THE OFFICIAL GUIDE TO CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS California escapesDiscover the many states of California 2005 FREE

Where will the hundreds of California Parks take you today?

DESTINATION KNOWN! From Doheny to Leland Stanford Mansion to Humboldt Redwoods, get ready for camping, hiking, surfing, and much more in your 278 state parks.

PLUS Cool Maps, Hot Tips, and Insider Information California Welcome TM

Dear Friends, escapes Arnold Schwarzenegger California’s state park system is the finest in the Governor country, offering some of the world’s most varied Mike Chrisman natural wonders. These national treasures mean many Secretary for Resources different things to a wide array of visitors, explorers, Ruth Coleman Director nature enthusiasts and adventurers who have discov- California State Parks ered our breathtaking vistas and rugged landscapes. Our parks, lush with vegetation and animal life, embody the cultural richness of our state and help preserve California’s CALIFORNIA extraordinary biological diversity. From shoreline tidepools and desert STATE PARKS washes to High Sierra meadows and primeval redwood forests, each of P.O. Box 942896 California’s naturally occurring ecosystems is represented in our state Sacramento, CA 94296-0001 parks. Our parks ensure the survival of precious environmental resources, (800) 777-0369 (916) 653-6995 wildlife and endangered species. (888) 877-5378 TTY These natural marvels are also key components of California’s To receive this in an economic well-being. Our unparalleled park system attracts visitors from alternative format please contact us at around the globe, who spend $2.6 billion annually while exploring our vast the number above. assembly of recreational and historic sites, monuments, campsites and Nicole Placencia more than 3,000 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails. Marketing Manager Thanks to the many On behalf of all Californians, I am delighted to extend a warm California State Parks welcome to all who come to share the timeless splendor of our majestic employees who contributed to this magazine. outdoors. Have a fantastic time!

Sincerely, PUBLISHING, EDITORIAL AND CREATIVE Arnold Schwarzenegger Hartle Media Publishing Governor San Francisco, CA (415) 362-7797 Welcome Friends, Tom Hartle Publisher Where will the hundreds of California state parks Julie Suppelsa take you today? Associate Publisher Like California itself, California state parks are bold, Heather Luplow Hartle Creative and Editorial Director adventurous, inspiring—allowing you to stretch your Christine Ryan physical, mental and spiritual boundaries. Managing Editor California State Parks is an unending adventure with Sharon Brock more than 275 state parks consisting of nearly 1.4 million Editor Tiffani Barton acres, over 280 miles of coastline, 625 miles of lake and river frontage and Designer 13,000 campsites. Whether you are a history buff, cultural admirer, an avid Stefanie Michejda outdoor enthusiast, an off-highway motor-vehicle fan, or a family vacation Photo Editor Aubrie Pick aficionado, the adventure never stops in the California state parks system, Art Assistant with literally something for everyone. Timothy Wudarski So prepare to create memories of a lifetime, because whether you’re Production Director planning your first adventure or your 100th, I guarantee it will take you to a Hartle Media Pre-Press E L very satisfied state. I Creel Printing H P

Printing O T

Discover the many states of California! O H P / K N A

All maps by maps.com L B

© 2005 California State Parks S Ruth Coleman E M A

Director, California State Parks J

2 PksearorStat f a Cal ni i www.CAescapes.com Exploring tidepools at San Simeon State Park, on the

S Central Coast T

N 2 E

T << California State N

O Parks Color Coded

C Region Map 1 3

5 4

7

6

12 8 11 9 Regions 10

18 CALIFORNIA STATE MAP Consult this overview of the Golden State in conjunction with the separate maps that accompany each of the regions below. 20 REGION 1 / NORTH COAST 30 REGION 2 / SHASTA CASCADE Contents 32 REGION 3 / GOLD COUNTRY 36 REGION 4 / HIGH SIERRA ON THE COVER: Heading home at the golden 38 REGION 5 / SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA 10 FAMILY ADVENTURE hour in San Diego County California’s parks are much more Photograph by Richard Cumming 44 REGION 6 / CENTRAL COAST

Up Front K than natural reserves—they include A

Y 48 REGION 7 / CENTRAL VALLEY L

historical and cultural sites too. O D

.

