National parks in California are worth visiting because of their stunning landscapes, rock formations, volcanoes, seashores, spectacular night skies, dense forests, beautiful hiking trails, and incredible redwood trees. They reflect the state’s geographical diversity. Here are the top 12 national parks in California.
Best National Parks in California
1. Yosemite National Park
It is one of the most popular national parks in the USA. Its cascading waterfalls, amazing cliffs, diverse wildlife, giant sequoias, and breathtaking views attract people. Yosemite Falls, the largest waterfall in North America, and the 3000-year-old giant sequoia trees will awe you. There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained and have fun. El Capitan, the world’s tallest monolith rock, is a Mecca for rock climbers. The summer months welcome you to go on hikes and explore the fascinating views. In the winter, the park is covered with a snow blanket making it a perfect destination for skiing, snowshoeing, skating, and other winter activities.
Book Hotels in Yosemite National Park
2. Redwood National Park
As the name suggests, it is popular for iconic redwood trees. Explore the natural beauty of the place with scenic drives, bike rides, and hikes. You are assured of enjoyment and fun even if you spend several days in the park. Take a walk to Enderts Beach and admire the magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean. Watch gray whales and abundant seabirds from the Klamath River Overlook. Take the Tall Trees Grove Loop Trail to see the tallest trees in the world. If you are traveling with little ones or elderly people you should take the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail to experience the beauty of the park.
Book Hotels in Redwood National Park
3. Sequoia National Park
It is home to the General Sherman Tree, the world’s largest tree by volume. Moreover, the giant forest in the park is home to five of the largest ten trees in the world. Other than large trees, the park offers several interesting things to do. There are many places to camp, picnic, and explore. You will never be short of things to do at the Sequoia National Park. You can have a peaceful time watching the sunset, exploring the wilderness by going on hikes, taking scenic drives, casting your rods, trying rock climbing, going horseback riding, and watching wildlife.
Book Hotels in Sequoia National Park
4. Death Valley National Park
The name of the park is haunting and scary but in reality, the Death Valley National Park is vibrant and lively. Rich in several metals like gold, tungsten, lead, silver, copper, etc. it was a popular destination for mining for several decades. Today, this alive desert with snow-capped mountains is one of America’s largest national parks. There is so much to explore here. Go on guided tours to see the famous places of the park. One of the most suggested activities is night exploration.
Book Hotels in Death Valley National Park
read more: Romantic Getaways in California
5. Lassen Volcanic National Park
The park is famous for its 10,457-foot volcano, the Lassen Peak which erupted in 1915. Its striking beauty will capture your heart. The high-elevated Lake Helen is frozen for most of the year. Enjoy kayaking and boating in the chilled water. The picnic area is beautiful with several tables allowing many families to have a picnic simultaneously. A trail to the King Creek Falls through the forest will exceed your expectations. A trip to the Lassen National Park will be an unforgettable trip.
Book Hotels in Lassen Volcanic National Park
6. Mojave National Preserve
Massive sand dunes, cinder cones, limestone caverns, lava tubes, fun hiking trails, and historical places make Majove National Preserve make it special. Explore the preserve to experience the beauty of the landscapes and connect to the wild nature. Keep your eyes open for the threatened species, the desert tortoise. It is an ideal place for camping if you love desert settings.
Book Hotels in Mojave National Preserve
7. Channel Islands National Park
Are you looking for a serene escape from the everyday stressful life? Channel Islands National Park will be the perfect destination for you to create memories with your family. It is an ideal setting for several activities, including kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, camping, birdwatching, and diving. You can just relax for several hours listening to the birds chirping, crashing waves, and swaying trees.
Book Hotels in Channel Islands National Park
8. Pinnacles National Park
Relax, camp, hike, star gaze, watch wildlife, rock climb, and join ranger-led programs in Pinnacles National Park. The challenging hike trails include High Peaks, Juniper Canyon, Condor Gulch, and Rim Trail Loop. If you are looking for easier trials you have Moses Spring, Bench, Balconies Cave Trail, and Bear Gulch Cave. The hiking trails are incredible with scenic beauty. Enjoy the stunning scenery and abundant wildlife while hiking. You will enjoy the beauty of the wildflowers in the spring and summer.
9. Angeles National Park
This is a paradise for hikers and bikers. It is an amazing area with beautiful mountains. The breathtaking views make the park a photographer’s delight. Hike up to the Eaton Canyon, the 40-foot waterfalls. The wide variety of birds, snowy landscape, dense trees, diverse plants, and blooming flowers are spectacular. It is a hidden gem and a getaway for peace, adventure, and beauty.
10. Kings Canyon National Park
It is a perfect destination for hikers. As it has several features similar to Yosemite Valley, it is often called the ‘rival to Yosemite’. It has two important areas, Grant Grove and Cedar Grove. You can see the General Grant Tree also known as the Nation’s Christmas Tree at the Grant Cove. The cedar grove features many leisurely trails along the river. Kings Canyon is also home to the largest number of sequoia trees in the world. You can enjoy many activities like camping, horseback riding, hiking, etc. A great experience waits for you at Kings Canyon National Park.
Book Hotels in Kings Canyon National Park
11. Whiskeytown National Recreation Area
This is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, swimming, hiking, and biking. There are plenty of hiking trails with lots of birds, plants, trees, and flowers. It was damaged during the Carr fire in 2018 but it has recovered fully and is blooming more vibrantly than before the fire. You can explore the rich heritage of the area by taking hiking trails. Refresh yourselves with a swim in the lake. Enjoy a relaxing picnic with your loved ones on the shores. Join in ranger-led programs to connect with nature.
read more: Romantic Hotels in California
12. Golden Gate National Recreation Area
There is so much to see and do at the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Explore the caves and go for horseback riding. A swim in the clear mountain pool is very refreshing, relaxing, and rejuvenating. There are so many trails to explore, historic structures to visit, public programs to participate in, and natural areas to admire. Camp with your friends and family underneath the star-lit sky. Try your fishing luck in one of the fishing spots. Take part in ranger programs. Visit the historic Fort Point and the Golden Gate Bridge.
Book Hotels Near Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Summing Up
California’s national parks are spread all over the state and each one is a gem. Whatever park you visit, you will regret your decision. Get ready, pack your bags, and camp in one of the best national parks and enjoy.
