The Lower Holcomb Canyon hike requires some dexterity as you must boulder hop and be a little adventurous in creating your own trail. Depending on your fitness level and sense of adventure, you can make the hike loop around easily or explore some of the features of the canyon to extend your time outdoors.

Located in the scenic Santa Monica Mountains, this 3.5-mile roundtrip trek is of moderate difficulty. You’ll break a sweat, but you’ll also be afforded views of Balanced Rock and Carlisle Canyon. The oak grove of Split Rock provides a shady area—perfect for setting up a picnic after your adventure. 

The wilderness area of Laguna Beach offers a rare glimpse into seldom seen coastal canyons. Rocky terrain and steep bluffs make for stunning views and a workout that you can’t get at the gym. Come prepared with plenty of water as you walk through the acres of beautiful wildlife.

The Meysan Lakes trails are around Mount Whitney but do not lead to the famous peak. However, you can find some pretty strenuous hiking trails in the area, especially if you plan to visit all three lakes in one day. Check trail conditions and understand what you are getting into before you make your plans. The rewards of this rigorous hike are breathtaking. 

The Mist Trail is one of Yosemite’s most celebrated hikes, thanks to new and stunning views at every twist and turn. Although beginners can start on the trail, they likely won’t finish as the full hike can get take up to five hours. The higher you climb, the more strenuous it gets, which means that you can temper the hike according to your comfort and skill level. Earlier in the day tends to be better if you’re looking to avoid crowds. 

The Antelope Valley California Reserve is located in the high desert and relies on nature to create the amazing blooms that draw visitors from around the world each year to gaze in awe at the poppies and wildflowers that bloom. During the spring the area is filled with people taking a look at the fields or exploring single blossoms. The park is for day use and picnics, so you can bring a pack and explore the miles of trails that go through the blooms, but don’t veer off and risk crushing the flora. Nearby are other state parks, where you can find other types of flora and fauna to check out. Be sure to check in at the visitor center, which has a lot of information about the park as well as features artwork inspired by the flowers.

Antelope Valley Poppy Fields Lancaster California 3/8/2015. #lancastercalifornia #antelopevalley #antelopevalleycalifornia @visit.lancaster.ca #california

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The Lancaster Museum of Art and History is a good way to learn about the original citizens of the valley as well as check out historical structures, local artists, and spend some time indoors. Lancaster’s weather tends to fluctuate between hot and cold so having a museum to step into can be a great relief. Museum hours vary depending on which building you check out so be sure to plan ahead.

Apollo Community Regional Park isn’t your typical neighborhood park. Fifty-four acres named after the Apollo 11 astronauts include three large stocked ponds for fishing. Walk around on the walking trails or enter one of the annual fishing derbies! 

The Antelope Valley Winery features wines from local vineyards as well as exotic meats. Sign up for a tour or try a tasting. You can also pick up a picnic to enjoy in the poppy fields or other park. Call in advance for details, especially if you’re planning a trip with a large group. 

Wine tasting 🍷

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There is almost always something going on at the Antelope Valley Fairgrounds. Bridal shows, food fairs, bingo parties, and more are frequently at the fairgrounds. There are often events for kids, including book fairs, petting zoos, and more, and all events are held throughout the year, not just during poppy season. Stop by to check it out.

The Antelope Valley Mall is a spacious spot to shop. The mall features many of the biggest chain stores as well as a few local retailers in addition to holding shopping and makeup events. The movie theater at the mall is also a good place to spend a few hours relaxing between seeing the sights! 

BeX Bar & Grill is a local gastropub with a casual vibe. Chill out with a beer from the selection on tap or indulge in weekend brunch before you head out to the poppy fields. Friendly service and a big selection helps ensure a good time and good grub. 

The Modern Tearoom is an unexpected retreat from the heat. You’ll find salads, sandwiches, and tea but with a more laid-back vibe than a traditional tea service. Locals enjoy snacking between shopping.

