With frigid temps and long days inside (hopefully) behind us, it’s time to set out on an adventurous spring trip with the fam. If you’re craving natural beauty and new cultural experiences sans the hustle and bustle of your usual spot, we’ve got you covered.
Cape Cod, MA
It turns out Cape Cod’s quaint, seaside charm shines through in the spring, too. From bike rides along the Shining Sea Bikeway (accessible directly from AutoCamp!) to drives along the Cape Cod National Seashore, there are plenty of ways to take in the first signs of a new season.
- Grab our free bikes and take a ride into Woods Hole along the Shining Sea Bikeway. Bonus points if you stop for ice cream or lobster rolls on the way. The Knob, a peninsula with panoramic views of Quissett Harbor and Buzzards Bay, is another great area to bike with kids in tow.
- Spend an hour or two collecting seashells while the waves crest. Falmouth, where we’re located, boasts 68 miles of coastline and 12 miles of public beach.
- Snap photos at the iconic Nobska Lighthouse, just a few minutes down the road from our home base.
- In town over Easter? Celebrate at AutoCamp Cape Cod with our family-friendly easter egg and scavenger hunt. Or, hop on a festive Sunday Brunch Train from Hyannis to the Cape Cod Canal. Tickets for this vintage train car experience include a three-course meal and of course, an Easter Bunny photo op.
Catskills, NY
Ditch the busy city and opt for Upstate. Equal parts cultured and tranquil, the Catskills are perfect for the crew seeking a little bit of everything.
- Lace up your hiking boots and journey to the area’s gorgeous waterfalls. While there’s a plethora of local spots to choose from, we recommend the scenic,17-foot Schalk’s Falls in nearby West Saugerties.
- If you’re in town over Easter, join us for our Easter festivities – easter egg hunt and visit from the Easter Bunny included!
- If you feel like staying in, check out our complimentary Arts and Crafts Workshops most Saturdays in the clubhouse. We provide the materials, you bring the creative genius.
- Take a drive over to the town of Woodstock–yes, that Woodstock–for an artsy afternoon. This funky community is home to tons of shops, galleries, and restaurants to enjoy.
- Visiting Opus 40 should be high on everyone’s list. This outdoor sculpture park has walkable trails, a gallery, museum, live performances, and incredible pieces of art, including more than six acres of viewable earthwork sculptures.
- Hop over to Bailiwick Animal Park for an Easter Egg Hunt on March 29. The 2nd annual event features an egg hunt around the zoo area and pony ride with ticket purchase.
- A private tour of the Catskill Animal Sanctuary is another must for animal lovers. Home to over 200 rescued farm animals, visits offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to connect with them and hear their stories.
Joshua Tree, California
Sure, Joshua Tree is well-known for its festivals and art installations. But if a truly unique week is the family goal, then this surprisingly kid-friendly destination is your answer. Plus, spring time weather in the desert is just perfect.
- Adventurers of all ages and experience levels will love the Barker Dam Trail in Joshua Tree National Park. Clocking in at 1.1 miles with hardly any elevation, the trail is easily accessible to many. Marvel at ancient Joshua trees and monzogranite rock formations, and you may even catch a herd of sheep, known to frequent the trail’s watering hole.
- Pile in the car for a ten minute drive to Pioneertown, an old-timey Western-themed set and working town seen in TV shows and movies. Wander through the kitschy shops on main street, and stay on the lookout– surprise animal visitors (goats, chickens, etc.) pop up from time to time.
- Cannonball! The desert will probably be warm enough to warrant a mid-day dip in our crisp pool.
Russian River, California
Spring break in wine country is always a good idea. Tucked in the heart of Sonoma County and the famous redwoods, you’ll find a ton of outdoor fun for the whole family. Plus, you’ll get to soak in the Sonoma views during the most beautiful time of year. We’re day dreaming of rolling green hills, superblooms, and sunshine.
- Grab goodies from our General Store and trek along the Russian River to Steelhead Beach for a relaxing picnic. Keep your eyes peeled for river otters, deer, and native birds with the help of binoculars and a trusty guidebook.
- If it’s warm enough, this is also the perfect spot to canoe, paddleboard, kayak or float down the river.
- Don’t miss the chance to explore the legendary Armstrong Redwoods State National Preserve. Just shy of two miles, The Colonel Armstrong Tree Trail is great to do with kids. Weave through towering redwoods on your way to the big event, the 300-foot tall Armstrong Tree.
- Spend a night on-site playing games, sipping delicious local wine, and listening to weekly live tunes around our communal fire pit.
Yosemite, CA
Yosemite National Park is definitely the main draw, but families will love the wide range of activities available– from hiking amongst granite rock faces and rafting in the Merced River to exploring the charming surrounding towns. And you’re in luck! Yosemite’s many waterfalls are in full force throughout the Spring months.
- Start off strong at Bridalveil Fall, usually the first waterfall seen entering Yosemite Valley. It’s the perfect family hike for a few reasons– the paved trail is a short half mile out and back, and you can even dip a toe into the stream by the trail if the water levels aren’t too high.
- Check out other major landmarks like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls on a guided tour. The views are next level, and expert guides are sure to drop some fun facts along the way.
- Raising future rangers? While visiting Yosemite, kids can become certified Junior Rangers, thanks to the free program offered by the National Park Service. Just pick up a self-guided activity booklet in the visitor center, complete a few adventures along the way, and show a Park Ranger to take home the prestigious badge.
- Learn about the Gold Rush days at the California State Mining and Mineral Museum in Mariposa. Sneak a peek at the Fricot Nugget, a 13-lb. chunk of gold discovered in 1849, plus tons of mining artifacts and geodes, too.
Zion, Utah
Towering cliffs. Emerald canyons. Diverse wildlife. Zion is a must-visit destination for these reasons alone. Throw in all the opportunities for exploration and family memories, and you’ve got a trip for the ages.
- Hike the kid-friendly Riverside Walk into the Zion Narrows, where you can wade through the Virgin River surrounded by gorgeous canyon walls.
- If awe-inspiring rides are more your speed, board a free shuttle bus to coast along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. The Zion Canyon Line runs from the visitor center to trailheads for Angels Landing, West Rim Trail, the Narrows, and more.
- Plunge outside your comfort zone with a canyoneering excursion. Book a half or full day trip with an experienced guide and prepare to be blown away by the views.
So go ahead, get out there. Connect with the outdoors, your family, and yourself on an adventure-filled AutoCamp spring break.
