Surprise! America's national parks are open for business during winter. Sure, your options may be a bit different than in the popular summer months, but adventurous souls will be mightily rewarded for their efforts.
Northern California has it all: a wild coast dotted with picture-perfect beaches; rugged granite peaks topped with snow; and primeval forests bristling with ancient trees. Of course, Northern California also has San Francisco, but you knew that already. Here are six top spots in NoCal that are easy to pair with the City by the Bay, or enjoy as trips in their own right—no city required.
The gear experts at ActiveJunky.com, a partner of GORP.com, know the outdoors like the back of their hands. Here they guide you to seven great free campsites across the country, with gear recommendations for each spot included.