This could be you reaching for a refreshing iced tea... @ethell_ . . . #themoderntearoom #minimal #antelopevalley #instagram #greentea #foodphotography #teaislife #tealover #palmdale #lancaster #explorethe661 #infusions #looseleaftea #teatime #tealeaf #lancasterblvd #hottea #icetea #eatclean #eatfresh #summer #looseleaf #amazingfood #looseleaftea #tealifestyle #tealife

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A great taste of Cajun country in the desert, Crab N Spice is a fun way to get messy and indulge in a seafood spread. Try it for lunch or dinner and choose your own spices and seafood! 

Gasoline & Coffee is a garage-themed coffee shop that is a perfect blend of swanky coffee and rough and tumble. Whether you like your coffee decaf or regular, you can find a basic cup of black alongside sweet treats and frozen blends.

Check out the viscosity of this Americano fused with H2O and a bed of vanilla.. brilliantly prepared by @dnsg_

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Between the towns of Eureka and Orick in Humboldt County is Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, home to a number of trails of varying difficulty. The Rhododendron Trail comes to life in the spring when the blossoms it is named for are in bloom. A favorite amongst photographers and artists, the trails flowers light up amongst spots of green in stunning natural light. 

The Hollywood Sign that hangs above the city may not seem accessible, but intrepid hikers have discovered that you can get close to the historic letters by following the Hollyridge Trail. The Hollywood sign is a famous marker in movies and can be spotted on the freeway and city streets below. The hike is an example of California’s unique combination of urban and natural wonders.

The Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest in California. The Slot hike is possibly the most famous in the region and while parking can be tricky, the result is well worth it. Unique rock formations have created what is informally known as Slot Canyon, with other-worldly beauty that makes for breathtaking photos and great memories.

Located on the least traveled parts of Route 66, Amboy Crater is actually one of the continent’s youngest volcanoes. You can hike along the rim and stare down into cavern, one of California’s amazing natural wonders. Along the way, you’ll spot stunning mountain ranges and some really old and beautiful scenery. Other trails lead to stunning geologic points of interest like Afton Canyon’s rainbow hues. 

In the spring, the poppies bloom into life and lend brilliant colors to the soft rolling hills that make for easy hiking trails. The colors change daily and each season is a little different than the last, which brings back hikers year after year. The reserve is home to animal life and offers facilities such as picnic tables so that you can picnic before or after your hike and there’s also a center filled with information and paintings. 

The Mojave Desert has many places to ride and it is a convenient day trip from many parts of Southern California. The Jawbone Canyon store can point out where to find great trails as well as help you with supplies like diesel and food for your ride. The Mojave is peaceful and inspirational so you can get some great photos and see some great things as you explore. Make sure to stay within the designated areas as you don’t want to cause harm to the fragile ecosystem there. 

Stonyford has tons of trails to explore and be sure not to veer off the path or you’ll face serious fines. There are watering holes, steep trails, and plenty of beautiful sites to discover. Trails are marked and rated and even experienced riders will enjoy the challenge of some of the steeper and higher trails.  

Catch a race or sign up to hit the track at Competitive Edge. You can also take a class or campout for a quick getaway. There are four tracks open to the public and you’ll find maps and information are easy to access. Tracks are nicely maintained and updated. It’s fun for all ages although waivers are required for minors. 

The Perris Raceway offers a well-maintained flat track that is watered via hoses and kept nicely for the fans that visit the raceway throughout the year. There are jumps and the terrain is smooth and the spot has favorable reviews from riders. You can also catch or join a race or two.

The Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area is situated in the hills of Alameda. The surrounding nature is breathtaking, and the area boasts 1,300 acres of space to ride. The terrain varies, according to its website, with areas of dry rocky washes, rolling hills, and steep, rugged canyons. 

