1. Get the right tools. Of course, you can always build a sandcastle with just your bare hands, but there are a few supplies that can help you along in the process. You’re going to want a shovel and bucket to gather sand. Any size bucket works, but experts recommend 5 gallons! Additionally, mechanical pencils or carving tools come in handy when its time to etch in detailed designs.

2. Use lots of water. In order to shape your sculpture, you need the sand to be moist. Using equal parts water and sand should do the trick to keep the sand clumped together while you work.

3. Start with a solid foundation. This step is essential to making your sand sculpture last. The “volcano method” is a tried-and-true technique that’s guaranteed to give your creation a strong base. Start by creating a moat that will surround and protect your artwork by digging a circle around the space you want to use. In the center of the moat, pile sand to create a volcano-like mound with a basin at the top. Pour a bucket of water on top and stomp the volcano to push the water in. Continue to build on top of this elevated base.

4. Sculpt carefully. The sculpting process is essentially the same no matter what structure you want to build out of sand. Start with a huge pile with more sand than you need, pack it tightly, and start carving! It’s important to remember that a sculpture is created by removing sand to create the shape you want. Take your time and have fun with it!

5. Use the pancake method. Much like bricklaying, this method provides sturdy support for your sandcastle. Take handfuls of your sand-water mixture and flatten it to make a stackable layer about an inch thick. Repeat this process to create tall, strong towers, or to give height to your sculpture.

6. Don’t forget to add finishing touches. When carving features, you want to add details from top to bottom so you don’t ruin any of your earlier work. If you really want to perfect your sculpture once you’re finished carving, use a drinking straw to carefully blow off excess sand. Sand sculptures require a high level of detail, so if you don’t have carving tools, you can use everyday household items like spoons, pencils, and brushes.

7. Pick a prime spot. So your hard work doesn’t wash away, make sure to find a spot above the high tide line to create it, but not too far away that you’ll tire yourself out making trips to retrieve water. Another thing to consider is the quality of sand. Compact, powdery sand packs better. The fine, white sand of Brunswick Islands’ beaches is ideal for a beautiful, finished product.

8. Show off your skills. Once you’ve perfected these techniques, you can find opportunities to test your skills against other sandcastle and sculpture builders in the big leagues, like the contests held in the Brunswick Islands. Festival by the Sea is one opportunity. The festival, which takes place during the last full weekend in October, features a sandcastle building contest alongside coastal arts and crafts, food vendors, a parade, and more. Looking for a way to test your skills during the summer? The NC 4th of July Festival in Southport typically kicks off with the traditional Oak Island Beach Day, where you can compete in the sandcastle contest or try your hand at the horseshoe tournament, cornhole, and beach volleyball.

Whether you’re looking for a family bonding activity or a creative outlet, sandcastles and sculptures are the perfect solution. So, find a sandy spot on any of the Brunswick Islands beaches, grab your bucket, and start designing! After your sandcastle is complete, be sure to fill in any holes before you leave the beach to help protect the area’s sea turtles. They nest in the sand and can be found laying their eggs from May to August.

Head to ncbrunswick.com for more information on how to plan your trip.

The life changing magic of snorkeling is second to none. When it comes to exploring the depths of the undersea with a diving mask and a snorkel, there’s a lot you need to know. Read on as we attempt to answer all your burning questions about snorkeling – from how to prepare for your under-water expedition, to how to defog your mask.

If you’re ready to dive in, here’s what you need to know…

In this article on the Sandals Blog:

Why snorkeling is simply amazing.
Before getting in for the first time…
Snorkeling equipment.
The five best snorkeling tips.
Dos and Don’ts for first time snorkelers.
Safety precautions for snorkeling.
Boat or no boat?
Best snorkeling destinations in the Caribbean.
Eliminate the fear.

Why snorkeling is simply amazing

Snorkeling is a chance for the adventurous traveler to become one with nature. It is an opportunity to witness firsthand the mystical wonders of the sea.

