Home to more national parks than any other state, California is a nature-lovers haven. From the shores of the Channel Islands to the towering peaks of Sequoia and Kings Canyon, and from the vast deserts of Death Valley to the lush redwood forests, California offers a stunning array of diverse landscapes waiting to be explored. So, we created a California National Parks guide to help you plan an epic trip. With the nine parks listed from north to south, you’ll have all the information you need to start planning your next adventure in the Golden State.
Redwood National and State Parks
Popular Season to Visit: Summer
Redwood National and State Parks are a place of wonder. Home to some of the tallest trees in the world, this gorgeous landscape in western Northern California was once under threat from logging. In the 1910s, as a response to the disappearing redwood forests, the Save the Redwoods League was born and helped lead to the establishment of Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. However, unprotected forests continued to be cut down, largely driven by technological advances in log extraction and the post-World War II economic boom. As a result, in 1968 Redwood National Park was declared. In 1994, the National Park Service and the California Department of Parks and Recreation agreed to jointly manage the park to best protect and preserve the land.
Today, these parks encompass 131,983 acres of land, 38,982 of which are old-growth redwood forests. These trees have an average age of 800-1,500 years old, but some are well over 2,000 years. They are also some of the world’s tallest. In fact, you can find Hyperion, the world’s tallest tree at 380 feet, here. If you’re looking to feel small in the presence of these stoic giants, then Redwood National and State Parks are a must-visit destination on your California national parks trip.
However, there’s much more here than just trees. These parks also protect several prairies and a section of the Pacific coastline. And on the land, you’ll have a chance to spot the striking Roosevelt Elk. They can weigh as much as 1,200 pounds and you can find them throughout the parks.
Redwood National and State Parks is an ancient, beautiful place that you won’t soon forget.
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There are no fees to enter the national park. However, several day-use areas within the three state parks require fees to enter. A federal interagency pass, like the America The Beautiful pass, or a California State Park pass is accepted.
Park Highlights
Redwoods: Explore the redwood trees throughout the park, the tallest trees in the world.
Beaches: The beaches provide a nice contrast to the dense forests that make up most of the park. Take in the magnificence of the coastline, including sheer cliffs and tide pools.
Fern Canyon: Hike inside a lush and wet canyon completely covered in ferns.
Roosevelt Elk: Keep an eye out for the Roosevelt Elk which calls this park home.
Popular Trails
Recreational Activities
Camping, hiking, backpacking, biking, kayaking, and horseback riding are all popular activities visitors can participate in at Redwood National and State Parks.
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Popular Season to Visit: Summer
Lassen Volcanic National Park is a dynamic place. Shaped by its molten past, this park showcases signs of volcanic activity at every turn. From remnants of past eruptions to thermal features that continue to shape the park today, its volcanic legacy is undeniable.
As expected, Lassen Peak is the star of the show. It’s not only the highest point in the park at 10,457 feet above sea level, but also led to the park’s formation on August 9, 1916, after several widely publicized eruptions in 1914 and 1915. It’s also the world’s largest plug dome volcano and the southernmost volcano in the Cascades Mountain Range.
Despite Lassen Peak’s prominence, you can find thermal activity throughout the park. In fact, it’s home to all four types of volcanoes—the aforementioned plug dome as well as shield, cinder cone, and composite volcanoes. Other geothermal activities, such as boiling mud pots, roaring fumaroles, and sulfuric gas are also present. Besides its volcanic wonders, you’ll find deep blue lakes, lush meadows, and dense forests. Lassen Volcanic showcases the powerful beauty of the California national parks and a worthy addition to any trip.
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The park’s entrance fee is $30 per standard vehicle, which is good for up to 7 days. An annual pass is $55 and allows unlimited visits 12 months from the month the pass was purchased. An Interagency Pass, like the America The Beautiful Pass, is also accepted.
Park Highlights
Geothermal Activity: The national park is brimming with geothermal activity, including Bumpass Hell, the largest hydrothermal area in the park.
Lassen Peak: Gaze upon the park’s namesake, or hike to the summit if you’re feeling extra adventurous.
Lava Tubes: Explore the various lava tubes found throughout the park.
Lake Helen: This gorgeous blue lake offers unparalleled views, including Lassen Peak reflecting on the water.
Popular Trails
Recreational Activities
Lassen Volcanic National Park has various recreational activities for visitors to participate in, including hiking, camping, backpacking, boating, and fishing.
Yosemite National Park
Popular Season to Visit: Summer
You can’t plan a California national parks trip without visiting its crown jewel, Yosemite National Park. Founded on October 1, 1890, it is the third oldest park in the national park system. It’s also one of the most visited. With nearly 3.9 million visitors in 2023, it ranked as the 6th most visited national park that year. With its towering cliffs, breathtaking waterfalls, and ancient forests, this park inspires wonder in all who visit.
