Now is your chance to get away! But… where to? Whether it’s just you and the kiddos or a family reunion you’re planning, we have something totally off the beaten path that will make for an unforgettable trip. Dude ranch vacations are the OG western adventure vacation. They offer something for every traveler at every age, whether it’s horseback riding, fly-fishing, white-water rafting, hiking, shooting sports or simply porch-sitting with breathtaking views, Dude Ranchers’ Association member ranches have it all. The best part? DRA ranches are all-inclusive—an ideal way to travel no matter the type or size of your group.
No Fool’s Gold here: Get a wiggle on and keep reading for more reasons why we think your buckaroos will deem a DRA Dude Ranch trip ace-high! (That’s cowboy speak for “Awesome!”)
ALL-INCLUSIVE!: The stallion of vacation set-ups, all-inclusive trips just make everything so much easier when traveling with a group. No fighting over the bill at dinner, all DRA Dude Ranch destination pricing includes meals, lodging and even activities (so no sticker shock at the end of your trip, either! Fits Any Type + Age of Traveler: And we mean, any: babies and toddlers up to seniors, singles, couples, reunions, multi-generational trips, and so on—pretty much any scenario in which humans gather, the Dude Ranchers’ Association is sure to thrill them all. (Even your Aunt Martha—we know she’s picky.)
Activities for All: Horseback riding is typically the main event, but activities for all interests are readily available. And remember, the DRA has lots of options so you can find the Ranch that’s perfect for all your dudes, including you, partner!
Sky-High Standards: The DRA implements a rigorous 2-year application process in order to be accepted into membership with the Dude Ranchers’ Association. Once a ranch is accepted, the DRA board of directors visits the ranch every five years so guests are guaranteed an extraordinary western experience at any member ranch.
Location, Location, Location: Well, that depends on where in the west you think is best! You have heaps of options (90+!) and any DRA member ranch you choose is sure to be an excellent destination to unplug and reconnect with family and friends, and surely to gather ‘round the campfire and stargaze at night.
Safe Destinations: Leave the staleness of your home territory behind and step into another world: You’ll be outdoors in nature, surrounded by fresh air and taken care of by a small group of friendly folks at any given DRA Ranch—welcome home! (on the range... )
Rustic or 5-Star? Up to You!: DRA Ranches offer it all. From working cattle ranches to traditional dude ranches and luxury resort ranches, the Dude Ranchers’ Association has all the options you could possibly desire or need. Adventure awaits at any of DRA’s member ranches—each with something unique to offer their guests—just choose your adventure!
Full of history and outdoor adventures, Casper, WY, should definitely be on your list for your next family vacation. We spent a long weekend there checking out all the amazing museums, learning about the area’s history and trying our luck at fly fishing. Here’s what you need to add to your must-do list when you visit Casper.
1. Visit the Tate Geological Museum.
Casper College is home to this awesome (and free!) museum that the whole family will enjoy. Little paleontologists will be amazed from the minute they walk in and spot Dee the Mammoth. Discovered nearby in 2006, Dee is part of the museum's Pleistocene Exhibit where kids can learn the difference between mammoths, mastodons and elephants. Little visitors will especially love visiting the Dino Den where they can explore touchable fossil casts, do fossil rubbings and play with dinosaur toys.
Give yourself a view of the gorgeous Wyoming landscape from a boat on the North Platte River when you book a day with Crazy Rainbow Fly Fishing as your guide. Half-day and full-day trips are available where even beginners can experience the fun sport of fly fishing.
On our recent visit, our guide John started the day by giving us an overview of the basics of fly fishing before we set off down the river to try our luck. He knew all of the best spots for catching rainbow trout and provided instruction along the way that led to catching four fish under less-than-ideal circumstances (snowmelt made the river cloudy). We saw Bald Eagles and other wildlife along the way and stopped for an included lunch. This was definitely a trip highlight and an experience we'd recommend to Casper visitors.
You'll love the quaint feel of downtown Casper and all the small shops like Donnells Candies and Mustard Seed where you can find unique gifts and treats to bring home with you. Wyo Shirt & Gift is your go-to stop for all the beanies and Wyoming hoodies that your crew is looking for.
