Summer Dreaming...

My summers as a kid were busy. Between Girls Camp, Cheer Camp, cheer practice, Family Camping, a Paper Route, occasional Beach House in Santa Cruz, CA, Swim Lessons, white water rafting, visiting family in Bakersfield, CA or Memphis, TN... there wasn't much time to bum around. A few years ago I talked with my parents about our busy summers and how it did not leave much time to hang out with friends. There was lots of exclusive family time and it was fun. My parents admitted that their goal was to keep us busy to keep us out of trouble.
As a parent, I too want to keep my kids busy. The kids are involved this summer in Diving, Water Polo, Jr. Lifeguards, ukulele lessons, Girls Camp, Scout Camp and at home I'm determined to knock out a hike, plant and care for a garden, and hitting up our local Library each week. 
Luckily for my kids, we get to also spend sometime In Coloma, CA at the Riverhouse. My parents have a beautiful home on the American River in Northern California. Every July all 10 of my siblings (and children) gather at my parents home for a reunion... HANDS DOWN our favorite event of the Summer.

As my Kids get older, I do dream of additional Vacation destinations. Here are a few that I've been dreaming of lately...
​1. Havasupai/Havasu Campgrounds 
I have been to the lower part of Havasu, a quick stop on our way down the Colorado River, as a kid and it is stunning! I would love to take my kids on this hike and stay at the campgrounds.  

2. Yosemite
Yosemite is a place I've been a few times with my family growing up. I will forever regret being such a chicken and not hiking Half Dome! (smack face) I hope that we can take our kids before they leave the nest. Definitely a family Bucket List destination.

3. Treebone Resort, Big Sur
 There are so many places along the coast in California that it's hard to pick just 1 but doesn't this look like lots of fun? I'm not sure I'd like to bring all 6 kids and the pup along but this looks like a great place for my husband and I.

4. Carlsbad Bluffs Campgrounds, CA
We used to camp at the beach when I was younger. It is honestly my two favorite summer activites (Camping and Beach) combined into one. I have very fond memories of spending the day playing in the ocean and sand then back to our campsite for campfire dinners and songs. Experiencing this with my kids is pretty close to the top of my list.

5. Lake Powell
I've done a quick over night here but would love to spend a week here with my peeps. Living in AZ, I have lots of friends who frequent this coveted summer destination and I can't wait for an opportunity to join in on the fun!

I'm hoping that next summer we will be able to plan ahead and incorporate 1 (maybe 2) of these trips into our Summer schedule. 
What are some of your favorite Summer Destinations?