Griffith Park is the perfect spot for a family hike. The wilderness area features numerous different paths to take, including short loops. Take your pick and end up at a nature center. Or make your way to the famous observatory to learn about space and stars. There are also numerous vantage points that showcase the entire city through the trees. Make a day of it and have a picnic in a specially set area or take a stroll through the nearby zoo after a day observing wild animals. Other kid-friendly attractions include pony rides, a carousel, Travel Town and more. 

☀️Summertime and the livings easyyyy☀️ DISCLAIMER: I am not in LA. This is technically a throw-back. Is this against the rules on a Monday??? #nothingbutblueskies #summer17

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Bring the kids along to the White Point Nature Preserve in San Pedro. The nature center provides an excellent starting point and resource for teaching kids about the importance of environmental protections. Trails go through the natural landscapes of California, offering occasional ocean views. Teach kids about flora and fauna as you explore some of the highlights of the nature preserve including paths, to tide pools filled with ocean dwelling creatures. Or take one of the many “easy” paths that even small kids can navigate in part on their own.

Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park have trails that showcase geological formations as well as archaeological and paleontological sites. Take a hike that goes through a historic point of interest from one of the Native American tribes in the area. You’ll find caves to explore, events and programs that cater to kids and adults, and much more. Spend a day or an hour to discover some of the beautiful lands and rocks in California. Be sure to bring sunscreen as well as cover ups to protect against the sun and brambling terrain. 

You don’t have to climb Half Dome to appreciate the natural wonders of Yosemite. The Glacier Point hike is a short loop that makes it easy to cover as a family because you can carry or walk with young new hikers. Enjoy the view and experience being in one of the world’s most celebrated natural areas. You can also camp and drive to the hiking point or stay in Yosemite Village, depending on how rough and rugged you feel like being.

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Two years ago when my Canon 24-70mm lens broke in Yosemite, I was discouraged to only have a prime 50mm and 85mm in the bag. Now, they’re both go-to landscape lenses which consistently produce tack sharp images and I couldn’t imagine shooting without them. . . . . . #bevisuallyinspired #shotzdelight #folkcreative #ourplanetdaily #theoutbound #liveoutdoors #thegreatoutdoors #adventureculture #travelstoke #awakethesoul #nomadstories #adventureoften #wanderout #lastingvisuals #modernwild #thewanderco #mthrworld #awesome_earthpics #fantastic_earth #earthfever #exceptional_pictures #lensbible #earthoutdoors #visualsofearth #wondermore #canonphotography #glacierpoint #yosemite #mountainstories #northdome

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Thousand Oaks is a known as a family-friend suburb and one of the reasons is Wildwood Regional Park. All the kids that go to the local elementary schools spend a night in the wilderness area, learning about the wildlife in the area including rattlesnakes, coyotes and owls. Even before the exciting campout, you’ll find families heading to locally known highlights in the park, like the easy walk from the parking lot teepee or the park caves and waterfalls. If you find yourself wanting a hike between the crowded canyons of Los Angeles and the beaches of Santa Barbara, you can find easy trails in Wildwood.

The area between the mountains and Malibu Beach is filled with lots of trails that are perfect for exploring because they allow for a mix of running and hiking. Locals never get tired of exploring new routes, some of which are really long and best for experienced trail runners. Other areas are shorter and flatter and make for good training for beginners.

Runyon Canyon has a reputation for being a celebrity favorite, but it’s also popular with regular runners that love the feeling of being out in nature while enjoying stunning cityscape views. The canyon isn’t very big, but there are a variety of trails to take so that your run can be as short or long as you have stamina for. 

Golden Gate Park has plenty of paved spots, grassy areas, and things to do and see, but what you may not know is that there are also dirt trails that are perfect for running. Many locals enjoy finding new paths to take and the view that is constantly changing from city to rural, all in the same park. Hit the trails and be prepared for changing terrain as some spots are rougher than others.

Toro County Park is the location of the Toro Trail Run event, but you can run the park at any time without the pressure of a race. There are over 20 miles of trails to discover and you can find smooth paths that go up and down, making it a prime spot for training or exploring. There is a fee to enter the park, so it may be best for weekend trips and training if you’re looking to mix up your regular routine.