But they need your help to maintain J BUY ONLINE 50 REGION 8 / LOS ANGELES COUNTY

2 WELCOME K

their beauty and accessibility. R From Governor Arnold A

M 54 REGION 9 / ORANGE COUNTY

; Visit our e-store, where Schwarzenegger and 14 YOUR PARK ACTIVITIES S N I you can purchase annual 56 REGION 10 / SAN DIEGO COUNTY Director Ruth Coleman. How to get the most out of your M M passes, books, and U K

parks: reservations, recreation, fees, C

A 60 REGION 11 / INLAND EMPIRE

D other cool state parks 06 YOUR PARKS Y L and travel tips. R O How to get started on the road to all A merchandise. D H

. 62 REGION 12 / DESERTS C I J

the adventure, heritage, and beauty www.Store.Parks.CA.gov R

K : R P

California offers you and your family. A 64

O 64 INDEX T M

4 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 5 Exploring tidepools at San Simeon State Park, on the

S Central Coast T

N 2 E

T << California State N

O Parks Color Coded

C Region Map 1 3

5 4

7

6

12 8 11 9 Regions 10

18 CALIFORNIA STATE MAP Consult this overview of the Golden State in conjunction with the separate maps that accompany each of the regions below. 20 REGION 1 / NORTH COAST 30 REGION 2 / SHASTA CASCADE Contents 32 REGION 3 / GOLD COUNTRY 36 REGION 4 / HIGH SIERRA ON THE COVER: Heading home at the golden 38 REGION 5 / SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA 10 FAMILY ADVENTURE hour in San Diego County California’s parks are much more Photograph by Richard Cumming 44 REGION 6 / CENTRAL COAST

Up Front K than natural reserves—they include A

Y 48 REGION 7 / CENTRAL VALLEY L

historical and cultural sites too. O D

.

But they need your help to maintain J BUY ONLINE 50 REGION 8 / LOS ANGELES COUNTY

2 WELCOME K

their beauty and accessibility. R From Governor Arnold A

M 54 REGION 9 / ORANGE COUNTY

; Visit our e-store, where Schwarzenegger and 14 YOUR PARK ACTIVITIES S N I you can purchase annual 56 REGION 10 / SAN DIEGO COUNTY Director Ruth Coleman. How to get the most out of your M M passes, books, and U K

parks: reservations, recreation, fees, C

A 60 REGION 11 / INLAND EMPIRE

D other cool state parks 06 YOUR PARKS Y L and travel tips. R O How to get started on the road to all A merchandise. D H

. 62 REGION 12 / DESERTS C I J

the adventure, heritage, and beauty www.Store.Parks.CA.gov R

K : R P

California offers you and your family. A 64

O 64 INDEX T M

4 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 5 Hikers in Garrapata SP, with the Big Sur coast beyond S K R A P

