Lace Up: Great Hiking Near Urban Areas

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.