“Often snorkeling is a first peek into the underwater world. This is where people learn to enjoy live beneath the surface of the sea and become one with it.”

Places like the Caribbean are famous for their versions of undersea adventures that can be both intimidating and majestic. In the Caribbean, activities like scuba diving and snorkeling allow for optimal discovery opportunities.

Snorkeling is often promoted as the simpler of the two, and for that reason it is the go-to activity for most beach vacationers.

Before getting your swim fin moonwalk on…

Keep in mind that most people require practice before setting out on a snorkeling expedition. Expect a safety session if you sign up with a diving company or resort.

Do a practice dive. This is highly recommended as it is a chance to get familiar with snorkeling gear, practice breathing techniques, and get comfortable in the water.

“Most people are not used to breathing through the mouth and so it takes some time for them to get comfortable.”

Ensure you have the right gear. Styles, sizes and prices are all things to consider when getting snorkeling gear. It is also important to decide whether you want to invest in your own equipment or rent some out for the day.

Choose a location. Several factors are important when selecting a location. Choose one that matches your level of experience and inquire about regular sea life sightings in that area before making a commitment. Understand that the day you choose may not be the best day for sightings. Nevertheless, you’re bound to spot something exciting!

Snorkeling equipment: What you need and what you don’t

Expert tip: Get your snorkeling equipment ahead of time to ensure you find the right fit!

Getting mentally prepared and ensuring you have all requisite equipment are the first two steps to an amazing snorkeling experience. Personal items can enrich the experience but can also weigh you down. Remember, take only essentials on the trip as valuables can be lost or stolen. Here’s a list of the equipment and terminologies you’ll need to get familiar with before setting out:

Diving mask / goggles – These are essential, and they’re going to take a bit of getting used to. Snorkeling / diving masks keep the water out of your eyes and ensure you can see the wonderful wild life under the waves.

Swim Fins – Fins are useful as they help you conserve energy and swim fast. Fins will also come in handy if you find yourself swimming against a current. For these reasons, they’re worth investing in or renting out.

Wet suit / dive skin – Ideal for warmth or protection, especially in cooler waters. These come in various sizes (shortie or full length).

Booties – These are great for protecting your feet during underwater expeditions like scuba diving and snorkeling.

“Try the equipment on prior to going out for fit and comfort, and wear sunblock. Wearing a rash guard will protect your skin too.”

Flotation device – A flotation device like an inflatable snorkeling vest is recommended for added safety. Ensure you have one that inflates or deflates easily.

Snorkel Keeper – The snorkel keep fastens the diving mask to the snorkel and keeps the two safely connected.

Snorkel – Shaped breathing tube to ensure you can stay under water long enough to take in the sights!

Dry Snorkel – Specialized breathing tube that prevents water from getting in. The sole purpose of a dry snorkel is to prevent water from getting into the snorkel itself. It is not intended to allow you to breathe underwater like a scuba tank.

Purge valve – The purge valve contained within a snorkel makes it easier for water that enters the snorkel to drain back out.

The five best snorkeling tips: All it takes is a few simple tips to be snorkeling like a pro!

1. Find the perfect fit for your mask

First things first – fit the mask over your eyes and strap the elastic over your head. Make sure there are no twists and that the straps are flat above your ears. Don’t wear your mask strap at the base of your head as the mask can slip out of place and cause water to seep in. The mask strap should fit snugly around the widest area of your head. This is one of the most important tips for snorkeling to remember.

There are ways to ensure your mask fits your face properly before heading out. Press the mask to your face and breathe in through your nose slightly. If the mask fits snuggly to your face once you let go, that’s a sure sign you’ve found the right size, but don’t fasten it too tightly to your face either.

A mask that is too tight can cause a headache, or general discomfort, and besides, the pressure on the mask once you hit the water helps it to stay in place. Keep in mind that mustaches and hair can also get in the way of proper fitting of a snorkeling mask. Brush your hair away and out of your face to avoid leakages, which can be slow and steady. The ‘mask test’ is important because it helps to ensure water will not leak in while you’re snorkeling.

