18 More Adventures to Escape the City This Summer
Summer is heating up! Here's where to adventure close to the city.
Calling all city dwellers! With the temperatures heating up and the dog days of summer on their way, are you ready to escape to the outdoors? We know that we sure are, and we're here to help you find the best spots from coast to coast.
If you want to make a weekend of it, check out KOA's nationwide network of campgrounds to find a home base for your next road trip. KOA campgrounds are family-friendly, pet-friendly, and welcome RVers and tent campers alike.
So what are you waiting for? Escape the city with one of these 18 adventures that are close to home, yet a world away.
More: Adventures near Los Angeles, Seattle, New York City, Atlanta, Denver, and San Francisco!
Washington, DC
Sandy shores and lush forests beckon at Calvert Cliffs State Park on the Chesapeake Bay. This 3.6-mile hike is dog friendly, great for families, and a perfect place to unwind.
You'll need to cross the bay to get to the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, so why not stay for the weekend? Located outside of Cambridge, Maryland, the refuge has three water trails for paddling, a driving route for wildlife viewing, and trails for hiking. There are also several bike routes to explore on two wheels.
The Gerry Connolly Cross Country Trail runs the entire length of Fairfax County, Virginia. Hop on a portion of the 40-mile trail starting at historic Colvin Run Mill and hike about four miles through woods and along streams to the Potomac River. This route also makes for an excellent trail run.
More: KOA campgrounds in the District of Columbia, Virginia, and Maryland
Boston
Just an hour north of Boston lies the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, created as a refuge for migratory birds. This home for the birds is your gain, with plenty of outdoor exploration possible in the 4,600-acre park. Bike or run the road through the refuge, hike on the boardwalk trails or climb the observation towers to get an eagle eye's view.
The steep and rocky terrain in the Blue Hills Reservation in Milton is a favorite training ground for Massachusetts-based backpackers, but anyone can enjoy a hike on one of the Reservation's 125 miles of trails. Mountain bikers are welcome, too!
Head to East Taunton to enjoy some water sports on Lake Rico, a fishing and kayaking destination with convenient lakeside parking. No gas-powered boats are allowed, so this is a great spot for beginner paddlers.
More: KOA campgrounds in Massachusetts
Miami
There's no shortage of glittering city experiences in Miami, but those who want a wilder time don't have to look too far. Take an early morning jaunt to the Deering Estate for a sunrise over the Biscayne Bay. This "People's Dock" is free to enjoy, while the Deering Estate itself requires an entrance fee.
On the edge of where urban life meets the Everglades is Markham Park in Sunrise. A favorite spot of locals, this park has mountain bike trails for beginner, intermediate, and expert riders, a shooting range, and playground. There's a family-friendly pump track, too!
South of Miami lies Everglades National Park, a wild landscape that is half water, half land. Explore a bit of both with a paddle on the 9 Mile Pond Canoe Trail, which winds through the mangroves and open glades.
More: KOA campgrounds in Florida
Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is a metropolis that thrives on adventure. Hemmed in by the towering mountains of the Wasatch Front and the expansive beauty of the Great Salt Lake, there is outdoor fun in every direction. Take, for example, this hike up Mount Olympus, which features a beautiful view down into the city.
No motorboats are allowed on the Great Salt Lake, but paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, and sailboats are welcome to ply the saline water. Pack a lunch and paddle to either Black Rock or Pyrite Point for a picnic. Keep an eye on the weather—when it's storming, this lake gets wild!
Ready for a bit of a climb? Big Mountain offers mountain biking along the ridgeline that separates Morgan and Salt Lake counties. Get ready for big views, abundant wildlife, and some leg-burning elevation gain.
More: KOA campgrounds in Utah
Houston
Escape the heat of Houston with a trip to Galveston Island State Park on the Gulf of Mexico. You can hike, paddle, or bike inside the park, which is a little over an hour from downtown Houston. There is over a mile of shoreline to explore, too!
Not far from the heart of Houston, you'll find the Cypress Creek Trail, a single-track path that is open to hiking and mountain biking. There isn't much elevation gain, which makes it perfect for families, or those looking for a casual but scenic adventure near the city.
Need to cool off? Head to the Blue Lagoon, just north of Huntsville, and jump into its refreshing depths. The woods around the lagoon are perfect for some quiet relaxation in between swims. Pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it!
More: KOA campgrounds in Texas
San Diego
Popular Cowles Mountain may be the star of Mission Trails Regional Park outside of San Diego, but lesser-known Pyles Peak will take you away from the crowds and deeper into nature.
Between San Diego and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park lies Three Sisters Falls Trail, a challenging hike that features a fantastic waterfall and epic views. Cool off your legs with a jump into the pool at the waterfall. Be sure to bring plenty of water!
Low light pollution and endless skies await at the Mt. Laguna USAF Station. It's a short walk from the parking area to this elevated spot that's great for watching and photographing, the night sky.
More: KOA campgrounds in California
Cover photo by Eric Harris
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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