What You Need to Know About California's National Parks
The Golden State's celebrated national parks and federal lands are open, but plan ahead to ensure the best possible trip
National Parks
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California boasts nine national parks—more than any other state—and each has its own unique appeal. Death Valley is the biggest, the hottest, and the most foreboding. Joshua Tree possesses an otherworldly charm and so much dynamic flora. If you want to escape civilization, head to the Channel Islands. For big trees, Kings Canyon & Sequoia are both superb. Yosemite National Park is a World Heritage site and it’s easy to see why. Pinnacles is an ideal spot to see endangered California condors while Lassen Volcanic and Redwoods will provide delights both expected and surprising.
Featured National Parks
Great Lodging Options in and Around California’s National Parks
These hotels, cabins, and campgrounds help you maximize your time in the park—and they still have space available this summer
Things to do in Yosemite National Park
Eight must-see sites at California's iconic park in the Sierra Nevada mountains
Things to Do in Lassen Volcanic National Park
Discover the Shasta Cascade region’s hissing, boiling volcanic wonderland
Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park
A haven for artists, hipster transplants, and the ascent-obsessed, this national park has an allure all its own
Death Valley National Park
Frolic among sand dunes, marvel at multi-hued badlands and marble-walled canyons, and stand on the western hemisphere’s lowest spot
How to Explore the Channel Islands
Spend a day—or a week—in this idyllic national park off the Central Coast
Things to do in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
See the biggest tree in the world, climb to spectacular views, and go caving as you discover the best of Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Things to Do in Redwood National Park
Behold massive sequoias, ancient forests, peaceful beaches, and tasty brews in this northern California wonderland
Things to Do in Pinnacles National Park
Mix a little adventure into your National Park experience with these five ideas
Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
Experience the famous extremes of Death Valley National Park, home to the lowest point in North America
Explore National Parks
Travel Stories
Find More Things To Do
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Native American Resorts in California
Casinos, spas, golf courses, fine dining, and live entertainment are among the biggest draws at these popular destinations
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5 Amazing Things to Do at the Golden Gate Bridge
See San Francisco's most iconic structure from every angle—by foot, bicycle, boat, and more
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Things to Do in Lassen Volcanic National Park
Discover the Shasta Cascade region’s hissing, boiling volcanic wonderland
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Tenaya Stone Spa Opens at Disneyland Resort
Book full-body treatments or simple foot massages at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel
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Perfect 10: Why you’ll love California ski resorts
Find the mountain (and mountain town) to suit your style
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California Questionnaire: Jonny Moseley
The Olympic Gold Medalist freestyle skier is ready for new adventures—all over California
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Amazing California Wedding Venues
From awe-inspiring forests to opulent resorts, California has no shortage of romantic destinations to tie the knot
Traveler Photos
Tag #VISITCALIFORNIA on Instagram to have your trip featured on our page.
Podcasts
Curtis Stone’s Culinary Tour, Lake Tahoe, Death Valley
34min
Travel Tips from California Locals
49min
3 California Podcasts You Should Know
42min
Big Sur, Waterfalls, Oakland
23min
Butte County, Temecula, San Diego County
32min
California Cuisine, Sonoma County, Yosemite
34min
California Curiosities, Architecture, East Bay
37min