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. 

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. 

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.

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. 

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.  

Tuna Time

In July, a trio of tunas –yellowfin, albacore and bluefin – start showing up in numbers offshore in northern Mexico, and by October it’s an all-out fishfest for anglers aboard charter boats from California to Washington. 

Considering that most boats are likely to fish well offshore, tuna-fishing expeditions might stay out up to a week in the peak of season, though some trips can be shorter if the skipper thinks anglers can fill their limits in a day. With San Diego, CA the southern epicenter of tuna charters, and Westport, WA, on the northern end, visiting fishermen won’t have any trouble finding rides.

Expect to pay $215-$275 for day trips to the inshore tuna grounds. Some charters go farther offshore and stay a few days. The cost then is about $275 multiplied by the number of days.

Hot Spots To Fish: H&M Landing (619-222-1144, hmlanding.com) at San Diego is a recommended portal to adventure. Go north as the season progresses, and try a boat out of Westport Charters (360-268-0900, westportcharters.com) in Washington.

Tackle You’ll Need: Any of the three types of tuna might weigh from 20 pounds to more than 300 pounds (for bluefins). Thus, unless they plan to rent rigs for about $20 and up per day, anglers take along their own tackle and that might include two or three fishing outfits to cover any contingency. Everything from medium baitcasters or spinning outfits to heavier revolving-spool rigs, such as the Shimano TLD 20 and TLD 25 reels matched with Shimano TDR70MB 7-foot trolling rods (10- to 17-pound test) or TDR70MHB 7 foot medium-heavy (12- to 30-pound test line), match up well with most tunas likely to be encountered.

Best Lures/Baits: Depending on the flexibility of the skipper, anglers might be limited to using live bait such as anchovies or sardines, or jigging spoons such as the Shimano Flat Fall. However, sometimes anglers can troll big crankbaits such as the Rapala Magnum X-Rap 30, the Yo-Zuri 3D Magnum or the Mann’s Giganticus.

North Coast Chinooks

Like the fall tuna run off the Pacific coast, the chinook (king) salmon run advances in stages, with October being the peak month and extending into November. For the widest window of opportunity, plan to fish the rivers and tributaries of Washington and Oregon that feed into the Columbia River.

Hot Spots To Fish: Though much less known and much smaller than its more famous neighbors to the north, Oregon’s Chetco River produces hundreds of jumbo kings weighing more than 20 pounds throughout the fall. The Winchuck, closer to California, is another small fishery with big salmon. Call Ironhead Guide Service (530-598-0530, ironheadguideservice.com), to set up a trip to either.

Tillamook Bay and its feeders are prime hangouts for chinooks, and Marvin’s Guide Service (503-314-5087) can put you on them. For numbers, it’s hard to beat the Winchester Bay, Rogue River, Umpqua and Coos systems. Salmon Harbor Tackle & Marine (541-271-2010) is well-stocked with tackle and salmon fishing advice. Up the Columbia River Gorge, the folks at Jones Sport Fishing (208-861-0654, jonessportfishing.com) have the latest scoop on salmon.

Tackle You’ll Need: Fall chinook might weigh more than 50 pounds, so meat fishermen who go after salmon typically use heavy spinning or baitcasting gear. Consider the Ambassadeur S Combo with a Model 6500 baitcaster and matching 7-foot medium-heavy rod. For spinning fans that do a lot of casting, the Shakespeare Ugly Stick 9-foot rod with matching reel is a good choice. For the sportier types who like challenges, 10- or 12-weight fly fishing tackle is popular. Just make sure the reel is spooled with lots of backing.

Best Lures/Baits: Chinooks will eat a variety of cut bait gleaned from the local larder, or go after any lure that is large, wobbling and shiny. Various trolling spoons from Luhr-Jensen such as the Coyote Spoon or the Moonshine Trolling spoon, as well as the Luhr-Jensen Crippled Herring jigging spoon, work well. The original Buzz Bomb or Zelda jig are good choices when salmon are ganged up on herring schools.

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.

Located in Yosemite Valley, California and part of Yosemite National Park, Tuolumne Meadows is another world. The Great White Book is an awe-inspiring climbing route that offers a challenge for the best climbers with cracks, knobs, and edges, and a 95-foot section of sheer sandstone that’s endurance testing at its best. The Pleasure Dome above Tenaya Lake is a misnomer because you’re climbing polished rock in sections with poor protection. Make sure to take plenty of water and insect repellent, especially in the summer. You’ll also want to have your camera with you for some amazing aerial views. There are several campgrounds in the area, but not all are open year-round. Check the website before going and make sure you don’t need a wilderness permit if you want to stay at one of the backcountry campgrounds. 

