As winter’s chill gives way to spring sunshine and summer adventures, I know how much families look forward to spending time outdoors. Whether it’s a spontaneous picnic in Fairmount Park, a weekend camping trip to the Poconos, or a simple park day in your neighborhood, these moments are part of what makes summer special.

I understand the stress that can come with planning these outings when your child has seasonal allergies, asthma, food allergies, or stinging insect allergies. As a board-certified allergist, and a parent myself, I’ve been there - packing the extra gear, checking the pollen count, and triple-checking that medicine bag!

The good news? With a little planning, you and your family can enjoy the outdoors safely and confidently. Here are my best tips, grounded in both clinical practice and personal experience, for navigating outdoor fun in Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs during these warm weather months.

1. Check the Pollen Forecast Before You Go

The Philadelphia region boasts beautiful green spaces but with that comes some of the highest tree pollen counts on the East Coast. Oak, birch, and maple trees are common culprits in spring, and in late summer, ragweed becomes a big trigger.

Check the daily pollen count before heading to places like:

Montgomery County

Valley Forge National Historical Park (King of Prussia): Expansive meadows, historic trails, and wide-open fields; grass pollen peaks in late spring and ragweed rises in late summer.
Green Lane Park (Green Lane Borough): One of the largest county parks, with forests, lakes, and trails; tree pollen in early spring and mold spores after rainfall.
Fort Washington State Park (Flourtown): Popular for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking; surrounded by mature trees with high tree pollen in early to mid-spring.

Bucks County

Tyler State Park (Newtown): Large, hilly park with woodlands and open fields; tree pollen dominates in spring and grass increases in early summer.
Peace Valley Park (New Britain): Popular lakefront paths and fields; ragweed pollen is high in late summer and grass pollen in early summer.
Core Creek Park (Middletown): Sprawling fields, trails, and lake access; grass pollen is a concern in late spring through summer.

Philadelphia

Wissahickon Valley Park (Northwest Philadelphia): One of the city’s largest and most forested parks; high tree pollen in spring and mold spores in damp weather.
John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge (Philadelphia): Marshes and open wetlands attract birds and pollen; grass and marsh weed pollen in summer can be strong.
Tacony Creek Trail (Philadelphia): A major urban greenway through wooded and weedy areas; weed pollen spikes in late summer and early fall.

You can check the daily pollen count using reliable sources like the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) or local weather apps. On high-pollen days, consider moving your plans to the late afternoon when counts are typically lower and don’t forget post-outing showers to rinse off allergens.

2. Be Proactive: Start Medications Early

If you or your child has allergic rhinitis (hay fever), daily, non-sedating antihistamines and nasal steroid sprays (when recommended) are most effective when taken before pollen exposure as a preventative measure. Don’t wait until symptoms start, as inflammation may already be in full swing. I usually recommend that patients start their medications at least 2 weeks prior to the start of their allergy season. Consistency is key - especially for kids prone to sneezing fits and itchy eyes.

For asthma, make sure your rescue inhaler is up-to-date and always on hand. If you have exercise-induced asthma, take your prescribed bronchodilator 15–30 minutes before hiking or playing outdoors.

3. Pack Allergy-Friendly Foods (and Other Essentials!)

If you or a family member has food allergies, be extra cautious at group outings or potlucks. Picnics and camping meals are often full of potential allergens, especially nuts, dairy, and eggs. Keep foods clearly labeled and bring a cooler with safe options from home.

For kids with food allergies:

Pack all food in clearly labeled containers
Use wipes to clean hands and picnic surfaces
Avoid shared utensils or serving platters
Bring two epinephrine auto-injectors—even for short park visits
Bring a copy of the allergy action plan

In addition to the parks above, great picnic-friendly parks around Philly include:

Evansburg State Park (Collegeville, Montgomery County): Spacious picnic groves, shaded areas, and creek-side views.
Norristown Farm Park (Norristown, Montgomery County): Flat, stroller-friendly trails with picnic spaces.
Playwicki Park (Langhorne, Bucks County): Shaded picnic spots and open green spaces for games.

4. Sting Safety: Know the Triggers

Stinging insects, especially yellow jackets, wasps, and bees, are a common hazard in late summer and early fall, especially around picnic areas and trash cans. When hiking, stick to wide trails and avoid areas with standing water or dense brush.

If you or your child has a known stinging insect allergy:

Always carry two epinephrine autoinjectors
Avoid sweet drinks in open containers (use lids and straws)
Skip perfumes/lotions and choose light-colored clothing
Wear shoes at all times (no barefoot park runs!)

