Camping This summer

Happy summer solstice!

I love camping. I love waking up to sit outside in the quiet morning. I love walking around looking at the different plants and trees while looking for critters and creatures.  When I’m feeling it, I like to get in the car and head toward the Sierras. And then stop when we’re done driving. A few Pasitos families introduced me to Lake Alpine a few years ago. Beautiful.

There are also times when a 3+ hour drive is not going to happen. So then I’ll look for a middle of the week spot at a local campground, if I didn’t already make a reservation earlier in the year. (I like to begin planning out summer camping and try to make a couple reservations in February or March.). There are always cancellations, so weekends are still a possibility.

My favorites
Mt Madonna. It’s close. It’s easy. It’s beautiful.

Memorial County Park. Hiking around and playing in Pescadero Creek creates lasting memories.

Every year we also go to Big Sur.  Not for hiking.  Just relaxing and playing in the river, in the playground, around the campfire.  We go back and forth every year between Riverside Campgrounds and Cabins and Big Sur Campground and Cabins.  They are literally right next door to each other and each has their perks.  I once worked on my MA project sitting by the river.  

Angel Island State Park. I haven’t taken the kiddos yet. Ever. And probably not this summer. But maybe next summer. Camping in the middle of the SF bay is pretty amazing. You have to pack in, but you can do it on bikes to help carry the load.

We are heading up towards Crater Lake, Oregon this year.  I'm always excited to visit new campgrounds and experience new sights, smells, and sounds.  Happy camping!