Sounds like you stayed at Vet's memoral park. I remember the hill climb to the camp site very well.
I have found the air matteress or thermarest to use really depents if you are a side sleeper or a back sleeper. I have heard very good things about the Neo air treker. I am happy with my big agnes insulated air matress set up since I am a side sleeper.
Short trips are a great way to see if you like touring and what you want to change to make it easier. I have been doing a few from my house in Marin to the Napa wine country. I have found its a great way to really evaluate what you need and don't need to lighten the load. Its just fun to get out there and do it without a lot of planning.
Liam