If you are downtown for mealtime, head to the Branding Iron for fried green tomatoes, wings and burgers (there's over a dozen to choose from). We recommend the Yellowstone burger—a bison burger that's topped with Cajun aioli and pepperjack cheese for a spicy kick. It goes particularly well with a rootbeer float.
4. Explore history at the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center.
You'll love your visit to this free museum from the moment you arrive as its vantage point provides an expansive view of Casper and the mountains that surround the city. This museum's exhibits bring you information about the Oregon, California, Mormon and Pony Express Trails that brought over 400,000 pioneers west from 1841-1868. Kids will especially love the interactive exhibit where they can test their strength at pulling a covered wagon to see how they'd fare as pioneers (we wouldn't have made it, that's for sure!). Special kids programs are offered on Saturday mornings and they have tons of free enrichment activities, especially in the summer months.
National Historic Trails Interpretive Center Online: nhtcf.org
5. Take a drive to Fremont Canyon.
Do yourself a favor and put Fremont Canyon on your must-see list while you are in Casper. A little less than an hour's drive from Casper, you'll be amazed by the gorgeous sandstone and limestone formations in this area of Wyoming. Bring a picnic to enjoy along the shores of Alcova Reservoir and bring your mountain bikes to enjoy the landscape on two wheels.
6. Visit Independence Rock.
While you're on the road, continue past the town of Alcova a little while and you'll come to Independence Rock State Historic Site. This monument tells more of the area's history with thousands of names of hopeful pioneers carved into the rock. You can follow the trails around the large rock to look for names yourself. The oldest recorded inscription (now weathered away) was carved into the ancient landmark in 1824 by M. K. Hugh. What's the oldest inscription you can find?
7. Stay awhile.
There's plenty to explore in Casper, WY no matter when you visit. Make sure you head up Casper Mountain to the lookout to take in a view of the city from above during your stay. There are hiking trails nearby that are perfect for all levels.
The Hampton Inn & Suites is your ideal home base in Casper as it's just a short drive from the airport and downtown. An expansive breakfast is included with your stay (hello, waffle bar!) and the kids will love spending their evenings in the hotel's indoor pool. Right up the road from the hotel is another great dining option for families, Ludovico Farm to Flame. Serving loads of kid favorites like pizza and pasta, the restaurant is located in the Gruner Brothers Brewery.
For more information on what to do and see while you are in Casper, head to the Visit Casper website.
—story and images by Kate Loweth
Editor’s Note: This trip was paid for by Visit Casper but all opinions belong to the writer.
‘Tis the season for sunshine, exploring and making memories! To help you get the most out of your summer, we’ve teamed up with Go RVing to give you everything you need to plan an epic family vacation. Get our guide here!
Assateague Island National Seashore is located on a remote, windswept barrier island known for sandy beaches, salt marshes, maritime forests, coastal bays, and of course—its wild horses. Well known to people who have never even been to the island, the "wild" horses on Assateague are actually descendants of domestic animals that have reverted to a wild state. Sounds a little bit like the effect a vacation to Assateague Island might have on us all, doesn’t it? Don't miss the chance to camp at the Bayside Drive-In Campground, which makes up in sunset views what it lacks in hook-ups. Tents, trailers, and RVs are welcome at this dry campsite where you just might awaken to find a new four-legged friend with checking you out.
If you're looking for a destination that's really for the birds (migratory, that is), head to Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge, a 10,144 acre refuge officially established in 1963 as a migratory bird sanctuary. Its salt and freshwater marshes, ponds and impoundments, wooded swamps, upland grasslands and forests are home to an astonishing number of plant and animal species. While you're there, explore the southern Delaware waterways on a cruise or water tour offered by Captain David Green & his family and the crew of Cape Water Tours and Taxi. Along the Broadkill River lies Steamboat Landing, where cabins, seasonal sites, and transit sites are abundant, and where fishing, crabbing, clamming, and waterskiing are accessible directly from the campground's two boat docks.
