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State Parks
Monterey State BeachThis beachfront on the southern shores of Monterey Bay is the perfect spot for many different recreational activities.
From foggy Pacific shores to alpine peaks and sunbaked deserts, California offers more geographic diversity than any other state.
Top places to visit in California, from signature stops to easy additions for the trip plan.
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State Parks
Monterey State BeachThis beachfront on the southern shores of Monterey Bay is the perfect spot for many different recreational activities.
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Point of interest
Yosemite National ParkTo make the most of your visit to this park, cycle around the 12-mile loop that travels through Yosemite Valley.
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Point of interest
Big SurMany Californians would argue that this section of the California coast is one of the most beautiful parts of the country.
Explore Information inside California with park-specific stops and route ideas.
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Point of interest
IntroductionThe Golden State has it all sun-kissed beaches, soaring granite mountain tops, vibrant metropolitan areas, and a 13,000-year-old history that puts other states to shame.
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Point of interest
Scenic BywaysA road trip through California is one of those quintessential American activities. With 865-miles of coastline and nearly 70 scenic byways, California has something for every type of driver.
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Point of interest
HikingThere are an astounding 352 mountain peaks in California, which means you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to the numerous hiking opportunities the state has to offer.
Explore Park inside California with park-specific stops and route ideas.
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State Parks
Admiral William Standley State Recreation AreaSituated on the banks of the Eel River, the 45-acre park is known for its towering redwoods and serene-like atmosphere.
State Parks
Ahjumawi Lava Springs State ParkThis is not the most easily accessible state park in California, since you will need a boat in order to visit.
State Parks
Anderson Marsh State Historic ParkThis 1,065-acre park is more than just a breathtaking area of grass-covered marshes, rolling hills, and oak woodlands.
Explore Auto Tour inside California with park-specific stops and route ideas.
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Point of interest
Ancient Bristlecone Scenic Byway (Route 168)This short but sweet 34-mile road trip through Owens Valley can be done any time of the year.
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Angeles Crest Scenic Byway (Route 2)You do not have to travel far from the city to enjoy Californias wild landscapes.
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Explore Hiking inside California with park-specific stops and route ideas.
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Point of interest
Antelope Valley California Poppy ReserveThere are 8 miles of trails to choose from in this beautiful blossoming area, although most visitors choose the main Antelope Loop Trail.
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Big Pine Creek North Fork TrailThis popular trail through the Inyo National Forest takes you to the seven different Big Pine Lakes, some of the most stunning attractions in the park.
Point of interest
Black Hill Trail, Morro BayIdeal for beginners or families, this short but scenic trek to the top of Black Hill is one of the easiest Morros to climb in San Luis Obispo.
Explore Bicycling inside California with park-specific stops and route ideas.

Point of interest
American River TrailStretching for 32-miles through the heart of the Central Valley is one of Americas longest multi-use bike paths.
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Ballona Creek Path, Los AngelesStart in Kronenthal Park near east Culver City, this 7-mile bike path winds hugs the banks of the Ballona Creek as it travels to the coast of the Pacific Ocean.
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Point of interest
Bayshore BikewayEnjoy the best of what San Diego has to offer when you spend the day cycling along the coast.
Explore Birding inside California with park-specific stops and route ideas.
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Point of interest
Arcata Marsh and Wildlife SanctuaryThis 307-acre sanctuary is a haven for birds and any wildlife watchers.
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Big Morongo Canyon PreserveBig Morongo Canyon Preserve is a critical wildlife corridor inhabited by mountain lions, bighorn sheep, mule deer, and other animals.
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Bodega BayThe protected harbor on the coast of Sonoma County has plenty to offer avid birdwatchers.
Explore Swimming inside California with park-specific stops and route ideas.
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Point of interest
Bass Lake (Point Reyes)This hidden oasis in the Point Reyes National Seashore is the perfect backdrop for a warm summer day.
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Big Bear Lake (East Public Boat Launch)While this area of Big Bear Lake is mostly used for motorized boats, there is a small gravel beach and a fishing dock where you can go swimming as well.
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Point of interest
Big Bear Lake (West Shore Beach)This family-friendly beach has everything you need for a fun day out.
Explore Point of Interest inside California with park-specific stops and route ideas.

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Alcatraz IslandAlcatraz Island, home to the infamous prison bearing the same name, is San Francisco's top tourist attraction and part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
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Amboy CraterAlthough it has not erupted in over 10,000 years, this extinct volcano is still an imposing sight in the Mojave Desert.
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Angels Flight RailwayLos Angeles may not have the most intricate public transportation system, but at least they have this exciting and historic funicular in Bunker Hill.
Explore Beach Access inside California with park-specific stops and route ideas.
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Butterfly BeachThe tropical vibes of this scenic beach west of Santa Barbara attract visitors far and wide.
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Capitola BeachFamous for its rainbow-colored bungalows, delicious seafood restaurants, and charming boutique shops, this beach feels more Mediterranean than Californian.
Compare nearby parks around California when planning alternatives, extensions, or a follow-up trip.
Explore nearby points of interest around California to build stop-level options beyond this park's top picks.
16.7 mi away
This hotel offers a convenient and comfortable base for those flying into Fresno and exploring the Central Valley.
17.7 mi away
A modern and convenient lodging option in Fresno, ideal for exploring Yosemite National Park.
22.5 mi away
Blocked by the Friant Dam on the San Joaquin River, this 1,675-square mile lake is completely man-made.
23.6 mi away
Shaver Lake Village Hotel offers a rustic mountain retreat in the Sierra Nevada, featuring diverse accommodations from hotel rooms to glamping, with amenities like fire pits and easy access to outdoor adventures.
24.7 mi away
The General Grant Tree is the most famous sequoia in Kings Canyon National Park and the world's third largest tree.
24.7 mi away
The North Grove Loop Trail in Kings Canyon offers a quiet walk to a small grove of sequoias.