Winding Roads, Giant Trees, and Desert Skies in California

In the summer of 2024, we went on an unforgettable two-week RV trip through California with our four kids, which was truly an amazing experience.

We kicked things off in San Francisco, where we picked up the RV, loaded it with groceries, and waved goodbye to the city traffic as we made our way inland. Our first destination was Yosemite National Park, and after winding mountain roads, we pulled into Upper Pines Campground, our home for the next 3 nights.

Yosemite completely blew us away... The towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, and the sheer size of the valley were more breathtaking than any photo could ever show.

One of our favorite adventures was biking with the kids all the way up to Mirror Lake. The path was peaceful and beautiful, and once we arrived, we waded across the lake—freezing cold, but so much fun. The kids laughed and shrieked as they crossed. Back at Upper Pines, there was a little stream running near our campsite, and it quickly became our go-to spot for afternoon play. We spent hours skipping rocks, dipping our feet, and cooling off in the clear, icy water. After long days of hiking and biking, it was the perfect way to unwind. Evenings were cozy—dinner outside, stories under the stars, and the smell of campfire smoke clinging to everyone’s clothes.

Next, we made our way to Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks and settled in at Azalea Campground for three nights. The moment we stepped out of the RV, we were greeted by the most incredible scent of pine trees—sharp and clean. The campground felt more secluded, surrounded by thick woods and shaded trails, which gave us a true sense of being tucked away in nature. We explored the groves of giant sequoias, took quiet walks through the forest, and just breathed in the stillness. The size of the trees is hard to describe—ancient and enormous, they made us feel like tiny visitors in a much older world.

From there, we drove deeper into Sequoia National Forest, where we camped for 2 more nights. This part of the trip was slower-paced and more relaxing. With fewer crowds, it was easier to take things at our own rhythm.

One of the highlights was our visit to the Trail of 100 Giants, a family-friendly loop trail that winds through a grove of massive sequoias. The kids loved reading the interpretive signs along the way, and we all stood in awe beneath the towering trees. It was a peaceful and humbling experience, reminding us of the incredible natural history of the area.

Before heading to Joshua Tree, we also spent a relaxing afternoon at a small beach on Lake Isabella, not far from Frandy Park Campground. The kids splashed in the shallow water while we stretched out on blankets in the sun. After so many days of hiking, it felt great to slow down by the lake and enjoy the simple joy of a beach day in the mountains.

Our final nature stop was Joshua Tree National Park, and even though it was only June, the heat was serious. We stayed for two nights and explored during the cooler early mornings and evenings. The desert was totally different from the other places we’d seen—rugged, sun-baked, and full of weirdly wonderful rock formations. The kids loved climbing boulders and pretending the Joshua Trees were from another planet. At night, the sky lit up with stars, and we all lay out on blankets just taking it in.

To wrap up the trip, we made a quick stop in Los Angeles (for an unforgettable Warner Brothers studio tour and an amazing obstacle course on the water!) and then headed south for two days at LEGOLAND in San Diego. After 10 days of hiking and dusty trail time, the kids were thrilled to hit the rides and water park. It was the perfect treat to finish off the adventure.

Looking back, we saw some of the most beautiful places in California, unplugged for two weeks, and made memories that I know will stick with us for a long time.

If you’re thinking about a big road trip with your kids, this is it!