Travel – Bankston Motor Homes Blog

RV Destinations: Exploring the Costal Charm of the Outer Banks in Your RV

May 23, 2024May 23, 2024Interact RV Support

Picture yourself cruising along the scenic coastal highways, the salty breeze tousling your hair as you embark on an unforgettable adventure in your RV. Welcome to the Outer Banks, where coastal charm meets endless exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or just dipping your toes into the RV lifestyle, this destination promises to enchant and delight you at every turn.

Discovering Hidden Gems

The Outer Banks is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From pristine beaches to quaint seaside towns, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Take a stroll along the iconic Cape Hatteras National Seashore, where miles of unspoiled coastline beckon with their natural beauty. Or, venture inland to explore charming villages like Duck and Corolla, where local shops and eateries offer a taste of coastal living.

Unforgettable Experiences

One of the greatest joys of RVing in the Outer Banks is the freedom to create your adventure. Spend your days fishing off the pier, kayaking through tranquil marshes, or simply relaxing by the campfire under a starlit sky. For the more adventurous traveler, opportunities for surfing, kiteboarding, and hang gliding abound, offering thrills and excitement against the backdrop of breathtaking ocean views.

RV-Friendly Accommodations

When it comes to RV accommodations, the Outer Banks has you covered. From beachfront campgrounds with full hookups to secluded spots nestled among the dunes, there’s no shortage of options for RVers seeking the perfect home base. Wake up to the sound of crashing waves and enjoy unparalleled access to some of the East Coast’s most pristine beaches, all from the comfort of your RV.

Family-Friendly Fun

Traveling with the whole family? The Outer Banks offers plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. Visit the North Carolina Aquarium or the Wright Brothers National Memorial for a dose of history and culture, or head to one of the area’s many amusement parks and water parks for a day of thrills and excitement. With endless opportunities for adventure, the Outer Banks is the perfect destination for RVers of all ages.

Ready to experience the coastal charm of the Outer Banks for yourself? Contact us today to find the perfect RV for your next adventure. Our friendly team is here to help you hit the road and create memories that will last a lifetime. See you on the open road!

Southern Charm RV Travel Destinations in Alabama and Tennessee

February 17, 2024February 27, 2024Interact RV Support

Venture into the heart of the South and explore the rich history, stunning landscapes, and charming towns of Alabama and Tennessee. These neighboring states offer a wealth of RV travel destinations that promise memorable experiences for adventurers of all ages.

Discovering Alabama’s Natural Wonders

Alabama’s diverse landscape boasts everything from pristine beaches along the Gulf Coast to towering mountains in the north. Explore the majestic beauty of Gulf State Park, where you can camp near the shore and enjoy activities like swimming, fishing, and kayaking. For a taste of adventure, head to the rugged terrain of Cheaha State Park, home to Alabama’s highest peak and miles of scenic hiking trails. Whether you’re seeking coastal relaxation or mountain exploration, Alabama offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Exploring Tennessee’s Scenic Beauty

Tennessee’s rolling hills, lush forests, and iconic landmarks make it a top destination for RV travelers. Experience the magic of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can camp among towering trees, hike to breathtaking waterfalls, and spot wildlife like black bears and elk. Take a scenic drive along the Natchez Trace Parkway, stopping to explore historic sites, picturesque overlooks, and charming small towns. Tennessee’s natural beauty will leave you amazed, from the majestic beauty of the mountains to the tranquil shores of its lakes and rivers.

Immersing Yourself in Southern History and Culture

Alabama and Tennessee are steeped in rich history and culture, with many historic sites, museums, and cultural attractions to explore. Visit the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement in Montgomery, Alabama, where you can tour landmarks like the Rosa Parks Museum and the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church. In Tennessee, delve into the musical heritage of Memphis and Nashville, home to iconic attractions like Graceland, the Grand Ole Opry, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Whether you’re a history buff, a music lover, or simply curious about the South’s vibrant culture, Alabama and Tennessee have something for everyone.

Experiencing Southern Hospitality

Every trip to the South would be complete with experiencing its legendary hospitality. From mouthwatering barbecue joints to quaint country diners, Alabama and Tennessee are home to some of the best Southern cuisine you’ll ever taste. Indulge in classic dishes like fried chicken, biscuits, gravy, and sweet tea, and remember to save room for homemade desserts like peach cobbler and banana pudding. Wherever you go in Alabama and Tennessee, you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome and a hearty dose of Southern charm.

