The Best Activities in Broken Bow, OK | Beavers Bend National Park

The Best Activities in Broken Bow, OK | Beavers Bend National Park

by | Adventures, Destinations, Oklahoma, Travel | 2 comments

There are plenty of fun activities in Broken Bow that are perfect for everyone.

My family loves going to Broken Bow because it is a fun and relaxing place to rent a cabin, get back to nature, and bond with family.

We have been going to Broken Bow since 2010 and every trip it gets better and better.

The cabins we rent, the memories we make, and the fun activities we do are always the best.

Our favorite time to go is right at the end of the year because the winter is the perfect time to enjoy a cabin, sit by the fire, play games and so much more.

But, Broken Bow can be a year-round place to enjoy!

Activities in Broken Bow

Over the years, Broken Bow has become a popular spot for families and groups to rent cabins and enjoy Beavers Bend National Park. The Ouachita National forest and history of the area is spectacular.

There are so many outdoor and indoor activities for everyone of all ages to enjoy while visiting.

So, here are the top fun activities in Broken Bow.

Guided Fishing Tours in Broken Bow

Fishing is one of the top fun activities in Broken Bow for my family when we visit. Broken Bow Lake and Mountain Fork River are stocked with amazing trout that we love to enjoy.

TIP: If you do plan to go fishing, always get a license and learn your daily fish limit and all the rules to catching trout. These are easy to obtain at the local Walmart or here www.wildlifedepartment.com.

If you get caught fishing without an Oklahoma Fishing License, the ticket will cost you more than the license would.

You can choose to go fishing on your own and find the best spots yourself, or you could always hire a fishing guide.

If you would like to hire a fishing guide, here are some great places you could check out.

– Beavers Bend Fly Fishing Guide 

You can choose from a Half-Day or a Full-Day Fish Guide. Pricing and times will vary.

Check out their website for more information.

Address
3840 Old Broken Bow Highway
Broken Bow Oklahoma, 74728
Contact
580-583-4412
Website
http://www.beaversbendflyfishingguideservice.com/

– Private Fishing with River Man Trail Rides

Looking for a private fishing experience that is also ‘catch and release’?

Check out the River Man Fishing guide service.

Address
1735 Pine View Road
Broken Bow, OK 74728
Contact
405-833-6671
Website
https://rivermantrailrides.com/fishing

Wineries in Broken Bow

The adults in my family enjoy visiting the local wineries in Broken Bow. They have some delicious selections that are worth even ordering and shipping them year-round.

Here are four great wineries you can visit while in Broken Bow.

– Girls Gone Wine

Visiting the Girls Gone Wine locations in Broken Bow is a great place to hang out with the girls, taste and enjoy some delicious wine, and relax.

This is our favorite Winery to visit on every trip we take to Broken Bow. We love browsing the boutique, sampling the wine, and enjoying a glass or two on their patio.

It is a perfect little afternoon delight to unwind.

Address
10216 N US Hwy 259Broken Bow, OK 74728
Contact to make a Free Wine Tasting Reservation
580-306-WINE (5463)
Hours
Summer | June – August | Mon-Sat 12pm – 8pm | Sun 11am – 6pmFall / Winter / Spring | Sat 12pm – 8pm | Mon – Thurs 12pm – 6 pm | Sun 10am – 4pm
Website
https://www.thegirlsgonewine.com/

Another really cool thing that the Girls Gone Wine offers is the ability to make your own wine.

Check out how to reserve your spot for you and the girls to create your own concoction. —>> Make your Own Wine!

– Fish Tales Winery & Vineyard

Fish Tales Winery is another great place to visit for wine sampling while in Broken Bow.

There is also a bistro on site so you can enjoy lunch and relax with the family.

Address
17 Oak Leag Ln.
Broken Bow, OK 74728
Contact
580-494-6115
Hours
Sun – Thurs: 11am-5pm
Fri – Sat: 11am-8pm
Website
https://www.fishtaleswine.com/

 Off-Road Vehicle Rentals in Broken Bow

Broken Bow and Beavers Bend National Park is the perfect location to rent a UTV, ATV, or jeep and explore.

This is one of my favorite things to do in Broken Bow. It is a thrill and the scenery is absolutely gorgeous.

There are a couple of companies you can rent from below.

– Bandits ATV Boat Rentals

Bandits ATV Boat Rentals is a great place to rent some fun toys for the whole family at any time of year. To find out more information on rentals, check out their website below.

