Sometimes adventure, bonfires and rugged outdoor living call for long drives up dusty dirt roads or winding highways. But sometimes you’re lucky, and you don’t have to drive far to convene with nature. Living at Boulevard means you have a wide variety of options to choose from that are less than a couple of hours away, whether for a quick drive or a weekend getaway. With so many places in Northern California offering great camping, you’re bound to discover your next favorite spot.

Mount Diablo State Park offers camping year-round, but it’s most popular during the summer months. You can make reservations for a campsite up to six months in advance. There are many hiking trails throughout the park, and they all provide amazing views of the Bay Area. Some of them even lead down to a picnic area, where you can enjoy lunch at a long table overlooking the expansive terrain. At peak conditions, you can see over 200 miles in the distance.

Samuel P. Taylor State Park is situated in one of the most naturally beautiful settings on the Marin coast. Visitors can experience a variety of recreational opportunities designed to please both body and spirit, with 2,882 acres of shady strolls, a hike by Lagunitas Creek, where you’ll find salmon, as well as campsites beneath majestic redwoods.

Mount Tamalpais State Park has several hiking trails and breathtaking vistas. Deep canyons and lush forests provide outdoor lovers with one of the world’s most incredible playgrounds. Between hiking and wildlife watching, allow for plenty of time at the park. Campsites are also available on a first-come, first-served basis. More information can be found at Reserve California.

New Brighton State Beach offers a forested area with a campground, hiking trails and sweeping views of the bay just steps from a sandy shore that’s perfect for fishing, beachcombing and, in summer months, swimming. With over 100 campsites, camping is available every day of the week. Be sure to check out their Little Rangers and Junior Rangers programs for kids too!

Lastly, Calaveras Big Trees State Park is aptly named for its giant jaw-dropping sequoia trees, some over 2,000 years old. Open daily and year-round, this four-seasons destination is beautiful no matter the time of year. Whether it’s biking, swimming, fishing or snow sports, it’s sure to be an action-packed time. Heads-up, if you want to stay overnight at one of the campgrounds, March to November are your go-to months.

There’s so much to do and see, and we haven’t even touched on the different kinds of camping available: indoor, RVing, backpacking, glamping. Whatever you choose, there’s no shortage of awesomeness awaiting in Northern California. So book a trip and go for it!