5 Places To Go On Vacation

Looking for a fun place to go this summer? Consider these five destinations next time you start planning to spend some vacation days. Save some money by doing a little camping. These are perfect destinations whether you have a family, a friend, or prefer exploring on your own.

1.) Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado) - Explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in America here at high altitudes. No matter what level of adventure you are comfortable with, there's something here for everyone. There are short hikes, long hikes, breathtaking panoramic scenery, and plenty of wildlife to photograph. And not to worry if your significant other is not into the outdoors, Estes Park is only a few minutes away from the park entrance. Here you'll find all sorts of gift shops, boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants to explore.

2.) Big Basin Redwoods State Park (California) - Experience what it's like to be surrounded by giant Redwoods and beautiful forest. This place may be a state park but it's just as nice as many national parks, if not better. If your legs are strong enough, enjoy a beautiful trail that starts at the park and ends at the Pacific Ocean. If not, there's still plenty here to enjoy. Do some camping here, and then during the day, head over to San Francisco and check out Pier 39, Lombard Street, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge. If you have time, you might also want to see some other nearby hot spots like Muir Woods, Capitola, Half Moon Bay, or Napa Valley.

3.) Texas Hill Country (Texas) - If you're looking for a good place to experience Texas, then the Texas Hill Country is the place for you. There are several state parks that provide camping and hiking. There are quite a few destinations here, but some of my favorite include camping at Inks Lake, exploring Longhorn Caverns, hiking at Enchanted Rock, checking out the shops and German cuisines in Fredericksburg, and tubing down the Comal River in New Braunfels. There are many things to do in this area and Austin and San Antonio are both nearby. Be sure to see the Alamo and River Walk in San Antonio and if you have kids you may want to check out a water park called Schlitterbahn.

4.) Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho) - You already knew about this one, but if you haven't been yet, you definitely need to make this your next vacation. Yellowstone was the very first National Park. The park is also huge... so huge in fact, you could fit the states of Delaware and New Hampshire inside it. Of course you'll want to be sure to see Old Faithful, although you might find some of the nearby geysers and springs just as impressive. One of my favorites is a hot spring called the Morning Glory Pool. There are photo opportunities and panoramic scenery nearly everywhere you look in Yellowstone. And there's also some of the most impressive wildlife you have ever seen in the wild. Yellowstone is truly an adventure for everyone and a must see!

5.) Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming) - The Grand Teton National Park is often overshadowed by Yellowstone, since it is literally right next door. But don't be mistaken, this park is just as impressive as any of the landscapes you will see in Yellowstone. There are plenty of hiking trails and campsites to choose from and again, plenty of opportunities to use your camera. Also, the popular Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is nearby along with shops and restaurants in Jackson.