Beautiful scenery, wild animals, the smell of fresh flowers and the sound of dribbling streams are all reasons you may want to get in touch with nature on your next vacation. Getting away from your daily life is what vacations are all about and for residents of the U.S., having a nature-filled getaway is always right next door. There are so many wonderful vacation destinations in the U.S. that it might be hard to choose the one that's right for you and your family.

For those ready to get away from the urban life and back to the campground, a ranch vacation may be the way to go. Family friendly and fun for everyone, dude ranches offer trail riding, river rafting, golf, fly fishing, hay rides, wine tasting and more. Look for ranches near the Big Horn National Forest, Grand Teton National Park, or the Wind River Mountains.

Traditional ranches let guests say in cabins or individual rooms. When making your reservations, be sure to request the accommodations that you prefer. Ranch meals are served in a big dining hall where everyone has a chance eat together. Many ranches offer accommodations in houses or cottages, perfect for getting the whole family together. You will also find ranches which are actually working ranches where you'll be able to lend a hand and help out with the daily chores.

If the beach is what you're longing for, try the #1 rated beach for 2007, Ocracoke Island. Blackbeard once roamed on the Outer Banks and it's seaside majesty will make you want to roam there, too. Ocracoke Island is one of the barrier islands of the Outer Banks of North Carolina and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Aside from the incredible beach, you'll see a lighthouse, historic homes and rustic shops.

Mountain retreats are also a fantastic way to fall back in love with nature. Estes Park, Colorado is one of the very best places to retreat into the mountains. Here you will find spectacular scenery and unique lodging. An old resort town, dating back to the beginning of Colorado statehood, Estes Park provides spectacular scenery with a small town feel. You can choose to stay a nearby guest ranch and enjoy horseback riding, mountain biking and campfires. There are also a variety of cabins in Estes Park. Cabin colonies by the river and more secluded cabins out of town provide an ideal spot for a romantic getaway.

Getting in touch with nature is important for the whole family. Whether you choose to get down and dirty in the wild west, lounge on the beach, or camp by the mountains, you can't go wrong with a nature filled vacation.

Learn more about this author, Jennifer Brister.
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