John Muir was the park’s most vocal advocate and a key reason it was established. During the 1870s and 1880s, he fought to protect it from threats like livestock and logging. His efforts helped Congress grant the area national park status in 1890. However, Muir wasn’t the park’s only protector. From 1891 to 1913, African-American Buffalo Soldiers served as Yosemite’s official administrators. About 500 soldiers protected the park, combating forest fires and removing those illegally damaging the landscape.
Today, Yosemite’s beauty is accessible to everyone. For a leisurely time, bike along paved roads in the valley or enjoy a short day hike. Cool off in a nearby river or lake afterward. For more adventure, explore Yosemite’s high country on a multi-day backpacking trip or hike the 210-mile John Muir Trail from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney. You also can try your hand at a classic climbing route, scaling the same cliffs that legends did years ago. This park is a gem, one of the best things about California—and the entire United States.
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The park’s entrance fee is $35 per standard vehicle, which is good for up to 3 days. An annual pass is $70 and allows unlimited visits 12 months from the month the pass was purchased. An Interagency Pass, like the America The Beautiful Pass, is also accepted.
You’ll need an entrance reservation depending on when you visit. If you have campground reservations, a wilderness or half dome permit, reservations for lodging inside the park, or are working with an approved concessionaire, then an entrance permit is not required. You can find more information on the park’s entrance reservations page.
Park Highlights
Tunnel View: This iconic view greats you on your way into Yosemite on State Highway 41, and features Half Dome and El Capitan.
Glacier Point: Another incredible Yosemite viewpoint that offers expansive views into the valley.
Mariposa Grove: A grove of giant sequoias home to over 500 trees.
Yosemite Falls: The tallest waterfall in California, falling 2,425 feet.
Bridalveil Falls: A breathtaking waterfall and one of the most prominent in the valley.
Popular Trails
Recreational Activities
Yosemite has something for everyone. Hiking, camping, backpacking, climbing, bicycling, and horseback riding are all popular recreational activities. Its rock-climbing scene is especially notable and is one of the premier destinations in the world.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Popular Season to Visit: Summer
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are true sights to behold. They protect 1,353 square miles of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, including dense forests, alpine meadows, roaring waterfalls, and peaceful lakes. In fact, three of the oldest plant species (Giant Sequoia, Western Juniper, and Foxtail Pine), as well as the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree by volume in the entire world, live in the park. And from the mighty American Black Bear to the elusive Pika, the land is home to a vast array of wildlife adapted to live in this mountainous environment. Often overshadowed by Yosemite, these California national parks are also must-visits on any trip, if only for the fewer crowds. You’ll experience this world of grandeur, beauty, and unparalleled natural wonder without fighting for a good view.
These parks are also historically significant. In 1903, Captain Charles Young and his troops were sent to oversee Sequoia National Park, making him the first African American National Park superintendent. They helped build up its infrastructure and patrol the land. Thanks to their efforts, everyone today can explore and enjoy the beauty of these parks.
Unlike most other national parks, these two are distinctly different in that they are managed as one entity. But there’s a good reason. Sequoia National Park was founded first on September 25th, 1890, making it the nation’s second oldest national park behind Yellowstone. Kings Canyon was later established on March 4th, 1940 abutting Sequoia National Park. In 1943, instead of combining the two parks, it was agreed that they would remain separate but managed jointly. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are two remarkable places and some of the most underrated national parks in the entire country.
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The park’s entrance fee is $35 per standard vehicle, which is good for up to 7 days. An annual pass is $70 and allows unlimited visits 12 months from the month the pass was purchased. An Interagency Pass, like the America The Beautiful Pass, is also accepted.
Park Highlights
General Sherman Tree: Located in the Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park, the General Sherman Tree is the largest tree by volume in the world.
General Grant Tree: The General Grant Tree is the second-largest tree in the world, and is also known as the Nation’s Christmas Tree. You can find it in Giant Grove in Kings Canyon National Park.
Tunnel Log: Drive through the “Tunnel Log” in Sequoia National Park, a hole carved into a fallen tree large enough for cars to pass through.
Kings Canyon Overlook: This overlook on Generals Highway gives visitors expansive views of the forests and canyons below.
Kings Canyon Scenic Byway: This 50-mile road takes visitors through the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It offers breathtaking mountain views as you descend to Roads End in Kings Canyon National Park.