Don't let the name fool you. The New River is actually one of the oldest rivers in North America, and the New River Gorge is a National Park that offers as many glimpses into the cultural history of the Appalachian Mountains as it does the unique and diverse natural habitats. Experience the wild ride of a guided raft trip with West Virginia Adventures, where you can choose among gentle float trips, intermediate trips, or extreme trips. Stay at the Breeze Hill Campground, where you can choose from primitive sites or RV sites with full hookups. With facilities that are complete with a newly built shower house, bathrooms with hot water, and electricity, you'll find it easy to unwind after your day spent exploring the New River.
Head west from D.C. for about three hours to find remarkable forests, deep valleys and the wildness that's become West Virginia's hallmark. Circleville, like the rest of Pendleton County's communities, is a decidedly small town and a welcome getaway from the bustle of busier city streets. It's an ideal base camp for caving, ziplining above gorges, and rock climbing. The Via Ferrata at NROCKS offers a mile of fixed-anchor, professionally-guided rock climbing where you’ll gain 1085 feet in elevation, cross a suspension bridge that is 150 feet high and 200 feet long, and reach exposed heights of 280 feet. It's also an ideal place to explore some of West Virginia's 5,000 caves. Equipped with a helmet, a headlamp, and a whistle, beginners can expect to walk, stoop, and crawl while learning about geology, cave formation, underground navigation, and basic safety. Head to Back Ridge Shadows' 6 RV Sites—equipped with 30 and 50 amp electrical service—near the highest point in the state at Spruce Knob. You'll enjoy hiking on nearby trails, biking, boating, hunting, and fishing.
Virginia's Natural Bridge State Park has a jaw-dropping 215-foot tall limestone Natural Bridge that was carved out by Cedar Creek, accompanied by beautiful forests and rolling meadows. Seven miles of hiking trails, including Cedar Creek Trail that leads from the park’s Visitor Center under the bridge to the Monacan Indian Village and Lace Falls with its 30-foot cascade, makes exploring the park a breeze. Located only five miles from Natural Bridge, Camp Jellystone features cabin rentals, tent sites and RV camping. You'll love its proximity to the state park, and the kids will swoon over its jumping pillow, wagon rides, beach, pool, and mini-golf, among other amusements.
The Nantahala National Forest in Southwestern North Carolina is defined by its soaring mountains and plunging gorges. "Nantahala" is a Cherokee word meaning "land of the noonday sun," a fitting name for the Nantahala Gorge, where the sun only reaches the valley floor at midday. See the terrain from a unique perspective on a family raft trip with theNantahala Outdoor Center for full or half-day trips and six different rivers to choose from. For a campsite that gives you access to hiking In the Smokies, rafting with NOC, exploring nearby Cherokee or Gatlinburg, and more, the Grumpy Bear Campground is just what you need.
You know what they say. When the mountains are calling, you must go. And families launching out for adventure from Atlanta have an incredible mountain destination with Brevard and the Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina only a couple of hours away. Pisgah National Forest was once the property of George W. Vanderbilt and is home to old-growth forests and the highest mountain peaks east of the Mississippi. With 100,000 acres of public lands, 1,000 miles of hiking trails, 300 miles of single-track mountain biking and over 250 waterfalls, Brevard is an unspoiled mountain town where you can experience countless adventures. But don't experience the area's natural beauty from afar. Pay a visit to Sliding Rock, a natural waterslide where you can slip-slide a day away in icy, rushing mountain waters. Keep an eye out for white squirrels, which are said to have descended from an escaped carnival squirrel, while you're in Brevard. The Davidson River Campground offers camping, including several loops of shaded campsites, and easily accessible hiking trails, fishing spots, waterfalls and other attractions within Pisgah National Forest. It lies just four miles west of the town of Brevard and less than an hour from the city of Asheville.
