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California’s 280 state parks showcase a dynamic collection of natural treasures and historic sites. You’ll find wild beaches, Gold Rush mines, lush forests, and booming waterfalls. The biggest, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, offers unparalleled stargazing within a short drive from San Diego. The oldest, Big Basin Redwood State Park, features some of the most magnificent trees you will ever see. The newest—slated to open to the public in 2023—is Dos Rios State Park, near Modesto. The strangest, Bodie State Historic Park, showcases a ghost town that time seems to have forgotten.
How to Celebrate the First Annual California State Parks Week
This June, join in activities and events that pay tribute to the Golden State’s amazing parks
California Fourth Graders Now Get in Free at State Parks
The new Adventure Pass program invites California families to play at 19 parks
Calaveras Big Trees State Park
Look up at (and learn about) amazing giant sequoias 100 miles southeast of Sacramento
Red Rock Canyon State Park
Walk among wrinkled sandstone cliffs colored red and rust, then be humbled—in the best possible way—by the nightly star show
Russian Gulch State Park
Hike along coastal bluffs and photograph a graceful historic bridge framing a postcard-perfect slice of Mendocino coast
5 Amazing Things to Do Near Calaveras Big Trees State Park
The Gold Country area has rich prospecting history, cool outdoor adventures, and great wine
More Resources
Hearst Castle
http://www.hearstcastle.org
Mount Tamalpais State Park
https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=471
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=546
Natural Bridges State Park
http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=541
Sonoma Coast State Park
http://www.sonoma-coast-state-park.com/
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=638
Travel Stories
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Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
See an explosion of color at these seasonal San Diego flower fields in San Diego County, then explore more local gardens
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13 Outdoor Adventures Under the California Sun
From Encinitas to Catalina to Monterey, there are plenty of sun-kissed experiences awaiting you in the Golden State
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5 Classic California Beach Burgers
Where to find the best hamburgers along the California coastline
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California’s Best Coastal Campgrounds
8 spots where you can camp out close to the Pacific Ocean