Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!
Mama-Approved Family Fun
14
items "Inspired by my roots in the foothill mountains, I’ve hand-picked these 'worth-the-drive' day trips and autumn escapes that are truly mama-approved winners. These hidden local treasures—from scenic mountain spots to nostalgic treats—are the places I ...
Map
Sections
4
Fall Picnic Spots
Your Local Secrets & Advice, From Moms Just Like You
"What's in My Bag?"
The Best Cooling Spots
Fall Picnic Spots
"After a crisp park walk or pumpkin patch visit, these are our favorite local spots to refuel with a cozy picnic or a delicious autumn treat."
"No fall day trip is complete without a stop here! It’s the sweetest nostalgic treat after a trip to the pumpkin patch or a crisp park walk. Whether you’re grabbing a seasonal sundae or a cozy treat, it’s these little stops that make the drive feel s...
The Dairy Barn
🍨 "You can't go wrong with a classic Blizzard to top off a successful day. It’s a familiar, easy favorite that the kids always look forward to, making our little 'escape' feel like a true vacation.
Dairy Queen Blizzards are the Best!
This is a new business just opened up. They’re still having a few minor issues but they’re up and going you just have to stop in and see what you think. He has a store over across the bridge and everybody seems to like it over here.
Sammy’s Subs and Ice Cream
"One of our top 'worth-the-drive' mountain day trips! Perfect for a crisp fall walk and an autumn picnic with the family. The path down to the falls is sturdy and well-maintained, and the October views are unmatched."
Blackwater Falls StatePark
Your Local Secrets & Advice, From Moms Just Like You
"From one local mama to another, here is my best advice for a stress-free outing! Whether you’re watching your own kids or a friend’s little ones, these tips will help you beat the crowds, stay updated, and enjoy every minute of your 'worth-the-drive...
"Sticky wipes, muddy shoes, and half-eaten snacks happen fast! Tucking 2 or 3 plastic grocery bags or a reusable wet bag into your backpack keeps dirty messes completely separated from the rest of your gear."
The Trash & Wet Bag Trick
Always check the Facebook links in the "Mama’s Insider Resources" section before loading up the car! It’s the best way to see if there are weather closings or special events happening at the pools
Remember to be safe also check your car maintenance and gas ...
"For pumpkin patches, state parks, and local spots, head out right after morning snack time (around 9:30–10:00 AM). You’ll get the best parking, beat the afternoon crowds, and get everyone home in time for naps or quiet time!"
Beat the Crowds & Meltdowns
"What's in My Bag?"
"A look inside my go-to day trip bag! These are the practical, mama-approved items that keep our outings smooth—quick cleanups, ice-cold drinks for the kids, and spontaneous park sits all year round.
"The ultimate day-trip lifesaver! From sticky ice cream fingers to dusty park picnic tables, having these quick-grab wipes on hand makes cleanups effortless before snack time."
Sanitizing Wipes Travel
"Always keep a blanket in the trunk or day-trip bag—it’s an absolute year-round essential! Use it to lay out in the sand during summer, spread out for spring and fall park picnics, or wrap up when someone gets cold in the winter."
BN-LINK Extra Large Picnic Blanket with Carry Strap, 78'' x 78 ...
"Scraped knees and sudden juice spills happen! Tucking a compact first-aid kit with Band-Aids and a stain remover pen into the bag has saved our day trips more times than I can count."
General Medi Mini 110-Piece First Aid Kit
"No more soggy crackers or squished fruit! These divided bento containers keep snacks separated, fresh, and mess-free during park outings, fall drives, or long days out. Plus, the 2-pack means you can pack one for each kid without any fighting!"
Rubbermaid Pack & Go 1.48L Bento, 2-Pack
The Best Cooling Spots
"When we are looking for a safe way to cool off, these are the reliable pools where I feel safe taking the kids for a day of splashing and fun."
"I have to behonest—I’ve actually only been to this pool once with the kids! But Keyser is just on the other side of us from Piedmont, and I absolutely love how that city always pulls together for the younger generation. The community gets so involve...
John R Shelton Keyser City Pool | Facebook
"If your kids love to splash, this park is an absolute gem. It reminds me of my days growing up barefoot in the foothills, just enjoying nature . It has the perfect balance of shade, clean areas to run, and safe spots to wade in the creek. It’s one o...
Creekside Park
This pool holds such a sweet memory for me. About four years ago, I moved out here to be with my daughter and her fiancé, and his niece and nephew instantly became my family. We went to this pool together, and those sweet kids splashed me in the face...
Piedmont Pools & Variety