With miles of wide, flat beaches, bike trails through Spanish-moss-covered live oaks, and wildlife interactions at world-class facilities, Jekyll Island is a family vacation jackpot only four and a half hours from Atlanta. It was also the private playground to the industrial age's wealthiest barons, so the historic village isn't too shabby, either. Any visit to Jekyll must include a trip to theGeorgia Sea Turtle Center, where visitors can learn about endangered sea turtles through eco-experiences led by biologists and researchers. There's even a sea turtle hospital where you can meet the "patients," learn about what put them there, and see how the center is making a difference in their future. The Jekyll Island Campground has 179 total campsites (167 full hook-up sites and 12 primitive tent sites) and is nestled among the maritime forest of Jekyll Island. Located only a half mile from Driftwood Beach and Clam Creek Picnic Area, including the fishing pier, it's a great place to park.
Few have heard of tiny Grover Island just off the coast of St. Mary's, Georgia. Its 400 acres within Crooked River in Camden County is just four miles from Cumberland Island National Seashore and its awe-inspiring wild horses. It was the first national forest preserve to be established in the United States in 1799—preceding our national parks, national monuments, national wildlife refuges, and national forests. In addition to its beautiful forests and abundant wildlife, Grover is rich in archaeology, containing aboriginal sites from centuries prior to the arrival of Europeans in North America. Stay at Crooked River campsite, where you'll be surrounded by palmetto trees and Spanish moss-draped oaks. Head out from your campsite to explore a nature trail that winds through forest and salt marsh, and glimpse gopher tortoises, fiddler crabs, herons and other birds.
Unlike remote Grover Island, Florida's Amelia Island is a developed island escape where you can still enjoy an uncrowded beach, wide-open outdoor spaces, and comb for shark's teeth in the sand. You'll find quaint restaurants, breweries, and entertainment In the historic downtown area, but don't miss a chance to explore Fort Clinch. This state park includes a historic Union fort during the Civil War, and visitors can explore its rooms, take a closer look at the row of cannons aimed across the St. Mary's River at Georgia, and participate in ranger-led discussions. Outside of the fort, over a thousand acres await your exploration. Located along the northeast tip of the park, just steps from the ocean, Atlantic Beach Campground offers 21 RV and six tent-only sites that are surrounded by snow-white sand dunes and sunny sites.
When the chilly days arrive, there’s something so restorative about cozying up by a fire with your family. These yurt Airbnb rentals offer that exact vibe and more. Unplug, breathe in the fresh air around you and head to one of these family-friendly yurt rentals that have awesome amenities like fire pits, hot tubs, hiking trails and stargazing galore. You’ll find these glamping rentals all over the U.S. from Joshua Tree to the Ozarks to the Florida coast. Bring the zen back home with you!
Mahal Yurt—Williams, AZ
Airbnb
This yurt is totally off the grid and we love it. Expect to have dark nights with stars brighter than you have seen before. It's just 40 minutes from the south rim of the Grand Canyon and can sleep up to 8 people. Cook on camping-style equipment and enjoy the fact that there's no WiFi in range.
Truly off the beaten path, you'll find this magical yurt near Joshua Tree. Stay in this adorable, comfortable and surprisingly spacious space. Grab warm blankets and experience stunning sunsets and stargaze at night. You'll find peace, quiet and desert fun. Head to Joshua Tree in the day (20 minutes away) to enjoy beautiful landscape and great hikes for the half-pints.
Experience the next generation in luxury yurts that overlook the Arkansas River on this property with a number of yurt rental options. At 20' in diameter with cozy upper-level lofts, you will find plenty of space to stretch out and relax. You will have access to the entire grounds including riverfront access for fishing, rafting, kayaking and anything that floats your boat. Guests may use the pavilion area and all bathrooms and showers.
Stay among fig and orange trees in this Los Angeles neighborhood. Glamp and explore the local sites of LA during the day. This yurt sits on a half-acre lot shared with a 1920's farm. Enjoy a wood burning stove and outdoor hot shower. Even more, there's a fire pit that's great for a campfire sing-a-long.
Your family will love these brand-new yurts at East Zion Resort. Each yurt on the property has been designed with its own private bathroom, kitchenette, fire pit, gas grill and air conditioning. The yurts are elevated on an incredible hillside that spreads out over 12 acres of beautiful Southern Utah countryside. Invite some friends and rent yurts next to each other.