2. Defog your mask with baby shampoo or defogging gel

Defogging your mask is perhaps the single most important skill to know as a beginner – the condition of your mask can make or break your experience. Most skilled snorkelers recommend baby shampoo as a defogging solution. There are also gels which are often sold at resort or dive shops which work well to keep your mask from getting fogged up. Remember, when snorkeling, optimum visibility is key. Defogging solutions work by creating a layer between the air moisture in your mask (your breath) and the glass of the mask itself.

3. Get excess water out of your mask when needed

One of the most important things to learn about snorkeling is how to get water out of your mask. It is better to learn this before getting into the water. There are various techniques to keep your snorkeling mask from getting filled with water, although it is completely possible to clear the excess water from your mask under water if you wish. Remember, if your mask fills up with water, don’t panic. You can always surface to get the water out.

If you’re in a situation where you’ve spotted something amazing and don’t want to risk losing sight of it, you’ll need to learn how to quickly clear your mask under water. To get the water out, pull the bottom of the mask away from your face and blow outward. Keep your breathing normal, make sure you’re comfortable and relax. Before you submerge again, check if your mask is leaking. Always make sure that your mask is fitted properly!

4. Preserve energy with full-foot fins

There’s no question that fins add to under water mobility making the experience a more dynamic one. Newbie snorkelers will find themselves having to choose from full-foot or adjustable fins. Full-foot fins are often the recommended choice for beginners; ensure you find the right fit before you set out. Steer clear from fins that are too tight, too loose, or too painful.

Once your fins are on securely, slide into the shallow end of your practice pool, or do the ‘moon walk’ carefully across the sand into the ocean to an area where water is waist deep. It’s always a good idea to go for a trial run before making the rounds underwater.

5. Take deep focused breaths to help yourself relax

Deep breathing is the key to life… or at least it is when scuba diving or snorkeling. Breathing can be limited through a snorkeling tube, so it’s important to take deep focused breaths, which can help you relax.

Dos and Don’ts for first time snorkelers

• Don’t touch the coral. Coral is a living organism – don’t stand on them, and try to look down while you’re trashing about to stay afloat to ensure you’re not kicking anything you shouldn’t be. Also, try to avoid standing on any rocks. What you perceive as a rock, may actually be a vulnerable underwater organism.
• Use biodegradable sunscreen – it’s better for the eco system. The National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science have listed oxybenzone and octinoxate, two ingredients commonly found in sunscreen, as harmful to coral reefs. Sun screen chemicals such as these can contribute to coral bleaching. Other potentially harmful ingredients to watch out for are PABA, octocrylene, avobenzone, homosalate, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor or butylparaben (a preservative). In general, steer clear from sunscreens which contain oils and potentially harmful chemicals.
• Don’t interfere with the sea creatures or other marine life as this could be hazardous. Some species are poisonous, and some may react defensively causing injury to you, or to themselves.

• Respect other people’s personal space – even underwater. As excited as you may be, and as much as you might want to reach out to the person next to you to ensure they see the spectacular lion fish just sailing by, not everyone appreciates the intrusion.
• Don’t feed the fish – they’re quite alright without your help. Doing so can throw off the natural balance of things. To share is to care, but interfering can cause problems in the long run.
• Practice reef etiquette. Snorkeling is great for acquiring knowledge on marine life, so take in the sights and sounds. Make mental notes for later.
• Don’t take anything home with you – that goes for starfish, sand dollars, coral fragment (even if they appear dead), sea urchins or shells. It is illegal in some places to acquire conch or lobster while diving. Penalties are stiff for people caught doing so, so avoid this at all costs.
  

Safety precautions for snorkeling

Important: Accidents are avoidable if you stay alert and informed.

