The Best (and Some Lesser Known) National Parks in California
You won't regret adding one of these national parks to your California itinerary.
Choose one of these national parks for an unforgettable adventure.
California's geographical diversity is by far its greatest gem. It's rare that in one state you can hit the beach, hike mountains, explore dense forests and wander through the desert. But in California, that’s all possible. And often, you don't have to travel far to get from one landscape to the next. California has the most national parks of any state in the U.S. and that doesn't include its numerous other National Park Service-designated sites and monuments. To help you pick the best places to visit, U.S. News has rounded up California's top national parks and sites most worthy of a trip or detour.
1. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite is not only California's most visited national park, but it is also one of the most visited national parks in the U.S. Located about 140 miles southeast of Sacramento in northern California, Yosemite welcomes around 4 million visitors per year thanks to its unique geological makeup and bevy of adventure activities. The park stands out in particular for its striking granite rock formations and towering waterfalls: Half Dome and Vernal Fall are Yosemite's can't-miss landmarks. As for where to stay, campgrounds are abundant. Lodges and various hotels are also available. However, parts of the park may be closed due to snow from November to May or June.
2. Joshua Tree National Park
3. Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park is dry, the land is barren and temperatures often soar past 120 degrees Fahrenheit. As such, this park may not be for everybody. However, the mysteries that lie within, including moving rocks and singing sand dunes, will no doubt intrigue more adventurous travelers. Death Valley, situated about 120 miles west of Las Vegas on the border of Nevada, boasts the distinction of being the hottest, driest and lowest place in the U.S. While here, admire the diverse desert terrain at top attractions such as Zabriskie Point, Dante's View, Mesquite Flat Dunes and Badwater Basin. Stretching across 3.4 million acres, this is California's largest national park, so you'll have no problems finding accommodations on-site; options include seasonal campgrounds, inns and motels.
4. Sequoia National Park
Sequoia National Park is likely the only national park in the U.S. where it would be wise to do some neck stretches before entering. This is because Sequoia National Park houses some of the largest trees by volume in the world. The General Sherman Tree, the park's biggest attraction, is the largest, measuring 275 feet tall and 36 feet in diameter. You can find this incredible tree and more giants in the aptly named Giant Forest, one of several giant sequoia groves in the park. Such incredible natural beauty, however, comes with a price. To get here, you will have to drive more than 200 miles from Los Angeles or San Jose, the closest cities with international airports. The upside is that there are accommodations on-site, including the Wuksachi Lodge and campgrounds. The park is open all year, with no hourly restrictions.
5. Kings Canyon National Park
Kings Canyon National Park is perfect for those who crave the landscapes and adventures Yosemite offers, but don't want to deal with massive crowds. Kings Canyon looks a lot like Yosemite, boasting rocky peaks and picturesque valleys awash with granite rock and lush forestry. Like its neighbor Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon also has sequoia groves, but it's the park's sweeping valley vistas that steal the show. Visit Moro Rock for panoramic views of the Great Western Divide, drive along Kings Canyon Scenic Byway or work up a sweat hiking scenic trails. You'll find Kings Canyon National Park in central California, about 240 miles north of Los Angeles. You can stay at one of the park's three lodges (rates vary by season and room type) or campgrounds. Note that the entrance fee grants you access to both Kings Canyon and Sequoia.
6. Point Reyes National Seashore
Point Reyes is the kind of place that takes your breath away. Located in northern California about 40 miles northwest of San Francisco, Point Reyes National Seashore brims with awe-inspiring coastal landscapes, captivating cliff side beaches, sprawling wilderness and more. Leisure travelers will relish the spectacular views at Point Reyes Lighthouse and the nearby Elephant Seal Overlook, while adventurous travelers will enjoy traversing the equally stunning Tomales Point and Alamere Falls trails. And you won't want to leave without driving through the enchanting Cypress Tree Tunnel before you go. If you don’t want to camp, the HI Point Reyes Hostel is the only place to stay within the National Seashore. Point Reyes is open from 6 a.m. to midnight and charges no admission fee.
7. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of California's more unique national parks. Located in northern California about 50 miles east of Redding, Lassen Volcanic National Park is situated at the crossroads of two volcanic mountain ranges (Cascade Range and the Basin and Range Province), creating an incredibly diverse volcanic landscape for visitors to explore. This is one of the few spots in the world where all four types of volcanoes exist. While here, marvel at the park's hydrothermal areas, including the popular Bumpass Hell, and explore the park's other natural attributes, such as its many scenic lakes and tranquil meadows. As for on-site accommodations, you will find campgrounds, cabins, and the Drakesbad Guest Ranch. Entrance to Lassen Volcanic National Park is open year-round with no set hours.
8. Channel Islands National Park
This national park located off the coast of Ventura County is probably California's most remote national park. Here, you'll find just five islands inhabited only by animal residents, some of which include bald eagles and elephant seals. The Channel Islands' isolated nature and ample wildlife have earned it the nickname of "the Galapagos of North America," according to the California tourism board. While here, enjoy adventure activities galore, including hiking alongside scenic cliffs, snorkeling through sea caves, picnicking on the beach or whale watching. There are campgrounds on the island (for $15 per night); however, you have to bring your own food and water. No food services are available and only two campgrounds have potable water.
9. Manzanar National Historic Site
History buffs, especially those with a penchant for World War II history, will enjoy exploring Manzanar National Historic Site. Manzanar, located between Kings Canyon National Park and Death Valley off the 395 Freeway, was one of 10 Japanese internment camps during the war. Here, more than 110,000 Japanese Americans were forced to leave their homes and live in isolated, military-like camps after an executive order by Franklin Roosevelt in 1942. The site features reconstructed barracks, a mess hall and excavated gardens, among other sites. The visitor center is the best place to start, as it has plenty of exhibits and information on self-guided and guided tours. There are no accommodations on-site, but considering its limited things to do, Manzanar National Historic Site is best for a daytrip. The site is open every day from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed December 25)and is free to visitors.