Come prepared to relax, unwind and explore the wonders of the north woods in this yurt that's nestled in the middle of the Bayfield County Forest. This rustic yurt has direct access to miles of non-motorized rec trails (mountain bike, cross-country ski and hiking). Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Superior, including all of Pike's Bay, four of the Apostle Islands (Madeline, Basswood, Stockton and Michigan) and the U.P. The view of Michigan Island also includes the lighthouse.
A glamping bohemian yurt in Paradise Hill (just 10 minutes from downtown Los Angeles). Families dig that this yurt's on an urban farm. Moreover, you can visit goats, chickens and a pig next door. You'll find a full outdoor kitchen, claw foot garden (solar) bathtub with hot running water.
Good to know: There are steps, so for toddlers, this yurt may be a challenge.
Your family will love spending some time at this scenic property that's close to Chattanooga, Gatlinburg and Nashville. Spend time outdoors on the deck and enjoy s'mores in the fire ring. This property shares a bathroom and community room with tons of gear for kids to borrow.
Families looking for more glam with their glamping will love the big screen TV, hot tub and fire pit. You are surrounded by beautiful views of the Great Smoky Mountains and all the fresh air you desire.
Mere steps from the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the Dome Home offers a unique architectural experience. The open floor plan boasts wonderful views with round skylights in each room, and the wrap-around deck offers panoramic views of the ocean. Nearby activities include bicycling, kayaking, fishing, and bird watching.
Cozy, Private Yurt on 27-Acre Horse Farm—Accord, NY
Airbnb
This scenic property will be your favorite as the kids will love seeing the horses, chickens, goat, pigs, puppies, kittens roaming and fenced in around the yurt. Located in the Hudson Valley just two hours north of New York City, the yurt has a bedroom, living room, sleeping loft and deck. In winter the property is a winter wonderland where you can cross country ski or snowshoe on the property.
Sweeping views are part of the dream that comes with a visit to this Stowe, VT yurt. Warm yourself by the fire pit or indoor wood stove when the days get cold. Kids will love all of the wildlife on the property including birds, moose, deer, fish, frogs, salamanders and owls at night.
Head to the Ozarks to experience some time in this spacious yurt. 30 acres of woods are available for exploring and the kids will love seeing what creatures they can find. You'll love that this spot has a real bed. Feel free to bring your dog with you as this spot is pet friendly.
Vacationing with kids: stressful, unexpected, but also pretty great. In fact, a new survey found that 52% of parents think trips are more enjoyable if the kids can come too. It’s part of a larger study focusing on family vacations as summer travel season comes to a close.
SWNS, in conjunction with OnePoll and Apple Vacations, surveyed more than 2,000 Americans about their travel preferences and 59% also said that they don’t mind a bad day of vacation, as long as their kids get to enjoy it! That may relate to happy family trip memories—half of respondents who traveled growing up said the excitement will never go away. And despite the headaches of planning and packing, 80% plan to continue family vacations to build strong bonds.
Speaking of packing, respondents ranked it as the least enjoyable part of vacationing (relatable). Once families reach their destinations, there’s plenty of water activities they’re eager to experience. Over one third (35%) said they’re excited for kids to try swimming, visiting a water park (29%) or fishing (28%). Don’t forget those swimsuits when you’re filling those bags!
Finally, it’s no surprise that Americans prioritize price when booking a vacation destination, followed by Wi-Fi access and a pool. Luckily, we have the perfect, budget-friendly ideas no matter where your fam is headed next, from Portland (Oregon) to Portland (Maine)! And if your travel is done for the year, you’ll have plenty of time to snag that hot reservation for next summer!
––Sarah Shebek
Featured image courtesy of Jan Kopřiva on Unsplash
If you’re already making your holiday gift lists, another big retailer has dropped a Top Toys list to help you narrow it down! Zulily released its list this morning, with plenty of familiar brands making the cut. Read on for all the details!
