Looking for the best state parks in California?? Here’s the list with all that travel information you need to plan a family tour.
California features one of the biggest and most diverse state parks systems in the United States. Having 280 diverse and beautiful state parks, California is a paradise for hikers, campers, road trippers, and beach lovers.
For example, Emerald Bay State Park, The Big Basin Redwoods State Park, Crystal Cove State Park, and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park are the most popular state parks in the state.
So, let’s discover the complete list of the best and fun state parks in California. Just check whether you have added them to your bucket list or not.
State Parks in California
1. State Parks in California: Emerald Bay State Park
Emerald Bay State Park is one of California’s most beautiful state parks. Located on the stunning Lake Tahoe’s Emerald Bay, it considers a National Natural Landmark as well.
So, there are many things to do here, including seeing the magnificent Eagle Falls and the Vikingsholm Mansion, a Scandinavian-style stone castle.
Especially, Vikingsholm Mansion is considered the finest example of Scandinavian architecture in the United States.
The park also includes hiking trails and scenic overlooks, and it is well-known for its Nordic culture. And you will also be able to see breathtaking nature views and wildlife along the hiking trails. Ex: Rubicon Trail, hiking to Eagle Lake and Eagle Falls.
Here’s another unique thing to see in Emerald Bay State Park.
There’s an impressive underwater collection of 20th-century boats and barges. So, it can be viewed using scuba gear or snorkeling gear. And the trails include waterproof cards containing information about the history of the area, making the trip worthwhile.
On the other hand, this park is an excellent place for swimming, boating, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. You can kayak to Fannette Island on Lake Tahoe while enjoying scenic views and turquoise blue waters. Just be sure to bring your sunscreen, water shoes, and a camera.
It is possible to rent water toys from the paddleboard stand in the park, or you can simply go for a stroll along the shoreline.
No matter what you do, you’ll be able to experience the natural beauty of the area. You can even explore the history of the place from its origins.
So, plan for a family weekend getaway to Emerald Bay State Park.
Address: 138 Emerald Bay Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150, United States Phone: +1 530-541-3030
State Parks in California
2. State Parks in California: Crystal Cove State Park
The most beautiful part of Laguna Beach is Crystal Cove State Park. It features 3.2 miles of coastline, inland chaparral canyons, and a historic district with impressive beach houses.
A great place to explore nature, culture, and the area’s history is Crystal Cove Historic District, located near the state park.
Located between Corona Del Mar and Laguna Beach, there are plenty of hiking trails at Crystal Cove State Park. The perimeter of the park trail is a nine-mile loop that allows hikers to explore the backcountry of Laguna Beach.
This hike takes you along No Name Ridge, Deer Canyon, Red Tail Ridge, and Moro Ridge. You can also enjoy the scenic views and tide pools along the trail. The trail is open to the public, but you should consider bringing a bag to pick up trash.
On the other hand, there are plenty of scenic beaches in Crystal Cove to explore. For example, Moro Beach, accessible through a short tunnel, is famous for bodyboarding, skin diving, surfing, and camping.
Moro Campground is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle world.
Other attractions include Reef Point, 3.5 Cove, and Pelican Point. However, surely check the tide chart before you visit the beaches.
There is also an amphitheater at the park, and various activities are available for visitors.
Address: 8471 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, United States Phone: +1 949-494-3539
Looking for more campgrounds in California?? Here’s the list. Just check the list and plan your camping tour now.
State Parks in California
3. State Parks in California: Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
If you are looking for a park to enjoy California’s natural beauty, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is one of the best choices. (just 10 miles south of Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground)
Although Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a small state park, the forest is beautiful and refreshing.
A half-mile drive along the scenic Highway 1 will bring you to the quaint village of Partington. At the end of the road, you’ll be greeted with gorgeous views of the forest and coast in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
The park was named after Julia Pfeiffer, a pioneer in Big Sur, Monterey County.
Now it is an expansive area that stretches from the coastal zone up to the nearby 3,000-foot ridges.
The landscape of this park features redwood, oak, chaparral, and madrone trees. Especially, you can admire the 300-foot-tall redwoods, many of which are over 2,500 years old.
On the other hand, you will be able to see McWay Falls, which drops over an 80-foot cliff into the Pacific Ocean. And it considers one of the best tidefalls in California. You can view it from the Overlook Trail in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
It offers breathtaking views especially, during sunset.
Address: 52801 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, United States Phone: +1 831-667-1112
Looking for the best beaches in California?? Here’s the list; just check and plan for a fun beach vacation with your family.
