Families looking for an outdoor adventure or vacation will find no shortage of options. From camping and hiking in the mountains to kayaking and fishing in the ocean, there are endless possibilities for active travel.
Whether you're planning a short weekend getaway or a longer trip with kids tagging along, numerous destinations offer something for everyone.
To help narrow down the choices, here are seven of the best family outdoor adventure trips:
The Grand Canyon
This is one of America's most iconic natural landmarks, and a trip to the canyon is an unforgettable experience for any family. From hiking and camping to rafting and exploring, there are endless opportunities for adventure in this amazing place.
If you're planning to visit the Grand Canyon with kids, check out some of the ranger-led programs offered by the National Park Service. These programs are designed specifically for families and offer a great way to learn about the canyon while having fun at the same time.
Here are some of the top must-see places in the Grand Canyon:
The Bright Angel Trail
Horseshoe Bend
The South Rim
The North Rim
Grand Canyon Village
Desert View Point
No matter what time of year you visit, the Grand Canyon is sure to be a hit with everyone in the family. Just be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and water, as it can get quite hot during the summer months.
Plan to travel as much as you can and enjoy the moments with your family.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone is another great destination for families who love the outdoors. In addition to its stunning scenery, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and grizzly bears. There are also plenty of hiking trails and geothermal features to explore.
If you're visiting during the summer, be sure to take advantage of the Junior Ranger program, which is offered at all three visitor centers. This free program is open to kids ages five to 12 and helps them learn about Yellowstone through a variety of activities, such as ranger-led hikes and Jr. Ranger books.
Here are some of the top must-see places in Yellowstone:
Old Faithful
Grand Prismatic Spring
Mammoth Hot Springs
Yellowstone Lake
With so much to see and do, a trip to Yellowstone is sure to be a memorable experience for the whole family. Don't forget to carry some essentials, such as bear spray, sunscreen, and a first-aid or adventure medical kit, as you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors.
Hunting And Fishing In Commercial Hunt Clubs In California
If your family enjoys hunting and fishing, consider a trip to one of the many commercial hunt clubs in California. These clubs offer a variety of services, including guided hunts and fishing trips, as well as lodging and meals.
Hunting opportunities are endless for both apprentice and experienced hunters. This is a great option for families who want to enjoy a true outdoor adventure without roughing it in the wilderness.
For hunting enthusiasts looking to take down small and medium game like ducks, geese, coyotes, deer, doves, pheasants, quail, rabbits, turkeys, or wild pigs, you'll want to bring your own gear and apply for a California hunting license.
For a more personalized experience, you can carry your air gun, such as the Benjamin Marauder PCP air rifle. This high-powered air rifle is perfect for long-range shooting and can be customized to suit your individual preferences.
It's silent, making it ideal for hunting small game, and it can also be used for plinking and target practice. You can find more information on hunting on the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website. Some of the fantastic fishing opportunities in California include:
Trout fishing in the Sierra Nevada
Salmon and steelhead fishing on the Klamath and Trinity Rivers
Sturgeon fishing on the Sacramento River
Albacore tuna fishing off the Coast of Southern California
The Florida Keys
The Florida Keys offer a unique outdoor experience for families who enjoy beach vacations. Key West is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving, and there are also many opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and sailing.
If you're looking for a more relaxed vacation, take a trip to one of the quieter keys, such as Marathon or Islamorada. Here, you can spend your days lounging on the beach, exploring the mangrove forests, and enjoying the laid-back lifestyle of the Florida Keys.
When exploring the Florida Keys, be sure to take some time to visit Dry Tortugas National Park. This park is located on a group of seven small islands and is only accessible by boat or seaplane.
The highlight of the park is Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century fort that's perfect for exploring. Be sure to bring your swimsuit, as the park also has some of the best snorkeling in the area. Don't forget to carry an action camera like a GoPro or Insta360 and an underwater camera housing to capture all your underwater adventures.
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park in Maine is a beautiful place to explore with kids of all ages. From hiking and biking to swimming and boating, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors in this picturesque setting.
There are two main areas to explore in Acadia National Park: Mount Desert Island and the Schoodic Peninsula. Mount Desert Island is home to the majority of the park's attractions, including Cadillac Mountain, the tallest mountain on the east coast. The Schoodic Peninsula, on the other hand, is a quieter area with fewer tourists.
Some of the top things to do in Acadia National Park include:
Hiking the Beehive Trail
Biking around Eagle Lake
Exploring Sand Beach
Kayaking or canoeing on one of the many lakes
Climbing Acadia Mountain
Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the park. If you're planning on doing any hiking, be sure to wear sturdy shoes and pack plenty of water and snacks.
If you're traveling in an RV, there are several campgrounds located within the park.
The White Mountains
The White Mountains of New Hampshire are perfect for families who love to hike and camp. With miles of trails to explore and several peaks over 4,000 feet tall, the White Mountains offer an unparalleled outdoor experience.
If you're looking for a challenge, hike to the top of Mount Washington, the tallest mountain in the northeastern United States. For an easier hike, try one of the many trails around Franconia Notch State Park.
There are also plenty of opportunities for camping in the White Mountains. If you're planning on spending a few nights under the stars, be sure to pack a tent, sleeping bags, and all the other necessary camping gear. Some of the kid-friendly camping spots in the White Mountains include:
The Hiker's Campground at Franconia Notch State Park
The AMC Highland Center
Smokey Bear Campground
White Mountain National Forest - Blackberry Crossing Campground
Olympic National Park
Located in Washington state, Olympic National Park is home to beaches, rainforests, and glaciers. Families can hike, camp, fish, and kayak in the park.
This park is also home to the Olympic Mountains, which offer some of the best views in the Pacific Northwest. Plan to spend at least a few days exploring the park, as there is so much to see and do.
Some of the top things to do in Olympic National Park include:
Hiking to Hurricane Ridge
Exploring Rialto Beach
Camping at Hoh Rainforest Campground
Kayaking in Lake Crescent
Visiting Sol Duc Hot Springs
There are many more places you can explore with your family. Consider getting a United States map for traveling and planning your next family adventure or get an app like Roadtrippers to help plan your trip. Start ticking off amazing places and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Start Your Outdoor Adventures
Every family is different, and each family has its own unique preferences when it comes to vacationing. That's why there are various adventure trips perfect for families of all sizes and interests. No matter what kind of outdoor adventure your family is looking for, there's a trip out there that will suit your needs.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next family adventure today and enjoy quality time together in the great outdoors.