R U O Y

Playtime at Carlsbad SB, north of San Diego

surf, sightsee, and just about anything else you And remember… have in mind. This guide will help you do any or The best way to get the big picture, along with all of those things. We want to get you on the the latest information on each park and the YourParks road, wave, mountain-bike trail, or wheelchair- many activities offered, is to visit the California accessible path—whatever it takes for you to State Parks website at www.Parks.CA.gov. make the most of our parks and beaches. It’s what really puts the state park system at your fingertips, any day, any time. WHERE TO GO? AND HOW? THE NEW LOOK OF CALIFORNIA SURF, TURF, AND What’s your passion? Whale-watching? HEALTHY LIVING STATE PARKS! EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN Fishing? Bird-watching? Maybe you’re a cyclist, Did you know it is recommended that we do 30 As a park visitor, you may have always known The California state parks are your parks—all an equestrian, or an aspiring photographer. No minutes to an hour of physical activity each day that California’s state parks are what make 278 of them! That’s a lot of parks and a lot of matter—your interests are our pleasure. to stay healthy? However, our kids often don’t California unique. That’s why California State variety. If state parks make you think of giant It’s also our pleasure to tell you how. How have the chance to play outside. Parks has launched a new look and advertis- redwood forests, beaches, cascading water- can you reserve a campsite? How can your A great way for you and your family to meet ing campaign that communicates this while falls, and winding mountain trails, well, we can’t family hold an outdoor reunion on the shores of its fitness goal is to visit a local or state park. Go emphasizing the many exciting adventures argue with that. But California’s state parks Point Sur? How do you find remnants of the for a walk, ride a bike, camp with friends, splash California’s 278 state parks have to offer. offer so much more. classic television show M*A*S*H in Malibu Creek in the ocean or swim in a lake. Park rangers are For instance, have you explored the California’s state parks are virtually every- State Park? We’ll tell you. happy to help you find trails for all fitness levels place where presidents stayed and movie where in the state. Last year, more than 85 or discover a new outdoor activity. stars played? Well, now it is your turn. So go million people visited this state’s parks, historic This guide answers all of your questions. In A recent Surgeon General’s report stated see the grandeur of this architectural wonder sites, and beaches to camp, hike, bike, swim, the pages that follow, you’ll find: that children who participate in physical recre- high in the mountains above the Pacific, and • Park unit and reservations information. ation at a young age will establish healthy experience the rich history Hearst Castle® • A large overview map of California (page 18). habits that will follow them into and through has to offer. Or go back in time and feel the FOR YOUR INFORMATION • Maps of the 12 California travel regions that adulthood. To find a park near you and recre- excitement of the Gold Rush era as you pan www.Parks.CA.gov DEFINITIONS OF VARIOUS PARKS show the locations of the parks. ation tips visit . for gold at Marshall Gold Discovery State SP= State Park • Regional charts listing facilities (including

Historic Park. Or discover the thrills of SRA=State Recreation Area S visitor centers, food/dining, lodging, RV THE WRONG TIME IS THE RIGHT TIME S N I I

America’s most famous method of trans- H hookups, and much more) and activities Do yourself a favor. Explore the parks in their

SR=State Reserve M T L M A portation at the California Railroad Museum. SHP=State Historic Park U (from camping to biking to windsurfing). off-seasons. Thanks to California’s mild weather, B C

SB=State Beach . D

Leave your troubles behind and step into S • Capsule descriptions of each park, including you don’t need a summer day to hike through a

R K

SVRA=State Vehicle Recreation Area A

an adventure. Where will the hundreds of N telephone numbers and road directions for giant redwood grove or share a campfire with H A

SS= State Seashore C I California state parks take you today? R those parks that are a little out of the way. family and friends. Historic sites that make F R

6 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 7 Hikers in Garrapata SP, with the Big Sur coast beyond S K R A P

R U O Y

Playtime at Carlsbad SB, north of San Diego

surf, sightsee, and just about anything else you And remember… have in mind. This guide will help you do any or The best way to get the big picture, along with all of those things. We want to get you on the the latest information on each park and the YourParks road, wave, mountain-bike trail, or wheelchair- many activities offered, is to visit the California accessible path—whatever it takes for you to State Parks website at www.Parks.CA.gov. make the most of our parks and beaches. It’s what really puts the state park system at your fingertips, any day, any time. WHERE TO GO? AND HOW? THE NEW LOOK OF CALIFORNIA SURF, TURF, AND What’s your passion? Whale-watching? HEALTHY LIVING STATE PARKS! EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN Fishing? Bird-watching? Maybe you’re a cyclist, Did you know it is recommended that we do 30 As a park visitor, you may have always known The California state parks are your parks—all an equestrian, or an aspiring photographer. No minutes to an hour of physical activity each day that California’s state parks are what make 278 of them! That’s a lot of parks and a lot of matter—your interests are our pleasure. to stay healthy? However, our kids often don’t California unique. That’s why California State variety. If state parks make you think of giant It’s also our pleasure to tell you how. How have the chance to play outside. Parks has launched a new look and advertis- redwood forests, beaches, cascading water- can you reserve a campsite? How can your A great way for you and your family to meet ing campaign that communicates this while falls, and winding mountain trails, well, we can’t family hold an outdoor reunion on the shores of its fitness goal is to visit a local or state park. Go emphasizing the many exciting adventures argue with that. But California’s state parks Point Sur? How do you find remnants of the for a walk, ride a bike, camp with friends, splash California’s 278 state parks have to offer. offer so much more. classic television show M*A*S*H in Malibu Creek in the ocean or swim in a lake. Park rangers are For instance, have you explored the California’s state parks are virtually every- State Park? We’ll tell you. happy to help you find trails for all fitness levels place where presidents stayed and movie where in the state. Last year, more than 85 or discover a new outdoor activity. stars played? Well, now it is your turn. So go million people visited this state’s parks, historic This guide answers all of your questions. In A recent Surgeon General’s report stated see the grandeur of this architectural wonder sites, and beaches to camp, hike, bike, swim, the pages that follow, you’ll find: that children who participate in physical recre- high in the mountains above the Pacific, and • Park unit and reservations information. ation at a young age will establish healthy experience the rich history Hearst Castle® • A large overview map of California (page 18). habits that will follow them into and through has to offer. Or go back in time and feel the FOR YOUR INFORMATION • Maps of the 12 California travel regions that adulthood. To find a park near you and recre- excitement of the Gold Rush era as you pan www.Parks.CA.gov DEFINITIONS OF VARIOUS PARKS show the locations of the parks. ation tips visit . for gold at Marshall Gold Discovery State SP= State Park • Regional charts listing facilities (including