Address
9160 North US Highway 259
Hochatown, OK 74728

Contact
580-494-3333

Hours
Mon-Sun: 9am-6pm

Website
https://banditsatvboatrentals.com/

Activities in Broken Bow

– Beaver Bend Depot & Trail Rides

Beavers Bend Depot & Trail Rides is a combo family activity center with horseback trails and a train ride. This is perfect for kiddos to have a fun memorable experience while in Broken Bow.

The Train Ride is about 15 – 20 minutes through the wilderness where you could spot some wildlife.

You could also enjoy a 2.5-mile trail horseback ride that takes about an hour to get through. They have guided tours and wonderful morning or afternoon activity to do in Broken Bow.

Plus, after your rides, there is a gift shop and snack bar to re-energize the crew.

Address
290 Beavers Bend Loop
Broken Bow, Oklahoma 74728

Contact
580-494-6613

Hours
Mon-Sat: 9am-5pm
Sun: 9am – 3pm

Website
https://www.facebook.com/trainandstables/


Hiking Trails in Broken Bow | Beavers Bend National Park | Ouachita National Forest

Hiking in Broken Bow is a wonderful activity! There are so many trails and you’re almost guaranteed to see some kind of wildlife.

I remember one year during a fishing/hiking expedition we were welcomed by a little deer. 

If Hiking is your thing to do, here are 5 great hiking trails that you can explore while visiting. 

– Lookout Mountain Trail

Length: 2.9 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate

This trail is pretty rocky and not ideal for a stroller or anything with wheels.

– Lakeview Lodge Trail

Length: 1.4 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate

This trail features a river outlook that is just beautiful. 

– Cedar Bluff Trailhead

Length: 0.9 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate

Short little hike with gorgeous views.

– Beaver Lodge Nature Trail

Length: 3.0 miles
Type: Out & Back
Difficulty: Easy

This is a great hike that is easy for the whole family. 

– Friends Trail Loop

Length: 1.5 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate

This hike has a view of a waterfall and a beautiful river.

Brewery’s in Broken Bow

If you’re not a huge wine person, there are some great places to enjoy a nice ice-cold beer.

Broken Bow has a couple of Breweries that the adults can enjoy a distillery tour and tasting.

 

– Mountain Fork Brewery

Established in 2015, Mountain Fork Brewery is a great place to enjoy a cold one. If you would like to tour the distillery, tours are on Saturdays and available for 10 guests if you call ahead. 

Address 
89 N Lukfata Trail Rd,
Broken Bow, OK 74728
Contact
580-494-3233
Tap Room Hours
Monday – Thursday: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
Friday – Saturday: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
Sunday: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
Tour Hours
Saturday 1pm & 3pm 
Website
https://www.mtforkbrewery.com/tours

– Beavers Bend Brewery

This is another great place to check out some great beer. They have year-round and seasonal beers available. Beavers Bend Brewery offers an IPA, Pale Ale, Amber Ale, and a Brown Ale. 

Address 
46 Coho Rd
Broken Bow, OK 74728
Contact
580-494-3455
Hours

Mon-Thurs 12-8 pm

(closed Tuesday)

Fri/Sat 12-9

Sun 11-7
Beer Menu & Website

http://www.beaversbendbrewery.com/menu/

Canoe/Kayak Rentals in Broken Bow

Looking to get on the water for a little exercise in nature? If you don’t want bring your own canoe or kayak, and would like to rent and have a guide, there are great businesses that provide the service.

– Wild Goose Canoe & Kayak

They offer two basic floats to choose from. One float is 8 miles with a little difficulty and the other is 5 miles that are best for those with children. You can either rent a canoe/kayak from them or bring your own. 

Address 
466 Wild Goose Rd
Broken Bow, OK 74728
Contact – Must Call for Reservations
580-584-2277
Website

http://www.wildgoosecanoe.com/

 

Activities in Broken Bow

Ziplining Activity in Broken Bow

I have never been zip lining but knowing that you can in Beavers Bend/Broken Bow is so awesome!

This is a fun day activity for those thrill-seeking family members to experience the forest in a whole new way.

– Rugaru Adventures

Ziplining is one of the best activities in Broken Bow! If you can get a reservation time slot, it’s a grand adventure. They have 6 lines hovering 60ft above the forest. You’ll go about 35 mph from one point to the next. 