State Parks in California
4. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Let’s explore the scenic coastal area of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve in California.
The site is home to diverse sea creatures, wildlife, thick cypress forests, aquamarine waters, and dramatic coastal bluffs.
Therefore, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is famous among nature lovers for hiking, exploring sheltered beach coves, and scuba diving.
There are several scenic hiking trails and incredible diving locations in this place. And there’s even a whale-watching museum too.
When visiting Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, remember to keep in mind the area has strict rules for the visitors not to disturb its natural environment. While there’s no charge to visit the park, respecting the park’s nature and other inhabitants is essential.
In season, you can observe sea lions, elephant seals, and even rare whales. For example, if you walk along the Bird Island Trail, you may see plenty of resting seals.
Regardless of the time of year, it is important to keep to the trails and follow the signs to preserve the area’s unique ecosystem.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve only has 150 parking spots, so you’ll need to park your car on the shoulder of Highway 1. So, come early to catch a space.
Address: 62 CA-1, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923, United States Phone: +1 831-624-4909
State Parks in California
5. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park in California
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is a popular destination for Bay Area residents, and there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Horseback riding, hiking, picnicking, and swimming are all popular here.
This state park preserves riparian areas, redwood forests, and the watershed of the San Lorenzo River.
A grove of old-growth coast redwoods is the highlight, but there are plenty of other things to do, too. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your visit. Once you’ve made your reservation, you’ll be amazed at the beauty of this park.
The main part of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is the Garden of Eden, a picturesque wilderness area that features a riverside loop trail and an excellent natural swimming hole.
Spreading over 4,600 acres of redwood forest, and you can hike through a portion of it.
The most popular trails in the park are the Garden of Eden Trail (a 2.8-mile trail), Fall Creek Trail, and the Truck Trail.
Especially, the Garden of Eden Trail is more popular and a short walk from the main parking area.
And the Fall Creek Trail is located north of the main park and is surrounded by dense second-growth redwood forests.
Here’s another fun way to experience Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.
If you’re looking for a scenic train ride through the redwoods and Santa Cruz Mountains, take a trip on the Redwood Forest Steam Train. This historic steam train will give you a panoramic view of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the refreshing air of forests.
Redwood Forest Steam Train ride starts at Roaring Camp, located close to the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. So, you can easily get there. And you can even get to spend the night at the historic Roaring Camp.
Plan your family tour to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and grab all these experiences.
Address: 101 N Big Trees Park Rd, Felton, CA 95018, United States Phone: +1 831-335-4598
State Parks in California
6. State Parks in California: Castle Crags State Park
If you’ve ever been to Northern California, you’ve probably seen Castle Crags State Park, home to one of the best-known rock formations in the state.
Are you looking for a nature retreat? Then, Castle Crags State Park is an excellent choice.
The 4,000-acre park is bordered by the Castle Crags Wilderness and the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Being an excellent place for camping, Castle Crags State Park Campground is permitted year-round camping. And there are 76 developed campsites here.
If you’re planning a camping trip to Castle Crags State Park, it’s important to take note of the geology of the area. The mountains here are made up of oceanic crust from the Ordovician period. And the granitic columns were formed as magma rose underground and solidified. Once the rock had cooled, it collected and rose, creating the crags.
Hikers interested in exploring the park can opt to go on the Castle Dome Trail. It is a 3-mile round-trip route that begins on a treeless hillside, and the last part of the hike is a steep climb up the crags.
Although the hike is not easy, the incredible views of Castle Crags and Castle Dome from the top will reward you for your efforts. If you want to get the most out of your visit, make sure to bring your hiking boots.
Aside from that, the park also features more than 25 miles of other hiking trails.
If you are coming from Redding, Castle Crags State Park is just about an hour and a half north of Redding.
Address: 20022 Castle Creek Rd, Castella, CA 96017, United States Phone: +1 530-235-2684
State Parks in California
7. Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Located in northern California, the Humboldt Redwoods State Park is home to the world’s largest contiguous old-growth forest of coast redwoods. If you love old-growth forests, you surely will love this place.
Being the largest redwood state park in California, Humboldt Redwoods State Park is home to the oldest living organisms in the world.
If you drive along the Avenue of the Giants, a scenic highway that runs through the park, you will feel you are on another planet.
Its rugged beauty is breathtaking, and its history is rich. You can walk through this park and enjoy its mystical natural beauty. This place is truly a must-see in California, so make sure to take some time to visit.