Historic Park. Or discover the thrills of SRA=State Recreation Area S visitor centers, food/dining, lodging, RV THE WRONG TIME IS THE RIGHT TIME S N I I

America’s most famous method of trans- H hookups, and much more) and activities Do yourself a favor. Explore the parks in their

SR=State Reserve M T L M A portation at the California Railroad Museum. SHP=State Historic Park U (from camping to biking to windsurfing). off-seasons. Thanks to California’s mild weather, B C

SB=State Beach . D

Leave your troubles behind and step into S • Capsule descriptions of each park, including you don’t need a summer day to hike through a

R K

SVRA=State Vehicle Recreation Area A

an adventure. Where will the hundreds of N telephone numbers and road directions for giant redwood grove or share a campfire with H A

SS= State Seashore C I California state parks take you today? R those parks that are a little out of the way. family and friends. Historic sites that make F R

6 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 7 S K

R YOUR HELP IS NEEDED WHAT’S NEW San Diego, was the first state park to offer A P

When you think of a California state park, Leland Stanford Mansion SHP SBC’s FreedomLink service. Over the next sev-

R images of beauty, serenity, trees, beaches, and One of the state parks system’s most special eral months, 84 more California state parks will U sunsets—even cool historic sites—probably places, the Leland Stanford Mansion State become SBC Wi-Fi locations—this will consti- O