Address 

2658 Stevens Gap Road
Broken Bow, OK 74728
Contact
580-494-2ZIP (2947)
Make Reservations/Check Available Times

https://rugaruadventures.com/reservations/

Historical Museums in Broken Bow

History is one of my favorite subjects and visiting locations is the best way to learn.

My family visited the Beavers Bend Wildlife Museum one year to check out the history of the place we were staying. It was a nice learning experience and great for kids.

– Forest Heritage Center Museum

My family and I visited this museum one year while visiting Broken Bow. The kids had a great time learning about the culture. Plus, it is free admission.

Address
Us 259 A
Broken Bow, OK 74728
Contact
584-494-6497
Hours
Monday – Sunday 8am-5pm

Activities in Broken Bow

Final Thoughts

These top activities in Broken Bow are what makes the trip so much fun every time we visit. My family loves to go fishing, wine tasting, and enjoying each other’s company even when we stay at the cabin.

If you’re looking for a cabin to rent, check out our post 24 Incredible Airbnb Cabins in Broken Bow, Oklahoma.

I hope this begins your planning to Broken Bow because it truly is a great place to rent a cabin and explore!


Pin for Later

Activities in Broken Bow
Activities in Broken Bow year-round (1)
Destin, Florida | How to have an Amazing Beach Vacation (3 Day Itinerary)

Destin, Florida | How to have an Amazing Beach Vacation (3 Day Itinerary)

by | Adventures, Destinations, Florida, Travel | 10 comments

When I think of a Beach Vacation, I think of Destin, Florida!

Destin is also known as “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Spot”. This destination was named after the fishing captain Leonard Destin from the mid-1800s. He and his descendants built their homes and lively hood across this beachy area.

Yet, it wasn’t until 1984 when Destin gained substantial growth from tourists.

Today, the area receives about 4.5 million visitors a year but is only home to 14,247 fulltime residents according to the U.S. Census.

This strip of emerald coast and white sandy beaches is a vacation dream destination. Destin, Florida has been on our bucket-list of travel for a while.

We’ve been on many beach vacations including Hawaii, San Diego, and Daytona to name a few. However, we always heard how beautiful the white sand beaches were on the Gulf Coast of Florida.

Now, we live in the Dallas/FortWorth area, so for us, it is about an 11-hour drive. That seems like a long trip, but when you have two drivers it’s not a bad drive. Plus, we love a good Road Trip!

Therefore, Destin seemed like the perfect place to take our first vacation as a family.

So, here is our beach vacation to Destin, Florida as well as some tips if you plan a visit yourself!

Related Posts: How to plan an Amazing Family Road Trip

Where we stayed | Hilton Honors

Since we didn’t stay in the RV, we chose to stay at the Hampton Inn and Suites in Navarre, Florida. Price, location, and accessibility to different beaches is what intrigued us.

I am a Hilton Honors Member and I get Travel Agent prices with an IATA card since I work for Avoya Travel. Therefore, we were able to get a good deal on the room available.

Navarre, Florida is located in between Destin and Pensacola. This gave us the opportunity to check out 3 beaches during our stay without traveling too far for each one.

Why we didn’t take the RV

You may be wondering why we chose not to bring the RV on this trip.

Well, since we live fulltime stationary in our RV we decided to take the opportunity to enjoy a nice hotel stay.

As much as we would have loved to take the RV, we found it cheaper to drive the truck and stay in a hotel. This saved us gas money!

Also, since we only planned to stay 3 days, taking the RV wouldn’t have been worth it for us unless we were staying longer.

We did, however, scoop out some RV parks along the way for a future 6-month trip that we want to plan.

Is the Destin area a good place to bring kids?

YES! Destin, Florida is the perfect place to have a family beach vacation! No matter the age of your children, the beaches are perfect and shallow enough for all to enjoy the water.

I would always take precautions depending on your child’s swimming capabilities.

There are some beaches that do not have LifeGuards on Duty. If this is something you require, I would research this ahead of time. Also, know the beaches we went to that had a lifeguard was Crystal Sands Beach and Navarre Beach.

One thing to note is the sand is not packed like some beaches you’ll find in Daytona. So bringing anything with wheels like a stroller or a wagon isn’t recommended. We made the mistake on the first day of bringing the stroller and we ended up having to carry it while on and off the beach.

Besides the white sand and emerald clear water, the Destin area has wonderful places the whole family can explore.