The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) follows the entire state of California and West Coast. Find a spot to start and then explore one of the best and most famous trail running spots in the world. PCT is a favorite with hikers and backpackers looking for new challenges but it also makes for good runs and hikes even just for the day. Be sure to use caution as the trail goes through rough terrain and may be subject to varying conditions. 

This 4,163 acre park is a perfect place to let your pup explore the beauty of nature. With 135 years worth of mining activities to discover, visitors can also catch a glimpse of the area’s past by exploring the remnants of the mining era.

This 366 acre nature reserve offers six miles of trails with elevation changes of around 500 feet, ensuring a great workout for both you and your pup. Your adventure awaits!

This 200 acre park is a great spot for those looking for an easy leisurely stroll with their pooch, as it’s relatively free of elevation changes. Find out why Glendora natives choose to bring their pups here!

This 3,464 acre park offers some spectacular views of Monterey Bay, as well as plenty of trails to choose from. The park is a great destination for those looking for a more challenging hike, as different trails offer various levels of difficulty for you and your four legged friends.

This park is the only “untouched” part of the peninsula range, making it an ideal spot to take in the breathtaking views of the South Bay. With plenty of trails to explore and some great picnic spots, you and your pup will be sure to have a great time.

The Ocean Trails Reserve offers both a great hiking spot, as well as restored or preserved habitat areas for the California gnatcatcher. Spend a day exploring what the Ocean Trails Reserve has to offer with your pup.

This 315 acre lake was closed to recreation for 91 years, so it’s sure to provide a peaceful and tranquil experience for both you and your pup.

This 160 acre park located at the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains offers plenty of trails to explore. It is a great spot for those looking to take in some spectacular views of Los Angeles, look out over the expanse with your dog and have an active day out!

This trail is a great option for more experienced hikers and canines, as the terrain is a bit more challenging than some of the other trails listed here. Safely, explore the wonder of Eagle Rock with your four legged friends or experienced hiking buddies.

This 128 acre park located near Laurel Canyon Boulevard is a popular destination for both hikers and dog walkers alike. With a large parking lot, restrooms, and a picnic area, Wilacre Park is a great spot for all looking to explore the great outdoors.

Anacapa Island is one of the Channel Islands located off the coast of California in Ventura County. Take a boat tour from Ventura or Santa Barbara Harbors, where the official visitor’s centers are located. You can then spend a half day or longer touring the island, which is filled with marine bird life. The island is home to California pelicans and gulls. There’s a two-mile trek around the island so that you can view many of California’s birds that make their home on the island. Check the official website for information before you plan your tour as access requires the ability to climb ladders and there is no transportation on the island. Also, at certain times of year the island is filled with breeding birds and thus subject to large amounts of guano and stench.

Point Reyes National Seashore has found nearly 500 different bird species in 70,000 acres comprised of unspoiled habitats, estuaries, grasslands, coastal scrub, and forest. Each year there is an annual bird count for Christmas, during which time the park reports some of the largest numbers in the nation, making it an essential spot for birdwatchers to visit. In addition to native species, Point Reyes is also often the site for birds that get lost during migration, bringing incredible rare species from around the globe right to California. 

The Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a vast array of unique habitats for wildlife, including dunes and salt marshes. The refuge provides sanctuary for a variety of migrant birds at different times of the year. Small birds as well as large Canadian geese often stopover as they make their annual migration to warmer climates. Check the website to find out which birds you can expect to see when you make your visit as well as ways to support the efforts to restore the refuge and preserve wildlife.

The Audubon Center at Debs Park offers a variety of activities for new and experienced birdwatchers to spot different kinds of feathered wildlife. The center has many programs as well bird walks and special days that celebrate birds. Learn more about birds by checking out a speaker presentation from an expert. There’s also the annual Bird Day LA event to encourage people to learn more about the birds in the park and how to protect them.

