California State Parks: The Best 7 State Parks

California is a land of striking geographic contrasts—towering mountains rise alongside lush forests, while deserts brush up against fertile agricultural valleys. One day you can be carving through the snow on glacier covered peaks, the next, you could find yourself in the desert with the highest temperatures recorded.

California is a state of natural beauty. nine national parks—more than any other state—and around 280 state park units. The Golden State’s state park units are often overlooked in favor of its national parks. hidden gems They offer the same or better than their counterparts in terms of landscapes, views, and experiences.

Here are the best seven state parks in California.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

More than 600,000 acres are protected by Anza-Borrego Desert State ParkCalifornia’s largest park. Much of the desert is remote and wild, only accessible by foot or via primitive roads that need a four-wheel-drive vehicle. It’s the park’s unique geological features, from badlands to slot canyons—that make it a true gem. 

Anza Borrego is particularly beautiful in the springThe desert is alive with color in the spring, as purple sand Verbenas, yellow Desert Sunflowers and golden Poppies bloom. Anza-Borrego was named an Outstanding Stargazing Area by the National Geographic Society. International Dark Sky Park In 2018. In 2018,

Crystal Cove State Park

Crystal Cove State Park It is easy to get around and very accessible. This coastal park, located along the Pacific Coast Highway between Corona del Mar & Laguna Beach, stretches from sandy coasts to rugged mountains. Its 3.2-mile stretch of pristine beaches is the park’s highlight, but it also has 2,400 acres of wilderness for hiking and bicycling. Crystal Cove has a unique collection. 46 historic coastal cottagesBuilt in the 1930s or 1940s, these buildings are part of an historic district that is federally recognized.

Humboldt Redwoods State Park

The following are some thoughts on how to get started: Humboldt Redwoods This is a park that has been designated as a state park. a reputation that rivals National parks. The Rockefeller Forest is the largest contiguous grove in the world of old-growth redwoods. Approximately one-third of the park—around 17,000 acres—is covered with ancient redwoods, making it the largest intact redwood forest left on Earth.

The 32-mile drive is a great way to explore the area Avenue of the Giants, a scenic highway This trail winds through towering trees. Take a walk along the Gould Grove Nature Trail to get a closer look at the 300-foot redwoods. Humboldt Redwoods is more than just beautiful trees. This park offers over 100 miles in trails as well as hiking, biking and boating opportunities along the South Fork Eel River.

Emerald Bay State Park

Welcome to the jewel-toned, vibrant waters of Emerald Bay State Park, This nestled in a pristine stretch of wilderness Lake Tahoe’s coastline. A small island is located in the middle of this beautiful bay. It’s rich with history.

The park has many trails. One leads to the Bay, from where visitors can take a boat out to the island. Vikingsholm mansion, a true architectural gem. The park has California’s very first underwater maritime heritage trail which runs by the barges that are now resting below the surface in Emerald Bay.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park 

It is often referred to by locals as “mini Yosemite” on the California coast. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park offers all the grandeur of its famous counterpart—with the bonus of ocean access. This beautiful park has a combination of calm coastlines, dramatic rock outcroppings a deep canyon, and a river lined up with redwoods. Most visitors prefer to view the park only from the air. scenic Pacific Coast HighwayIt is important to visit the park’s heart. You can explore ancient coastal redwoods or marvel at the McWay falls, which plunges into the ocean. Pfeiffer has some of Big Sur’s best attractions. best camping in the stateMany campsites are nestled alongside the cool and tranquil waters of the Big Sur River.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Carmel-by-the-Sea can be found just to the south. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve It is sometimes referred to “the crown jewel” of the California State Park System. Ansel Adam, who photographed the reserve’s beauty, was inspired by its stunning views. Its expansive offshore region, which is located within the Monterey Bay National Marine SanctuaryDivers flock to the area in order to discover its diverse marine life. Visitors can also hike along the rugged coast and through picturesque cypress forest to spot wildlife like harbor seals and sea otters.

Calaveras Big Trees State Park

If you’re eager to see giant sequoias—some of the largest trees in the world—head to Calaveras Big Trees State Park. In the Sierra Nevada foothills this park contains two beautiful groves with giant sequoias. They are surrounded by lush coniferous forests. It is a must-see to see the “Discovery Tree“, which was cut down in 1853. The task was so monumental that it took five men a total of 22 days to finish.

There are a number of hiking trails in the park that circle around these ancient giants. These include the North Grove Trail, and the South Grove Trail. You can fish on the Stanislaus River or Beaver Creek if you have a valid fishing license. Flying squirrels, dark-eyed Juncos and foxes are just some of the wildlife that you can see if you have a fishing license.