What we brought to the beach

  • 4 beach towels
  • A canopy cover from Academy Sports
  • Sunscreen
  • Tanning lotion
  • Baby sunscreen
  • A couple of baby toys
  • Bottled water
  • Snacks

It’s been a while since we’ve been to the beach, so next time we have a beach vacation, we are going to bring some chairs.

We saw some at the local Alvin’s Beach store less than $10 each. The beach chairs and cooler was the only thing we didn’t have with us that we will have next time.


3-day beach hopping itinerary

Day 1: We left Dallas/Fort Worth at Midnight. My husband is a night owl, so driving at night is his feasible for him. Plus, leaving at night prevents us from wasting any time with traffic in the big city. Also, it allowed our 7-month-old to sleep in the car seat longer than he would during the day.

After an 11-12 hour road trip (including stops) we made it to Navarre Beach right afternoon. Since we couldn’t check in to our hotel until 3 pm, we took the opportunity to check out our first beach.

Navarre Beach, also known as “Florida’s Most Relaxing Place”, was semi packed with people. But there was still enough space to have a great time and enjoy the sand and waves.

Navarre Beach has plenty of parking spaces and provides easy access to the beach. If you’re looking for a place to eat, Windjammers bar and grill is located right off the pier.

We were only at this beach for a couple of hours then we decided to pack up and go check in to our hotel.

Related Posts: 6 Important Things You Need to do Before a Road Trip

Day 2: This was the day we looked forward to the most during our beach vacation because the sun was supposed to come out. Also, the whole day was dedicated to relaxing on the beach.

The beach we chose to go to is called “Crystal Sands Beach”. It’s about a 45minute to an hour drive from Navarre where we were staying. Since we have Luka (who is 7 months old and needs a couple of naps a day) the drive gave us the perfect opportunity for him to sleep.

It’s also a nice drive through the towns in between Navarre and Destin to get the entire experience. I love looking at all the different styles of houses along the coast.

Once we arrived at Crystal Sands Beach, we realized the location is more of an upper-class area. There are many resorts and the cutest beach cottages you will ever see. People were riding their bikes, driving golf carts, and running along the sidewalks.

It’s a busy little area with little access points to the beach. We got there around 11 am on a Friday morning, and drove around to find parking. There isn’t as much parking as there was at Navarre Beach. Thus, if you are looking to check out this beautiful beach, get there early. Also, I overheard that parking would also cost up to 5 dollars starting in July 2020.

After driving around for about 10 minutes, we found a great parking spot with a short walk to a beach entrance. Once we crossed over the wood bridge to get to the beach, I understood why it was rated top beautiful beaches in Destin by TripAdvisor.

The water is clear, the sand is white, and it stays shallow for about 50 feet with gentle waves! Perfect for families to enjoy a beautiful day on the beach.

If you don’t want to bring your own canopy or chairs, there are some options to rent on this beach. There are also lifeguards and a snack/snow cone stand to help hydrate and re-energize you from the sun.

Now, I have been to many beaches in Florida, Mexico, Bahamas, Hawaii, California, and Texas. The experience I had with my family on Crystal Sands Beach is one of the top beaches I would recommend anyone to go to! Crystal Sands Beach in Destin, Florida is a top 5 favorite beach on my list.

After a day at the beach, we decided it was time to go. The humidity and sun were draining our energy and we needed to eat a real meal.

Now, when I’m on the coast I love checking out the local spots that have great fish options. We decided to eat in Navarre at Dewey Destin. It was exactly what we needed. I got a fresh mahi-mahi fish basket with hush puppies and a salad.

Day 3: Our plan for today was to check out early and drive up the coast to Pensacola Beach. After all, we wanted to get the feel of 3 different beaches before heading back to Dallas.

The drive from Navarre Beach to Pensacola Beach is only about a 25-minute drive on the highway. However, we chose to drive the island road, which is 20-30 MPH the whole way and an average 45-minute drive. Plus, the view of the ocean, sand, and colorful beach house rentals was nice to look at.

We drove into Pensacola beach town to check out the eatery and shopping. It was about 10:30-11 am and it was incredibly busy. The parking lots were already packed.

After grabbing some quick pizza, we headed back down the coast from which we came and found a great spot with fewer crowds.

Pensacola Beach has a lot of options for those who enjoy crowds and those who want a more private space on the beach. The area we went to did not have a lifeguard on duty, so this is to keep in mind.