Are you ready for an unforgettable RV adventure in Alabama and Tennessee? Contact us today to learn more about our RV sales and rentals and start planning your journey through the Heart of Dixie and the Volunteer State.

Essential RV Tips for Winter Traveling: Stay Warm and Safe on the Road

November 8, 2023November 8, 2023Interact RV Support

Traveling in an RV during winter can be an exciting adventure, but it also presents some unique challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or a newbie hitting the road for the first time in winter, here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

1. Prepare Your RV

Before embarking on your winter adventure, it’s crucial to winterize your RV properly. This involves checking your insulation, sealing drafts, and ensuring all your heating systems are in good working order. Insulate the windows, doors, and vents to minimize heat loss, and consider investing in a skirt to surround the bottom of your RV to prevent cold air from entering.

2. Pack Appropriate Clothing and Bedding

Dressing in layers is critical to staying warm in an RV during winter. Pack thermal underwear, wool socks, hats, gloves, and insulated jackets to keep yourself cozy when venturing outside. Additionally, bring extra blankets, warm bedding, and a good-quality sleeping bag to guarantee a comfortable night’s sleep.

3. Be Mindful of Water Usage

Water management is crucial when traveling in winter. Drain your water tanks before hitting the road to avoid freezing pipes. Instead, rely on bottled water for drinking and cooking purposes. If you need running water in your RV, consider using an RV antifreeze to prevent freezing or invest in heated water hoses.

4. Monitor Propane Levels

Propane is essential for heating your RV, cooking, and providing hot water. Consequently, it’s crucial to keep an eye on your propane levels. Always travel with a full tank and carry an extra propane tank or two, particularly if you’re planning an extended trip. Regularly check for leaks and ensure your carbon monoxide and propane detectors are in working order.

5. Check Weather Conditions

Before embarking on your journey, check the weather forecast for your destination and along your route. Winter storms can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to plan accordingly and be prepared to adjust your itinerary if needed. Avoid driving in hazardous conditions and stay updated on road closures and travel advisories.

6. Stay Warm and Insulated

Even with proper heating, an RV can still feel chilly in winter. Maximize your insulation efforts by adding weatherstripping to doors and windows and using thermal curtains to prevent heat loss. Invest in portable heaters and use electric blankets to keep yourself warm inside. However, make sure to follow all safety guidelines and precautions when using space heaters.

7. Plan Your Destinations and Activities

Consider destinations and activities that are suitable for winter travel. Research RV parks and campgrounds that offer full hookups and amenities like heated restrooms and laundry facilities. Look for winter-friendly activities such as skiing, snowboarding, or ice fishing to make the most of your winter RV adventure.

8. Practice Safe Driving

Driving an RV in winter conditions requires extra caution. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, reduce speed, and avoid sudden braking or acceleration. Ensure your RV tires are in good condition and properly inflated for optimal traction. Consider investing in tire chains for added stability on icy roads.

Traveling in an RV during winter can be a fantastic experience, offering unique landscapes and a sense of solitude. By following these tips and staying prepared, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. So, bundle up, pack your essentials, and hit the road for an unforgettable winter RV adventure. Contact us to find the perfect motorhome for your travels!

RV Fall Camping Tips: 4 Great Places to See the Fall Foliage

September 11, 2023September 11, 2023Interact RV Support

If you plan to take your family camping this fall and want to make sure you have picked the perfect travel destination to see the fall foliage. Below, we will show you four of our favorite places to get the best views so you can make the most of your time away from home. Learn more about these RV fall camping tips below and plan your fall break camping trip.

White Mountain National Forest

You’re looking for somewhere to visit in the North East White Mountain National Forest is an excellent place near New Hampshire and Maine. This park is located in Campton, New Hampshire, and features over 750,000 acres of woodlands and beautiful mountains. In the fall, the countryside lights up with the colors of the fall foliage, and you can get great views along any of the many hiking trails.

Staten Island Greenbelt

Next, travel just a little bit south to Staten Island, New York, and you will come across the Greenbelt Nature Center, which is another excellent place to view the fall colors. This destination is much smaller, featuring only 2800 acres. However, the unique forest in this park is a diverse combination of wetlands and beautiful trees, which gives you a unique experience when viewing in the fall foliage.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

Your next destination is just a little to the west and located in Minnesota. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is a 1,000,000-acre wilderness area within the Superior National Forest, which is ideal for viewing all types of fall foliage and beautiful wildlife that appears during the colder months. This is a great travel destination because it also features more than just the waterfront area to explore with your family.

