With over 250 state parks to choose from, each with unique features, there is something for everyone in California.
Head to Big Basin Redwoods State Park, home to some of the tallest trees in the world, to take in the incredible flora and enjoy hiking trails with breathtaking waterfalls.
For a totally different and equally stunning experience, Joshua Tree National Park presents a unique desert landscape where you can go rock climbing, stargazing, and even encounter some of the park’s famous Joshua trees.
The Golden State is home to stunning landscapes including deserts, beaches, marshes, and forests. Visitors here can enjoy a huge variety of outdoor activities that range from windsurfing and gem hunting to stargazing and fishing.
Whether you are seeking stunning natural landscapes or outdoor adventure, you can’t go wrong with the state parks in California.
Printable California State Parks Map
Admiral William Standley State Recreation Area
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Nestled along the stunning Eel River, the Admiral William Standley State Recreation Area in California is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts.
With towering redwoods spanning across 45 acres, it’s hard not to feel awe-inspired as you take in the natural beauty around you. If fishing is your passion, then you’re in luck, as the park is known for its plentiful salmon and steelhead.
But don’t worry if you’re not an angler; hiking and picnicking are also popular pastimes here.
The park’s namesake, Admiral William Standley, had an impressive naval career, and it’s fitting that this serene and picturesque spot was named after such a distinguished figure.
Just 14 miles west of Laytonville, this recreation area is an easy escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park
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If you’re looking for a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure, Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park is the place to go. Located in remote northeastern Shasta County, this stunning park can only be accessed by boat, making it a true hidden delight.
Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking wilderness of freshwater springs and geologically recent lava flows, preserved for all to enjoy.
The park’s waterways, including the Fall River and associated creeks and lakes, are perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding, while the shoreline is dotted with beautiful blue bays and tree-studded islets.
Be sure to keep an eye out for the remains of fish traps built by Native Californian tribes such as the Achomawi, who named the park.
With over 13 miles of shoreline and 5,930 acres of black basalt deposited in lava flows, Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park is an authentic natural wonder that’s well worth the effort to reach it.
Anderson Marsh State Historic Park
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Nestled between Lower Lake and Clearlake in Lake County, California, you’ll find the beautiful Anderson Marsh State Historic Park.
This park is not only a nature reserve but also a California State Historic Park that showcases the rich history of the Pomo people and the ranchers who once called this area home.
Visitors can explore the tule marshes and observe the diverse wildlife that call this area home, or delve into the past by visiting the historic ranch structures and archaeological sites that offer a glimpse into the lives of those who lived here before.
The park’s location at the head of Cache Creek on the southeast corner of Clear Lake, the largest natural lake completely within the borders of California, makes it an ideal destination for water enthusiasts.
So whether you’re looking to connect with nature or history, Anderson Marsh State Historic Park is the perfect place to do both. And with the park open year-round, you can plan your visit at any time of the year.
Andrew Molera State Park
If you’re looking to explore the rugged beauty of the Big Sur coast, Andrew Molera State Park is a must-visit destination.
This 4,800-acre state park, located at the mouth of the Big Sur River, offers visitors the chance to explore undeveloped land that has been preserved thanks to the generosity of former owner Frances Molera.
The property was originally part of the Rancho El Sur land grant and later owned by California pioneer John Bautista Rogers Cooper and his descendants. Cooper’s grandchildren, Andrew and Frances Molera, inherited the property and Andrew went on to popularize the artichoke in California in 1922.
When Frances sold the property to The Nature Conservancy in 1965, she requested that the park be named after her brother.
Today, visitors can hike through beautiful coastal landscapes, take in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, and observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply looking for a scenic spot to have a picnic, Andrew Molera State Park has something for everyone.
Angel Island State Park
Angel Island State Park is an often-visited destination for anyone interested in California’s rich history.
Located in the San Francisco Bay, this island has a fascinating past that dates back to the indigenous peoples who used it for seasonal hunting and gathering.
Over the years, the island has served a variety of purposes, including providing water and timber for European ships, ranching by Mexicans, and housing military installations.
However, the most significant landmark on the island is the Angel Island Immigration Station, where approximately one million immigrants were detained, inspected, and examined.
