Explore - Travel Made Easy, Vacations, Planning Advice

California's Only Vehicle-Friendly Beach State Park Has Reopened For Off-Roading & Camping

staff@explore.com (Amanda Morgan) — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:30:00 +0000

This popular off-roading and camping spot on the California coast has reopened after a lawsuit temporarily blocked access. Here's what you need to know.

Oregon's Pristine Glacial Lake Offers A Mountain Getaway For Camping And Boating

staff@explore.com (Shelby Wilkerson) — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 16:00:00 +0000

This lake in Oregon's Deschutes National Forest is the perfect summer destination for boating, fishing, and camping, and it's just an hour from Bend.

Ohio's Amusement Park Was A Total Bust In The '70s — Now It's A Fun Trailhead For Families

staff@explore.com (Shelby Wilkerson) — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 16:00:00 +0000

This amusement park ran for 100 years before shutting down, but today its grounds have been transformed into a family-friendly spot with easy trails.

Wild Horses Roam Freely At This Mountain Destination On The Border Of Wyoming And Montana

staff@explore.com (Carolyn Hall) — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 16:00:00 +0000

If you're on a road trip in the West this summer, be sure to visit the mustangs and wild horses that roam freely on the border between Wyoming and Montana.

Why Outdoor Experts And Survivalists Warn Against Camping In Dry Riverbeds

staff@explore.com (Amanda Morgan) — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 10:30:00 +0000

While its soft, flat surface may seem like the perfect place to set up, here's why outdoor experts and survivalists warn against camping in dry riverbeds.

A Scenic Arizona Lake Abruptly Closes, Disrupting Summer Travel Plans

staff@explore.com (Felix Gott) — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 16:00:00 +0000

If you had plans for a fishing trip to this stunning Arizona lake, you'll need a backup. An unfortunately incident has caused the lake to close indefinitely.

California's Deepest Lake Is Also Its Most Popular With Crystal-Clear Water

staff@explore.com (Joshua Meyer) — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 10:30:00 +0000

This massive lake along the California-Nevada border isn't just a paddler's paradise, it's a bonafide vacation hotspot steeped in American history.

Alaska's Mostly Abandoned Town Feels Frozen In Time Within America's Largest National Park

staff@explore.com (Carolyn Hall) — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 10:30:00 +0000

Once a thriving mining town, this remote, mostly-abandoned outpost in Alaska is a must-visit for adventure seekers looking for a true wilderness experience.

California's State Park System Is Getting A Major Expansion With Three New Locations

staff@explore.com (Amanda Morgan) — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 00:30:00 +0000

California already boasts a massive state park system, and thanks to a recent initiative, they'll be adding three brand new parks to the roster.

New York's Largest Water Park With A Hydromagnetic Coaster Is A Must-Visit This Summer

staff@explore.com (Amanda Morgan) — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 00:30:00 +0000

When New York City's summer heat becomes unbearable, locals head to a beloved Long Island water park for a refreshing escape. Here's why it's a must-visit.

California's Most Popular National Park Got Rid Of Reservations, Leading To Massive Crowds

staff@explore.com (Carolyn Hall) — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 16:00:00 +0000

This park's reservation system was scrapped in early 2026, and visitor numbers jumped, bringing parking chaos, crowding trails, and leaving visitors frustrated.

Sandwiched Between Orlando And Sarasota Lies Florida's Iconic 'Water Ski Capital Of The World'

staff@explore.com (Joshua Meyer) — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 10:30:00 +0000

Florida's iconic water skiing destination also boasts a rich history, a chain of beautiful lakes, and a huge Legoland resort that make the visit worthwhile.

These Are The Only Two US States For Completely Snake-Free Hiking And Camping

staff@explore.com (Amanda Morgan) — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 10:30:00 +0000

If you love the great outdoors but hate the idea of a reptile slithering up your boot, head to these two U.S. states that are known for being snake free.

One Of The Most Underrated Summer Lake Getaways In Canada In 2026

staff@explore.com (Shelby Wilkerson) — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 20:00:00 +0000

British Columbia has no shortage of stunning summer destinations, but this laid-back lakeside city flies under the radar and should be on your bucket list.

Wyoming's Underrated State Park Is Worth The Short Road Trip From Yellowstone

staff@explore.com (Carolyn Hall) — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Wyoming visitors often drive past this stunning state park on their way to Yellowstone, but it might just be the most rewarding detour in the area.

America's Longest Official National Scenic Trail Is A Backcountry Paradise For Hikers

staff@explore.com (Carolyn Hall) — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:30:00 +0000

This underrated trail is the longest in the U.S., covering eight states with stunning trails that adventurous hikers can do as a thru-hike or in sections.

LA County's Largest Lake Is A Summer Swimming Haven With A Fun Inflatable Aquapark

staff@explore.com (Shelby Wilkerson) — Sun, 31 May 2026 10:30:00 +0000

This summer, water slides, trampolines, climbing bridges, and of course swimming await at this inflatable aquapark at Los Angeles county's largest lake.

One Of The Most Beautiful Botanical Gardens On The East Coast Is An Artsy Paradise

staff@explore.com (Felix Gott) — Tue, 26 May 2026 20:00:00 +0000

This celebrated outdoor attraction near Boothbay is reason enough to plan an entire trip to Maine, especially for art lovers, birdwatchers, and anthophiles.

Canada's Abandoned Island Is Now A Thriving Destination With A Scenic Hiking Loop

staff@explore.com (Shelby Wilkerson) — Mon, 25 May 2026 10:30:00 +0000

If you're both a history lover and a nature enthusiast, this island in Canada has abandoned military forts and 11 miles of hikes, including a scenic loop.

Tennessee's Newest State Park Hides A Massive Cave System Worth Exploring

staff@explore.com (Carolyn Hall) — Mon, 25 May 2026 00:30:00 +0000

Tennessee is getting a brand new state park, and it happens to be on the location of one of the state's most incredible underground natural wonders.