It can be hard to find accurate tips for snorkeling that don’t scare you out of getting into the water, but it is important to be informed. Most of the dangers of snorkeling have to do with people not following the rules. This can be you, or others around you, but it pays to stay alert.

“Always wear a life vest, listen to your guide, and you will have an awesome time.”

Pay attention – Photos and videos are all well and good, but try to avoid doing this during safety instruction sessions. It is important to create memories but it is more critical to be safe.

Use safety equipment – It is highly recommended that snorkelers use floatation devices. Inflatable vests for example, aren’t only for people who don’t know how to swim – they can save your life if you get tired. Some vests come with features that allow them to be inflated by mouth for added buoyancy. There is also a release valve which allows snorkelers to dive to the bottom to get a closer look at fish and other marine life.

Never snorkel alone – Having a partner is recommended for beginners, and even advanced snorkelers. A snorkeling buddy enriches the experience – they’re also right next to you if something goes wrong.

Look but don’t touch – Think of your experience as a virtual tour. Don’t touch the marine life, and definitely don’t try to take anything home with you.

No sinking, swimming only – Basic but formal swimming lessons may be necessary to make the most of your snorkeling experience. Floatation devices like inflatable vests are recommended. Water noodles can also be a fun floatation device for snorkeling in an informal setting.

Know your equipment – Practice in a swimming pool if necessary, as practicing beforehand with your equipment helps build up your confidence. If you don’t have access to a pool, somewhere shallow with calm water is good for practice as well.

Weather conditions matter – Check the weather forecast before heading out. Optimal conditions for snorkeling are calm, smooth seas. Keep in mind that as the hours go by, weather patterns may change. Even with sunny predictions, it’s important to check for yourself whether waters are conducive for snorkeling. If you take a break for lunch, ensure that waters are conducive before resuming your snorkeling session.

Know your location – Learn as much as you can about your snorkeling destination. During your snorkeling tour be sure to come up for air frequency to see what’s happening around you. This can also help you keep track of your location as tides can pull you out to sea. Watch your surroundings and ensure there’s not a lot of wave action. Follow all safety regulations, and be vigilant.

Know your limits – Once you get out into the ocean, remember; it’s important not to over extend yourself. It’s a new experience; take it one step at a time. Some first-timers have reported not finishing the snorkeling course as a result of being too overwhelmed. If you are too tired to finish, or just don’t feel comfortable, indicate that to your tour guide. If you’re on a private trip with a snorkeling buddy and feel tired, let them know and make your way back to the boat together.

Undersea dangers – The scariest things to look out for include sharks of barracudas, but depending on the location you choose, it is unlikely you will encounter any of these. Find out more about the commonly spotted wildlife before choosing a location. Other potential dangers include lion fish, an invasive predatory species form the Indo-pacific, and jellyfish. Lion fish are usually harmless and sting only in defensive situations. They can appear scary to first timers, and they have venomous spines which can be dangerous if you get too close. Jellyfish on the other hand travel frequently in schools. Stings can cause small itchy welts. Large jellyfish tend to be more dangerous but are not commonly spotted on snorkeling expeditions.

Secure your belongings – Whether you leave your personal items on a boat or on the beach, ensure your belongings are in good hands. Most resorts will let you leave these in the dive shop, or in a safe location on the boat. It is best to keep valuables at home!

Boat or no boat?

You decide. The pros and cons of boating versus starting off from the beach are important to note.

Boating Pros:

• Boating plus snorkeling equals twice the fun – you’re not only getting the undersea vantage, but a pretty exciting and scenic boat tour.
• On the upside, snorkeling by boat is often a better experience because visibility tends to be superior.
• Out in the open sea, reef and coral formations are often more distinct and there’s wider possibility for the sort of marine life you will encounter.

Boating Cons:

• It can be difficult to determine the exact location that the company will take you – often this can change depending on how clear the waters are on any given day. Weather can also be an influencing factor.
• Snorkeling from a boat is often the more expensive option. Aside from equipment rentals, snorkeling from the beach is free.
• Snorkeling by boat is not often recommended for beginners, although in some instances where pool training is initiated from a resort or dive center, first timers too can be well prepared for a spectacular snorkeling / boating experience.
  

