6 Last-Minute California Summer Getaways for Nature Lovers (That Don’t Feel Last-Minute)
California is the kind of magical place where you can wake up on a Friday with no weekend plans and be stargazing in the desert or roasting marshmallows in the forest by nightfall. Whether you're a planner who forgot to plan or someone who thrives on spontaneity, these last-minute road trip destinations offer the perfect mix of adventure, ease, and natural beauty.
Here are six of my favorite outdoorsy California escapes that feel like a breath of fresh air...literally. There's still plenty of summer left to get outside.
1. Arnold, CA
Best for: Cozy cabins, forest bathing, and lake dips
AdvertisementAdvertisement#_R_8pokr8lb2mav5ubsddbH1_ iframeLocated in the Sierra Nevada foothills along Highway 4, Arnold in Calaveras County is the kind of underrated gem you almost don’t want to share. But I will, because it’s that good. Think: towering pines, crisp alpine air, and nearby lakes for floating, kayaking, or just sticking your feet in and reading a paperback.
If you’re looking for a charming place to stay, I own a colorful cabin in Arnold that’s perfect for families, couples, or even a solo recharge weekend. It has a private cedar hot tub under the trees, fast WiFi (if you must work), and is dog-friendly.
Top things to do in Arnold:
Hike among giant sequoias at Calaveras Big Trees State Park
Swim or picnic at White Pines Lake
Kayak or paddleboard on Alpine Lake (incredible mountain views)
Wine taste at one of the 35+ county wineries
2. Big Sur, CA
Best for: Cliffside views, redwoods, and dreamy coastal hikes
AdvertisementAdvertisement#_R_9pokr8lb2mav5ubsddbH1_ iframeBig Sur isn’t exactly a secret, but the key to a last-minute trip here is flexibility. Many campgrounds (like Kirk Creek or Ventana’s walk-in sites) release cancellations the week of. Even if you don’t stay overnight, the drive alone is enough to shake off a city brain.
Top things to do in Big Sur:
Take in the view from Bixby Bridge (go early to avoid the crowds)
Explore Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and hike to McWay Falls
Walk through the redwoods at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Grab a patio seat and a glass of wine at Nepenthe
Book a luxury retreat at The Post Ranch Inn
3. Shasta-Trinity National Forest
Best for: Waterfalls, mountain lakes, and peaceful paddling
AdvertisementAdvertisement#_R_alokr8lb2mav5ubsddbH1_ iframeThis lesser-crowded region in Northern California is heaven for people who want that classic lake-and-mountain summer experience without the Tahoe crowds. There’s something slow and nostalgic about Shasta-Trinity, it feels like time stretches longer up here.
Plus, it's one of the most magical places in California.
Top things to do in the Shasta-Trinity region:
Swim at all three tiers of McCloud Falls (my favorite is Middle Falls!)
Paddleboard or kayak at Lake Siskiyou
Hike around Castle Lake or take in the views from Heart Lake
Watch the sun set behind Mount Shasta, it glows pink
4. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, CA
Best for: Stargazing, desert hikes, and dramatic scenery
AdvertisementAdvertisement#_R_blokr8lb2mav5ubsddbH1_ iframeTucked into Southern California’s Colorado Desert, Anza-Borrego is wildly underrated—and surprisingly easy to do last minute. It’s a certified dark sky park, so it’s a dream for stargazers, photographers, and anyone in need of a quiet desert reset.
Top things to do in Anza-Borrego:
Hike to The Slot Canyon—narrow, photogenic, and beginner-friendly
Marvel at the massive metal sculptures scattered across Borrego Springs
Book at stay at the adorable roadside motel Hacienda Del Sol in Borrego Springs
Drive through Font’s Point for a panoramic overlook of the badlands
5. Avenue of the Giants, CA
Best for: Cathedral forests, scenic drives, and quiet reflection
AdvertisementAdvertisement#_R_chokr8lb2mav5ubsddbH1_ iframeThis drive-through redwood corridor in Humboldt County is pure magic. It’s quiet, majestic, and wildly humbling. Camping is usually easier to book last-minute up here, and the cell service is spotty, which only adds to the vibe. I had the most fun here a few years ago, we rented a camper van and drove all around The Lost Coast.
Top things to do along the Avenue:
Drive the full 31-mile Avenue of the Giants scenic route
Explore Fern Canyon, a dreamy canyon with walls of ferns
Have a picnic under the redwoods at Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Stop at a quirky roadside attraction like the One-Log House
Camp at Burlington Campground or book a rustic cabin in nearby Miranda
6. Guerneville, CA
Best for: River floats, redwood hikes, and wine country picnics
AdvertisementAdvertisement#_R_ddokr8lb2mav5ubsddbH1_ iframeNestled in the Russian River Valley, Guerneville is Northern California’s cool older cousin: laid-back, a little funky, and perfect for a last-minute road trip with friends. It’s redwood country meets wine country, with a healthy dash of queer-friendly charm. I always have a great time here, especially in the summer when you can float down the Russian River.
Top things to do in Guerneville:
Float the Russian River with a cooler and a tube
Walk among ancient trees in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Sip local vintages at Korbel or nearby boutique wineries
Stay at the fun Boonville Hotel
You don’t need six months of planning or a perfect itinerary to escape into nature. California practically begs you to be spontaneous. With a tank of gas, a loose idea, and maybe a bag of marshmallows, your next great trip could be just a few hours away.
Yahoo CreatorKara HarmsCreator of Whimsy SoulKara Harms is a San Francisco-based content creator who shares body positivity, travel, wine and lifestyle content. She is also an Airbnb Superhost of Whimsy Homes. Follow
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