Located in northern California, Lassen Volcanic National Park provides a fun adventure for adults and kids of all ages. There are volcanic remains like mud pots, fumaroles (steam and gas vents), boiling springs, and red cinder cones scattered throughout the region, and views of the area that will take your breath away. The park is home to two of the best climbing areas in this part of the state, too. Bellybutton is the largest of the crags found in the park with an elevation of 165 feet. Eagle Peak is good for climbing when it’s cooler because the warmth of the sun makes the climb very pleasant. Because the park has areas where there is still volcanic activity, make sure to stay on the established trails, check weather and availability reports, and bring plenty of water. 

At Sequoia National Park, climbers will find the great Castle Rock Spire. But as a fair warning, this area can get hot and it’s not uncommon to see rocks and the occasional rattlesnake in the area. So be prepared! Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, you’ll want to allow a full day to hike and access the Paradise Creek trail—you’ll be well-rewarded for your efforts. The best time to climb is May through August when water is more available. There are several camping grounds in the area, but make sure you hang food at your base camp away from where you’re camping. Bears have been known to help themselves to whatever they find. It’s a good idea to get a backcountry permit, too, since rangers keep a check on all overnight vehicles and owners.

Located in Joshua Tree National Park, Ryan Campground, with an elevation of 4,300 feet, offers several excellent rock climbing opportunities on the climber access trail there. Climbers can choose between the main attraction, Headstone Rock, which has two rocks worth climbing: a 50-foot pillar of sheer rock known as SW Corner, and Cryptic, a steep and challenging rock wall, plus Lost Rocks, and the Manure Pile. The area was home to Native Americans for hundreds of years, then became used by cattlemen and miners for the natural resources found there. Joshua Tree became a national monument in 1936, and resulted in 825,000 acres being set apart, but it was reduced in size in the 1950s to allow for mining. For those who choose to stay overnight, there are 31 campsites on a first-come, first-serve basis. Bring your own water. 

Located in San Diego, California, with an elevation of 3,648 feet at the summit, most of the mountain is in the Cleveland National Forest and is surrounded by private property or Native American land. This is hiker and climber paradise and one of the most strenuous efforts in the state. What do you get when you combine sunny California and multi-pitch climbing? Serious rock climbing fun! Better wear your helmet on this trip because there is some strenuous climbing and rappelling to be done that may result in a bit of spinning. You might even see a falcon or two while climbing. Make sure you read up on the areas and be prepared. 

Are you seeking outdoor adventure? Do you love the season’s changing leaves and flowers with the cinnamon reds, fiery peaches, bright golden hues, and muddy browns? Bishop Creek Canyon has more than a dozen day trails that take you into autumn nirvana. The only limitation is your imagination and how far your feet will take you. Beautiful baby blue skies and fluffy white clouds are your ceiling as you travel through this magnificent wilderness area. You’ll see pristine lakes and rocky mountain majesties. Make sure you have plenty of water with you and stay on the marked trails. There’s no fee for day hiking, but if you plan to stay overnight, you’ll want to get an overnight pass at the White Mountain Ranger Station. 

Home to Native Americans originally, the Shasta Cascade region is in the northeast/north central part of California at the edge of Oregon and Nevada. There are seven national forests in the region, and well-known waterways, unspoiled lakes, and plunging waterfalls beckon a visit and a photograph or two. A favorite spot of John Muir’s, there is activity for everyone. Water recreation like canoeing, paddleboarding, a moonlight kayaking tour, or fishing, you name it, it’s here for the enjoyment. If you prefer a solitary hike where you can experience the peace and serenity of a crystal-clear lake or the pounding and rushing sound of water falling 138 feet, there’s that, too. Visit for day. Stay for a while. Remember forever. 

If you’re looking for a nice place to pitch your tent, tether your RV, or just spend the day hiking and fishing, Lundy Lake is the right place for you. This three-mile trail is not heavily traveled and is listed as difficult. The trail is dog-friendly as long as you remember to keep them under control. If you’re an avid photographer, you’ll find plenty of great photo opportunities here with the birds and fall foliage, and it’s not a far hike to the waterfalls. Summer and fall are the best times to come, and the aspen groves and beaver ponds are added perks to the hike. 

