Among the redwoods, beside a mountain lake or under the desert stars, our three California locations — Russian River, Yosemite, and Joshua Tree — are perfect for families looking for keep-’em-active adventures and summer fun. Here’s a breakdown of the best to-do’s at each.
AUTOCAMP RUSSIAN RIVER
Armstrong Redwoods State National Reserve is the most kid-accessible redwood experience in Sonoma County. If you’re looking for something a bit more off the beaten path, head to Occidental for the gateway to The Grove of the Old Trees.
It’s paddling season! Kayaking or canoeing down the Russian River is a peaceful way for the whole fam to take in Northern California’s dynamic terrain, bucolic wilderness, and abundant wildlife sans crowds.
Birding curious? Gather your gang for a guided, two-mile walk on West County Regional Trail while looking at, listening to, and identifying a variety of songbirds, woodpeckers, raptors, and more.
Johnson’s Beach on the Russian River is a summer hot spot for locals and visitors alike. You can rent canoes, kayaks, beach chairs, and umbrellas — everything a family needs for a great day.
AUTOCAMP YOSEMITE
There are several easy hikes in Yosemite that will have your kids gawking in awe, including the paved Lower Yosemite Falls Loop which is stroller-accessible. This trail winds by the tallest waterfall in North America!
Take your family vacation by the reins. Choose from one- and two-hour trail rides daily, or you can go all in with a five-hour ride to Grizzly Giant, one of the largest sequoias in the world.
Kids 10 and up can take a beginner group class in Yosemite Valley. Lessons include learning how to rappel up to 60 feet high! Kids under 10 can climb, too, via a private climbing lesson.
Take a picnic to the sandy beaches of Tenaya Lake, an ideal spot for paddling. More adventurous swimmers can head to Lake McClure on the edge of the park, which has a splash obstacle course.
AUTOCAMP JOSHUA TREE
AutoCamp x MoJave Guides offers guests an exclusive rock climbing experience in the heart of Joshua Tree National Park. From bouldering to more challenging ascents, all skill levels can get in on the action.
Joshua Tree Adventures offers custom, half-day, guided hikes complete with fun facts about natural history, geology, and local legends that will fascinate and entertain the whole family.
Stargazing this time of year in Joshua Tree is especially glorious. Join AutoCamp Joshua Tree for a cosmic, astronomer-guided experience in the desert featuring constellation sightings, groovy tunes, and dancing!
Cool off at AutoCamp Joshua Tree’s exclusive Swim Club. Enjoy expansive desert vistas while relaxing poolside with sips from the Pool Bar and tasty bites from the AutoCamp Kitchen.