The closest airport to Humboldt Redwoods State Park is Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport in Eureka, just one hour away. Also, you can get to one of several international airports in the area, such as Oakland or San Francisco. A four-hour drive will get you to the state park.
To explore Humboldt Redwoods State Park, begin at the visitor center because it is where to get a map of the park’s 100 miles of trails.
The Gould Grove Nature Trail is the most popular and scenic trail, which begins directly across from the visitor’s center. It features towering trees, mossy undergrowth, and babbling rivers.
So. come along with your kids and enjoy Mother Nature.
Address: 17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott, CA 95571, United States Phone: +1 707-946-2263
State Parks in California
8. State Parks in California: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Here’s the largest state park in California, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. And it is located in the Colorado Desert in southern California.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park’s name is a tribute to the 18th-century Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza. “Borrego” means “sheep.” You will find plenty of sheep in this region.
The park is home to more than 600,000 acres of land and features some of the world’s most beautiful scenery.
It is also home to some of the most important archaeological sites in the United States, including the Paleontology Museum.
In addition to megafauna fossils, you’ll find preserved plants, invertebrate shells, and animal tracks in this state park.
The most popular hiking trails in the park lead you through a vast landscape, and visitors can even spot rare wildlife here. Even the nation-spanning Pacific Crest Trail runs across this park.
The Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association has a bookstore and information center at the park’s headquarters (652 Palm Canyon Drive). The bookstore sells local art, crafts, and other gifts.
One of the best times to visit Anza-Borrego is from late February through April. The seasonal waterfalls will be in full force, and you’ll be able to see the beautiful colors of the wildflowers that will be blooming throughout the desert.
If you’re looking for a desert vacation, you can’t go wrong with this park! You’ll never regret taking a trip to Anza-Borrego.
Address: 200 Palm Canyon Dr, Borrego Springs, CA 92004, United States Phone: +1 760-767-4205
State Parks in California
9. McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park
A visit to McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park is a great way to spend a day in the mountains.
Since this park is home to the famous and beautiful Burney Falls, it attracts thousands of visitors during peak season. Therefore, it is best to visit the park in the off-season.
This state park is the second oldest in California, and it is located on the banks of Lake Britton in the Cascade Mountains, just 6 miles north of the town of Burney in Northern California.
Any watersport is available at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. In addition to watersports, visitors can enjoy the scenic spring-fed waterfall, hiking trails and take advantage of the horseback riding facilities.
The park’s main overlook is a short walk away from the parking lot. Here, you’ll see the 128 ft high mighty McArthur-Burney Falls, roaring down the moss-covered ledge and splashing into a crystal clear pool below.
Just park the car at the visitor center and visit there. Or hike the 2.7 miles long Burney Creek Headwaters Trail to get more stunning nature views.
You’ll see steam rising from the ground in the summertime, and the park’s waterfall is best seen at sunset.
While hiking through the park, remember to bring bottled water for your picnic. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonder.
Address: 24898 CA-89, Burney, CA 96013, United States Phone: +1 530-335-2777
State Parks in California
10. Empire Mine State Historic Park
Empire Mine State Historic Park is a state-protected mine and historical park located on the outskirts of Grass Valley on the western slope of the Sierra Mountains, California.
It is accessible by car via East Empire Street, which is part of the Nevada County Community College. The admission to the park is around $10 per person.
The park is on the National Register of Monuments and Sites and is also a federal and California Historical Landmark.
On the other hand, this 19th-century California Gold Rush in the park is one of the country’s oldest and most unique gold mines.
Still, you can see a machine shop, the entrance to the now-flooded shafts of the mine, and a clubhouse.
Aside from that, there are fourteen miles of hiking trails running through this park. Therefore, it is well worth visiting, especially if you are a history buff.
Tour guides are highly knowledgeable about the area’s history, so a guided tour of the historic site to know more.
The Empire Mine State Historic Park is the perfect destination for a family outing. So, come along with your kids to teach them about California Gold Rush.
Address: 10791 E Empire St, Grass Valley, CA 95945, United States Phone: +1 530-273-8522
State Parks in California
11. State Parks in California: Russian Gulch State Park
In the Mendocino County area of California, there’s a State Park known as Russian Gulch.
Located two miles north of Mendocino and seven miles south of Fort Bragg, this park is a great place to visit if you’re looking for exciting hiking trails.
Russian Gulch State Park has plenty of hiking trails and other amenities, like a campground, a picnic area, and a swimming beach.
