THIS MONTH: Plan Your Summer Vacation
Now and $ave! by Ann Ziegler
Here in Tucson, the temperature is cooling down and the weather is perfect for outdoor recreation. So, it's hard to already be thinking about getting relief from scorching summer temperatures. But for the best summer vacation getaways, the time to book is now!
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If you are the outdoor type, then here's a site you won't want to miss. Go to www.recreation.gov for all you vacation planning needs. This site is run as a collaborative effort between the US Army Corps of Engineers, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation and USDA Forest Service. From campsite to cabins, RV's to boats, there's a vacation plan for every type of traveler.
A Trip to Red Rocks
Located on the north side of the state, Sedona is a small town tucked in amongst the glorious red rocks that feel hand-painted. Nestled in the mountains of the Coconino National Forest is a cabin that looks like the pages of a storybook. The Crescent Moon Ranch is a prime example of the kind of offerings you will find on the government's recreation site.
The ranch is a three bedroom, three bath guest house with two kitchens, a large great room and room for 10 people overnight. It can even be reserved for up to 50 people during the day. The ranch's rooms are furnished with beds, but you must bring your own linens or sleeping bags.
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Roughing it is only an option here - electricity and running water are provided. Or, light up one of the two wood stoves in the cabin. All the basic amenities are available, including a sink, dishwasher, electric range and refrigerator. They even have pots, pans and silverware (which makes your vacation packing even easier!).
Or, if you must cook in the great outdoors, just step outside to the grill and picnic table!
It's your vacation, so spend it how you like - reading a book in the sun room, playing catch with your kids in front of the cabin, or take advantage of the nature trails and hiking opportunities located right there in the national park.
An overnight stay at the Crescent Moon Ranch runs $200 a night. The drive from Tucson to Sedona will take a little under four hours, but it is well worth the time and money to beat the dry heat in June. Average summer temps in Sedona hit the 90's - refreshing when Tucson hits 110!
Closer to Home
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Want to try camping, but not ready to travel too far from home? Then the tent sites at Rose Canyon up the road to Mt. Lemmon are a perfect starting point. At just $18 for an overnight stay, you'll be able to bring along a steak dinner to grill on the campsite's grill. Family walks and fishing by the lake are fun activities for the day, s'mores around the campfire are a perfect fit for the evenings.
Book Now -
www.recreation.gov
On the site, more than 50 different cabin locations throughout Arizona are offered, as well as dozens of tent, RV and day retreat locations. The most popular locations fill quickly, so begin planning your vacation now. The site requires you to register, which takes less than two minutes. Then, browse the different cabins and campsites throughout the state of Arizona or any of the 45 states listed. Tent and RV prices vary, with some sites as low as $15/night. Cabin prices also vary, so if a price seems out of your budget, explore the many other options offered.
Photo(s) courtesy of USDA Forest Service
© 2008 Good News Tucson™