Bonus: Best snorkeling destinations in the Caribbean

The Caribbean is great for snorkeling. The stillness and serenity one can find there is second to none and snorkeling in the region is wholly rejuvenating. The Caribbean is filled with amazing snorkeling locations. Here are a few that are worth a visit:

Booby Cay – From coast to coast Jamaica is filled with great sights and sounds. The Booby Cay reef complements the island which boasts a seven mile long beach, making for an amazing snorkeling experience. Azure waters, stunning cliff sides, and captivating sea creatures make for an experience like no other. Booby Cay, a small offshore island near Negril, is recommended by USA Today as one of the best spots for snorkel newbies.

Insider tip: Find Booby Cay on a 10 minute boat trip from Sandals Negril (adult only) and Beaches Negril (family friendly).

Photo credit: BlueOrange Studio/Shutterstock.com

Tobago Cays – Lots of Caribbean islands have managed to turn snorkeling into big bucks, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines is one of them. St. Vincent and the Grenadines is actually a pretty amazing place for snorkeling. With a sprinkling of islands one can escape to at a moment’s notice, it’s no wonder travelers flock there to take in the experience. The Tobago Cays Marine Park features one of the most popular snorkeling sites with fish plentiful, as well as colorful sponges and other wild life.

Photo credit: evenfh/Shutterstock.com

Anse Chastanet – St. Lucia is known to be an ideal snorkeling destination, and this reef located in Soufriere in the south of the island is second to none. The shallow end of the Anse Chastanet reef has a depth of 5 to 20-feet, while the deep end measures up to 150-feet! The Piton Wall in Saint Lucia is also a snorkeling site worth exploring for both new and experienced divers.

Regular snorkeling and scuba diving trips to Anse Chastanet are organized from any of the all-inclusive Sandals resorts in Saint Lucia.

The Goulding Cay Reefs – Known for world class snorkeling opportunities, the islands of the Bahamas aim to please. Locations in Nassau, the capital, offer a wide variety of wildlife for persons wishing get at one with nature through a snorkeling experience. The Goulding Cay Reefs near New Providence Island are highly recommended, as are the Rose Island Reefs. These are perfect for tours with a guide, or with a private group.

Check out Sandals Royal Bahamian, our all-inclusive resort in Nassau to learn more.

Eliminate the Fear

There is a sense of fear and anticipation that always comes with trying something new. Accompanied by rushing adrenaline, being overly excited can affect your experience. Skilled snorkelers speak about relaxation being the key to an enjoyable experience – this cannot be discounted. Think about it this way, if you’ve made it to the water and you’ve done your research and asked all the right questions, relax. Taking the snorkeling tips in this article to heart, you will learn how to snorkel in no-time.

Snorkeling in itself is a lot more fun than it is dangerous, and experiencing an undersea perspective different from your own is humbling, to say the least!

“The physiological response to being outside in nature is real, and it’s measurable,” said Michelle Kondo, a research social scientist with the USDA Forest Service’s Northern Research Station. “There are many physical and psychological benefits of nature that scientists have observed, which can better help us understand how nature supports wellness in the body, mind and community.”

1. Physical Wellness
Being outside in green spaces supports an active and healthy lifestyle, which has shown to increase life expectancy, improve sleep quality and reduce cancer risk.

“Many of the benefits afforded to us by green spaces partially results from more opportunities to be active,” said Kondo. “Being in outdoor green spaces can increase a person’s motivation, too.”

For example, some studies have shown that natural outdoor environments in urban spaces are more enticing for physical activity and are more likely to motivate people to exercise, leading to higher levels of fitness.

