


A California national parks road trip is more than a scenic drive. It’s an epic adventure featuring towering forests, dramatic deserts, and some of the most iconic mountain views in the world. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or history, these parks promise memories as unforgettable as their landscapes.
From the jaw-dropping granite cliffs of Yosemite to the peaceful, sea-swept Channel Islands, California boasts some of the most popular parks in the United States. A national park road trip in the Golden State is packed with adventure at every turn. Along the way, you’ll experience scenic drives that wind through towering redwoods, past otherworldly volcanic formations, and alongside sweeping mountain views that make even seasoned travelers pause in awe.
This guide will take you through the highlights of California’s national parks, diving into each region — from the wild wonders of the north to the sunny, dramatic landscapes of the south. Whether you’re looking for the perfect hike, a history lesson, or just something beautiful to stare at, there’s a stop on this itinerary with your name on it. So buckle up, and let’s hit the road for the ultimate California national parks road trip.

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Have You Visited a National Park in California?
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Northern California
Northern California is where the wild things are — massive trees, steaming volcanic landscapes, and caves that make you feel like a modern-day explorer. Whether you’re into hiking, history, or just pretending to be an extra in a nature documentary, you won’t want to miss these spots on your California national parks road trip.
Redwood National and State Parks
Tucked along California’s northern coast near Crescent City, Redwood National Park is like stepping into a Jurassic Park set (minus the dinosaurs, thankfully). These towering redwoods, some over 350 feet tall, are living time capsules — they’ve been here longer than your great-great-great grandparents. Wander through the Lady Bird Johnson Grove for a peaceful, otherworldly stroll, or cruise the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway for stunning views without leaving your car. Be sure to pack a rain jacket. It’s called a “temperate rainforest” for a reason.
Lava Beds National Monument
In Northeastern California near Tulelake, you’ll find a place that looks like Mars got a makeover: Lava Beds National Monument. This park is crawling with over 800 caves carved out by ancient lava flows. The Mushpot Cave is great for beginners, with its eerie lighting and a walk-through history of volcanic activity. Feeling bold? Bring a flashlight and head into Skull Cave — it’s as spooky as it sounds. Just watch your step: the lava-rock floors aren’t exactly forgiving.
Tule Lake National Monument
Near the Oregon border, Tule Lake National Monument offers a sobering contrast to the natural wonders nearby. Once the site of the largest Japanese American incarceration camp during World War II, it stands as a poignant reminder of a dark chapter in American history. A guided tour takes you through preserved structures and stories of resilience.
Whiskeytown National Recreation Area
West of Redding, Whiskeytown is where history buffs, hikers, and water babies unite. The lake’s shimmering waters are perfect for a swim, paddleboard, or kayak. Not into water sports? Lace up your boots and hike to Whiskeytown Falls, a cascading gem tucked in the forest. Bonus: You don’t even have to pack gold pans to strike it rich here — this place is all about natural treasure.
Lassen Volcanic National Park
East of Redding, Lassen Volcanic National Park is California’s version of Yellowstone but with fewer crowds and way more surprises. The Bumpass Hell trail is the park’s steamy centerpiece, where you’ll find boiling mud pots and fumaroles that look like something out of a mad scientist’s lab. Be sure to check the trail status before you go. With all that geothermal drama, the path can be closed faster than you can spell “geysers.”

San Francisco Bay Area
The San Francisco Bay Area isn’t just about tech startups and overpriced avocado toast — it’s also a goldmine of national parks and historic sites. From fog-kissed redwood groves to an infamous prison island, this region offers a smorgasbord of adventures for your California national parks road trip.
Point Reyes National Seashore
Just north of San Francisco, Point Reyes is where rugged coastline meets rolling fog, creating a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and lighthouse lovers alike. Hike the Chimney Rock Trail for wildflower vistas or visit the Point Reyes Lighthouse — just be prepared for a stair workout that will make your Fitbit proud.
Sage Advice: Dress in layers! The weather here changes faster than a seagull can steal your sandwich.
Fort Point National Historic Site
Tucked under the southern end of the Golden Gate Bridge, Fort Point is a brick-and-mortar testament to military architecture. Wander through its arched corridors and imagine life as a 19th-century soldier defending the bay (minus the itchy wool uniform). Check the website for cannon drills and reenactments, because nothing says “living history” like a well-timed cannon boom.
Golden Gate National Recreation Area
This urban oasis offers everything from a historic fort to breathtaking beach scenes. While visiting the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, be sure to explore Lands End for cliffside views that just might blow up your Instagram feed. Or, if you’re feeling ambitious, hike or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s a cardio session with a view!
Sage Advice: If walking the full 3.4-mile loop over the bridge sounds like too much, start on the San Francisco side (near Fort Point), head to the Lime Point Historic Lighthouse, and call an Uber or Lyft from there. This way, you’ll enjoy amazing views and earn bragging rights for walking across the bridge without needing an ice bath for your legs afterward. After all, there are so many more amazing parks to explore.