The heavily forested Russian Gulch Creek Canyon makes for an exciting day trip. You can take a short hike to a 36-foot waterfall and the Devil’s Punch Bowl, a collapsed sea cave too.
And you’ll also find a secluded beach on the Mendocino Coast to have a relaxing time.
On the other hand, there are also miles of hiking trails and paved bicycle trails. Therefore, it is like a paradise for hikers and bikers.
For example, you can hike the Fern Canyon Loop in the morning or the headlands trails in the afternoon. And you’ll find plenty of wildlife and freshwater fish along the way.
After a long day of hiking and biking, you can enjoy the scenic view of the Mendocino Coast or camp overnight.
The North Trail leads to the campground and is a longer, less-traveled path. Once you’re finished hiking, the trail ends in the middle of the campground, where you can camp overnight.
Address: CA-1, Mendocino, CA 95460, United States Phone: +1 707-937-5804
State Parks in California
12. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
The Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is a beautiful, dense forest of massive redwood trees. It’s home to seven percent of the world’s old-growth redwoods and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The park is nine miles east of Crescent City along U.S. Route 199. If you’re in the area, it’s a good idea to plan ahead for your visit because this is an excellent destination for a family day out.
Whether you’re traveling with family or a group of friends, there’s something for everyone in Jedediah Smith Redwoods.
It has a beautiful campground, cabin rentals, a swimming hole, and 20 miles of hiking and biking trails through lush forests. Regardless of your needs, you’ll surely find something to enjoy.
Besides being an incredible place to hike, it’s also a fun way to experience nature up close. There are even volunteer opportunities available in the park, and it’s possible to interact with the park rangers.
Apart from Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, there are many other destinations to visit in this region. Ex: Del Norte Coast and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Parks
Address: Crescent City, CA 95531, United States Phone: +1 707-464-6101
State Parks in California
13. Big Basin Redwoods State Park in California
Located about 36 km northwest of Santa Cruz, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is an incredible place for a family vacation or a romantic getaway.
You’ll find this park located in the middle of the coast and surrounded by majestic redwood trees. Therefore, visitors to the park will find a wide range of activities and amenities, from hiking and camping to swimming and bird watching.
Who doesn’t like to see ancient trees older than the Roman Empire? Try Redwood Loop Trail to see those magnificent trees taller than the Statue of Liberty.
Also, you can visit Berry Creek Falls by following a 9-mile trail.
A visit to Big Basin Redwoods State Park will be filled with wonder. It used to be the home of the Cotoni and Quiroste tribes, ancestral relatives of the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band and Muwekma Ohlone Tribe.
In the 1800s, the Spanish settlers began clearing land and creating ranches and cities.
Sadly, Flames destroyed thousands of structures of this park. Therefore, the park’s staff is now evaluating whether to rebuild the structures and infrastructure damaged by the fire. They are looking into using fire-resistant materials and not building on the roots of the trees.
While Big Basin Redwoods State Park is already recovering from the quake, the repairs will add a new layer of fun to the experience.
Address: 21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA 95006, United States Phone: +1 831-338-8861
State Parks in California
14. State Parks in California: Morro Bay State Park
Morro Bay State Park is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a relaxing day trip.
There’s a lot to do, from fishing and sailing to hiking trails and visiting the seaside Museum of Natural History.
And the Museum of Natural History has exhibits highlighting the park’s cultural history, wildlife, and Native American culture.
Morro Bay State Park is surrounded by beautiful nature, and the beach is within easy reach of the state park. And since it is on the water, you’ll never get bored at Morro Bay.
Visit the Heron Rookery Nature Reserve in Morro Bay to see giant birds and massive nests.
You can also find the endangered California sea otter and harbor seals here, as well as the young herons.
It has an 18-hole public golf course too. And the surrounding areas have a great selection of local foods with a marina on the bay.
On the other hand, you can get incredible views of Morro Rock and the surrounding bay.
The best way to grab all of these experiences is camping in Morro Bay State Park Campground. Both tent camping and RV camping opportunities are available.
Address: 60 State Park Rd, Morro Bay, CA 93442, United States Phone: +1 805-772-2560
State Parks in California
15. Mendocino Headlands State Park
Mendocino Headlands State Park is an excellent choice for those looking for a nature retreat.
This 347-acre park in northern California is home to two beaches and undeveloped seaside bluffs.
And the park includes a scenic hiking trail adjacent to Big River, a natural tidal creek.
This trail is called the Big River Trail, and it offers the chance to see the wildlife and birds that live along the river. It runs about a mile to the park’s northern end, starting from Mendocino Beach.
