GoCampingAmerica.com | Posted July 2nd,
    2015

    Lace Up: Great Hiking Near Urban Areas

    Happy Camper Blog

    You don’t have
    to go too far from city centers to find one-of-a-kind hiking trails and
    campgrounds. Perfect for a quick getaway, these destinations let you get your
    fix of nature and wilderness without spending hours in the car. Check out
    these campgrounds and hiking trails for your next adventure.

    San Francisco, California

    Where to stay: San Francisco RV
    Resort

    You don’t even have to leave the city to enjoy this resort
    situated on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Take in dramatic and
    unforgettable sunsets and enjoy activities like surfing, swimming and
    tide-pool adventuring. Plus you’ll be close to classic San Francisco sites
    like the Golden Gate Bridge, Half Moon Bay, Fisherman’s Wharf and
    Alcatraz.

    Where to hike: Golden Gate National Recreation
    Area

    With the trails overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, hikers here
    will see amazing views of the Bay Area as they trek. There are several
    different paths and trails, including the Marin Headlands, which offers a
    hilly alternative for those looking to elevate their hike.

    Denver, Colorado

    Where to stay: Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park of
    Estes

    Located only three miles from Estes Park, the entrance of Rocky
    Mountain National Park, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park of Estes offers a unique
    family vacation experience by providing a wide variety of planned activities.
    Visitors also have access to guided tours through the Estes State Park. Being
    surrounded by the mountains and exploring in the park is an adventure
    families are bound to enjoy.

    Where to hike: Rocky Mountain National
    Park

    Only 90 minutes from Denver, this area features 300 miles of
    trails that explore the majestic mountains offering something for everyone
    from beginners to experienced trekkers. Expect stunning views as you learn
    about the alpine and sub-alpine environments firsthand. You may even
    encounter some of the many animals that call this park home including bighorn
    sheep, elk, moose, and marmots.

    Miami, Florida

    Where to stay: Gator Park

    West of South Beach, surrounded by wildlife management areas is
    Gator Park, an option that’s perfect for anyone who wants to get up close and
    personal with the classic Florida gator. This park offers alligator wrestling
    shows, daily airboat tours to see alligators (and other wildlife) and more.
    Looking for a little extra thrill? Guests can even hold a baby alligator. A
    guaranteed education on the surroundings and local gators is
    included.

    Where to hike: Everglades National Park

    Visitors to this unique ecosystem are assured an experience they
    won’t forget. This area of wetlands is home to many rare and endangered
    species including manatees, the American crocodile and the elusive Florida
    panther. Explore the different habitats and scenery of this unique area on a
    wide variety of land trails that offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy
    leisurely walks, extended hikes and even bicycle treks.

    Portland, Oregon

    Where to stay: Mount Hood Village RV
    Resort

    About an hour from Portland, Mount Hood Village RV Resort is
    settled just outside the base of Mt. Hood, Oregon’s tallest mountain. With
    fun family activities available like volleyball, arts and crafts, and
    karaoke, it’s no surprise guests leave more exhausted than when they arrive.
    And nearby, there’s also plenty to keep you busy including a 27-hole golf
    course, rock climbing, and the Alpine Slide.

    Where to hike: Mount
    Hood National Forest

    There’s around 1,000 miles of trail for hiking enthusiasts in this
    area that extends south from the scenic Columbia River Gorge across 60 miles
    of natural beauty. Explore the lakes, rivers, streams and mountains on foot
    and you’ll be sure to leave with lasting memories.

    Phoenix, Arizona

    Where to stay: Apache Palms RV Park

    Situated in Tempe, about 20 minutes outside of Phoenix, this park
    offers visitors a convenient place to rest up for their next adventure.
    Visitors can relax in the sparkling, heated pool or find a new favorite read
    in the book exchange. A quick ride on the metro light rail offers easy access
    to golf courses, a variety of gardens for tranquility, local arts, dining,
    shopping and sports destinations.

    Where to hike: South Mountain Park

    Less than 20 miles from the campground, this area has become a
    favorite spot for those looking to get outdoors. Boasting 51 miles of primary
    trails for horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking, adventurists of all
    levels enjoy exploring here. The park is full of undeveloped desert areas exhibiting
    the area’s natural wildlife, so visitors will learn a great deal of
    information about Arizona’s native plants and animals.