Also, the beach was a little different than Crystal Sands Beach. The waves were a little more powerful and the beach didn’t stay shallow and clear to the bottom as the other beaches were. The only good thing about this beach, when comparing them to the other two, is it was private. There weren’t many people occupying the area that we chose.

We stayed at this beach for about 2 hours before we made our way up to Gulf Shores, Alabama, and then on home.

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering taking a family beach vacation to Destin, Florida I highly recommend the area.

As mentioned before, Destin is the place for a perfect beach vacation for families. With its emerald coast, clear water, and white-sand beaches.

Honestly, we hope to make this trip a yearly beach vacation for our family.


Like this Post? Pin to Save for Later

Family Camping | Tips for Planning the Perfect Trip

Family Camping | Tips for Planning the Perfect Trip

by | Adventures, Camping | 4 comments

Family Camping Trips are the BEST!!

When the weather starts warming up its time to start planning that vacation time. One of the most popular spring, summer, and even fall activities for families is camping.

Camping is popular and budget-friendly!

We can all agree that getting outside boosts your mood and increases your Vitamin D level. Plus, you’ll find that the kids will enjoy their time outside and getting back to nature. No more Tablets! 🙂

However, there is a lot that goes into planning a fun family camping trip. You will want to make sure you understand what type of equipment is needed – including a tent, cooking items, and things that will keep you safe.

Plus, having a plan for fun activities to do won’t hurt. After all, trying to do things without a plan can be a disaster, especially if you have children.

Therefore, I recommend carefully taking the time to create a plan so you make sure the whole family enjoys their time outdoors. This is also a great time to build your relationships and create amazing memories.

Our family camping trips as a kid are some of my favorite memories looking back. So, here are some tips to get you started in planning your family camping trip.

Take Your Time to Plan

There are many steps in planning your family camping trip that you will need to consider. Take the time to research and plan the entire trip. Just as much time as you plan a cruise or a beach getaway, your should take the same amount and plan the camping trip.

There are many components that go along with camping, so taking the time to plan it out will help keep thing organized and make sure everyone has fun.

Pick your Camping Spot wisely

The very first thing to do when planning your family camping trip is to pick where you are going to set up camp. Where you choose to go will determine the kind of supplies and fun activities you can bring along.

Without knowing the destination, you can’t plan anything else. So, pick your destination first.

The best way to begin your search to find great camping spots is to simply google “Camping Spots Near Me.” Many times the google map will show all the nearby camping spots. By googling the locations you can also see if there are any nearby lakes or rivers.

Research the Area

Once you know where you want to camp, research the area more. This will give you an idea of the type of camping you will be allowed to do.

For example, Are you allowed to pitch a tent or is it RV only? Will you have access to bathrooms with showers? Will you have to pay for the Camping Spot?

Some National Parks require a daily fee or per tent charge to camp. If you find a camping area, go ahead and call the local wildlife or park attendant to find out the rules and regulations.

This information will help you know what to bring with you on your trip.

Consider Everyone’s Age

When you are planning your family camping trip, it’s imperative that you consider everyone’s ages. An activity for a child age 5 to 7 could be different for a teenager. There can be some activities that may not be age-appropriate for everyone.

Anther great tip regarding ages is to plan activities around young children’s nap times and bedtimes. Even though you’re on vacation, children do thrive with normal schedules and it’ll make it easier on the family.

Plan Your Family Camping Activities

Once you know what’s available and you’ve considered your children’s ages and everyone’s likes, start planning what you’ll do there. You don’t want to plan every single moment of the trip because you want to allow for time to hang out and read or just enjoy nature. But having at least one planned activity each day will help everyone enjoy their trip.

One example of planned activities could be fishing if you’re near a river or lake. I loved going fishing when we would camp. Many times the fish we caught was our dinner that night. What a great activity to teach kids to catch their own food.

Check the weather and Create Backup Plans

Let’s face it, the weather is not always a beautiful 75 to 85 degrees with a slight breeze. You never know when a storm could roll in. So, you will want to consider having the right kind of protection like tarps, raincoats, and boots if it does rain.

I would also scope out some local shelter points like a movie theater or shopping mall just in case the storms get unbearable in a tent.

You may also want to bring plenty of reading material and maybe a card game in case that happens. Because you can still have a relaxing time reading books and connecting as a family.


Plan meals and snack preparation

Preparing and cooking meals while you’re camping is a little different than how you would in a house kitchen.