This station has been designated as a National Historic Landmark and is a poignant reminder of the struggles and hardships that immigrants faced as they sought a better life in the United States.
Año Nuevo State Park
Año Nuevo State Park is an incredible destination that should not be missed when visiting California.
Located in San Mateo County, the park is home to Año Nuevo Island and Año Nuevo Point, which are renowned for their colonies of seals and sea lions.
The park boasts a diverse range of plant communities, including red alder riparian forest, old growth forest, and knobcone pine forest.
The four perennial streams found here are home to steelhead and coho salmon, while the wetlands provide habitat for rare species such as the San Francisco garter snake and the California red-legged frog.
Visitors to the park can also explore the remnants of a prehistoric Native American village site and several 19th-century Cascade Ranch structures.
Año Nuevo State Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is a great spot for nature lovers and those seeking breathtaking views of California’s state flower, the California poppy.
Located in northern Los Angeles County, the reserve boasts the most consistent and abundant blooms of these beautiful flowers. You’ll find a range of other wildflowers, including Owl’s Clover, Lupine, Goldfields, Cream Cups, and Coreopsis.
The reserve is situated in the Mojave Desert climate zone, at an elevation ranging from 2,600 to 3,000 feet above sea level.
The California Department of Parks and Recreation administers the reserve, and visitors can enjoy numerous walking trails, picnicking areas, and wildlife watching opportunities.
A trip to the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve promises a truly memorable experience.
Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park
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Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park is a unique and educational state park that provides insight into the cultures of Native American groups from the Great Basin and surrounding areas.
Located on the rural east side of the Antelope Valley in northern Los Angeles County, California, the museum features exhibits that represent both aboriginal and contemporary Native American groups of the Southwest, Great Basin, and Californian cultural regions.
The museum’s collections, which include rare and one-of-a-kind artifacts, were donated by H. Arden Edwards and Grace Oliver, an anthropology student.
The museum’s structure, built in 1928 by Edwards, is a chalet-style building constructed on the rock formation of Piute Butte in the Mojave Desert.
The unusual folk art structure was originally used as a home and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
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Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a must-visit location for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers in southern California. It’s the largest state park in California, spanning over 585,930 acres of beautiful desert landscape.
The park was named after Juan Bautista de Anza, an 18th-century Spanish explorer, and the Spanish word “borrego,” which means sheep. The park is situated in eastern San Diego County, with some areas extending into Imperial and Riverside counties.
The park includes two communities: Borrego Springs, where you can find the park’s headquarters, and Shelter Valley. Visitors to Anza-Borrego can enjoy a range of activities, from hiking and camping to stargazing and wildlife viewing.
With its awe-inspiring desert scenery, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a unique and unforgettable destination for anyone visiting California.
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is a true gem of California’s state park system. Located in Sonoma County just north of Guerneville, the reserve is home to 805 acres of coast redwoods, some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world.
The park is situated in a temperate rainforest and receives an average of 55 inches of rainfall per year, mostly between September and June.
The foggy summer months are crucial for maintaining the moist conditions that the coast redwoods require to thrive.
Visitors to the park can hike among the majestic trees on several trails of varying difficulty, and there are also opportunities for picnicking and camping.
Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park
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Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park is a secluded treat in the Antelope Valley of Southern California.
This park offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of mature Joshua trees and California juniper trees in their natural habitat. The park is located in a remote area, which makes it perfect for those seeking solitude and tranquility.
If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. The park offers several hiking trails, which allow visitors to explore the unique desert landscape and its flora and fauna.
So pack a picnic, grab your hiking boots, and head out to Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park for a day of adventure and relaxation.
Asilomar State Beach
Asilomar State Beach is a remarkable state park located on the Monterey Peninsula in Pacific Grove, California. This 107-acre (43 ha) park offers visitors a chance to explore rocky coasts, dunes, and beautiful forest landscapes.
The park is also home to the Asilomar Conference Grounds, a conference center with a fascinating history dating back to 1913 when it was built by the YWCA.
The center is now a National Historic Landmark and offers overnight lodging for those who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of the area.
While the water in the vicinity of Asilomar State Beach is known for rip tides and unpredictable surf, it is still popular with surfers and visitors from around the world.
It’s worth noting that bathroom facilities are only available at the Asilomar Conference Grounds.