North Cascades National Park

If you’re looking to make a long-distance trip for your fall adventure, the North Cascades National Park in Washington is the place to go for viewing the fall colors. This park is known for the jagged peaks of the mountains that surround the park, as well as deep valleys and beautiful waterfalls. There are tons of hiking trails with beautiful viewpoints throughout the park, so you’re bound to find a perfect photo opportunity to capture the beauty of the fall colors.

RVing in Alabama and Tennessee

May 19, 2023May 19, 2023bankstonmotorhomes

Bankston Motor Homes is a staple in Alabama and Tennessee. This month we want to inform everyone why we love RVing in the South! There are plenty of options for finding a great campground. Whether you want to stay close to the city or further out in nature, there are many choices available. So, whether you’re looking to explore the natural beauty of the South or just want a quiet spot to park your RV, here are some tips on how to kick off your Summer RV trip.

To start, make sure you research your options! Does the RV campground have the necessary amenities that you and your family need? Does it have activities for the kids? Does your RV fit into their designated RV spots? When choosing the right campground, it’s important to consider location, facilities and amenities, rules and regulations. Since, you’re looking for the best summer campsites for RVing in Northern Alabama, consider the following:

Size of the campsite. The size of your campsite is an important factor to consider when choosing a campground. You want to make sure that there is enough space for your RV and other vehicles, as well as any additional tents or equipment you may have brought along with you on this trip.
Location and views. If possible, try to find a location where there are great views of nature around you–this can make camping much more enjoyable! You might also want to look into whether or not there are any nearby attractions that would be fun for everyone in your group (e.g., hiking trails).
Amenities and facilities at each campground location being considered by those searching for places where they can stay overnight while visiting Alabama during this time period; you will want to discover things like whether or not bathrooms and showers are available 24 hours per day and if electric outlets are located in each individual site so you don’t need to bring along a generator. It is important to know if there is a convenience store at each park, too.

The final step is choosing where to stay! Here are a few locations to check out in Alabama and Tennessee.

Wheeler lake in Decatur, Alabama
Great Escapes RV Resort Chesnut Bay in Leesburg, Alabama
Nashville KOA Resort in Nashville, Tennessee
Arrow Creek Campground in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

If you’re looking for something more rural and natural, check out some of the national parks in Northern Alabama such as Oak Mountain State Park or Cheaha State Park. If you’d rather be closer to civilization but still enjoy some outdoor activities like hiking trails and biking paths, try one of the state parks south of Huntsville like Valley Head Lake Recreation Area or Lake Lurleen State Park. Whatever type of camping experience suits your needs best–and whatever type of RVing adventure appeals most–you’ll find it here!

Before you hit the road, here are a few things to remember. The first is making sure your RV is in good working condition. Check all appliances and make sure they work properly, especially if you are planning on staying at an RV park for an extended period of time. Next up: packing essentials! You’ll want to bring enough clothing for both warm days and cool nights–and don’t forget about rain gear if storms are forecasted during your stay. Also, pack extra towels and linens so that everyone has what they need when getting ready for bed each night! Finally, don’t forget some entertainment options like books, cards or board games–you never know how long those evenings will last!

Getting your RV ready for Travel

March 7, 2023March 27, 2023bankstonmotorhomes

The sun is out and the weather is warm. You know what that means? It is time to get your RV ready for Spring! These maintenance steps are important to do before hitting the road.

First, make sure you de-winterize your RV. This task marks the official start of RV season! You de-winterize by flushing your RV’s water lines with fresh water. To do this, connect a water drinking hose to the city water connector on the RV. Next, run the water through the entire plumbing system. Make sure you don’t miss anything like an outside shower or your washing machine! After all the antifreeze is gone and there are no traces of it, you can reinstall any water filter cartridges that have been removed. All the antifreeze that has been removed is now in your gray and black tank, so you will want to find a suitable waste disposal site. You will also want to sanitize your RV water system! To sanitize your lines, make sure all the drains are closed. The most efficient way to sanitize is to use a quarter cup of household bleach to every fifteen gallons of water in your fresh water tank. Pour the solution into your fresh water holding tank. Turn on your water pump and run the water through all faucets. Finally, refill your holding tank with freshwater and run until you no longer smell bleach. You may have to do this step a couple times!

