Spring Break Destinations

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Spring 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 break away from their studies and for families to take advantage of a little down time. The US has an abundance of spring break destinations that will appeal to all looking for a chance to unplug. Check out our list of spring break vacation ideas in the great outdoors to get you started.

Avoid crowds and treasure memories at these public land vacation spots

White Sands National Park

New Mexico

A girl poses with a sled on white sand dunes at sunset

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.

Cabrillo National Monument

California

Waves breaking over rocks at the Cabrillo tide pools on a blue-sky day

Cabrillo National Monument (Evelyn Chase, Share the Experience)

San Diego has it all – sandy beaches with year-round sunshine, a vibrant city, and plenty of nearby destinations for the outdoor lover. Stopping by Cabrillo National Monument, located just outside of San Diego, is a must. Enjoy a meandering walk to a historic lighthouse, military history, hiking, bicycling, and tide pooling. For a weekend getaway, head east to the Cleveland National Forest for excellent hiking, trail running, camping, and mountain biking opportunities. Laguna Mountain Recreation Area is just a 40-minute drive from the city and features vast meadows, mountain forests, and desert terrain all in one.

Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge

Florida

A manatee floats in the clear turquoise waters of a spring

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.

Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

Massachusetts

A wooden boardwalk leads towards sand dunes covered with sea grass

Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area (J. M. Lampley, National Park Service)

Did you know you can visit Boston Harbor’s islands? Thirty-four islands and peninsulas await your discovery, featuring three iconic lighthouses, an abundance of walking trails, and sandy beaches. Several forts and historic sites are still standing and offer a look into Boston’s storied past. If you wish to make an overnight trip, campgrounds are available for reservation on Peddocks Island. Public ferries begin operating in May, which is perfect for a late spring getaway.

Waco Lake

Texas

Sunset glows orange between low clouds over a lake

Waco Lake (Tom Haines, Share the Experience)

Waco Lake is an ideal spot for a week-long family vacation. Tent and RV sites with boat ramp access are available at various campgrounds around the lake, allowing you the flexibility to choose your favorite spot. Boating, fishing, and picnicking are popular activities at the lake. Reynolds Creek campground offers access to the Tejas Nature Trail, a 1.2-mile (1.9 km) trek along one of the lake’s coves. For visitors looking for a more challenging trek, horseback riding and biking can be done on the 20-mile (32.2 km) Lacy Point Hiking and Biking Trail. If you get tired of your camp kitchen, downtown Waco is within a half-hour drive and offers a variety of restaurants.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

New Mexico

Three people stand on a viewing platform overlooking a large rock formation in a cave

Carlsbad Caverns National Park (Peter Jones, National Park Service)

Tucked beneath the scenic and rugged Chihuahuan Desert, in the rocky slopes and deep canyons of the Guadalupe Mountain range, you will find Carlsbad Caverns National Park, which protects the largest chambered cavern in North America. Advanced reservations to tour the cavern are recommended, particularly around spring break. Windy conditions and mild temperatures are common in early spring (March-May), and the year-round temperature in the cavern averages 56ºF (13ºC). Remember to pack layers and appropriate footwear for this unique experience!

Above ground, numerous hiking trails are available to explore the unique environs of the Chihuahuan Desert and Guadalupe Mountains. Be sure to check the weather and pack plenty of water for your visit.

Edwin B. Forsyth National Wildlife Refuge

New Jersey

A flock of American black ducks take flight above the salt marsh

Edwin B. Forsyth National Wildlife Refuge (Sean Pajak, US Fish and Wildlife Service)

Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge offers an escape from the bright lights and casinos of fast-paced Atlantic City. Just 10 miles (16 km) from the city, spring breakers can experience the best of both worlds. A unique landscape of salt meadow, marsh, shallow coves and bays, this peaceful refuge is ideal for spotting thousands of migrating birds as they feed and rest. New Jersey’s coasts offer the ultimate spring break experience. Partake in the watersport of your choice – crabbing, fishing, swimming, surfing, and boating, among others.

Explore Related Trips

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Reynolds Creek Waco Lake, TX
Cabrillo National Monument Site Pass Cabrillo National Monument, CA
White Sands National Park Tours White Sands National Park, NM
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Burnt Rancheria Cleveland National Forest, CA
Carlsbad Caverns National Park Tours Carlsbad Caverns National Park, NM

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