Alcatraz Island
Floating in the middle of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz has transitioned from housing notorious criminals like Al Capone to a must-see tourist hotspot. Take the audio tour to hear former inmates spill the beans on escape attempts and daily life. (Spoiler alert: It wasn’t exactly Club Med.) Be sure to book your ferry tickets well in advance, because they sell out quicker than my daughter can devour a boule of freshly baked sourdough.
Muir Woods National Monument
A short drive north of the city, Muir Woods is where you’ll find some of the last remaining ancient redwood forests in the Bay Area. Stroll the boardwalk hiking trails and try not to get a crick in your neck from gawking upward more than 250 feet to admire their incredible beauty.
Sage Advice: Reservations are required for all vehicles and shuttle riders, so be sure to plan ahead when making this stop on your California national parks road trip.
San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
Anchored at the edge of Fisherman’s Wharf, this national park is packed with nautical history. Clamber aboard historic ships at Hyde Street Pier and pretend you’re a salty sea captain navigating the treacherous waters of the Bay. Don’t miss the Maritime Museum — its Art Deco design is almost as impressive as the exhibits inside.
John Muir National Historic Site
In Martinez, east of San Francisco, the John Muir National Historic Site preserves the Victorian mansion where naturalist John Muir lived and wrote about the wilderness that he so adored. Tour his home and wander through the orchards, channeling your inner conservationist. If possible, catch a guided tour for deeper insight into this impressive man and remarkable place.

Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park
Across the Bay in Richmond, the Rosie the Riveter Park honors the women (and a few men) who toiled in factories during World War II. Stop at the visitor education center to hear stories that prove that superheroes don’t always wear capes — sometimes they wield welding torches. Call ahead to see if any original “Rosies” are scheduled to share their experiences, because living history doesn’t get more alive than this.
Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site
Tucked away in Danville, the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site was the home of America’s only Nobel Prize-winning playwright. Explore Tao House, where he penned his later works, and try to resist the urge to write your own magnum opus on the spot. Access is by guided tour only, so be sure to make reservations (unless you fancy a dramatic monologue with a locked gate).
Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial
In the East Bay town of Concord, the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial commemorates the tragic explosion during World War II that led to significant changes in the US military’s racial policies. Tours offer an in-depth look at the events and their aftermath, reminding us that although history isn’t always rosy, it is always essential to remember. As spontaneity isn’t a thing when it comes to visiting active military sites, reservations are required for all tours.

Central California
Central California is packed with natural wonders and historical landmarks. With ancient volcanic landscapes, towering granite cliffs, and a poignant historical site, you won’t want to overlook this region on your California national parks road trip.
Pinnacles National Park
East of the Salinas Valley, Pinnacles National Park showcases dramatic rock formations born from ancient volcanic activity. It’s a haven for rock climbers and home to the majestic California condor. Explore the Bear Gulch Cave Trail for an adventurous hike through talus caves, but remember to bring a flashlight — the caves can be as dark as your morning coffee.
Sage Advice: Some caves may be seasonally closed to protect bat populations, so check the park’s website before your visit.
Yosemite National Park
In the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite is famed for its breathtaking waterfalls, giant sequoias, and iconic granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome. Whether you’re hiking the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall, admiring giant sequoias in the Mariposa Grove, or taking the perfect shot of Tunnel View, the Yosemite Valley’s grandeur is undeniable.
Sage Advice: Arrive early to beat the crowds and secure parking. This park’s popularity rivals that of the latest iPhone release.
Devils Postpile National Monument
Near Mammoth Lakes, Devils Postpile boasts one of nature’s most remarkable geological formations: columnar basalt columns formed by ancient lava flows. A short hike leads you to the base of these towering columns, and a bit farther brings you to the stunning 101-foot Rainbow Falls. Visit in the morning light to see the falls’ namesake rainbow.
Kings Canyon National Park
In the southern Sierra Nevada Mountains, Kings Canyon features deep valleys, sky-high cliffs, and some of the world’s tallest trees. Drive along the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway that leads you straight through the majestic Land of Giants for jaw-dropping vistas, and don’t miss the General Grant Tree, dubbed the “Nation’s Christmas Tree.”
Sage Advice: The park’s terrain is as dramatic as the canyon itself. Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended.
Sequoia National Park
Adjacent to Kings Canyon, Sequoia National Park is home to the giant sequoia trees, including the General Sherman Tree — the largest tree on Earth by volume. Explore the Giant Forest and take the Congress Trail for an immersive experience among these ancient giants.
Sage Advice: Be prepared for winding mountain roads; if you’re prone to car sickness, consider packing some ginger candy or motion sickness bands.
Manzanar National Historic Site
Located near Independence, the Manzanar National Historic Site offers a glimpse into the heartbreaking internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. The site preserves the stories and artifacts of those who were incarcerated here, serving as a poignant reminder of civil liberties’ fragility.
Sage Advice: Allocate time for the self-guided driving tour, and bring tissues. The emotional weight of this place is profound.