An new model of an evergreen toy topped this year’s list. Barbie’s Three-In-One Dreamcampercashes in on the increased popularity of family camping. Kids three and up can change the shape and functionality of the camper to create their own imaginative trips. The set is packed with features like sleeping bags and fishing gear and it’s retailing for $79.
Other toys in the top five:
PicassoTiles 101-Piece 3D Magnetic Building Tile Play Set by PicassoTiles: Design, build and let imaginations soar with this colorful, magnetic toy set that little ones will love. Suitable for ages 3 and up.
Fisher-Price® Giant Rock-a-Stack® Toy by Fisher-Price: Help strengthen and develop your little one’s fine motor and problem-solving skills with these stacked rings in bright colors. Suitable for babies 12 months and up.
Joybay Sky Blue Premium LED Swing Car by Joybay: Boasting vibrant hues and a dynamic design, this sweet ride-on just needs kiddos to turn the steering wheel from left to right to get racing. Able to be used indoors and out, this super quiet ride features light up LED wheels for a dazzling drive by display. Suitable for ages 3 and up.
LEGO® Marvel Studios The Guardians’ Ship by The LEGO Group: Transport kids into a universe of imaginative adventures with this rewarding model-making project, perfect for any fan of the Marvel Universe. Suitable for ages 14 and up.
For the rest of this year’s top toys, head over to Santa’s Workshop and start shopping! Zulily found that 71% of moms start buying their holiday gifts in advance. Shopping data from Zulily also revealed moms are stockpiling Christmas décor and other holiday items as early as July, so it’s never to soon to start checking off those lists.
—Sarah Shebek
Photos courtesy of Zulily/featured image courtesy of Thandy Yung/Unsplash
Starved Rock State Park is a popular spot for campers and anglers, and it’s no surprise why. The Illinois River has some of the best fishing opportunities and the park’s beautiful setting and proximity to Chicago make it an attractive destination for daytrippers—or a quick weekend away. In recent years, however, Starved Rock’s visitor numbers have surged. When the park reaches capacity, traffic can back up for miles, leaving adventure-seekers stuck in their cars instead of casting a line or taking in the scenery. Read on for equally dazzling places to enjoy nature without getting stuck in gridlock traffic.
Located just 90 minutes from Chicago, Lowden State Park has 80 campsites with access to electricity and a shower building. There are another 46 primitive campsites, for a more rustic experience, in a separate campground. This park sits right on the Rock River, which has an average depth of about 3 feet at the height of summer. Rent a canoe or kayak from local outfitter White Pelican if you don't own your own boat, but there are docks located along the riverbank where the public can cast a line. Check out the dock by Margaret Fuller Island for a great view.
The Hennepin Canal is an ideal spot for families willing to trade amenities for solitude. The Hennepin Canal includes nine campgrounds, 150 miles of trails and some of the most abundant stocks of fish you’ll find in Illinois. All campsites are first-come-first-served, have no showers or running water, but toilets are available at each campground. Fishing on the canal is allowed 24 hours a day and trawlers should have no trouble pulling out bass, catfish, walleye, crappie and bluegill. Visitors who prefer to cast a line from their boat will find 29 miles of portage-free canoeing along the feeder canal from Rock Falls.
Spring Lake Park outside Macomb has an impeccably maintained campground, with great amenities, and 6 miles of shoreline to cast from. Spring Lake is stocked with blue catfish, muskellunge, bass, bluegill and crappie. Campers have 102 campsites to choose from, with space for either tents, RVs, or cabins. An on-site bait shop rents pontoon boats, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, paddleboats, and fishing poles. Within the park itself, there are over 12 miles of biking and hiking trails, so you’ll have plenty to do if the fish just aren’t biting.
Located about 60 miles north of Chicago, Chain o' Lakes State Park is great for families looking for a variety of activities. Camping is abundant, with 151 sites and three cabins. A concession stand rents boats and sells bait. Anglers will find bluegill, bass, walleye, crappie, muskie, northern pike, bullhead, and catfish. This park lives up to its name, with three lakes and the Fox River within the park itself. That means the shorelines get marshy and most fishing is done from either on a boat or designated fishing piers. Other activities at Chain o’ Lakes include hose rentals, hunting, and over 10 miles of hiking trails. There is even an accessible picnic area with a quarter-mile hiking trail, that will accommodate anyone with mobility concerns.
