Spring Break Destinations
Home / Articles / Spring Break DestinationsSpring break is treasured by students of all ages, whether they are in kindergarten or working on a Ph.D. It’s a time for students to step away from their studies and for families to take advantage of a little down time. Check out our list of spring break vacation ideas in the great outdoors to start planning your escape!
Bring home a story at these public land vacation spots
Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area
Oregon
Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area (Lee Ellsworth, Share the Experience)
If you’re looking for a spring break destination that combines stunning scenery and coastal adventure, Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is a must-visit. Spring is a great time to explore its peaceful hiking trails, take in wildflower-filled cliffs, and discover the fascinating history of the area with average temperatures between 40-50°F (4-10°C). This breathtaking spot offers panoramic ocean views, vibrant tidepools teeming with starfish and anemones, and incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. For a coastal getaway full of unique activities, this is your place!
Los Padres National Forest
California
Los Padres National Forest (Andrew Hall, Share the Experience)
Stretching across stunning coastal mountains and valleys, the Los Padres National Forest in California offers everything from quiet hiking trails lined with wildflowers to wide-open views of the Pacific Ocean. With cool mornings warming to sunshine-filled days, you can explore hidden waterfalls, pitch a tent beneath towering pines, or simply relax as you take in the scenery. Wildlife viewing here is abundant and the forest's diverse ecosystems provide a variety of landscapes. Whether you're looking for quiet solitude or family-friendly campsites, the Los Padres National Forest provides an unforgettable spring break experience immersed in nature’s beauty.
Georgetown Lake
Texas
Georgetown Lake (US Army Corps of Engineers)
If your plans involve exploring your naturehood this spring break, Georgetown Lake is a great spot for locals in Austin, Texas. The lake features four campgrounds with access to boating, fishing, biking trails, and picnic areas. Russell Park offers a swim beach and day use area, which reopens for the season in March. The San Gabriel River Trail (PDF) is a 28-mile (45 km) loop trail open to hikers and bicyclists on the north and south sides. Springtime temperatures peak around 75°F (24°C), offering relaxing conditions for a day by the water!
Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
Georgia
Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest (Ken Donaldson, Share the Experience)
Just an hour and a half drive north of Atlanta, the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest provides the perfect break from the hustle and bustle of city life. From mountain hikes and scenic waterfalls to lakeside camping and OHV trails, this north Georgia gem is full of opportunities waiting to be explored. Know before you go and research weather, trail, and road conditions prior to your trip. Temperatures are still cool in the spring, so be sure to pack layers!
White Sands National Park
New Mexico
White Sands National Park (Sara Esslinger, Share the Experience)
If spring break means beachgoing to you, but the beach is just out of reach, give White Sands National Park a try. Spring is a good time to visit this otherworldly park – March through May, daytime temperatures average about 75ºF (24ºC). Evenings are cool, averaging around 40ºF (4ºC). Sunny days are common, but check the forecast for strong windstorms.
Sledding is a must-do, fun-for-all-ages activity at this park. Sand sledding is different from snow sledding, so be sure to check out these tips, guidelines, and best sledding spots.
If you’re not one for getting sand in your pants, hiking, cycling, and driving the 8-mile (13 km) scenic Dunes Drive are also great ways to explore the unique gypsum dunes and the cultural history of the area.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
North Carolina
Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Danielle Rock, Share the Experience)
For a relaxing spring break, Cape Hatteras National Seashore in North Carolina is a coastal paradise you won’t want to miss. With pristine beaches, temperatures ranging from mid-40s°F (7°C) to mid-60s°F (18°C), this stunning stretch of shoreline offers a serene escape. Spend your days strolling in the sand, fishing in the surf, or kayaking through calm sound waters. History buffs can explore the area’s rich maritime history, while nature lovers will delight in spotting migratory birds and other wildlife. Whether you’re climbing the Bodie Island Lighthouse, camping under star-filled skies, or simply soaking up the sun, this destination makes for a memorable getaway.
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge
Florida
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge (Eric Fisher, Share the Experience)
Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is not your typical Florida spring break destination. This unique refuge is the only refuge created specifically for the protection of the Florida manatee. While winter is the best time for manatee viewing, the refuge abounds with gorgeous scenery and diverse wildlife, from the lingering manatee to shorebirds to alligators.
The refuge is open to hiking, paddling, fishing, guided tours, and scuba diving in certain areas. Be sure to read the Know Before You Go and other pertinent information when planning your trip. It’s very important to recreate responsibly at this destination – watch the “Manatee Manners” video before you arrive to ensure the safety of these amazing animals while learning about this threatened species and the environment they inhabit.
Explore Related Trips
Bring Home a Story
- White Sands National Park Tours White Sands National Park, New Mexico
- Cape Point Campground Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina
- Desoto Falls Day Use Pass Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Georgia
- Lake Russell Recreation Area Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Georgia
- Cedar Breaks Park Georgetown Lake, Texas
- Bodie Island Lighthouse Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina
- Kirk Creek Campground Los Padres National Forest, California
- Yaquina Head Lighthouse Tours Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, Oregon