Have you heard? Summer 2024 is officially the “summer of outside,” and in our book, that means time by the water. From breezy river floats and secret swim spots to refreshing outdoor pools, here’s your ultimate guide to staying cool.
Too hot to venture far? Take a plunge right at AutoCamp. Our outdoor pools are exactly where you want to spend steamy summers– open daily at Asheville, Joshua Tree, Sequoia, Yosemite, and Zion.
Savor the Cape Cod Shoreline
Summers on the Cape are epic for many reasons, but not as compelling as the idyllic Atlantic Ocean. Create your coastal fun at two beloved beaches:
- Wood Neck Beach: This New England gem, where Buzzards Bay meets Sippewissett Marsh, is only a mile west of AutoCamp Cape Cod. It’s a rocky, warm water beach with top-tier swimming and tons of tidal pools.
- Chapoquoit Beach: Known as “Chappy” by locals, this white sandy beach has strong winds perfect for windsurfing and kite flying. It’s also the ideal spot to catch an iconic Buzzards Bay sunset.
Hit Refresh in the Catskills
Relaxing Upstate getaways call for plenty of H2O time. Waterfall hikes in the Catskill Mountains, secluded swimming holes, and rustic beaches are great places to start.
- Saugerties Village Beach: This peaceful sand beach, complete with a dock, slips for kayaks, and a spacious park, is excellent for uninterrupted afternoon dips.
- Big Deep Swimming Hole: Just outside downtown Woodstock, this off-the-beaten-path lagoon is a local favorite. It’s a quiet, shallow swimming area surrounded by lush forest. Visit on a sunny day to see the water in its turquoise glory.
Hang Poolside in Joshua Tree
AutoCamp Joshua Tree’s outdoor pool, situated right off of the Clubhouse, is the closest (and coolest) water around. Relax on a lounge chair with an unreal view, or sip an ice-cold drink with your toes in the water.
- Pool Access: This amenity is for all guests, but passersby can still splash around with a Summer Pool Pass.
Enjoy Summer Activities on the Russian River
The easy-flowing Russian River was practically made for leisurely float trips.
- Floating: The go-to route is from Steelhead Beach to Sunset Beach. Although the distance is only about two miles, the journey can take up to four hours– make sure to pack plenty of provisions.
- Kayaking Tour: Explore wine country via water on an expert-led kayak tour through the lower Russian River. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and see local wildlife up close.
Try Aquatic Adventures in Asheville
Looking to escape the North Carolina humidity? Good thing the nearby French Broad River is a treasure trove of all things aquatic.
- White Water Rafting: Adrenaline junkies, take advantage of the river’s five miles of Section 9 rapids that gush through gorgeous gorges. The most intense stretch starts at Barnard River Park, right where the water enters Pisgah National Forest.
- Paddle Boarding: Test your balance (and core strength) over calmer water from access points at the River Arts District or French Broad River Park.
- Floating: Let the current be your guide in this low-key water activity. Just slide into your own inner tube or grab a rental and away you go. Don’t forget to lather on the SPF.
Ride the Rush in Yosemite
Merced River excursions are a Yosemite rite of passage. Swimming and rafting here depend on access points and flow, but you’ll always have an unmatched experience.
- White Water Rafting: The main rafting runs range in difficulty from Level 2 to 4 based on conditions and time of year. The summer’s bouncing rapids definitely make for an exhilarating ride.
- Swimming: Merced River’s sandy beaches are a thing of beauty, and happen to be incredible for swimming. Some of the best spots include Housekeeping Beach, Sentinel Beach and Cathedral Beach.
Uncover Zion’s Crisp Waters
Zion summers are certified scorchers. All the better for filling your itinerary with a few extra swim sessions.
- Waterfall Exploring: Pine Creek Falls has tons of small pools to swim in but brave the stream hopping and boulder climbing necessary for the full waterfall effect.
River Hiking: Explore the Virgin River’s strong currents and cold temperatures by dipping in the shallows along Riverside Walk or during your river hike through The Narrows. Stick around for the Canyon views and refreshing water. - Tubing: While not permitted in Zion National Park, venture downstream to Springdale for a leisurely float.