Being a popular beach destination, this park is perfect for anyone who enjoys the area’s natural beauty and timeless history.
So, hikers, surfers, nature photographers, and painters will appreciate the pristine cliffs and abundant wildlife.
Since there are no campgrounds, it is a great destination for a day trip.
While visiting Mendocino Headlands State Park, tourists can also enjoy local history too. The Historic Ford House, which serves as the park’s visitor center, features permanent exhibits displaying the early days of Redwood foresting and Pomo Native Americans’ life.
And the park also includes a museum featuring over 3,000 pieces of Sea Glass. This Museum is free to visit and is one of the top things to do in Mendocino.
Therefore, Mendocino Headlands State Park is an excellent destination for families with children.
Address: Mendocino, CA 95460, United States Phone: +1 707-937-5804
State Parks in California
16. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
If you’re looking for a coastal sanctuary where you can find the world’s largest old-growth Coast Redwood trees, you should visit Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park in California.
This 14,000-acre coastal park is in Humboldt County, and it is home to some of the most fantastic Coast-Redwood trees.
In addition to the trees’ incredible beauty, the park is also a wonderful place to visit to learn more about the ecosystem. Therefore, it is a must-see for nature lovers.
The park features misty forests, fern-covered canyon walls, and a self-guided nature trail. Actually, the Fern Canyon is the park’s star attraction.
So, there are many ways to experience the majestic park, including hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching. There’s a 2-mile hike called the Rhododendron Trail and another one called CREA Trail for adventure seekers.
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park features two campgrounds. One campground is for tent camping, and the other is for RV campers and trailers up to 27 feet in length. During the peak summer season, both campgrounds are closed to motorized vehicles.
You can bring your dog with you, but they must be kept on a 6-foot leash.
Address: 127011 Newton B. Drury Scenic Pkwy, Orick, CA 95555, United States Phone: +1 707-465-7354
State Parks in California
17. State Parks in California: Bodie State Historic Park
The ghost town of Bodie near the Sierra Nevada Mountains, a former gold mining community, is a must-see attraction for history buffs.
You are getting the chance to visit a working stamp mill, a museum, remaining mining equipment, furnishings, and old artifacts in Bodie State Historic Park. And the ghost town has a unique charm and evokes a sense of timelessness.
Here, you can learn about the history of gold mining.
Once you’ve made it to the park, you’ll find yourself in a ghost town that looks much like it did 50 years ago. The town has no shops or restaurants and no commercial activities.
There is a museum, Bodie Museum, which tells the history of Bodie and the surrounding area. It is open from 9 am to 3 pm during the summer, and 9 am to 5 pm during the winter.
Bodie State Historic Park is open year-round, but you must be prepared to deal with the harsh weather. The park is only accessible with over-snow equipment in winter, so be prepared to deal with mud and snow. You can also rent a snowmobile from nearby stores.
Private tours of the Ghost Town need advance reservations.
Address: CA-270, Bridgeport, CA 93517, United States Phone: +1 760-616-5040
State Parks in California
18. Año Nuevo State Park, Pescadero
Año Nuevo State Park in Pescadero, California, includes Año Nuevo Island and Point, two rocky outcroppings popular with visitors.
Being former dairy farmland, now it serves as a breeding and battling place for unique elephant seals.
Aside from that, the park is known for its pinniped rookeries, meadows, beaches, and sand dunes that are worth exploring.
Located 55 miles south of San Francisco, it is well-known for its incredible views of the bay.
There are lots of activities to do while visiting this beautiful state park. Obviously, the main attractions are the elephant seals breeding colonies. You can also watch other marine mammals, such as harbor seals and sea lions.
Elephant seals breed here during the winter months, making it an ideal place to see them.
If you’re planning to visit during the breeding season, you may want to book your reservations early so that you don’t miss the opportunity to view these magnificent creatures.
The park has several scenic hiking trails too. So, come along with your family to experience these exciting things.
Address: 1 New Years Creek Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060, United States Phone: +1 650-879-2025
State Parks in California
19. Salt Point State Park, Jenner
Located in the northern part of California, Salt Point State Park is a 6,000-acre state park with over 20 miles of hiking trails. So, it is like heaven for hikers.
Featuring a rugged coastline of Northern California, this state park is beautiful and worth visiting.
The park features the rocky outcropping of Salt Point, which protrudes into the Pacific Ocean.
On the other hand, there are also numerous beautiful waterfalls, picnic areas, fishing piers, and a wide variety of other fun activities.