5. Camp Smart: Choose Allergy-Conscious Camping Locations

If you love to camp, you’re in luck, Pennsylvania has some of the most beautiful campgrounds in the region. Look for sites that are dry, well-drained, and not too close to dense vegetation, which harbors mold and pollen. Bring allergy-safe bedding and consider using a zippered allergy cover for sleeping bags or pillows. Don’t forget a mini “allergy go-bag” with antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops for quick relief when you’re away from home!

Local family-friendly options:

Hickory Run State Park (White Haven): Features an expansive forest with large picnic areas and playgrounds; plenty of kid-friendly trails and streams.
Philadelphia/West Chester KOA (Coatesville): Ideal for first-time campers, featuring cozy cabins, fire pits, and family-focused amenities.
Ricketts Glen State Park (Benton): Famous for stunning waterfalls and hiking; higher elevation and cooler temps can help reduce pollen exposure.
Lake Nockamixon State Park (Quakertown): Popular for camping, boating, and water sports; marina and extensive hiking trails nearby.

6. Mold Matters: Watch for Mold and Mildew

Even on clear days, mold spores can be high in wooded or damp areas, especially after rain. Mold allergies can trigger congestion, itchy eyes, or asthma flare-ups.

Avoid setting up directly on damp ground or near rotting leaves

Wash hands and change clothes after outdoor play and before bed

Use a tarp or ground cloth under picnic blankets or tents

7. Avoid Contact Allergies Like Poison Ivy and Poison Oak

Contact allergies are a common and highly uncomfortable risk during hikes, camps, and park days, especially in the summer. In the Philadelphia region, poison ivy is far more common than poison oak and can be found along trails, wooded edges, and even at the base of stone walls or fences.

How to protect yourself and your kids:

Teach kids to recognize poison ivy (“Leaves of three, let it be”)
Dress in long pants and socks for hikes or play in overgrown areas
Wash skin and clothes immediately after possible exposure - poison ivy oil (urushiol) can linger on clothes, shoes, and pet fur

If a rash develops:

Wash the area with soap and cool water as soon as possible, ideally within minutes
Apply topical corticosteroid cream for itching
Avoid scratching- it won’t spread the rash once the urushiol has been absorbed but can lead to open blisters and infection
Call your allergist or pediatrician if the rash is widespread, involves the face or eyes, or is not improving after a few days

If you or your child has had severe reactions to poison ivy in the past, let your allergist know as topical steroids or oral medications may be needed for flare-ups.

8. Protect the Skin & Stay Hydrated

Dry air, pollen, and sun exposure can irritate sensitive skin, especially for kids with eczema or other allergic skin conditions. Use a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic sunscreen and moisturize after outdoor activities. Bring plenty of water, dress in breathable layers, and consider a wide-brimmed hat to avoid overheating and reduce sun exposure.

A Final Note From One Parent to Another

We’re lucky to live in a region full of beautiful outdoor spaces - from Chestnut Hill to Chadds Ford and Norristown to North Wales - allergies or asthma shouldn’t keep your family indoors. With a little planning and a good action plan, you can safely enjoy nature and make memories all season long!

At ENT and Allergy Pennsylvania, we’re here to support families across Philadelphia, Montgomery County and Bucks County. Whether you need allergy testing, updated treatment plans, or just peace of mind before a trip, we’re happy to help. Call or visit www.entandallergy.com to schedule an appointment today at any one of our offices in Northeast Philadelphia, Willow Grove, or Richboro.

Wishing you a fun, safe, and allergy-smart summer!

printable checklist to use our printable checklist before any outdoor activity to help keep everyone safe and comfortable

About ENT & Allergy Associates:

ENT & Allergy Associates (ENTA) is the premier otolaryngology and allergy practice in the region, offering comprehensive care in Adult and Pediatric Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT), Allergy, Asthma, Audiology, Sleep Medicine, Balance Disorders, Voice and Swallowing Disorders, Sinus and Skull Base Surgery, Thyroid and Parathyroid Disorders, Head and Neck Surgery, Facial Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery, and Hearing Aids.

With convenient office locations throughout New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, ENT & Allergy Associates is proud to provide expert, compassionate care in:

New Jersey – Bergen, Camden, Burlington, Monmouth, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, Somerset Counties, and more.
New York – The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Staten Island, Queens, Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk Counties), and Westchester County.
Pennsylvania – Bucks County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia County.

Whether you're seeking relief from seasonal allergies, expert surgical consultation, or help managing chronic ENT conditions, our board-certified physicians and specialized care teams are here to help.