Auburn State Recreation Area
Auburn State Recreation Area is a quiet and beautiful spot in the heart of California’s Gold Country.
Located on 40 miles of the North and Middle Forks of the American River, the park offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, boating, fishing, camping, mountain biking, horseback riding, and even gold panning.
It’s the perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
The area is also known for its challenging endurance races held throughout the year, attracting athletes from all over the world.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Auburn SRA has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the gorgeous outdoor landscape of California!
Austin Creek State Recreation Area
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If you’re looking for an escape from the rat race of everyday life, Austin Creek State Recreation Area might just be the perfect spot.
This state park unit is a wilderness oasis nestled in Sonoma County, California, and offers some of the most stunning scenery in the state. From grassy hillsides to oak-capped knolls and rocky summits, there is no shortage of natural beauty here.
With 20 miles of trails to explore, hikers and nature lovers will be in heaven. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even camp in the park (both backcountry and vehicle-accessible sites are available).
Plus, history buffs will love exploring the remains of Pond Farm artists’ colony, which dates back to the 1940s. All in all, Austin Creek SRA is an idyllic destination for anyone seeking solitude, the wonder of nature, and a touch of California history.
Azalea State Natural Reserve
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Nestled in the charming community of McKinleyville, Azalea State Natural Reserve is a must-visit for nature lovers and botany enthusiasts alike.
This California state nature reserve boasts a 30-acre (12 ha) property dedicated to the preservation of the western azalea, a beautiful flowering plant that blooms in shades of pink and white each April and May.
Visitors can take a short self-guided nature trail that highlights the unique flora of the region. The reserve also offers a lovely picnic area, perfect for enjoying a peaceful lunch surrounded by the glory of nature.
Plus, with other nearby attractions like Trinidad State Beach and Fort Humboldt State Historic Park, there’s plenty to see and explore in the area.
Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park
Welcome to Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park! If you’re a fan of history and love to explore old structures, this park is the perfect place for you.
It is located in Napa County, California, and houses a fascinating water-powered grist mill. The mill was built in 1846 and is one of the last remaining water-driven mills in the western United States.
It was restored to working order in the 1970s and is now a popular attraction for visitors. You can take a tour of the mill and see how it works, learn about the history of the mill and its importance to the local community, and explore the beautiful surroundings.
Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop to pick up some freshly ground flour made by the mill!
Bean Hollow State Beach
Bean Hollow State Beach is a sometimes overlooked treasure in the state park system of California that offers a tranquil escape from the pace of city life.
Located in San Mateo County near Pescadero, the beach is perfect for fishing, picnicking and beachcombing. It boasts an abundance of marine life, and visitors can explore the tide pools with anemones, crab, sea urchins, and other inhabitants.
The beach also has a self-guided nature trail that is perfect for a leisurely stroll. However, swimming is not recommended due to dangerous rip currents, heavy surf, cold water, and sharks.
Bean Hollow is a great place to visit if you want to disconnect from the world and spend some quality time with nature.
Benbow State Recreation Area
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Benbow State Recreation Area is beloved by outdoor enthusiasts in California. This state park is located in the scenic Humboldt County, just two miles south of Garberville on U.S. Route 101 on the South Fork Eel River.
Originally, the area was used for hydroelectric power, but thanks to the efforts of the Benbow family, it was preserved for the enjoyment of the public.
Today, visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and camping in the park’s 1,142 acres of pristine wilderness. The park is especially popular in the winter, when salmon and steelhead fishing are in full swing.
The park’s campsites and day-use picnic area are perfect for families or groups of friends looking to spend time in nature. Be sure to add Benbow State Recreation Area to your list of must-visit state parks in California.
Benicia Capitol State Historic Park
Benicia Capitol State Historic Park is a charming park that offers a glimpse into California’s rich political history.
Located in Benicia, the park is dedicated to California’s third capitol building, where the California State Legislature convened from February 3, 1853, to February 24, 1854, before moving the state capital to Sacramento. This park is the only pre-Sacramento capitol that remains.
Visitors can tour the Fischer-Hanlon House, a historic building that was moved to the park and converted into a home in 1858. The park also includes a carriage house, workers’ quarters, and sculptured gardens.
The park is conveniently located just off the city’s main street, making it an easy and enjoyable stop for visitors exploring the charming town of Benicia.