Over the years of camping, we’ve learned to prep as much as we could before we leave to go camping. If you want to have steak, potatoes, or onions (for example) included in a meal, then seasoning or chopping before can save you time and dishes.

Another great trick is to premix any pancake mix or crack all the eggs and have them already mixed in plastic containers.

Don’t forget the Snacks!! Snacks are great to plan ahead too! You can pack individual snack packs with trail mixes, chips, or whatever your children enjoy eating ahead of time. This allows for easy and quick access when everyone is tired from a long hike or swimming all day.

create a family camping checklist

Now that you have the camping spot picked, you’ve researched the area, you’ve planned your activities and food prep for your family camping trip, it’s now time to create that checklist.

When you are camping, everything you bring with you is what you will have on hand.

So if you forget the marshmallows for the smores, this could make some unhappy children.

Therefore, creating a checklist of everything you need to bring is essential! I’ve actually created one you can download at the bottom of the post if you’d like.

Final Thoughts

Camping is an amazing adventure for everyone of all ages! Although it does require some prepping before, it truly can be a relaxing, budget-friendly, family trip. Family camping trips will provide your kids with memories of getting back to nature that will last their entire lives.

I know all the camping trips my family took when I was growing up was some of the best times of my life! I love the outdoors, the simplicity and beauty of nature that surrounds us.

I hope you will make these memories as a family unit and talk about all the stories that come along with the adventures for ages.

Pin for later 🙂

9 Top Reasons Why You Should Consider Full Time RV Living

9 Top Reasons Why You Should Consider Full Time RV Living

by | RV Tips

Are you considering living in an RV?

Maybe you’ve seen the craze all over Pinterest and social media about RV Living. So many people are ditching their suburban brick and mortar homes to live a simple and minimalistic life while traveling.

But why have so many people made this change to their lifestyle?

What are the reasons they became “Full Timers”?

If you’re here, your probably already considering the lifestyle change and maybe would like to know why so many are choosing this path. Or you could be asking yourself “Is the RV life for me and my family” or “what are the benefits of RV Life”?

Those are great questions to ask…

For us, we started our journey back in April of 2018. Our reasons for moving into an RV were Freedom, Minimalistic lifestyle, to pay off debt, and much more. Someday we will travel, but as of right now our focus is paying off student loans.

Maybe you don’t have any debt to pay off, but you love the idea of living a life on your own terms. That is reason number one why so many make the move.

Let’s get into the top 9 reasons why people move into RV’s.

1. Freedom – Live life on your own terms

Living life on your own terms is a dream for almost everyone. Who doesn’t want to plan their schedules and days according to their desires? Living in an RV full time can make that freedom a reality.

The RV Live gives you the ability to move anytime you want without having to go through all the home/land buying process. It is as simple as picking your next location, and making a reservation at whichever RV park you choose or finding the perfect Boondocking location.

These types of Freedom are impossible while living in a brick and mortar home.

Another Freedom that inspires the RV Life is the ability to see family anytime and anywhere. Let’s say you live in Texas, but have family in another state, all you do is drive there. There is no flying involved, and you can take your whole home and belongings with you. You can also stay as long as you want. Now, that is FREEDOM!

2. Travel – Change your View

From the Beach one day to the Mountains the next, the views out your RV’s windows are endless. There are so many places to go in the United States that allow you to have million-dollar views for pennies or less.

Not just the views though, just traveling is exciting!

Maybe you have a goal to visit all 49 states (that you can drive to) in a few years. Traveling in an RV is going to make that dream a reality.

If you have a goal to visit as many National Parks in the US, then traveling in an RV is the perfect way to go. The places you can go are endless if there is a road, there is a way!

3. Minimalize – Less stuff, More Experiences

If you’re looking for a reason to get rid of your stuff, then moving into an RV is the answer. RVs don’t have much room for extra items that are not used frequently. This is a chance to live life on simpler terms and replace things with experiences.

When we moved into our RV, we sold our couch, table, and more. When it came to our décor and kitchen items, we took what we could use in the RV and packed up the rest to store.

4. Pay off Debt

For many, full-time RV living means cheaper living costs and that can help pay off debt faster. This is totally doable. and many have accomplished becoming debt free because of downsizing and minimizing their life.

If paying off debt is a huge desire for you, then considering the RV lifestyle is a way to go. We have paid off a personal loan and credit cards by limiting our living expenses.  I would check out our post on How to Start Your Fulltime RV Living Journey for more information.

