Family Vacation Ideas in California

One of the nation's top parks, Yosemite can accommodate any budget. Families can pitch a tent, use park canvas tent, rent a cabin, pull up an RV or stay in the rustic, five-star Ahwahnee Hotel. Most campsites are in Yosemite Valley, and this is the ideal place for families, as there are numerous activities, including horseback riding, guided nature tours, rock climbing, an Indian village, rafting, hiking and some of the most beautiful scenery in the state. The valley is walled in by massive granite monoliths like El Capitan at 3,000 feet, Half Dome at 4,000 feet, and the 2,425-foot Yosemite Falls.

Located in Santa Cruz County, Big Basin Redwoods State Park rises from sea level up to about 2,000 feet. The draw here are the trees themselves, known as Giant Redwoods. This park, which was formed as California's first state park in 1902, has recently given up evidence that it was inhabited by prehistoric tribes. Redwoods, the tallest species of trees on earth, cover most of the park. The tallest recorded was measured at just under 380 feet. The park offers camping and lodging of all varieties and is filled with all manner of mammal, reptile, flora and fauna.

Catalina Island rests of the coast of California halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego. The main town on the island, Avalon, is well-equipped to host families, as they vacate their normal routines for a while. People have been inhabiting the island for more than 7,000 years, but these days people here live a much easier life. Snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, fishing, wind surfing, golf, hiking, bicycling and parasailing are all available to try. Numerous restaurants and shops can be found by the waterfront as well.