Studies also show that being outside in nature is relaxing, reducing our stress, cortisol levels, muscle tension and heart rates – all of which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

“Since scientists have gained access to data sets, sometimes capturing an entire country’s population of medical records and hospital data, we are finding that patient diagnoses and chronic illness risk are often related to where an individual lives and their proximity to green spaces,” said Kondo. “And that’s a correlation that is likely to strengthen as we conduct more studies.”

Along with supporting physical wellness, nature also bolsters mental wellness in the individual.

2. Mental Wellness
There are many mental wellness benefits associated with being outside in green spaces, such as lower risk of depression and faster psychological stress recovery. Studies have shown that being in nature can restore and strengthen our mental capacities, increasing focus and attention.

One experiment asked two groups of people to perform a mentally strenuous task, such as a math test. One group is asked to take their break in a green space, outside in a park, while the other takes their break near a busy street intersection. The results suggested that the group in the natural setting showed increased focus and higher levels of concentration than the second group.

Another major component of mental health is social connection. The outdoors serves as a venue to come together with friends and family and connect with the larger community.

“This togetherness is especially important for us now,” said Kondo. “We are finding that isolation is a killer, and that the outdoors really provides that space for us to come together under trees or to walk together along trails.”

3. Wellness in the Community
Access to nature can benefit entire communities such as reducing environmental stressors commonly found in cities: air pollution, noise and heat.

“Our research is really focused on different types of environments and how they affect people,” said Kondo. “For example, we have studied vacant city lots, the cleaning and greening of those vacant lots, planting grass and a couple of trees, and the impact that change has on the surrounding community.”

Cleaning and greening have been shown to reduce overall neighborhood crime by 13% and reduce nearby residents’ feelings of depression by 41%.

Nature in densely populated areas also has been shown to affect how people interact with one another. “We’ve found in neighborhoods that receive tree plantings or other greening initiatives, that people tend to have better attitudes towards their neighbors, “said Kondo, “which in turn often results in better relationships.”

Conclusion
Whether it is a park in your neighborhood or exploring the vast landscapes of national forests and grasslands, there are benefits to be had when we step outside.

BY: THE OUTBOUND COLLECTIVE + SAVE TO A LIST

It’s tough to beat a good old fashioned camping trip and there are thousands of campsites in amazing places across the country. We know – it’s a lot to choose from. We’ve narrowed the list down to 25 of America’s best campsites in hopes that you’ll be inspired to head out to your favorite camping spot, get in that summer camping trip before it’s too late, or embark on an epic, cross-country camping road trip. Either way, you’ll want to check this list out before making your plans.

1. Wild Willy Hot Springs | California

Photo: Greg Balkin

This spot is a short drive from Mammoth Lakes and makes for easy car camping. Not to mention the best part of all, the hot springs. Learn more.

2. Zion’s Watchman Campground | Utah

Photo: Tiffany Nguyen

Camp under one of Zion National Park’s most iconic structures, The Watchman, and you’ll also have a great basecamp for adventures within the park. Learn more.

3. Assateague Island | Maryland

Photo: Spenser Reid

The island offers beach camping, swimming, sunbathing, surfing, paddle-boarding, crabbing, bird watching, fishing, hunting, biking and ocean kayaking. That should be plenty to keep you busy. Learn more.

4. Sparks Lake | Oregon

Photo: Richard Bacon

This lake has pretty unbelievable views of the surrounding Cascade Mountains and there is plenty to explore in the area surrounding the campgrounds. Learn more.

5. Bear Rocks | West Virginia

Photo: Christin Healey

The short hike (1 mile) into this beautiful campground will be well worth it and if you want to get further out, there are more campsites to hike to. This high-altitude plateau has characteristics typically found in Canadian landscapes. Learn more.

6. Lake McDonald | Montana

Photo: Seth Langbauer

This is the largest lake in all of Glacier National Park and Sprague Campground has lots of amenities making it a great family camping destination. Learn more.