Popular Trails
Kings Canyon National Park
Sequoia National Park
Recreational Activities
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park have a little something for everyone. Camping, hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, climbing, and fishing are all popular activities. Due to its extensive backcountry, these national parks are a true backpackers paradise and include iconic trails like the John Muir Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail.
If your inspired to go out and visit the California national parks, then check out our story below where we highlight the things you need to know.
Pinnacles National Park
Popular Seasons to Visit: Fall, Spring
Established in 2013, Pinnacles National Park is the newest of the California national parks, but don’t let this stop you from taking a trip to visit. With eye-popping rock formations, rare animal species, and plenty of places to explore, this national park is a true hidden gem.
Its history dates back 23 million years when volcanic activity formed the jagged spires and caves that make up this park. This stark landscape has provided refuge for many animals, including the critically endangered California Condor. If you’re lucky, you might catch one roosting in the trees or soaring in the sky. Down below, several bat colonies call the caves home. To protect them, regulations strictly limit access to the cave systems.
When visiting, it’s important to note that the park doesn’t have a through road (though can can hike across on foot) and is divided by its east and west entrances. The east entrance is the more popular side and is closer to Bear Gulch Cave. It’s also home to the park’s only campground. The west entrance is more secluded and closer to Balconies Cave. Regardless of which entrance you choose, you won’t regret your time visiting Pinnacles National Park.
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The park’s entrance fee is $30 per standard vehicle, which is good for up to 7 days. An annual pass is $55 and allows unlimited visits 12 months from the month the pass was purchased. An Interagency Pass, like the America The Beautiful Pass, is also accepted.
Bear Gulch Cave is regulated due to several bat colonies that live inside. Check the cave status before you go if you plan on visiting this part of the park.
Park Highlights
Pinnacles: Witness these jagged spires emerge from the Earth’s surface.
Caves: There are several volcanically-formed caves that visitors can explore.
Bird Watching: Due to its wide array of habitats, you can spot a vast variety of different bird species, including the critically endangered California Condor.
Stargazing: Far away from major light sources and with little obstruction, Pinnacles National Park is an ideal stargazing location.
Popular Trails
Recreational Activities
People who visit Pinnacles National Park often partake in hiking, climbing, camping, or birdwatching.
Death Valley National Park
Popular Seasons to Visit: Fall, Spring
Death Valley National Park is truly a record-setting place. Spanning over 3.4 million acres, this national park is the largest in the contiguous United States. It is also the driest national park with less than 2 inches of rainfall per year, home to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at -282 feet in elevation, and claims the hottest temperature ever recorded, when on July 10, 1913, the Furnace Creek area reached 134.1°F.
Despite its reputation as a desolate, dry, and barren place, Death Valley is a diverse landscape teaming with life. While desert makes up the majority of the landscape, the Panamint Range lies within its borders and is home to Telescope Peak. At 11, 049 feet above sea level, it is the highest point in the park and features lush meadows and an ancient bristlecone pine forest. Come in the spring and witness the desert floor dotted with colorful wildflowers. And during especially wet years, Badwater Basin fills with water, forming Lake Manly. If the depths are deep enough, you can even kayak out on the water. If you’re looking to spot wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for desert Bighorn Sheep, Jackrabbits, and Mountain Lions, who all call the park home.
Because of Death Valley’s otherworldly appearance and proximity to Hollywood, many famous movies and TV shows were filmed here. Most notable of these include Star Wars, which used the park for several Tatooine scenes in Episode IV – A New Hope and Episode VI – Return of the Jedi. It’s a bucket-list destination for many and a highlight of any California national parks trip.
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The park’s entrance fee is $30 per standard vehicle, which is good for up to 7 days. An annual pass is $55 and allows unlimited visits 12 months from the month the pass was purchased. An Interagency Pass, like the America The Beautiful Pass, is also accepted.
Park Highlights
Zabriskie Point: A must-see vista that features unique geological formations best seen at sunrise and sunset.
Badwater Basin: Salt flats that span over 200 square miles. It’s also the lowest point in North America, 282 feet below sea level.
Artists Palette: Along the Artists Drive Scenic Loop is Artists Palette, a rainbow of colors painted on the hills from volcanic deposits.
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes: A large sand dune field named after the mesquite trees that grow in the area.
Dantes View: Located over 5,000 feet above Badwater Basin, Dantes View offers one of the most expansive views in the entire park.
Popular Trails
Recreational Activities
Hiking, Camping, Backpacking, off-roading, and mountain biking are all popular recreational activities in the park.