The Point Lobos State Natural Reserve includes a Bird Island Trail that is fully accessible for all abilities. From select viewpoints you can spot Bird Island, which is home to nesting birds including gulls, herons, and others during the spring and summer. Bring your binoculars to see the families as they interact with each other and you’ll likely see other species of birds along the way as well. And many other types of wildlife as well, including otters and seals, although some patches of beach are closed to visitor access during times of the year to give new families privacy.  

This park is famous for extreme weather conditions. The extreme heat lasts through much of the year, which is why the recommend time to visit is during the winter months. Despite the weather, Death Valley is one of the most inhabited spots on earth, with oases that are filled with wildlife, fowl, and fish. During the winter, the Valley’s peaks are topped with snow, an extreme change from the heat. At nearly any time of the year you can pick out a prime camping spot or stay in one of the area’s surrounding resorts. Canyons, dunes, salt flats, and a variety of different kinds of terrain make up Death Valley. It’s also home to indigenous peoples and a series of ghost towns. Spend a weekend in Death Valley to discover more about the unique national park and the various peoples that have passed through, leaving behind ghost towns. Be sure to check park websites before you plan your trek because random flooding and other natural happenings can affect trails and campsites, as can sudden changes in the weather.

The vastly different terrains of Death Valley offer a variety of trails of differing ease. For a moderate to difficult hike, try the three-mile Golden Canyon hike, the 4.3-mile Gower Gulch Hike, or the 2.7-mile Badlands Loop. Choose your routes based on level of experience and endurance or how much time you have to explore.  

Zabriskie Point offers some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets in the world. Built by the Borax Company to give visitors a rest, the area is filled with wildflowers after spring rains. At any of time of the year, it is one of the most popular areas in the park because it features amazing views of the park’s “Badlands.” As the lowest point in the United States, Zabriskie Point has been featured in films and is even the namesake and setting for a 1970s movie.

Furnace Creek is one of the many campgrounds in the national park. It’s open year-round and you can make a reservation for a spot during March-November, when the park is the most popular. There are campsites with hookups as well as tent-only slots. The campground is conveniently located near the park’s visitor center as well as other symptoms of humanity like restrooms and a golf course. Other campgrounds are also in the park, but aren’t open year-round. If you’re camping with a crowd, reserve a campsite for groups and be sure to check for other information regarding fire safety.

Death Valley Ghost Towns are a rich part of California history. Nearly 10 ghost towns are located in Death Valley, some of which no longer have any obvious evidence of their former existence. Many have rich legends and some remains that can be found in the park. Most closed when their industry’s failed. You can access many of them by vehicle and a few only on unpaved trails.

Clear Lake State Park has a long history in California as the site of historic Native American and early settlers. Clear Lake is a favorite spot for fishing and other water activities. You can find largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish in the lake and also explore hiking trails if you get tired of spending time on the water. Clear Lake has been named a favorite fishing spot by various publications.

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Brannan Island is home to a variety of wildlife including waterfowl, otters, and a diverse array of fish. Fish species include striped bass, sturgeon, catfish, bluegill, perch, and bullhead. You can spend the day fishing or camp out on one of the available campgrounds. If you plan to camp out during the summer, then be sure to make a reservation because it’s a popular spot to camp and fish during the long days of summer.

Santa Monica Bay may seem like an unlikely fishing spot but it has a reputation for being a great spot to enjoy urban fishing. You can fish from select spots on the shore and there are even fishing classes available for beginners or those that want to learn more about fishing. It’s a perfect day spot so that you can lounge on the beach while you fish or rent a boat to take you around the bay and then stay in a swanky hotel in Santa Monica.

Shasta Lake offers fishing year-round, with different varieties filling the lake at different times of the year. You can rent a houseboat and fish day and night or take a small watercraft out on the water to try your luck. Be sure to buy a fishing license and you can rent gear at one of the helpful agencies that can provide you with everything you need to know about fishing in Lake Shasta.

