California’s natural beauty is legendary, and while national parks like Yosemite and Joshua Tree often steal the spotlight, the California State Parks system boasts over 280 gems of its own. From redwood forests to coastal cliffs and desert wonders, here are the 10 best California state parks that are 100% worth visiting.
1. Emerald Bay State Park
📍 South Lake Tahoe, CA
Why It’s Amazing:
This alpine paradise offers crystal-clear waters, evergreen forests, and the only island in Lake Tahoe—Fannette Island. Hiking, kayaking, scuba diving, and camping are all popular here.
Highlights:
- Hike to Eagle Falls
- Visit Vikingsholm Castle
- Panoramic views from Emerald Bay Overlook
2. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
📍 Big Sur, CA
Why It’s Amazing:
Often called a “mini Yosemite,” this park offers towering redwoods, riverside trails, and scenic drives along Highway 1. It’s a great base for exploring the Big Sur coast.
Highlights:
- Hike to Pfeiffer Falls
- Camp under ancient redwoods
- Close to McWay Falls (Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP)
3. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
📍 Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Why It’s Amazing:
Point Lobos is a marine wonderland with rugged coastlines, hidden coves, and some of the best wildlife watching in California—sea lions, sea otters, whales, and birds galore.
Highlights:
- Stunning oceanfront hiking trails
- SCUBA diving and tide pooling
- Wildlife photography
4. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
📍 Borrego Springs, CA
Why It’s Amazing:
California’s largest state park features dramatic desert landscapes, slot canyons, palm oases, and wildflower superblooms in spring. It’s remote, peaceful, and otherworldly.
Highlights:
- The Slot hike
- Spring wildflower blooms
- Borrego Palm Canyon Trail
5. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
📍 Big Sur, CA
Why It’s Amazing:
This park is home to McWay Falls, an iconic 80-foot waterfall that tumbles onto a secluded beach. It’s a must-stop along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Highlights:
- McWay Falls Overlook
- Ocean cliffs and lush canyons
- Breathtaking coastal photo ops
6. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
📍 Santa Cruz County, CA
Why It’s Amazing:
Escape into a serene forest of giant redwoods—some over 1,500 years old and towering 270 feet tall. It’s less crowded than the more famous redwood parks but equally enchanting.
Highlights:
- Redwood Grove Loop Trail
- Roaring Camp Railroads nearby
- Great for families and picnics
7. Crystal Cove State Park
📍 Laguna Beach, CA
Why It’s Amazing:
Crystal Cove is a stunning coastal park with pristine beaches, tide pools, hiking trails, and a quaint historic beach cottage district. It’s a SoCal gem perfect for a day trip or weekend stay.
Highlights:
- El Moro Canyon hike
- Sunset at the beach cottages
- Whale watching in season
8. Humboldt Redwoods State Park
📍 Avenue of the Giants, CA
Why It’s Amazing:
Home to the largest remaining old-growth redwood forest on Earth, this park includes the famous Avenue of the Giants. Driving, hiking, or camping here feels like traveling through time.
Highlights:
- Rockefeller Grove
- Drive-through tree experiences
- Scenic auto tour on the Avenue
9. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
📍 San Diego, CA
Why It’s Amazing:
This protected stretch of coastline is known for its rare Torrey pine trees, dramatic cliffs, and panoramic ocean views. It’s a peaceful escape minutes from the city.
Highlights:
- Razor Point and Guy Fleming Trails
- Gliderport lookout
- Beautiful beach access
10. Sonoma Coast State Park
📍 Bodega Bay, CA
Why It’s Amazing:
Stretching along 17 miles of rugged Northern California coastline, this park features dramatic sea cliffs, hidden beaches, and crashing waves. It’s peaceful, raw, and perfect for photographers.
Highlights:
- Goat Rock Beach
- Bodega Head bluff trails
- Whale watching and picnicking
Final Thoughts
California’s state parks are packed with natural wonders, offering everything from redwoods and waterfalls to deserts and coastline. Whether you’re a hardcore hiker, wildlife lover, or scenic road tripper, these 10 California state parks will leave you inspired—and likely planning your next visit before you even leave.
FAQs
Q1: Do California State Parks require an entrance fee?
Yes, most parks charge a day-use fee (typically $10–$20). Annual passes are available for frequent visitors.
Q2: Can you camp in California State Parks?
Absolutely! Many parks offer both tent and RV camping. Reservations can be made via ReserveCalifornia.com.
Q3: When is the best time to visit these parks?
Spring and fall offer ideal weather and fewer crowds, though coastal parks are great year-round.
Q4: Are dogs allowed in these parks?
Policies vary—some parks allow dogs in campgrounds and on-leash in certain areas, but others (like Point Lobos) prohibit them entirely. Always check ahead.