Benicia State Recreation Area
Benicia State Recreation Area is a beautiful state park in Benicia, California that covers 447 acres of marsh, grassy hillsides, and rocky beaches.
The park is home to Southampton Creek and tidal marsh, which front Southampton Bay where the combined waters of the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers approach San Pablo Bay.
Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including cycling, running, walking, and roller skating along the park’s 2.5 miles of road and bike paths.
The Hike and Bike Trail is a popular route, which runs 0.75 miles to the main park entrance, joining Dillon Point Road for 1.5 miles. The trail system is part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail and San Francisco Bay Trail.
Visitors can also take a 1.5-mile-long walk out to Dillon Point on the park road, which is a favorite among many.
Picnicking is available at the group picnic area, and visitors can explore the Forrest Deaner Native Plants Botanic Garden at the end of the picnic area, which offers displays and information about native plants in the Bay Area.
Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area
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Welcome to Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area, an attractive state park unit located in Alameda County, California! This park is perfect for those who love water activities, especially fishing and windsurfing.
The park is located near Livermore and is situated in the northernmost part of the San Joaquin Valley. Bethany Reservoir is a man-made lake that stores water for a pumping plant on the California Aqueduct.
There are several species of fish that can be caught in the lake, including catfish, striped bass, and black bass. The park also has picnic areas, hiking trails, and scenic views of the surrounding hills.
Whether you are an experienced angler or a first-time visitor, Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area has something for everyone!
Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park
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Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park is highly recommended for anyone interested in California history and architecture.
The imposing three-story Victorian mansion was once the home of General John Bidwell and Annie Bidwell, and it is now a museum and State Historic Park that provides visitors with a glimpse into the life of one of the state’s most prominent families.
With 26 rooms, the mansion is a marvel of design and engineering, featuring modern plumbing, gas lighting, and water systems when it was first constructed in 1865.
Today, visitors can take an hour-long tour of the mansion and explore all of its rooms, including the stunning pink-tinted plaster exterior.
The visitor center is also accessible and offers a gift shop, museum, and theater, making it a great place to spend an afternoon.
Bidwell–Sacramento River State Park
Bidwell–Sacramento River State Park is a stunning state park located on the Sacramento River and Big Chico Creek, protecting the riparian habitat of the area.
The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as fishing for salmon, steelhead, and shad, as well as floating down the river on canoes, kayaks or inner tubes.
This 349-acre park was established as a state park in 1979 and is located on the border of Butte County and Glenn County.
The park’s riparian habitat provides a wonderful example of the natural resource and displays the great scenic beauty and constant change of the river’s landscape.
Visitors can enjoy the massive oaks and cottonwoods, which provide dense shade needed for the survival of cool-water creatures, and the various plant communities that provide shelter to a diversified wildlife population.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Big Basin Redwoods State Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers visiting California. This park is steeped in history and was established in 1902 as California’s oldest state park.
It boasts the largest continuous stand of ancient coast redwoods south of San Francisco, covering over 18,000 acres of land. Visitors can explore over 130 km of trails, which range from easy strolls to challenging hikes.
The park’s diverse habitats, from canyon bottoms to chaparral-covered slopes, provide a home to a wide variety of animals, including deer, raccoons, bobcats, and many bird species.
Unfortunately, the visitor center and headquarters were destroyed in 2020 due to wildfires, but the park has since reopened, and visitors can once again experience the awe-inspiring beauty of this incredible park.
Bodie State Historic Park
If you’re looking for an authentic gold-mining ghost town experience, Bodie State Historic Park is the place to go.
This well-preserved town is named after Waterman S. Body, who discovered gold in the hills north of Mono Lake in the late 1800s. Bodie quickly grew into a bustling boomtown with a population of nearly 10,000 people.
Although only a small part of the town remains, it has been preserved in a state of “arrested decay”, allowing visitors to walk down the deserted streets and explore the interiors of buildings stocked with goods as they were left.
Bodie has been designated as both a National Historic Site and a State Historic Park, and it’s a popular destination for tourists looking to experience a piece of California’s gold-mining history.
Just be sure to watch out for howling winds and the occasional ghost!