Nauvoo State Park is a stunning and peaceful place. This park is small, just 148 acres on the banks of the Mississippi River. It includes a 13-acre lake with one mile of shoreline, stocked with bass, catfish and bluegill. There are no boat docks or rentals, so be prepared to cast from the shoreline or use the primitive boat launch. Campers will find 105 camping spaces, a few short hiking paths and a playground area. Visit the in-park museum to learn about the town’s history as a stop for French explorers and as a settlement for early Mormons.
— Lindsay Welbers
Lindsay Welbers is the author of “Chicago Transit Hikes: A guide to getting out in nature without a car.” She lives on the Northwest side of Chicago and writes the ultralight camping blog “Third Coast Hikes” which encourages Chicagoans to explore their backyards, especially the corners they may not have considered before.
All you landlubbers, get ready for an aquatic adventure! Spend your days fishing, kayaking and enjoying the sunset on these houseboats you can rent with your family. They have all the kid-friendly amenities you love and a cool factor that will make this family vacation one they won’t soon forget. All aboard!
This beautiful property on the Willamette River has three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. It's surrounded by cedar decking and is the perfect spot for fishing and kayaking. Soak in the hot tub and watch the sunset.
You'll love this delightful float house on the John Day River, minutes from charming Astoria. This home offers a perfect place to enjoy river recreation and relaxation. Originally a floating store, guests now enjoy all the modern conveniences mixed with old-world charm. Sitting adjacent to 16 acres of farmland, enjoy the peace and serenity of country life or use it as a jumping-off point for your adventure on the coast.
This lovely houseboat has a great deck where you can view Mt. Tam and San Francisco. It is part of the historic Sausalito houseboat community and just a short walk to 7 restaurants.
You'll love your family getaway on this cute two-story houseboat that was on the TV show Fixer Upper. One room with a queen bed and another with two bunk beds will sleep your whole crew. In the summer you can often hear live music from nearby restaurants.
The backwaters of the Mississippi are home to this houseboat that's available year round. It has an amazing roof deck that you can access in the warmer months and view the sunset. The rental includes one-hour kayak rental for all the guests. There's even a water slide!
This is a true vintage houseboat! Multiple fishing poles are provided to guests along with two kayaks and life vests which are free to use. On the rooftop deck you will have access to lounge chairs and beach chairs.
This charming, renovated houseboat is located at the north end of Newport Harbor. Two single kayaks are available for your use. Grill some local seafood and enjoy the sunsets!
Enjoy amazing sunsets at this houseboat that has everything your family will need. Grill up some fresh fish on the BBQ and then explore the beauty of the surrounding area.
A magical getaway awaits when you stay at this tugboat on its own private lake. The Luxury Tugboat floats on an 8 acre private lake with an island on 142 wooded acres, with 5+miles of hiking trails. Enjoy swimming, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, fishing, hiking, exploring, or just relax on your own beach by the fire pit.
Accessible only by boat, this little floating house is certain to be full of adventure! You'll especially enjoy the expansive deck and outdoor living area. Two kayaks are available for your use and dogs are welcome!
Your family will enjoy this very spacious houseboat with a vaulted ceiling in the main cabin. Lots of room to move around with a queen size bed in the Captain's Quarters (Bedroom) and a twin bed in the living room that's a day bed.
We’re sure you’ve played in, on and around the water, but have you ever played over the water? So many of these piers have fun activities you can do above the ocean. Restaurants at the end of the pier make for a fun place to eat, while fishing, catching sunsets and even sleeping over the ocean make for some unique must-do San Diego experiences. Read on to find out which piers have the fun!
Walk down this iconic pier that’s been around since 1888! At the end of all 1,942 feet of it, you’ll find a restaurant to grab a bite to eat* while watching the surfers catch some waves below. As you walk back, you can either peek into the buckets to see what the fishermen have caught or stop by the bait shop halfway down to rent a rod and some fishing gear. Fishing permits are not required so try your luck and drop a line of your own.