Southern California
If you think Southern California is all sun-soaked beaches and Hollywood glitz, think again. You’ll also find arid deserts, lush mountains, and fascinating historic sites in the lower region of the Golden State.
César E. Chávez National Monument
This monument in Keene honors the legacy of civil rights leader César E. Chávez who championed the rights of American farmworkers. Explore the visitor center to learn about his life and the farm labor movement, then pay your respects at his memorial garden.
Sage Advice: Check for special events or educational programs during your visit to gain deeper insights into Chávez’s enduring impact.
Death Valley National Park
Straddling Eastern California and Nevada, Death Valley is world renowned for its extreme temperatures and otherworldly landscapes. Visit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and marvel at the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Don’t miss the vibrant Artist’s Palette, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Sage Advice: Temperatures in the summer months can be deadly. Plan your visit in the cooler months, and always carry plenty of water.
Mojave National Preserve
Situated between Los Angeles and Las Vegas, the Mojave National Preserve offers a serene desert experience away from the crowds. Explore the Kelso Dunes, which “sing” as you slide down their slopes, and wander through the eerie Joshua tree forests.
Sage Advice: Many roads are unpaved; a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, and always check road conditions before you go.
Joshua Tree National Park
In Southeastern California, Joshua Tree is where the Mojave and Colorado deserts converge, creating a unique landscape dotted with the park’s namesake trees and surreal rock formations. Climb the towering boulders at Hidden Valley or gaze at the stars in this designated Dark Sky Park.
Sage Advice: Cell service is spotty. Be sure to download maps and inform someone about your itinerary before exploring this national park.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
Just outside Los Angeles, the Santa Monica Mountains boast over 500 miles of trails, historic sites, and scenic beaches. Hike the Mishe Mokwa Trail to Sandstone Peak for panoramic views, or visit the Paramount Ranch to step back into Hollywood’s filming history.
Sage Advice: Trails can be hot and exposed. Start early to beat the heat, apply sunscreen regularly, and bring plenty of water.
Channel Islands National Park
A short drive south of Ventura, the Channel Islands National Park is just off the coast. This park encompasses five islands, with Santa Cruz Island the largest and most popular for day-trippers. Kayak through sea caves, snorkel in kelp forests, or hike to Inspiration Point on Anacapa Island for incredible views.
Sage Advice: This California national park is only accessible by boat or plane. Book your transportation in advance, and be prepared for limited services on the islands.
Cabrillo National Monument
Perched at the tip of the Point Loma Peninsula in San Diego, the Cabrillo National Monument commemorates Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, the leader of a 1542 expedition by the first European explorers to set foot on the West Coast. Explore the Old Point Loma Lighthouse and tide pools teeming with marine life.
Other Notable National Park Sites in California
California’s big-name parks get all the love, but these lesser-known spots deserve their moment in the spotlight too. Whether you’re chasing history or just looking for a quieter stretch of nature to soak up, these hidden gems are worth adding to your California national parks road trip itinerary.
Juan Bautista De Anza National Historic Trail
Stretching over 1,200 miles from Nogales, Arizona, to San Francisco, this historic trail is like a choose-your-own-adventure book — if your adventure involves retracing an epic 18th-century journey. Led by Juan Bautista de Anza, the 1775-76 expedition brought 240 settlers to what is now San Francisco. Here in the 21st century, you can still follow parts of their path, enjoying an air-conditioned automobile rather than a hot horse. Depending on where you hop on, you’ll find everything from desert landscapes to coastal views.
Castle Mountains National Monument
Near the Nevada border, the remote Castle Mountains National Monument is basically the desert showing off. Joshua trees stretch across the landscape, rare desert grasslands pop up in the most unexpected places, and the peace and quiet are practically medicinal. It’s perfect if you need a break from the crowds — or just want to hear yourself think.
Sage Advice: Most roads are unpaved, so bring a high-clearance vehicle or prepare to make a new friend in the tow truck guy (or gal).
What Are Your Favorite Stops?
What California national park sites do you like most? What’s so wonderful about them? Any additional tips and tricks to pass along? Share your experiences in the comments section below.
Thank you for sharing!