Next, an important step is to make sure your HVAC is working. You will want to run both your heat and your AC to make sure they are both functioning properly! You don’t want this warmer weather to heat up your RV with no way to cool it! This is a great time to check your LP levels, too.

Finally, don’t forget to check the outside of your RV. Start low and give the tires a good once over! You don’t want a blowout to happen on the road. Tires lose a percentage of air pressure while in storage. Your RV tires can lose two or more psi per month while sitting in storage. Be sure to check the tire pressure using a quality tire inflation gauge! Next, check the roof. You will want to inspect your RV rooftop for any openings or breaks where water or air can get in. Make sure to really check around your roof vents! Plain and simple, water is the enemy of any RV interior. The sooner you catch the leak the better!

Following these tips will help you make your RV ready to hit the road! These tips seem simple but are very important to make sure that you have a smooth RV season. If you need help de-winterizing your RV or have any question about how to do so, call your local Bankston Motor Homes. We are here to help you out!

Where will you be this Spring Break?

March 7, 2023March 27, 2023bankstonmotorhomes

Spring break is right around the corner! The first thing you are going to want to decide is where to travel to. There are RV campgrounds nationwide. Each campground will list the amenities that they offer. So, you can find the one that best suits you!

Do you want a relaxing quiet location? Check out Portland Oregon. It is too amazing to pass up. It offers the best of both worlds. From a quirky city with fantastic food to outdoor destinations. You can visit and hike Mt. Hood and the gorgeous pine forests of the Pacific Northwest. During the month of March, Portland’s food scene is fantastic. More than 120 local restaurants offer incredible specials and deals! Think craft farm to table style menus. Some will even include fresh seafood caught that morning!

Would you like to visit the beach over Spring break? Head to Isla Blanca State Park in Texas! This beautiful destination promises a beach vacation on the Gulf Coast. This is the perfect location to take your RV and have a relaxing time. Don’t forget the sunscreen!

Want to hike and be active during your Spring Break? Hit the road and travel north to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan. Here you will have great views of arches and rock formations coming up from Lake Michigan. This spot is perfect for all things water! You can kayak, fish, swim, and more.

Are you interested in a little more classic spring break? Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is the place for you. There are RV campgrounds along the sandy beaches and activities for all ages. You can explore the downtown area with plenty of local restaurants or stroll along the boardwalk and check out all the beach shops. End the night by winning some games at the town’s amusement park!

Are museums and history your thing? Spend this Spring break driving your RV northeast to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Here you can learn all about the historical significance of Philadelphia. There are plenty of museums that you can visit. Don’t worry, Philadelphia also has a great food scene. After your museum tours, check out the Reading Terminal Market. There are rows upon rows of food stands with classic Philadelphia food.

This is just the tip of the iceberg of all the places you can travel to this Spring Break. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to plan your RV trip. You can even plan to go to more than one spot! This is a huge benefit of traveling in an RV this Spring break and for any RV trip!

Three Washington State Parks for RVers

April 25, 2022April 25, 2022bankstonmotorhomes

There are many sights to see out west, and the state of Washington is one that will not disappoint with three fabulous Washington State Parks for RVers to visit!

When summer comes and it’s easier to justify longer trips, driving to the west coast seems much more reasonable. After all, aren’t long road trips over the summer what some of the best memories are made from? With three Washington State parks for RVers to choose from, why not add this state to your travel plans this year?

For those who like both hiking and time on the water, Steamboat Rock State Park checks the box. Why do we say that? This park has 320 feet of dock, and seven water launches. Which means anglers, swimmers, paddlers, and water sports fans will find this park a real treat! In addition to all the water-access, there are 13.1 miles of hiking trails and biking trails. This park even has ten miles of horse trails!

Fishing requires a recreational license (including shellfish harvesting). You will also want to check their website for other important info about when their concession stand is open, burn notices, and other visit-related issues.

The main park has twenty-six standard campsites, 164 full-hookup sites, three cabins, one dump station, seven restrooms (seven ADA) and twenty showers (sixteen ADA). There is no longer a group camp site available at this time. Also be aware that the website mentions that mosquitos are prevalent, so make sure you take plenty of supplies for both personal protection as well as your campsite’s outdoor space. With so many fun things to enjoy at this state park, you’ll want to be able to make the most of your stay.