5. Learn

RV Life is full of new learning opportunities. If you are someone like me, who thrives off learning new things, then the RV lifestyle is for you. There is so much to learn about RVing, plus all the places you will go provides all the learning opportunities in the world.

If you have kids that are school age, then full-time RV living and traveling state to state is the perfect way for your kids to learn hands-on about life and the history of this country. I know many families who are doing exactly that, and their kids are thriving.

6. Explore – Spend more time Outside

Along with learning, you and the family will spend more time outside. When you live in a small space and travel from state park to state park or city to city, you’ll find yourself exploring more. Whether it’s a new trail at Yellow Stone Park or a cute downtown area like in Waco, Texas. The exploration possibilities are endless.

If you have kids, it’s a great way to get them close to nature rather than spending all their time inside with movies and games. When I was a kid, playing outside and hiking through the trails were memories and lessons learned that I will never forget. I loved to explore the unknown.

7. Socialize

Another reason the RV life is worth considering is that it helps you socialize. Every place you stay, you’re bound to meet new people because your neighbors always change.

You could meet people that will change your life for the better. Some RVer’s have met life-long friends because of their journey in RVing.

8. Job Change

If you’re on the market for a job change, one that allows you to work remotely and travel, then full-time RV living is one to consider.

There are also plenty of Workamping opportunities at RV parks. Workamping is where you take care of the RV park in exchange for free hookups and/or a small salary. There are sites like workamper.com that you can check out for more information.

9. Family

Living the fulltime rv life gets you closer to your family. There are less places for you kids or loved ones to go to block themselves out. When you live tiny, your practically forced to get along and thrive as a close couple or family.

If that is something that you long for your relationships, then the RV life should be a consideration.

So, are you convinced? Are you moving your family into an RV and going to travel, explore, and learn about this great country?

If this inspired you to make the move, even if it’s for a year or two that’s awesome! Enjoy the lifestyle and live it to the fullest. We have enjoyed our Fulltime RV living journey and I’m sure you will too!

Pin for later 🙂

12 of the Best Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails in San Diego

12 of the Best Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails in San Diego

by | Hiking, Travel | 35 comments

The Sunny City of San Diego has more to offer than just some gorgeous beaches. This city is home to beautiful natural hiking trails that will get you and your family outside and breathing that fresh air.

Hiking trails in San Diego are plentiful with the hill and mountainous terrain. The best hikes are those that get you close to nature and experiencing the beauty of the land. I also believe that hiking is a wonderful activity for kids to explore, learn, and exercise all at the same time.

So, get your hiking boots, camelbacks, and sunscreen ready, because the views while hiking in San Diego are spectacular!

 1. Cowles Mountain Trail (Mission Trails Regional Park) Best Hiking Trails In San Diego for Families

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3 Miles
Elevations: 908 Feet
Route: Out & Back 

This beautiful trail is one of the top scenic hiking routes in San Diego. The Cowles Mountain gives you spectacular 360 panoramic views of Downtown San Diego, Mexico, North County, and Orange County. 

The Cowles Mountain Trail is perfect for all ages! It is a moderate trail that is great for running, mountain biking, hiking, families, and dogs as long as they are on a leash. The trail is a bit rocky and little to no shade spots to rest, so maybe bring a hat and of course water!

2. Los Penasquitos Canyon TrailBest Hiking Trails In San Diego for Families

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 7.4 Miles
Elevation: 147 Feet
Route: Loop 

The Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail is wonderful for the whole family because it’s mainly flat. This is a great trail because you can choose to make your hike/walk/run as long or as short as you’d prefer. You may see many bikers, runners, and even horse-back riders along this trail. 

This hike is popular because of the gorgeous waterfall and beautiful bridges. There is one precaution, however, and that is to be careful during the wet season. The trail tends to have muddy areas but it’s nothing that can’t be walked around. 

3. Sunset Cliffs Park Trail (Sunset Cliffs National Park)

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.7 Miles
Elevations: 150 Feet
Route: Out & Back

A very popular trail that is year-round and great for all skill levels to enjoy. This trail gives you an opportunity to see local wildlife and sandy beaches. Sunset Cliffs Park Trail is perfect for the whole family including dogs on leashes. 

This hike is considered to be one of San Diego’s best hikes to watch the sunset over the coast. It is also a beautiful place for a romantic stroll.