Bolsa Chica State Beach
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Bolsa Chica State Beach is a beautiful ocean beach located in Orange County, California. Visitors can enjoy three miles of pristine sand stretching from Warner Avenue in Sunset Beach to Seapoint Avenue.
This beach is a popular spot for surfing, sunbathing, and other water activities. It’s also great for fishing, as you can catch a variety of species such as perch, croaker, and sand shark.
The Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is just across the Pacific Coast Highway and is a great place for birdwatching. In addition to all of the outdoor activities, there is a paved bicycle path that runs along the length of the park through Huntington City Beach.
With lifeguards patrolling the beach year-round, Bolsa Chica State Beach is a great spot for a family outing or a day of relaxation.
Border Field State Park
Border Field State Park is a distinctive and fascinating state park located right on the border of Mexico and the United States.
This park offers a variety of experiences, including coastal habitats and beaches. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking while taking in views of the ocean and the neighboring country.
The park also contains the southernmost point in California, adding to its allure. International Friendship Park, located just inland from the border, is a must-visit spot.
It’s an excellent place to witness the cross-border friendships and interactions between people from both countries. Visitors can also see the monument that marks the Initial Point of Boundary between the United States and Mexico.
With its unique location, Border Field State Park offers a one-of-a-kind experience that visitors won’t forget.
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park is a marvelous spot nestled in the beautiful Napa Valley. This park offers a special experience for visitors with its combination of redwoods and wine country.
You can hike through the lush forest, explore the historical buildings, and even go for a swim in the park’s swimming pool. The park also offers camping facilities for those looking for an overnight adventure.
It’s hard to believe that this park was almost closed due to budget cuts in 2011, but thankfully the Napa County Parks and Open Space District stepped in to operate the park and keep it open for visitors to enjoy.
Don’t miss out on this amazing state park!
Brannan Island State Recreation Area
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Brannan Island State Recreation Area is a wonderful park in the Sacramento–San Joaquin River Delta region of California.
There are countless islands and marshes to explore, offering many opportunities for outdoor recreation such as boating, windsurfing, and swimming. The park also has a six-lane launch ramp, over 140 campsites, and plenty of picnic areas.
If you’re a fishing enthusiast, you’ll be delighted to know that the area offers fishing opportunities for a variety of species.
Moreover, the park is home to a protected wetland marsh, Frank’s Tract, which is teeming with wildlife, including beavers, muskrats, otters, and a variety of bird species.
The visitor center is open on weekends and by arrangement, where you can learn more about the park’s rich cultural and natural history.
While the park was closed for a short period in 2022, it has since fully reopened and is ready for visitors to come and explore all it has to offer.
Burleigh H. Murray Ranch
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Burleigh H. Murray Ranch is a wonderful site located in San Mateo County. This beautiful valley ranch offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience California’s rural past.
Established in 1857, the 1,325-acre (536 ha) park became part of the state park system in 1979 and was purchased by the State of California in 1983.
A trail from the parking area takes visitors on an old ranch road along Mills Creek, passing a 1930s bungalow that serves as a park residence.
As the trail progresses, the valley narrows between steep chaparral-covered hills, and visitors can navigate the terrain for another mile above the Mills Barn and water tanks until the trail fades into dense growth.
This is a great place to go for a hike, enjoy nature, and learn about California’s rich history.
Burton Creek State Park
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Burton Creek State Park is an exciting destination for outdoor enthusiasts in California. Located in Placer County near Truckee, the park is perfect for hiking and cross-country skiing.
With 6 miles of unpaved roadway, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the natural scenery while getting some exercise.
The park covers 1,890 acres and was established in 1976, making it a relatively new addition to California’s state park system. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, Burton Creek State Park has something for everyone.
Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning beauty of this park!
Butano State Park
Nestled in the beautiful redwood-filled canyon of Little Butano Creek lies the extraordinary Butano State Park. Located in San Mateo County near Pescadero, this 4,728-acre (1,913 ha) park boasts a stunning natural setting and a variety of outdoor activities for visitors.
Whether you’re hiking the trails, picnicking in the shaded groves, or camping in one of the park’s campsites, Butano State Park offers a peaceful escape from the grind of everyday life.
The park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, including magnificent coastal redwoods, banana slugs, and a variety of birds.
Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a relaxing weekend getaway, Butano State Park is not to be missed.