Another great option is Twenty-five Mile Creek S tate Park, which is located on the beautiful Lake Chelan next to the mountains. This location gives RVers access to a marina, plus the nearby North Cascades National Park. The marina is great for those that want to explore gorgeous Lake Chelan. There are also several great options for day trips or hikes nearby in the North Cascades like Pot Peak, Stormy Mountain, and Devil’s Backbone. This park is truly a scenic spot to enjoy sunsets, sunrises, and majestic mountain views with the forest nearby.

The park has twenty-five standard campsites, four partial-hookup sites, seven full-hookup sites, one dump station, two restrooms (one ADA) and six showers (two ADA). There is also a concession store for travelers to pick up firewood, ice, and basic supplies. The concession store & boat fuel are available seasonally.

For a third fantastic stop, try Manchester State Park because it has plenty of campsites with great activities. Known for its interesting military sights as well as salt-water access, this park is sure to please a wide range of RVers. This park features 3,400 feet of saltwater shoreline. Visitors can enjoy Kayaking, swimming, and diving (bring your own gear) at this classic beach park with a view of Bainbridge Island on a sunny day. This park has a rocky shoreline and no boat launches, so you will want to plan accordingly.

In addition to the beach park, there is also an old torpedo warehouse that visitors may be able to check out when it’s not being rented as a wedding venue, family reunion spot, or gathering place. Several structures remain from the park’s time as a coastal defense fort, so history or military buffs will want to check those out as well.

Manchester state park has thirty-five standard campsites, fifteen partial-hookup sites, and two restrooms and showers. Maximum site length is sixty feet (limited availability). One dump station is located near the entrance; no extra fee required while camping. Reservations are year-round and can be made 9 months in advance of selected date

In closing, Washington state is one of the best states to visit in your RV. If you have not made it there yet, you will want to add this state to your bucket list for sure!

Planning Your Trip: Six Top RV Destinations You Need to Know

August 30, 2021August 31, 2021bankstonmotorhomes

Whether you’ve just bought your first RV or have been RVing for a while now, check out this list of the best RV destinations to help you plan your next trip. Whether you’re looking to travel near or far, these RV destinations will keep you and your family entertained. Read on to explore these different top destinations and add them to your bucket list!

1. Minot, North Dakota

One of the top RV destinations is Minot, North Dakota. This city was founded in 1886 as a winter camp and quickly sprung up ‘like magic’ over night…which earned it the nickname “Magic City”. Enjoy the forestland and Scandinavian heritage in this area. The Dakota Territory Air Museum and Scandinavian Heritage park are both popular attractions. Many stay at the family-owned park known as the Roughrider RV Resort where there are plenty of hook-ups to choose from, as well as back-in and pull-through spots.

2. Key West, Florida

One of the best destinations for RVers is Key West, Florida. This popular spot boasts an aquarium, haunted walking tours, bicycle tours, dolphin experiences, as well as the home of Ernest Hemmingway, and much more!

You and your family will get to enjoy the beach and pool area as well as free wireless internet, a marina, and more at Boyd’s Key West Campground which is only a few miles from downtown Key West.

Keep in mind that this campground does get crowded so you will want to check ahead for availability.

3. Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks Alaska has a lot to offer RVers with a taste for adventure. Pioneer Park, Aurora Ice Museum, Running Reindeer Ranch, and the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum are all excellent opportunities to see new and unusual sights. And there are so many other cool things to see in Fairbanks, this is just a few options to get you started.

You can park your RV at the River’s Edge RV Park in Fairbanks, Alaska. What’s nice about this park is that there’s plenty of room for you and your family to spread out. There are biking and walking trails to enjoy when you are in the park. RVers can also enjoy hot meals right at the resort’s restaurant, Chena’s.

4. Yosemite, California

Enjoy Yosemite National Park which became a national park on October 1, 1890. One of the best RV camping destinations is at the Yosemite Pines RV Park in Yosemite, California. While you can stay within Yosemite National Park, there aren’t any hookups.

The Yosemite Pines RV Park is only 22 miles from the park and you’ll get to enjoy back-in sites and pull-through spots. It’s very family-friendly and your family can enjoy panning for gold and petting alpacas too.

5. Helen, Georgia

If you enjoy the mountains then you’ll love Helen, Georgia. Plus the Bavarian feel of the downtown area in this northeastern town makes it truly unique.

There is an abundance of walking trails around the waterfront along with many dining options. The Yonah Mountain Camping Resort is a great option for a place to stay. It’s family-friendly as well with a clubhouse, swimming pool, and picnic pavilion. Yonah Mountain Campground also won the 2017, 2016, 2014, and 2011 Readers’ Choice Award for Best Campground from the White County News!

