During the season of gathering, there’s no better time to brainstorm and plan your perfect future family reunion. Give thanks for the beauty that nature shares with us and be merry in the small moments of family togetherness. Here are some ideas for your next national park family reunion.
Family Get Together at Lake Powell
Experience incredible sunsets together at Lake Powell.
Stretching between northern Arizona and southern Utah, Lake Powell offers a unique family gathering spot. During your stay, you can rent a speed boat or pontoon boat to explore the 2,000 miles of coastline and enjoy the sunshine.
What to Do: Antelope Canyon Tour
It doesn’t get much better than this view at Lake Powell.
Tour one of the most stunning land formations with a guided tour of Antelope Canyon. On the tour, you and your family will get to enjoy stunning landscapes and picture-perfect sights. You might just get the perfect shot for your family holiday card.
Where to Stay: Bullfrog Marina Family Units
If you’re bringing all of the family with you for your gathering, you’ll want plenty of space to spread out and cook. The Bullfrog Family Units are the perfect space for your group. With over 1,000 square feet of living space, three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a fully-equipped kitchen, you’ll have everything you’ll need.
Where to Eat: Anasazi Restaurant
Stop in Anasazi Restaurant at Defiance House Lodge for great service and even better fare.
Just because you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen doesn’t mean you need to cook every meal. For those meals where no one wants to cook, head over to Anasazi Restaurant at Defiance House Lodge to enjoy bountiful breakfasts and hearty dinners. The menu features dishes such as pot roast, Hatch green chile mac and cheese, and other delectable options.
Leaf Peeping as a Family at Olympic National Park
Get your binoculars and camera ready for leaf peeping season in Olympic National Park. If you’re looking for a variety of landscapes to please all of the picky travelers in your group, look no further. Olympic National Park is home to glacier-capped mountains, forest valleys, hot springs, and rugged coastline.
What to Do: Skiing at Hurricane Ridge
Hit the slopes or enjoy some hot chocolate and great people-watching at Hurricane Ridge.
During the winter, a great reason to visit Olympic National Park is the snow. At Hurricane Ridge, you’ll find skiing and snowboarding perfect for beginners and advanced powder hounds alike. With an average annual snowfall of over 400 inches, you’re sure to be delighted.
Where to Stay: Lake Crescent Lodge
Share a Family Meal in Lake Tahoe
Spanning the border between California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is well-known for being one of the most beautiful lakes in the United States. With its rocky shoreline and crystal clear blue waters, it’s a must see. The region surrounding the lake also has activities for everyone in the family, from boat tours to snowmobiling to nightlife.
What to Do: Snowmobile Tour
Hop aboard a snowmobile and take off for this two-hour, guided, scenery focused snowmobile tour. Along the way, you’ll cruise through towering pines and aspens, taking in all of the sights that Lake Tahoe has to offer.
Where to Stay: The Cabins at Zephyr Cove Resort
Located just a few minutes from the beach, marina, lake cruises, and a restaurant, Zephyr Cove Resort puts you and your family right in the action of Lake Tahoe. On site, you’ll find 28 cabins, ranging in size from a studio up to four-bedroom. Each cabin has been renovated with modern amenities, but retains their original charm. You’ll find amenities such as a gas fireplace, fully equipped kitchen, hair dryer, WiFi, and cable TV.
Where to Eat: Zephyr Cove Restaurant
This picturesque setup at Zephyr Cove Restaurant is full of holiday charm.
The Zephyr Cove Restaurant is open year round and specializes in local, sustainable cuisine. The restaurant has been voted “South Shore’s Best” many times by locals, so everyone in your family is sure to find a dish they’ll like.
Family and Beach Vibes at Asilomar
Known as the Refuge by the Sea, Asilomar State Beach and Conference Grounds is the perfect place to gather with your family this holiday – or any – season. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, wander the dunes, birdwatch, or explore the nearby small towns, Asilomar has plenty to offer everyone.
What to Do: Take a Guided Tour
One of the best ways to get to know Asilomar and the local wildlife is by taking a guided tour. You can learn about the local and visiting birds, the Asilomar Ramble, and the ecology in a tour of the dunes and coast.
There are many options available for your family to plan the perfect stay!
Asilomar Lodge is located among the 107 acres that’s part of the Asilomar State Beach. The lodge was designated a historic landmark in 1987 and features unique architecture. During your stay, your family might enjoy one of the hotel’s spacious cottages which range in size from two to four bedrooms. Each has a full kitchen, private bathrooms, and living spaces.
Gathering with family during the holidays is the highlight of the season for many families. No matter where you gather, you know that if you’re with family, you’ll have a good time. This year, plan to make some memories by spending a holiday with your family at one of the national parks. Spend time in nature, enjoying all the beauty and serenity it has to offer.
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