Exploring California State Parks: My Top 5 Picks!
California is home to more than 280 state parks. With options ranging from rocky beaches to towering mountains, the state parks offer something for everyone. If you're looking for a good place to begin your exploration, we've got you covered. In this blog post, we'll introduce you to five of my favorites: Anza-Borrego, Asilomar, Big Trees, Columbia, and Crystal Cove. Each park has its unique features and charm, making for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
On a personal note, both of my parents worked for California State Parks for 30+ years. Some of my absolute best memories growing up and as an adult have happened inside some of the following parks. I have a running joke that I missed my calling as a California tour guide because I feel so passionately about it having everything you could want or need. I look forward to continuing this series and showing you all of the incredible beauty California has to offer! Now, let’s jump in.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Covering over 600,000 acres, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest state park in California. Located in the southeast part of the state, Anza-Borrego offers visitors a stunning desert landscape filled with unique plant life, archaeological sites, and hiking trails. The park's incredible biodiversity is home to over 500 species of plants and animals, including bighorn sheep and endangered species of birds. One of the best ways to explore the park is on one of the many hiking trails, including the Palm Canyon Trail and the Borrego Palm Canyon Nature Trail. Other activities in the park include camping, stargazing, and driving through the park's winding roads.
My parent’s lived here for awhile before we were born and once experienced a day that was 119 degrees!
Asilomar State Beach and Conference Grounds
Asilomar State Beach and Conference Grounds are located on the Monterey Peninsula, surrounded by rugged coastline and stunning ocean views. The park offers guests a mix of accommodations, including lodges, cabins, and camping sites. The beach at Asilomar is great for swimming, surfing, and tide pooling. If you're looking for adventure, head out to the park's many hiking and biking trails. Asilomar is also an excellent place for environmental education programs and workshops. Nature lovers will appreciate the park's natural beauty and wildlife, including sea otters, harbor seals, and migrating whales.
This park holds a special place in my heart because my husband and I met and lived in Monterey for a few years when we first started dating. We would frequently walk at this state park during a very special time in our relationship before marriage and becoming parents.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park
Calaveras Big Trees State Park is home to some of the most magnificent trees in California. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the park covers over 6,000 acres of forests, meadows, and rushing streams. The park is home to giant sequoia trees that are over 1,000 years old and can reach heights of over 300 feet. You'll feel small standing beneath the towering trees as you explore the park's hiking trails and scenic drives. The park also offers camping, bird watching, and snowshoeing during the winter months.
Growing up, my dad would lead nature programs here and we would frequently tag along. It was so fun growing up around this kind of nature and beauty and I’m so grateful for those times. Check out these pictures we took here 20 years apart!
Columbia State Historic Park
Columbia State Historic Park is a living museum that lets visitors step back in time to the gold rush-era of the mid-1800s. The park's historic district is home to over 30 buildings, including old-fashioned saloons, blacksmith shops, and historic homes. Actors in period costumes bring the town to life by sharing stories and offering demonstrations. Visitors can pan for gold, ride a stagecoach, and even take a tour of an underground mine. Columbia State Historic Park is an excellent place for families and history buffs to enjoy California's rich history.
This park is without question the closest to my heart. This was where both of my parents worked, I went to the elementary school right around the corner, and my grandma lived only a couple minutes away. Needless to say, I was here every single day!
Crystal Cove State Park
Located in Orange County, Crystal Cove State Park is the perfect place for a beach day. The park's beach extends three miles along Pacific Coast Highway and offers visitors excellent snorkeling, swimming, and tidepooling opportunities. The park also provides access to 17 miles of hiking trails, many of which offer stunning views of the ocean. The park's historic district features restored cottages that date back to the 1930s and 40s. If you're looking for a unique place to stay, book one of the cottages for an unforgettable overnight experience.
If I had to choose just one park to send someone to it honestly might be this one! The beauty is honestly breathtaking and so rare.
So there we have it, friends! California's state parks offer an endless array of outdoor adventures, and these five parks are just the tip of the iceberg. Whether you prefer hiking, camping, or learning about history, there's a state park in California for you. Tell me in comments about your favorite state park near you!