4. Lake Miramar Trail

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 4.9 Miles
Elevation: 98 Feet
Route: Loop

Lake Miramar Trail is the perfect place to enjoy nature and still have the luxury of modern paved walk-ways. The trail is great for families of all types and is stroller/wheelchair friendly. Dogs on leashes are also welcome to enjoy a stroll. 

Be cautious because it is a heavily tracked trail but it does provide bathrooms through the 4.9-mile loop. 

5. Oak Canyon to Grasslands (Mission Trails Regional Park)

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.7 Miles
Elevation: 344 feet
Route: Loop

Oak Canyon to grasslands is a heavily trafficked trail great for kids and dogs on leashes. If you enjoy hiking with great views, nature, birds, and more then this trail is for you. 

It’s considered a moderate trail because some places are a bit rocky and may require more solid shoes like hiking boots or tennis shoes with good traction. The Oak Canyon to Grasslands trail is a nice and peaceful hike but not much shade so bring a hat. 

6. Seven Bridge Walk (Balboa Park)

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 6.6 Miles
Elevation: 485 Feet
Route: Loop

The Seven Bridges Walk is wonderful for everyone of all ages. The best times to go is between April and September. There are plenty of open fields that you may want to rest, so bringing a towel or blanket to sit on is recommended. 

The trail is not shaded so a hat and water is a must to bring along. The trail does run through the city and it has stopping points with crossing streets, so keep the kids and pets close! 

7. Visitor Center Loop Trail (Mission Trails Regional Park)

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.4 Miles
Elevation: 160 Feet
Route: Loop

This looping trail is great for the kids and pets. It is another heavily trafficked trail that many enjoy running and even horseback riding along. This trail is located partly along a river so you and the kids can stop and skip rocks or relax by the water. 

The views are gorgeous and the walk is nice and peaceful. It’s a short loop to get out for a quick walk or run. 

8. Tecolote Canyon Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6.7 Miles
Elevation: 538 Feet
Route: Out & Back

This trail is a long hike but you can turn back at any time. It has stunning features and is accessible year-round. The trail is pretty easy for children to walk along and is dog-friendly. 

You may want to avoid this trail, however, if it’s been raining as it can obtain mud and puddles during the wet season. 

9. Bayside Trail (Cabrillo National Monument)

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2 Miles
Elevation: 205 Feet
Route: Our & Back

If you’re looking for the perfect family-friendly trail that gives you spectacular views of the coast, this is the one! This trail is easy and has access for strollers and wheelchairs. 

This trail also located at the Historic Monument that commemorates the landing of Juan Rodriquez Cabrillo who was the first expedition to land at the San Diego Bay. Great historical learning site for the kiddos. 

10. Nighthawk Trail to Black Mountain Summit

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.9 Miles
Elevation: 846 Feet
Route: Out & Back

Nighthawk trail is a wonderful options for families who enjoy a little challenge as is can be quite rocky with a steady incline. However, the views and wildflowers along the trail are spectacular. This trail can also be made in to a loop if you desire to hike down Black Mountain Service Road.

The trail is also pet friendly with dogs allowed as long as they are leashed. You may even see some mountain bikers on this trail so keep an eye out. Shade is non-exsitent on the trail so you may want to wear a hat or sunglasses.

11. Point Loma Tidepools and Bluffs Trail (Cabrillo National Monument)

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1 Mile
Elevation: 45 Feet
Route: Out & Back

This trail is wonderful for all skill level hikers looking for a quick outdoor adventure. It has beautiful beach and wildlife scenery and is open year-round.

If you plan on bringing the kids, watch them closey as it could become slippery.

12. Mission Bay Trail (Mission Bay Park)

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 6.3 Miles
Elevation: 52 Feet
Route: Out & Back

Mission Bay Trail is popular amongst the locals. It is used heavily for running, hiking, and biking. The trail is open year round and is pet and kid friendly. The path is paved the entire way which makes it great to bring along stollers or those in wheelchairs.

This trail also has great views of the Bay and you may even see ducks along the water. It is the perfect place for a morning or evening stroll.

I hope you enjoyed this great list of the best kid-friendky hiking trails in San Diego that you can explore with your whole family. Feel free to check out more options at alltrails.com. Thanks for stopping by!

PIN FOR LATER

Sign up today for our monthly newsletter!

You have Successfully Subscribed!

By Signing up, you are subscribing to receive Exploring New Sights email newsletters. You may unsubscribe at any time. For more information, please review our Privacy Policy. 

Pin It on Pinterest