If you enjoy nature, you’ll love this state park.
The park contains three campgrounds, four day-use areas, and a Visitor Center in Gerstle Cove. So, camping is the best way to experience this park.
A great hiking trail through the salty bluff will take you past a perforated rock texture unique to the Sonoma Coast. You can also see sea lions sunning on the rocks while exploring the coastal forest.
This trail starts at Gerstle Cove and continues to Fisk Mill Cove, where you can visit the scenic pier and Fisk Mill Cove waterfall. And the total distance is about 10 miles one way.
Aside from several hiking trails, Salt Point State Park also has an underwater park too.
However, you should be prepared for the weather. There is a good chance that you will have to pack your raincoat to go on a hike, so make sure you bring an extra layer of clothing.
Address: 25050 CA-1, Jenner, CA 95450, United States Phone: +1 707-847-3221
State Parks in California
20. State Parks in California: Hearst San Simeon State Park
Hearst San Simeon State Park is a gorgeous beach park in the southern part of the Californian coast that preserves a rocky shore and various rare habitats.
It is a large park with 3,409 acres and was established in 1932. And it is home to many wildlife species and several endangered species. You can hike through the trails in the park to see this wildlife or explore the nearby cave.
Visitors can learn about the park’s history by taking the Junior Ranger Program. This program is designed for children ages seven through twelve.
And it focuses on local traditions and ecology and learning about plant life, animals, and the local wildlife.
Also, kids can participate in the Campfire Center, located at the campground at San Simeon Creek.
Aside from that, Hearst San Simeon State Park features picnic tables and benches that provide the perfect setting for a delicious lunch with your family.
Also, there’s Pa-nu Cultural Preserve, with an archeological site dating back 3,833 BCU. And you get the chance to see the fantastic architecture of the National Historic Landmark, Hearst Castle.
The north end of Hearst San Simeon State Park is a popular location for watching Northern Elephant Seals migrate. You can see them as they rest and mate in a roped-off area.
Address: 500 San Simeon-Monterey Creek Rd, Cambria, CA 93428, United States Phone:+1 805-927-2035
State Parks in California
21. State Parks in California: South Yuba River State Park
South Yuba River State Park in Northern California is one of the most beautiful places in the country.
Situated in the Sierra Nevada, this park is a great place to go hiking or simply enjoy a picnic lunch. Don’t forget to bring your camera.
A day trip to South Yuba River State Park will take you to beautiful hiking trails. For example, the Point Defiance Loop Trail, Independence Trail, and South Yoba Trail offer great views of the valley.
Aside from that, you can find many things to do and see at South Yuba River State Park, including mountain climbing, fishing, and camping. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll want to take a day trip to this park and get some fresh air.
The park features the Bridgeport Covered Bridge, dating back to the 1860s. It is the largest single-span-covered bridge in the U.S. So, it is a must-see attraction.
You can enjoy the river by swimming or kayaking in South Yuba River State Park. Especially, the 49er Crossing offers exciting rapids for kayakers.
On the other hand, you’ll also find many other quaint and historic towns and villages near the park, including the city of Nevada City.
Address: 17660 Pleasant Valley Rd, Penn Valley, CA 95946, United States Phone: +1 530-432-2546
State Parks in California
22. State Parks in California: Grover Hot Springs State Park
The natural hot springs at Grover Hot Springs State Park are a relaxing way to start your vacation. (120 miles east of Sacramento on US-50)
The state park is on the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada. Besides the hot swimming pools, this area is also home to a picnic area, a campground, and hiking trails.
Grover Hot Springs State Park was established in 1959 and is open to the public. Several types of accommodations are also available in the park.
For example, there are 76 campsites in the park with bear-proof food lockers for tent campers and RV campers. The campground also features bathrooms, showers, and drinking water.
The hot springs are very soothing during the winter months and are ideal for soaking your body.
Address: 3415 Hot Springs Rd, Markleeville, CA 96120, United States Phone: +1 530-694-2248
State Parks in California
- Emerald Bay State Park
- Crystal Cove State Park
- Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
- Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
- Castle Crags State Park
- Humboldt Redwoods State Park
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
- McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park
- Empire Mine State Historic Park
- Russian Gulch State Park
- Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
- Big Basin Redwoods State Park
- Morro Bay State Park
- Mendocino Headlands State Park
- Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
- Bodie State Historic Park
- Año Nuevo State Park
- Salt Point State Park
- Hearst San Simeon State Park
- South Yuba River State Park
- Grover Hot Springs State Park
State Parks in California