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Sure, Echo Park Lake is probably familiar from its many appearances in movies and television shows, but did you know that you can also fish in the park? It’s one of Los Angeles’s best-kept secrets but many parks with lakes are stocked by the city’s fish and game department. Whatever isn’t caught is handily devoured by waterfowl. Try your luck in a paddleboat.

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Tucked into the food of Ventura County’s highest mountain, Topa Topa, this beautiful KOA spans 76 acres and features several cabin camping accommodations perfect for a winter stay. Their Studio Pine Cabin is an excellent option and can sleep up to four people. The space features gorgeous views of nearby orchards, a comfortable loft, and a full bathroom. 

Outside of Yosemite, you’ll fall in love with Far Meadow. Pets are allowed and there are log cabins and A-frame cabins to choose from. Teepee tents are available for bigger parties and you can explore many of the region’s most majestic features that you don’t find staying in the bigger park.

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Lake Arrowhead is a scenic woodland filled with trees and cabins. Pine Rose cabins are the perfect setting for a rustic chic wedding or other special event. There’s a pool for summer stays and hot tub open year-round as well as other modern amenities that bring the cozy cabins into the present.

More #snow today, it was light and fluffy, great for skiing or snowboarding. Check out our discounted lift tickets @ www.PineRose.com/specials #pinerosecabins #snowmuchfun #cabinlife The pic is of our small romantic Studio "Pine Rose".

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If you want to camp out but don’t want the fuss of packing and pitching a tent, then check out the cabins at Avila/Pismo Beach KOA. Located across from a petting zoo and close to the area’s natural wonders, including a state beach and sand dunes. You’ll find conveniences like laundry facilities and wine country only a short drive away.

Not far from Lake Tahoe, Sorensen’s Resort is not far from skiing and lake activities as well as other ways to enjoy the scenic beauty of Tahoe. The cabin resort includes amenities like a full-service restaurant and a wood-fired sauna and more. Take a workshop or attend an event, there is always something to do, even in the rural surroundings.

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The Rustic Cottages of Lake Tahoe offer a glimpse of history as the vacation resort dates back several decades. Outfitted with romantic iron bedframes, the cabin-style cottages offer spacious accommodations in a whimsical setting as well as access to the pool and beach.  

winter is here!!!!!! . . . #GoTinspired #throwback (28weeks Jachin inside 😍)

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This KOA in Weldon, California, is open all year and features several cabin accommodations that the whole family will enjoy. The deluxe cabin features a beautiful shaded deck, a full kitchen, two full bathrooms, a living room, two separate bedrooms, and can sleep up to six people. Unwind with a warm fire after a long day in the great outdoors.  

Gear Coop has roots as a climbing equipment store but has since grown to offer gear, gadgets, and more for all types of outdoor activity, including camping. The brick and mortar store has expanded to an online shop but diehards still love going to the store to shimmy up the in-store climbing wall and test items like climbing shoes. The store’s return policy and friendly and knowledgeable staff has created legions of fans that go back for climbing shoes and camping equipment. At Gear Coop, you’ll find everything from Camelbak backpacks, to Marmot jackets, to Granite Gear, which is perfect for a backcountry adventure. 

With locations all over the Bay Area, the Sports Basement is a great place to buy camping gear at reasonable prices. Find everything from stoves and other camping cookware to down sleeping bags, lanterns, hydration packs, and hammocks. 

Orange Army Navy store in Orange is a rare family-owned store that has been in business since 1955. Orange Army Navy offers everything you need for camping and campers appreciate the ability to purchase high-quality used military-grade products. The spot is also popular for offering a wide variety of sleeping bags, camp stoves, and cooking gear. The store carries brands such as Camelbak, Bushnell, and GSI. 

Last Minute Gear is great for when you randomly decide you want to go camping but don’t have any equipment. The store will even deliver everything you need to wherever you happen to find yourself, for an additional fee. You can buy or rent a variety of camping equipment and the store has a very flexible 24/7 availability policy so that you can augment your camping gear any time you need it—just make an appointment. Choose from excellent brands such as Big Agnes, Marmot, North Face, and more. The unique camping gear model is a hit with people that don’t have enough gear to share with unexpected friends or are first time campers feeling overwhelmed with options.