Channel Islands National Park
Popular Season to Visit: Summer
Emerging from the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands National Park is a place unto itself. It encompasses five of eight islands that make up the Channel Islands, including Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, Santa Barbara, and San Miguel. Each island has its own distinct personality and highlights, from San Miguel’s windswept plateau to Santa Cruz’s sea caves. No matter which one you visit, you’ll experience something unique.
Because of its isolation from the mainland, many animal species are endemic to the islands. Keep an eye out for the Island Fox, Island Shrew, and Island Harvest Mouse. However, below the surface is where the park truly shines. Due to the mixing of warm southern currents and cold northern currents, the park’s marine life is diverse and abundant. In fact, you can find over 1,000 different marine animals and plants in the park, including the Garibaldi, California’s state fish.
Just getting to the Channel Islands is an adventure. You have to take a ferry to visit, which sometimes faces delays or cancellations due to weather and sea conditions. If you’re planning on spending the night, you’ll need to come prepared. Most campgrounds have few, if any, amenities. As a result, you’ll have to pack in everything you need, including water. And since there are no cars, you’ll have to carry everything to your campsite. These barriers make Channel Islands the least visited of the California national parks, but those who choose to make the trip find it well worth the effort.
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There are no fees to visit Channel Islands National Park. That said, the only way to reach the islands is by boat. While ferries service some islands, like Anacapa, almost every day, others, like San Miguel, only have boats running a few times a month. You can find out more on the Channel Islands National Park Transportation webpage.
Park Highlights
Island Animals: Many animals are endemic to the Channel Islands, including the Island Fox. About the size of a house cat, they are the largest land mammal found on land.
Sea Caves: There are several sea caves you can explore on Santa Cruz island via kayak.
Kelp Forest: Below the surface of the water are kelp forests teaming with life.
Island Diversity: Each island is unique and has its own story to tell.
Popular Trails
Recreational Activities
Hiking, camping, and backpacking are all popular terrestrial activities. Not surprisingly, water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving are also abundant throughout the park.
Joshua Tree National Park
Popular Seasons to Visit: Fall, Spring
Joshua Tree National Park is a place where two deserts collide. Sitting at the confluence of the Colorado and Mojave deserts, this national park is full of mystery and wonder. It gets its name from the Joshua Trees, whose distinct shapes dot the landscape and draws visitors from all over. 3.2 million in 2023 to be exact, making it the ninth most visited national park that year.
Joshua Trees got their name from mormon settlers, who named these gnarled trees after Joshua in the bible. Unlike their name, however, they aren’t actually trees but instead are instead yuccas, succulent plants native to the area. Still, their unmistakable silhouettes evoke a sense of intrigue and wonder that encapsulates the desert landscape.
The park is much more than its namesake though. There are many unique rock formations for visitors to explore, including skull rock, heart rock, and split rock. Also within its borders are the Little San Bernardino Mountains. This transverse mountain range is home to Quail Mountain, which sits at 5,816 feet in elevation and is the highest point in the park. To the southeast is Lost Palms Oasis, a rare permanent water source that feeds a grove of fan palms. Its wildlife is abundant, too. snakes and Desert Tortoises call Joshua Tree National Park their home, as well as Kangaroo Rats, coyotes, and even Bighorn Sheep. It’s a place teaming with life if you know where to look.
Joshua Tree is perhaps the most whimsical of the California national parks and a trip destination you don’t want to leave out.
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The park’s entrance fee is $30 per standard vehicle, which is good for up to 7 days. An annual pass is $55 and allows unlimited visits 12 months from the month the pass was purchased. An Interagency Pass, like the America The Beautiful Pass, is also accepted.
Park Highlights
Joshua Trees: The park’s namesake, you can find these otherworldly plants throughout the landscape.
Cholla Cactus Garden: A 10-acre plot of land dominated by Teddybear Cholla. The spikes will poke you if you get too close.
Rock Formations: Formed by erosion over millions of years, you’ll find several unique rock formations throughout the park. Popular ones include Skull Rock, Arch Rock, Split Rock, and Heart Rock.
Key’s View: This viewpoint in the Little San Bernardino Mountains gives visitors expansive views of the surrounding desert and Coachella Valley.
Stargazing: Away from most light pollution, Joshua Tree National Park is a premier stargazing destination.
Popular Trails
Recreational Activities
Camping, hiking, and climbing are very popular within the park. Visitors can also horseback ride, mountain bike, and drive 4WD vehicles on designated trails and roads.
We hope that you’re stoked for an unforgettable California national parks trip! If you’re looking for extra help embarking on your adventure, let us know! We at GoForth are experts at turning your outdoor dreams into a reality, and we’d love to help curate an unforgettable trip. Click on the button below to learn more about our offerings, and contact us if you’re ready to take the first step toward a life outdoors!