Known as the “Father of the National Parks,” John Muir was also a naturalist, environmentalist, and advocate for protecting the wilderness areas in and around Yosemite Valley and Sequoia National Park in California. The 211-mile hiking trail named after Muir is good for hikers of all ages, and every mile holds amazing and picturesque views of the state. This trail has the sunniest climate for a mountain range in the world, but hiking the trail is best between July and September. The complete trail can be accomplished in three weeks if you follow a steady pace. A permit is needed, so make sure to obtain one, and bears are frequently seen, so bring along a food container if you plan to spend the night. 

Recovering from the damage caused by a wildfire in nearby Cuyamaca Rancho State Park in 2003, the area around Palomar Mountain State Park is coming back to life with the fire of autumn. With almost 2,000 acres of green coniferous forests in the park, there are still brilliant bursts of color as the cedar trees change from green to golden yellow to vibrant orange to earthy brown. Evenings are cool, but you can take any of the 11 miles of hiking trails to locations like historic Boulder Hill, where the view from the old fire tower is magnificent. Part of the Boucher Summit Trail is handicap accessible, and there is information available about the tower, originally built in 1921 and maintained by park volunteers. Some of the trail provides an easy, slow-paced walk, but others require a half-day to complete. Maps are available and remember to get a day pass, which includes your overnight camping fee if you’re spending the night. 

Beautiful reflecting lakes in this northern California campground will enhance your autumn adventure and provide excellent photo opportunities. There are several camping sites in the area with half accepting reservations. There’s a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and food storage container at each site, but no RV hookups. A new volcano adventure camp opened and gives kids a chance to learn about the volcanic activity that formed the area. Make sure to use the food storage containers as bears frequent the area and don’t always ask before taking food. 

Park of the Santa Cruz Mountains in California, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is the oldest park in the state. Visitors will have the chance to see the kings of the forest, the giant redwood trees that can grow from the size of a tomato seed to a height of nearly 367 feet tall and an average circumference of 22 feet. There are more than 80 hiking and backpacking trails in the park, but check to see if any are closed before heading out on your adventure. Fall is a particularly great time to camp at Big Basin, and is the best time to escape the heat of the summer and accompanying storms. Autumn brings abundant color changes in wildflowers. The four waterfalls are a special delight and may provide opportunities to see some of the animals and birds that live there. Leashed dogs are permitted in the camping area, but not on the trails. Check at the ranger station to see if any fees apply on trails that lead to hiking or rock climbing areas. 

One of 19 national parks and nestled in the southern part of the state, Sequoia National Forest is part of the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, and has over one million acres with the world’s largest number of sequoia trees. Over 850 miles of trails and 14 campgrounds in the two national parks found there, the views are unsurpassed for majesty and the raw beauty of nature. From the spring wildflowers to the blankets of snow, fall may be the best time to visit the park with the golden tones and cooler temperatures providing optimal opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and just enjoying nature. There are many recreational activities in the area including horseback riding, boating, fishing, swimming, and mountain biking as well. Passes or permits may be required, so check in with the local rangers’ station. This is a wilderness area, so use caution when traversing on trails and stay on the established paths. 

If the idea of pitching your tent on the ground and roughing it doesn’t appeal to you, El Capitan Canyon is just the place for you. With 108 comfortable cabins and all the amenities of home that will make you feel warm and cozy, there are 300 acres to roam and explore nature. Located on the Pacific Coast, an unusual perk of camping here is that it’s a great place to catch a wave or two, kayak, or climb a rock. There are beautiful hiking trails for those who want a little more adventure. Imagine spending the day in the sun and surf, then coming back to your cabin to enjoy a brisk fall evening around a cozy fire singing camp songs. There are special camp experience packages available for those who want to enhance their stay, such as s’more and barbecue kits, massage treatments with licensed therapists, and wine tasting events with other campers. 

