What makes Play Outside different from other outdoor clothing brands?

Play Outside creates comfort-first outdoor essentials designed to work across real life, not just one activity or season. Our clothing is sun-safe, versatile, and built to perform from beach to snow while remaining soft, flattering, and easy to wear.

Is Play Outside clothing flattering on real women’s bodies?

Yes. Our clothing is designed for real women’s bodies, not idealized or Instagram-perfect fits. We prioritize movement, softness, and ease so pieces feel comfortable, drape well, and look great throughout the day.

Is Play Outside clothing made for outdoor performance?

Absolutely. Our pieces are built to perform outdoors in changing conditions including heat, wind, cold, and movement, while still being suitable for everyday life, travel, and time outside with kids.

What is sun safe apparel?

Sun safe apparel is clothing designed to help protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Play Outside uses UPF-rated fabric so sun protection is built directly into what you wear without extra layers or chemical treatments.

What’s the difference between UPF and SPF?

SPF measures how sunscreen protects your skin, while UPF measures how much UV radiation a fabric blocks. UPF clothing provides consistent protection that does not wear off or require reapplication.

Why do you use bamboo fabric?

Bamboo fabric is naturally soft, breathable, temperature-regulating, and gentle on skin. It stays comfortable in warm weather and layers well in colder conditions without stiffness or itch.

How can the same clothing work in both summer and winter?

Play Outside clothing uses temperature-regulating bamboo fabric and layer-friendly construction. It stays breathable in summer and retains warmth when layered in winter, allowing the same piece to work year-round.

Do you release new styles every season?

No. We focus on timeless, versatile pieces that remain in our collection year after year. Each iteration is refined using real customer feedback to continuously improve performance, comfort, and fit.

Your Family's Guide to Staying Overnight in a State Park

Spending the night in a state park is one of the most magical and accessible ways to introduce your family to outdoor adventure. From stargazing to morning hikes and everything in between, a simple one-night getaway can create lifelong memories. Here's how to plan a smooth and fun overnight stay in a state park—whether you're camping in a tent, cozying up in a cabin, or trying your first yurt.

Why State Parks Are Perfect for Families

Affordable – Many sites offer camping or lodging for a fraction of hotel prices.
Close to Home – You don't have to drive far to find a great escape.
Kid-Friendly Amenities – Most parks have trails, ranger programs, bathrooms, and picnic areas.
Immersive Nature – Sleep under the stars, wake up to birdsong, and unplug together.

Use StateParks.com to find options near you.

Step 1: Choose the Right Park & Lodging Type

Different families = different comfort zones. Consider:

Tent Camping: For the full experience! Great for adventurous families.
Cabins or Lodges: Perfect for those new to camping or with little ones.
Yurts or Platform Tents: A fun in-between with a roof over your head but a rustic vibe.

💡 Check if the park has:

Flush toilets and showers
Playgrounds or swim areas
Easy trails for kids
Fire pits or grills

Step 2: Book Early & Know the Rules

Summer weekends fill fast! Most parks open reservations 6 months in advance.

Reserve your site via the state park website
Review quiet hours, check-in times, and pet policies
Check if fires are allowed (especially in dry season)

Book through ReserveAmerica.com for many U.S. state parks.

Step 3: Pack Like a Pro (Not a Pack Mule)

Bring the essentials, not the entire garage:

Sleeping bags, mats or air mattresses
Layers of clothing (including warm gear for nighttime)
Towels + toiletries
First aid kit + bug spray
Sunscreen + hats
Reusable dishes + dishwashing tub
Easy meals or pre-packed snacks

Don’t forget the ONE Shirt: Quick-dry, comfy for layering, and great for messy play.

Shop the ONE Shirt

Step 4: Plan Activities, But Leave Space for Wonder

Build a loose itinerary around the park's natural offerings:

Nature hike or scavenger hunt
Splash in the lake or creek
Junior Ranger or interpretive programs
Stargazing with a blanket and snacks

But also leave space for spontaneous exploring—climbing logs, spotting bugs, and making up games around camp.

Step 5: Embrace the Chaos, Capture the Magic

Yes, someone will forget their toothbrush. Yes, bedtime will be wild. But that's part of the fun!

Bring a camera or let your kids use one
Encourage kids to journal or draw about their stay
Ask around the fire: "What was your favorite part of the day?"

Final Thoughts: Sleep Outside, Grow Closer

You don’t need to be an expert camper to stay in a state park. With the right prep and a sense of adventure, your family can experience the outdoors in a whole new way—together.

For more family-tested outdoor tips, visit the Play Outside blog.