Archives for July 2016

Spring Mountain Ranch

Las Vegas – Spring Mountain Ranch State Park

Believe it or not, there is more to do in Las Vegas than what exists on the strip… That is of course, if you look beyond the casinos, and venture to the outskirts of town.

State Park in the desert — Spring Mountain Ranch State Park

Every summer, Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is host to the Super Summer Theatre. Performances are held outside Wednesday through Saturday, with several shows to choose from.

Heading to the meadow — Walking to the meadow

This is such a fun event for adults and children. Everyone brings blankets and chairs to spread out in the meadow. You’re allowed to bring in food and drinks. It’s perfect for an evening picnic as you watch the performance under the stars.

Theatre at Spring Mountain Ranch — Waiting for Beauty and the Beast!

If you get there early enough, you’ll have time to go explore. There are several hiking trails to check out. Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Wild burros are some of the wildlife in the area, so keep your eyes open for them.

wild burros in spring mountain ranch — Wild burros roam the area

The Ranch itself has an interesting history, with a string of famous owners. The original buildings are open for tours… Check for times.

cabin at spring mountain ranch — One of the original cabins

There’s even a small lake at the ranch. Lake Harriet is the home of the endangered Pahrump Poolfish, so there is no fishing, swimming, or boats allowed.

Lake at spring mountain ranch — Lake Harriet

desert beauty red rock canyon — The beauty of the desert

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Lake Casitas Recreation Area

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Day Trip to Lake Casitas Recreation Area

Travel doesn’t always have to take you far from where you live. Staycations can be a great way to explore the surrounding areas close to where you live.

Adventure might be waiting just around the corner, and perhaps it is possible to get away from it all, if only for the day!

Lake Casitas Recreation Area is great for a day trip, and offers a variety of things to do. You can go boating, fishing, or ride down the lazy river water adventure in an inner tube!

Plan on bringing something to BBQ. Picnic areas with tables and grills are available.

If you want to stay for more than a day, reserve a campsite.

lake casitas recreation center — Drive right up to the lake!

If you don’t own a boat, stop by Casitas Boat Rentals. They have small fishing boats, pontoons, canoes, and kayaks available to rent.

Kayak and boat rentals at lake casitas recreation area — Lake Casitas Boat Rentals

Lake Casitas recreation area kayaking — Kayaking at Lake Casitas

Casitas lake kayaking — Kayaking around the lake!

If boating isn’t you thing, try fishing! Record size bass have been caught out of Lake Casitas. Remember to get a fishing license… The park rangers do check!

Lake Casitas Recreation Area — So relaxing!

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Independence Day In Santa Barbara

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Celebrating Independence Day in Santa Barbara, California

Last year I was in Ireland for the 4th of July. I didn’t really think I’d miss celebrating Independence Day in Santa Barbara, but I did.

I missed getting together with family and friends for barbeques, going to the parades, and seeing the local fireworks display… The things I’ve done traditionally my entire life.

I decided to delay my travel this year and stay in Santa Barbara for the 4th of July… I wanted fireworks!

It’s always fun to start the day by checking out the parade. It’s practically right outside my door.

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line up for parade — Getting ready for parade

After the parade, the Santa Barbara Wharf is a great place to hang out. Live music and performances are featured throughout the day on West Beach.

Celebrating Independence Day — Heading down to West Beach!

Santa Barbara West Beach 4th of Julu — Independence Day on West Beach

Santa Barbara puts on a great fireworks display right on the waterfront.

After the fireworks, the crowd heads down State Street. As we walk through the tunnel under the freeway, several people break out an American flag. The crowd begins chanting USA, USA… The voices echo off the concrete walls, and I am happy I decided to stay in Santa Barbara for this 4th of July.

American Flag on 4th of July — Home for Independence Day!

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Summer Solstice Celebration

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Santa Barbara Summer Solstice Celebration

I try to make sure I’m in Santa Barbara for the Summer Solstice Celebration every year.

It runs for 3 days in Alameda Park, and is one of my favorite festivals. It’s also the largest art event in Santa Barbara County, and pulls in a crowd of over 100,000 people.

The festival includes live music, drum circles, a DJ area for dancing, food booths, craft vendors and a beer garden.

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