Outdoor World has three locations from Santa Cruz to Seaside. Not affiliated with Bass Pro Shops, Outdoor World has been serving the Monterey Bay area for nearly 40 years. Although there are a lot of campgrounds and beaches to explore, there aren’t a lot of camping stores and Outdoor World offers every imaginable item for camping from pads and air beds to tents and accessories from known brands like Coleman, Therm-a-rest, and other major players.

Located midway between Capital Reef and Canyonlands National Parks, Utah’s Goblin Valley State Park offers much of the same type of desert-hoodoo landscape formations, as well as incredible canyoning opportunities, as its neighbors. The campground is not particularly secluded or tree-lined, but it is an excellent gateway to all that the park has to offer. 

Campsite 12 is a tent-only site that is set back a little away from RVs and other campers. The site includes your own shaded picnic table and a brilliant, uninterrupted view of the rock formations that Goblin Valley is known for. Not feeling like setting up and taking down your own shelter? Grab one of the yurts available for rent in the park.

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If you’ve ever been to Hawaii—or planned a trip to Hawaii—you know lodging is not cheap. A great way to avoid exorbitant lodging costs in the Aloha State is to camp. Many of the state’s parks offer excellent camping options and facilities. Those visiting the Garden Isle of Kauai will appreciate the picturesque beauty of Koke’e State Park.

Perched 4,000 feet above the lush vegetation of the Kalalau Valley, with sweeping views out to the Pacific, Koke’e offers several tent camping opportunities in campsites that have been minimally developed. In addition, several cabins are available for rental in the park if you’re hoping for a break from tent camping.

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Lake Cascade State Park in west-central Idaho comprises 86 miles of shoreline along the edge of the eponymous lake. The park is tucked into the region’s wooded mountains near the Payette National Forest. Popular with anglers, Lake Cascade is known as a prime spot for trout and salmon fishing. The surrounding area offers miles of trails for hiking, cycling and birding. The park’s 41 square miles of surface water are ideal for paddling or boating.

Dispersed primitive camping is available at several locations throughout the park. But if you’d like a few more amenities (restrooms, for example), the Blue Heron Campground is tent-only and located on a peninsula that juts out into the lack. Site G is a lakefront site that is set back an away from the other sites, so you have your own little slice of heaven.

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Big Basin Redwoods State Park is just west of—and a world away from—the Bay Area megalopolis in California. It is the state’s first and oldest state park. The park’s main feature, as the name implies, is the ancient, coast redwood trees marching up and down the slopes. Blooms Creek Campground in the park affords the opportunity to sleep among these beautiful giants, which are up to 1,800 years old.

Site 153 is a hike-in site that is away from the main campground but close to a water source. It connects to the Blooms Creek Trail, which in turn, connects to many of the other trails in the park.

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Oregon’s Ainsworth State Park lies within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and encompasses spectacular natural features like Horsetail Falls and 620-ft. Multnomah Falls. There are many hiking trails in the park, itself, that take advantage of the fantastic beauty of the Gorge. The park also connects to several trails that lead to other points of interest like the majestic St. Peter’s Dome, which rises 2,000 feet over the river.

The campground at Ainsworth offers six walk-in tent sites that are set back and away from the main campground and connect to trails that allow you to avoid walking through the main part of the camping area. Any one of the sites puts you in the midst of all that the park has to offer but provides the illusion of a secluded site away from civilization.

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Big Basin Redwoods State Park is the perfect spot for a first-time camping trip thanks to the amazingly supersized old growth redwood trees. You can hike from the forest to the oceans on a famous trail or try for something a little easier. Waterfalls, animals and cabins for rent complete the ease of an experience meant to be relaxing and memorable.