7. Round Bald | North Carolina

Photo: Steve Yocom

A short hike (.5 miles) in to this campsite in the Appalachian Mountains makes for a great intro to backpacking and an amazing place to spend the night. Learn more.

8. Wonder Lake | Alaska

Photo: Lorene Voskinarian

Take in the mountains of Denali National Park at this beautiful campsite and get a sense for just how big Alaska is. Learn more.

9. Joshua Tree’s White Tank Campground | California

Photo: Tiffany Nguyen

White Tank Campground is quintessential Joshua Tree and serves as the perfect basecamp for all your adventures in the park. Learn more.

10. Gros Ventre Wilderness | Wyoming

Photo: Christin Healey

Catch incredible views of the Tetons, escape the crowds, and keep an eye out for wildlife – bears, moose, elk, fish, and a whole slew of marmots. Learn more.

11. Wildwood State Park | New York

Photo: Sandy Richard

Head to one of the campsites at Wildwood State Park and set off exploring the beach for beautiful views of the Long Island Sound. Learn more.

12. Takhlakh Lake | Washington

Photo: Angela Service

This is a great camping destination for boaters and families. There are 53 sites and plenty of options for hiking and exploring. Learn more.

13. Polihale State Park | Hawai’i

Photo: Karyna Wilkerson

If falling asleep to waves crashing and sleeping on the sand sound nice, this campsite on Kauai is the spot for you. Learn more.

14. Death Valley’s Wildrose Campground | California

Photo: Cameron Gardner

Explore the sand dunes and gaze at the desert sky from this campground in Death Valley National Park. Learn more.

15. Treehouse Point | Washington

Photo: Michael Wigle

If you want the feeling of getting away from everything, but would prefer to do it with a roof over your head, we’ve got something for you. Live your childhood dream and spend the night in one of these awesome treehouses. Learn more.

16. Albion Basin | Utah

Photo: Lindsay Daniels

Albion Basin has the best of Utah mountain scenery and if you time it right you’ll catch a display of wildflowers like you won’t believe. There are also some great hikes nearby, like Cecret Lake. Learn more.

17. Beg Bend’s Nugent Mountain | Texas

Photo: Andrew Slaton

Explore the beautiful desert landscape of Big Bend National Park from this backcountry car camping spot. Learn more.

18. Whitewater State Park | Minnesota

Photo: Joe Whitson

If you need plans for a fall camping trip, Whitewater State Park has an incredible display of autumn leaves you won’t want to miss. Learn more.

19. Yellowstone’s Clarks Fork | Wyoming

Photo: Andrew Slaton

Great fishing, swimming, and camping await at this tranquil, riverside campsite in Yellowstone National Park. Learn more.

20. Coyote Yurts | Idaho

Photo: Dusty Klein

Here’s another spot that’s definitely on the “glamping” end of the spectrum. These cozy yurts serve as the ideal basecamp for hiking, skiing, and mounatin biking. Learn more.

21. Timber Creek | Colorado

Photo: Ryan McKinney

The Timber Creek Campgrounds are beautiful and provide easy access to backpacking trips in the surrounding area. Learn more.

22. Steep Ravine | California

Photo: Sean Hoyer

These bare-bones cabins are perfect for families. They’re less than an hour outside San Francisco and have access to a secluded beach. Learn more.

23. Mongollon Rim | Arizona

Photo: Ethan Fitchner

This site comes with expansive views over Arizona’s Coconino National Forest. There is plenty of space to explore during the day and unbelievable stars at night. Learn more.

24. Nordhouse Dunes | Michigan

Photo: Shalee Blackmer

This spot along along Lake Michigan is known for being an ideal hammock camping area and has an ample supply of wildlife. Learn more.

25. Clubhouse Beach | Florida

Photo: Daniel Madrigal

This backcountry site on the Florida coast is a beautiful place to spend the night and take in a sunset looking over the Atlantic Ocean. Learn more.

Please remember to follow local regulations regarding campsite use and practice Leave No Trace ethics on all of your adventures.