Five tips for a green staycation

Hawaii and the Caribbean are out of range this summer, thanks to airfare sticker shock. Europe is a big no-go because of the awful exchange rate for the dollar. Even Disney World is no deal unless you happen to live in Orlando.

So everyone's talking of taking a "staycation" -- that is, staying home and vacationing in your own town or nearby. Some reports suggest that 50 percent of Americans have changed their summer vacation plans due to rising gas prices and other economic woes.

But you don't have to head to the local amusement park (which burns who-knows-how-much electricity per day) or turn on the sprinklers (and waste a ton of water) to have fun at home with family and friends.

Chill out, stay green, and explore the wild side without burning through your budget. Check out these ideas for an eco-friendly staycation this year...

• Camp in a county, state, or national park or forest. You may not have to go far to get into the woods -- search online if you're not familiar with what's local. Many parks have nominal fees, and you may need to reserve a campground space in advance. But total costs are low, and this is the ultimate down-to-earth experience for the whole family. Climb a mountain, swim in a lake, or just relax on the grass and watch the clouds go by.


• Make a 100-mile dinner. Become a locovore and discover foods grown and produced within 100 miles of your home. What are the regional specialties? What's in season this summer? Look on Local Harvest for a list of farmers markets in your town, and talk to the farmers about their wares. Try veggies you've never heard of before. Buy grass-fed beef and free-range chicken. Go to a "you-pick-'em" farm, and select your own bushel of berries for dessert.


• Build a better bird habitat in your backyard. The National Audubon Society has a whole nest full tips to make your yard a healthy home for feathered friends. From using native plants to attract winged pals to choosing the right kind of bird feeder, this yard makeover isn't too extreme, just green.


• Volunteer with a local environmental organization. Help plant trees, clean up a shoreline, tend an urban garden, clear mountain trails -- do something that appeals to your interests. Volunteer Match is a great service that connects people with nonprofits in need of assistance. Use its advanced search feature to look for environmental groups.


• Get up close with flowers, birds, and bugs by taking photos. You can go crazy with fancy equipment or just use a basic point-and-shoot camera. Either way, it's fun to explore nature and capture it through the lens. When summer is gone and the foliage has faded, you'll still have the pictures to remind you of those balmy staycation days.

Need more suggestions to make your vacation fun and earth-friendly? Check out Eco Child's Play's tips for a greener and healthier summer and More Hip Than Hippie's Going on Staycation episode.