With over 500 miles of dirt roads, 12 wilderness areas, and 110 miles of hiking trails that include 600,000 acres, Anza-Borrega Desert State Park is many things, but ordinary isn’t one of them. This state park inside the Colorado Desert in southern California gets its name from the bighorn sheep that live there. Many people choose to set up base camp at Borrego Springs and travel to one of the world’s oldest and most diverse areas where you can see badlands, canyons, and mountains. Any season brings a special color, but fall is one of the best times to visit. You’ll see desert plants and flowers not seen elsewhere, birds, reptiles, and other wildlife. This is also a Dark Sky Community, perfect for stargazing. The local Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Associate offers over 150 free programs that will give you more information about the area and enrich your visit. Check with local ranger stations for any applicable fees or passes needed while there. 

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.

A post shared by •• marissa •• (@marissarehkopf) on Sep 26, 2017 at 9:08pm PDT

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.

A post shared by Mary Mary (@contrarymary1972) on Feb 6, 2018 at 8:22am PST

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.

A post shared by @usaworldtravelpassion on Jan 6, 2018 at 12:45pm PST

Before you start your day of adventure, you must stop to check out Calico Ghost Town. This town is one of the few remaining in California, and not far from the Johnson Valley area. It can be a nice spot to stretch out your legs and relax before you hit the trails. 

Before you hit the trails, fill your belly with a hearty meal at the Slash X Ranch Café. The Slash X Ranch is known for filling meals and also hosts events and fundraisers for off-roading enthusiasts. Open only on weekends for cold beer and hot food, Slash X is a decades-old family business known for their delicious chili cheese fries.

Johnson Valley is one of the best spots for off-roading in America and is local for much of Southern California. Johnson Valley hosts major off-roading events each year including the “King of the Hammer” competition. At the Johnson Valley community center, you can get maps of the off-roading area, which is very expansive and has welcomed families looking for off-roading adventures for years. You can camp at Johnson Valley, and millions of visitors do each year. Johnson Valley has a variety of terrain, from spots that resemble a rough lunar landscape and are rocky enough to rip metal off your vehicle, to canyons, washes, lakebeds and plenty of trails and offshoots.

After your day in the desert, head to the mountains. Big Bear isn’t far and is pretty easy to find after a day of exploring. Teddy Bear Restaurant is a home-style cash-only spot with a breakfast-all-day menu and a children’s menu. They’re open until 11 p.m. every day of the week. 

Johnson Valley offers plenty of rural campgrounds, but if you want something a little more contemporary, then head up to the Lodge at Big Bear Lake. The rustic cabin set up has all the modern amenities and a prime location right on the edge of town. There’s even a sauna to soothe aching muscles after a long day on the trails.  

Ocotillo Wells has over 85,000 acres to explore. You can camp but be sure to check the website for the rules and the supplies that you can and can’t bring into the area. While fans love the Wild West, comforts like clean bathrooms stocked with everything you need are also appreciated. Spend the day or night to enjoy the natural beauty. And be sure to be respectful so that Ocotillo Wells can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Big thanks to @yebbap and John for making it out to #california And #ocotillowells this weekend. They ripped it up on the klx400 from #praconmotorcyclerentals #brappp 📷 #gts? Come out to ride soon!!

A post shared by Brian Pracon (@bpracon) on Jan 24, 2018 at 8:17am PST

Just miles from the Mexican border, Heber Dunes is a favorite for ATV riders and other off-road vehicles. You can’t camp but you can play in the dunes from dawn until dusk. Winding trails and different types of sand dunes mean that you’ll have plenty of space to explore for a day. You can also find classes on safety and rules of the off-road. You’ll also find community events and other activities that come up during holiday weekends and other fun things to do at Heber Dunes.

Hollister Hills is filled with various ranches to take out your ATV.  Have a picnic or campout and enjoy panoramic views and amazing trails. The Upper Ranch sits on 800 acres and has about 24 miles of trails to explore. Watch out for wildlife and be cautious. The stunning views and few crowds make it a favorite spot to enjoy. Maps and clearly marked trails make it a place to experience nature safely.

As the third largest unit of California State Park’s Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division, Hungry Valley is one of the more accessible SRVA spots for the city of Los Angles. Just a short ride north of the city off the I-5, Hungry Valley is an easy weekend getaway for when you need to get away but the kids are still in school. The vast variety of trails means that you can be a beginner or an experienced rider and find a trail or two to experience.

Located near Oroville, Clay Pit is a small but prime spot for riding motorcycles, ATVs and 4x4s. The pit is left over from the days of building the Oroville Dam. It’s a prime spot for beginners or teaching kids. There aren’t many jumps or different types of terrain, so it’s easier to get acclimated to the area.

*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.