There’s something restorative about stepping away from the noise of daily life and into the natural world. Studies continue to show that going a little wild — submerging yourself in nature — is good for you.
Spending time in nature has mental, emotional and physical health benefits. This includes both green and blue spaces. For many people, being by water is especially healing.
Lisa Nisbet, Ph.D., a psychologist at Trent University in Ontario, Canada, told the American Psychological Association, “There is mounting evidence, from dozens and dozens of researchers, that nature has benefits for both physical and psychological human well-being. You can boost your mood just by walking in nature, even in urban nature. And the sense of connection you have with the natural world seems to contribute to happiness even when you’re not physically immersed in nature.”
Data shows that exposure to nature not only improves your ability to focus on your daily tasks, it also enhances your cognitive flexibility, basically your ability to switch between different tasks.
Even just a few minutes in nature can elevate your brain function. It boosts your mood and reduces anxiety. And of course, regular exercise in nature is an important ingredient for managing your weight and any chronic conditions you may have.
One particular study of 38,000 people found that people who feel connected to nature are more hopeful, purposeful and resilient.
This summer, be sure to schedule some time to explore the natural wonders right here in your backyard.
Located in Langhorne, Core Creek Park boasts 1,200 acres not only of long-winding, wooded trails and Lake Luxemburg, but also picnic areas, horseback riding, fishing, rentals for kayaks, canoes, pedalboats and rowboats, and playgrounds for the kids.
This 1,500-acre park is spread across parts of both Doylestown and New Britain and includes Lake Galena. Peace Valley Park has trails perfect for biking and hiking, as well as plenty of opportunities for boating and fishing, playgrounds and picnic areas. At the Peace Valley Park Nature Center, you can also enjoy guided walks, educational programs and community events. Don’t forget to spend time at the water’s edge watching the ducks cavort and play.
Playwicki Park is also in Langhorne. It is another great spot to bring the kids with 33 acres of trails, picnic areas, ball fields and playgrounds. Teach your kids how to fish or just enjoy some sunshine and peace and quiet.
This 465-acre coastal plain forest is another natural gem in Bucks County. At the Silver Lake Park Nature Center, you can enjoy educational and community events in the hands-on exhibit area, auditorium and amphitheater, and explore 7 miles of trails where you may spot a red-bellied turtle or a coastal plain leopard frog.
The Southern Bucks Garden Club maintains a butterfly garden at the Silver Lake Nature Center. It is also home to the only public-use Earthship on the East Coast. Earthships are buildings made of only natural and recycled materials. Imagine recycled bottles and tires making colorful patterns in the walls of your home.
Bucks County is also home to popular state parks like the Delaware Canal State Park and Neshaminy State Park:
The Delaware Canal State Park is a historic canal and 58.89-mile towpath parallel to the Delaware River. Here, there is a 50-acre pond and miles of river shoreline to explore. The park is also home to 11 river islands. Horseback riding is prohibited on the towpath.
At Neshaminy State Park, you can enjoy four miles of trails and a peaceful waterfront where the Neshaminy Creek joins the Delaware River. There are plenty of wetlands and unique plant life to explore.
The park’s 339 acres include picnic areas, a swimming pool, and a children’s spray park. Boating can also be accessed at the marina.
The more than 5,000-acre Nockamixon State Park is a must-visit this summer, whether you are a dedicated hiker or a birder. The 1,450-acre lake fed by Tohickon Creek, Three Mile Run and Haycok Run, is the perfect spot for observing migrating waterfowl, fishing and boating.
A visit to Nockamixon can be a day trip or you can spend the night in a cabin. There are plenty of fun activities for the whole family, including swimming in the pool, hiking, biking, hunting and fishing.
Tyler State Park offers 1,711 acres of farm and woodland to explore. The 10.5 miles of paved trails are perfect for horseback riders, and there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking. Neshaminy Creek, which winds its way through the park, is home to large snapping turtles, eels, frogs, water snakes, muskrats and a variety of bird species.
The park also provides educational programming on environmental and historic topics.
