up, tree planting, or trail maintenance, you’ll be making a positive impact on the environment and celebrating Great Outdoors Month in a meaningful way.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Great Outdoors Month

It brings us closer to nature

In our fast-paced world, it's easy to forget about the beauty and wonders of nature. Great Outdoors Month reminds us to appreciate our natural surroundings and teaches us about conservation and the importance of preserving our environment for generations to come.

It promotes physical activity

One of the main reasons we love Great Outdoors Month is because it encourages people to get outside and be active. Whether it's going for a hike, a bike ride, or simply taking a walk in nature, being outdoors can help improve our overall physical health.

It allows for relaxation and de-stressing

Spending time in the great outdoors has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body. There's something about being surrounded by nature that helps us disconnect from our daily stresses and just relax. Plus, fresh air and vitamin D are good for our mental health!

Related holidays

SAT

Jun 2026

Nature

National Trails Day

Explore your backyard and beyond on National Trails Day - take a hike, go camping, or just enjoy the great outdoors!

National Camping Month

Get ready to unplug and reconnect with nature this National Camping Month! Grab your tent, pack some s'mores, and get ready for an adventure.

Children and Nature Awareness Month

Get your kids outside and explore nature this month! National Children and Nature Awareness Month is the perfect time to bond with your little ones in the great outdoors.

American Adventures Month

Get ready for an exciting month of adventure - explore the great outdoors, try new activities, and make unforgettable memories during American Adventures Month!

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