6. Traverse City, Michigan

Traverse City Michigan is the largest producer of tart cherries in the United States, so head there in July for the cherry festival! The surrounding area is also well known for it’s grape & wine production. In addition to these types of attractions, nature lovers will also fine plenty of trails and parks to enjoy right on the waterfront. You can jet ski, kayak, or boat during the summer months. In 2009, TripAdvisor named Traverse City the number two small town travel destination in the United States. Traverse City State Park offers campsites for RV travelers using the Campnab system. This on-line search & reservation tool enables RV owners to search for sites based on the length they need for their RV.

Exploring Six Top RV Destinations

After checking out this guide, you now have a list of some of the top RV destinations that you will want to add to your travel list. Ready to explore this beautiful country of ours from the comfort of your very own RV?

The Top 9 State Parks for RV Owners to Visit in California

July 29, 2021bankstonmotorhomes

Ready to pack up the RV and take a trip through the beautiful state of California? As the most biodiverse state in the US, California has a near-infinite number of sights to see when you visit. Let’s take a look at the top 9 state parks for RV owners to visit in California.

1. Crystal Cove State Park

Starting off the list in Orange County, Crystal Cove is a Southern California treasure. Moro campground offers rugged beachside views, beautiful sunsets, and plenty of caves to explore. Being down the road from the famed Newport Beach doesn’t hurt either.

2. Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Home of the tallest and longest-lasting trees in the world, Humboldt Redwoods will inspire awe in any camper. A mix of old and new growth, this state park is home to the most ancient redwoods on Earth and absolutely deserves a spot on this list.

3. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Parks

The Pfeiffer Big Sur campground is an incredible staging point to see attractions like McWay Falls and the Big Sur River. There are 189 campsites and it’s a very popular park, so you will want to check Reserve California to make a reservation. Each campsite includes a parking area for at least one car, a fire pit and a picnic table. No hookups are provided at any site. Fresh water, hot showers and toilets are located throughout the campground.

4. McArthur Burney Falls Memorial State Park

The waterfalls this park is named after are well worth the drive to McArthur Burney Falls. Right around the corner from lake Britton, this park offers incredible hiking, fishing, and camping in the northernmost areas of California.

5. Mount Tamalpais State Park

Visiting San Francisco?

Mount Tamalpais belongs on your agenda. Just past the north end of San Francisco Bay, Mt. Tamalpais offers gorgeous views over the bay year-round with a hike to the top of the mountain, all while being just a short drive from the Golden gate Bridge. Again, you can make a reservation through Reserve California online.

6. Morro Bay State Park

Morro Bay is a coastal state park and lagoon on the Central Coast. Best known for the huge Morro Rock, the state park also offers fishing, hiking, sailing, and much more! The park also features an 18 hole public golf course and marina along with a museum of natural history that you’ll want to check out!

7. Portola Redwoods State Park

Located south of the San Francisco Bay, Portola is a hidden treasure of a state park. A very relaxed atmosphere way stop, the towering trees keep gentle watch over you and your family as you enjoy the abundant hiking, swimming, and picnic opportunities within. The park boasts over 18 miles of trails, as well as waterfalls on Fall and Pescadero Creeks. Be advised there is no cell phone service within this park and the surrounding area, so ride sharing services are discouraged. If unplugging is on your list of things to do- this park is for you!

8. Russian Gulch State Park

Russian Gulch state park might be California’s best-kept secret. Nestled on the coast in the far northern reaches of the state, this park offers incredible views of the coast, forests, and wildlife that call the area home. If you want to experience everything that Russian Gulch has to offer, make sure you visit in the summer because the park closes in the cold months.

9. Emerald Bay State Park

Last on the list is the gem of California’s state parks. Nestled into the southwest corner of blue Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay state park truly offers some of the most fantastic scenery to be found in the entire state. You will want to check their website to plan your visit based on the most current information.

The park even includes a massive castle named Vikingsholm. Finished in the 1920s, this monolith is a must-see for any tourists passing through the park. However, the walk down to the castle is incredibly steep and there are no rides back up. The park advises that visitors with medical conditions or mobility issues avoid the steep 1 mile hike.

Get on the Road

Whether you’re ready to take your family on a road trip to the west, or if you have more questions, please check out our blog for all the information you need to plan your trips!