You know that feeling you get when you see something so surreal??? Picture the sun's morning rays piercing through the tall trees and a complimentary layer of thick fog nesting between the road and the trees #bigbasin

A post shared by Annie (@sushiburritoe) on May 31, 2017 at 10:06pm PDT

If you are looking for something a little more accessible, then Henry Cowell is the way to go. It’s said to be an easy hike to the campground and there are shorter trails and things for tiny legs to experience, while still being surrounded by towering redwood trees. Kids are sure to be further delighted by nearby Roaring Camp Railroad, which includes trains that run on steam engines. Great views for parents paired with activities for kids makes it a prime camping trip for getting away without getting away. 

For parents that don’t want to bother with the hassle of tents and cookouts, the city of San Jose offers residents (and guests from other cities!) a chance to summer camp. There’s a camp store for forgotten items and fishing is available. You get to stay out under the stars and experience the beauty of the Sierra Mountains and Yosemite. 

Both camping and fishing can be found at Lake Hemet. There are also cabins, opportunities for lake swimming, a water park and of course amazing views of the surrounding area. Lake Hemet tends to be a family vacation spot that is not too far from many cities and suburbs in Southern California, and offers plenty of activities so that nobody in the family gets bored. Many of California’s native-born celebrities have fond childhood memories of celebrating birthdays and holidays while camping at Lake Hemet.

Slightly north and west of Santa Monica, on the Pacific Coast Highway is Leo Carrillo State Park. For many local kids, it’s their first camping trip. You can make reservations through Reserve America and bring your own RV or pitch a tent. The campground is located across the road from one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. There are trails on the mountain side and tide pools on the ocean side that are great for getting a glimpse of sea creatures. Named for an actor and preservationist, Leo Carrillo is a great place to learn about respect for the natural world.

#leocarrillostatepark #malibu #ventura #countyline #sunset

A post shared by Brian (@life_bybrian) on Jul 3, 2016 at 10:43pm PDT

Livermore Valley Wine Country is just moments away from picturesque De Valle Regional Park in the East Bay area of Northern California. Close to the major cities of San Francisco, it’s also not a far drive to the more famous wine regions of Napa and Sonoma. You’ll find plenty to do inside the park with swimming beaches, boating, horseback riding, fishing, hiking, and more activities. There are accommodations for RVs and campers as well as tents. Be sure to make a reservation as the campground is popular with families during the summer months but can also get chilly during the winter. 

Big Basin Redwoods is the oldest state park in California and also home to some of the state’s largest attractions: historic coastal redwood trees. The park is a popular spot to camp so make reservations in plenty of time. During the dry summer months, campfires are not permitted to prevent forest fires, but you can cook in permitted areas. Due to storms, some trails are inaccessible but you can still enjoy the amazing trees, waterfalls, animals, and forest wonders.

Malibu Beach is the only RV park in the area and is close to beach city’s most famous attractions and celebrity hot spots. Campsites are available with both ocean and mountain views. The well-maintained RV park is a favorite with people looking to spend time in the world-renowned region. More expensive than many parks, the showers and bathrooms are said to be worth the higher price—as are the views and close proximity to beaches and events in Malibu.

Pismo Sands is run by a family that loves to RV camp. The award-winning RV park has cottages in addition to parking spots, a pool, paved sites, free but limited Wi-Fi and cable, activities, sports, and other amenities including showers, bathrooms, and laundry facilities. Just moments from the beach, the grounds are well maintained and it’s easy to see why Pismo Sands is one of California’s favorite RV parks. 

Yosemite Pines is just 30 miles outside of the national park. The campsite offers premium pull-through and back-in sites and can be a good option if you find that campsites inside the park are full. You can choose from a variety of hook-up sites that offer power and water in addition to bathroom and shower facilities, picnic tables, and campfire rings. You can take a shuttle into Yosemite National Park and also take the opportunity to explore the small towns around the area. On-site, there are many activities for families including a playground, sports and games, and a gold mine for kids and even a petting farm.