The campground you choose might have coin-operated showers and plugs for your portable TV set, but you may feel closer to the natural world than you do at home. You may also feel an affinity for the early tribes and settlers who passed this way. Here are some articles and links to browse before you go. We'll be adding more as time goes on.

California's Indians:  Yes, they got a raw deal. Is it possible to draw any other conclusion?

California's Missions:  A sad history, perhaps, but these are lovely places to visit.

The Ranchos:  An era like no other.

Beach Combing:  California has more beach campgrounds than anywhere we can think of. Here's what you might find.

Whale Watching:  If you're camping on the coast, you just might see some.

Mountain Lions:  Are they dangerous? What to do if you see one on the trail.

Other Warnings: Some dire; some not so dire.

WEB LINKS:

James J. Rawls' California History Online is very thorough. It offers a good, clickable timeline.

Here's a guide to all the National Wildlife refuges in California.

UC Berkeley's Digital Library Project has a wonderful collection of Californiana, including detailed photos of most plants and wildlife.

Click here to see some recommended books and guides about California.