I absolutely love being outdoors in the summer and sleeping out, but traditional camping is a LOT of work especially if you don't have a lot of time and/or have little ones running around.

I've found several places that offer no-hassle camping services within a 4 hour drive of the Bay Area. They set up the tent or cabin, get the bedding ready, have hot showers and real toilets. Most even offer someone to cook if you don't feel like doing it yourself. Totally do-able in a regular weekend.

I've posted my favorite list of place on my blog at: http://slackerlifeguide.blogsp...tion-5-glamping.html

I hope you try some. We've tried all these and they've worked great for us (me, husband, and 4 year old). I'd LOVE to hear anyone else's suggestions for similar places within 4-6 hrs drive of Bay Area. If you have one, please post to the comments section of the blog above. THANKS!