(*Longstanding Ruby’s restaurant used to be at the end of this pier but recently closed Feb. 2021. Another restaurant is signed on to take over the space later this year.)
Let the ocean waves lull you to sleep as you lay in a bed on this pier. The Crystal Pier Hotel has 28 cottages on the pier, but plan ahead because they’re usually booked about a year out. Fishing, watching surfers and sunset views are abundant on this pier. When you get back on land, you’ll have plenty of walkable restaurants to choose from.
Stroll down the longest concrete pier on the West Coast at 1,971 feet. You’ll be rewarded with some tasty food at the end when you reach the Ocean Beach Pier Café. Originally built for fishermen, it has become a popular tourist and locals spot to hang out. When the tide is out, go under the pier to find some fun tide pooling creatures.
Catch more than just fish off this pier. The sunsets from this “most southwesterly point in the continental United States” are spectacular! Grab some fish & chips for dinner from Tin Fish at the end of the pier before you head back to land. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, stop in at Cow-A-Bunga Ice Cream and then walk a half-mile north to Dunes Park where you’ll find a fun playground for the kiddos.
As the name implies, people come here to fish! It’s the first fishing pier as the ocean water comes into the big bay, bringing with it an abundance of fresh fish. Visit Fathom Bistro Bait & Tackle on the pier for fishing gear, fish food and people food; including 6 kinds of hot dogs, sausages, sandwiches, burgers, beer and weekend brunch.
Shelter Island Fisherman’s Pier 1776 Shelter Island Dr., San Diego 619-686-6200 Online: portofsandiego.org
Wake up early on Saturday morning to get here when the fishing boats arrive with their fresh catch. You can’t get any fresher fish than this! This open-air seafood market sells fresh whole tunas, crab, urchins, lobster, prawns and more every Saturday from 8 am-1 pm. There’s a guy that will even filet your fish for just $5. Some food vendors have freshly prepared seafood to buy and eat, so go hungry.
While not technically a long oceanfront pier, this new restaurant pier just opened in July 2020 and has become a hot spot for kids and date nights. There are four restaurants here serving up fresh seafood, craft beer, Mexican and a kid’s and mom’s favorite at Portside Coffee & Gelato. Anyone can walk up to the second-floor public viewing deck with tables, benches and the best views of the San Diego Bay.
Portside Pier 1360 N Harbor Dr., Embarcadero 619-719-4960 Online: portofsandiego.org
Famous for its under-the-pier photo shoots, most people don’t know that you can actually walk on top of this private Scripps-owned research pier. Before 2020, they offered exclusive Full Moon Pier Tours where you can help with research projects like collecting plankton, learn about bioluminescent organisms and explore the research labs. Kids must be 9 years old to participate. While they don’t currently offer these tours, put this on your list for the future to check back on. They're worth it!
Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier 8650 Kennel Way, La Jolla 858-534-3474 Online: aquarium.ucsd.edu
Celebrate all that dad has done this year by ordering something special to give him this Father’s Day. We picked out a few of our favorite Etsy Father’s Day gifts that we know he will love whether he’d rather be fishing or he’s a major Star Wars fan. There’s a gift for every dad on this list, we just know it!
Won't dad love snuggling up by the fire under this too-cute blanket? We know he will! Get the kids to hand-write all their favorite things about dad and he'll have this keepsake well into the challenging teen years.
Got a Star Wars fan in your fam? This daddy-and-me set is definitely going to be a favorite Father's Day gift and you can get it in whatever sizes your crew needs from infant to 2XL.
We love this unique design and we think that your mountain-loving pops will too! Choose the size that fits his wall or opt for a gift card so he can choose his own!
If your dad is one who likes to get up early to try for the next big catch, order up this set of hand-tied flies. It comes with a unique assortment that none of his fishing buddies will have, that's for sure!
If your father figure loves to spend the day at the golf course, this is a great option for him. Get this personalized set in your choice of metal and he'll remember you when he plays his favorite game.