Y come to mind. But with more visitors than ever, Historic Park in Sacramento, is about to begin tute the largest Wi-Fi deployment in any park the best state park system in America needs writing a new chapter in California’s history. The system nationwide. your help. Take a few minutes to get involved. mansion is nearing the end of an $18 million Consumers are increasingly using the California State Parks preserves our land and renovation and will soon be opening not just as Internet to make their vacation and recreation waters, provides inspiration and education, and a state historic park but also as a working planning easier, safer, and more enjoyable. keeps our history alive. You can help by being a museum and diplomatic affairs center. Visitors with Wi-Fi-enabled laptops or personal park volunteer. Whether locally or farther afield, Home to Governor Leland Stanford in the digital assistants (PDAs) can communicate with you can serve as a campground host, teach 1860s, the house is about to reenter govern- family and friends, share digital pictures of their children about their heritage, even build and ment service, serving our current governor and vacation, obtain driving directions, or locate maintain trails. Each year, 12,000 volunteers legislative leaders as the state’s diplomatic hiking trails or nearby restaurants. Park visitors give back to the community while making new reception and protocol center, where affairs of will be able to access such state websites as friends and learning about nature and history. state will be conducted much as they are in the www.reserveamerica.com (for making camp- For information go to www.Parks.CA.gov, or White House. ground reservations), www.dot.ca.gov (for getting call (916) 653-9069. The restoration of the 17,000-square-foot updates on highway conditions) and www. mansion is the result of a successful partner- gocalif.ca.gov (the state’s tourism site). ship between California State Parks and the Customers can view a list of SBC Wi-Fi Sightseeing at Año Nuevo SR A ranger-led Leland Stanford Foundation. Restored in both locations and obtain ordering information by nature walk at form and function to its 19th-century heyday, visiting www.sbc.com/freedomlink. Pt. Mugu SP the stately brick-and-plaster renaissance revival home will reopen to visitors and for business in Volunteers monitoring resident great winter escapes include Hearst Castle®, the fall of 2005; it will be the oldest house in elephant seals at Año Nuevo SR Bidwell Mansion, or Old Town San Diego. Sacramento to be open to the public. Summer tip: Campsites are often less crowded This historic location will house the gover- midweek, even in prime Sierra locations. nor’s office of protocol and serve as the governor’s diplomatic center and a meeting place where RANGER RECRUITMENT California’s future will be shaped. It will be where Looking for a job that offers culture, escape, California meets the world. and adventure? California State Parks is looking for rangers and lifeguards who seek career State Parks and SBC Offer Wi-Fi Internet choices beyond working in the woods, includ- Access in Parks ing lakes, beaches, deserts, and urban parks. Under an agreement announced in January by For information go to www.Parks.CA.gov or California State Parks and SBC Communica- call (866) PARK-JOBS. tions Inc., high-speed wireless Internet access (better known as Wi-Fi, which is short for wire- less fidelity) is coming to the picnic tables, ACCESSIBILITY: EVERYONE IS A V.I.P. tents, RV spaces and cabins of the more than 80 million visitors who enjoy state parks each S I H

California State Parks Department staff are work- retrofitting and construction T year. San Elijo State Beach, located outside of

• • L welcomes all visitors, ing to implement accessibility of new facilities statewide. A B

. S regardless of their abilities. improvements and remove • Comments may be K

When planning your visit, barriers to access. Should you made to the Department’s N A

R YOURS TO KEEP

please call the park to obtain encounter obstacles, please Accessibility Section, (916) F

; K

additional information or ask for assistance onsite. 445-8949, or via e-mail at A Y L here are many threats facing these lands, but there is only one independent request suitable arrangements. • We are proceeding [email protected]. As O D

group committed to preserving and protecting their natural legacy—the You can find accessible systematically with our vision of you can see, California state . J

• S I

K California State Parks Foundation. Join us in building on a proud history of H features throughout the parks universal-access facility design parks are for everyone. For a R T T A

L environmental stewardship and success. As a member, you’ll be more than a specta- M at access.parks.ca.gov. and programs that will benefit large format PDF version of A

: B tor of California’s natural beauty—you’ll be its caretaker too.

P .

Disabled Discount all visitors. As projects are this publication, please visit S O

• Become a member of the California State Parks Foundation and protect our T

K

Passes are also available funded over the coming years, www.parks.ca.gov and look N M parklands, for you, for future generations—for now and them. Call us today at (800) A O R (see Fees, pg. 15). access will be provided by the under the publications section. R

F 963-7275 or go to our website: www.calparks.org. F

8 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 9 S K

R YOUR HELP IS NEEDED WHAT’S NEW San Diego, was the first state park to offer A P

When you think of a California state park, Leland Stanford Mansion SHP SBC’s FreedomLink service. Over the next sev-

R images of beauty, serenity, trees, beaches, and One of the state parks system’s most special eral months, 84 more California state parks will U sunsets—even cool historic sites—probably places, the Leland Stanford Mansion State become SBC Wi-Fi locations—this will consti- O

Y come to mind. But with more visitors than ever, Historic Park in Sacramento, is about to begin tute the largest Wi-Fi deployment in any park the best state park system in America needs writing a new chapter in California’s history. The system nationwide. your help. Take a few minutes to get involved. mansion is nearing the end of an $18 million Consumers are increasingly using the California State Parks preserves our land and renovation and will soon be opening not just as Internet to make their vacation and recreation waters, provides inspiration and education, and a state historic park but also as a working planning easier, safer, and more enjoyable. keeps our history alive. You can help by being a museum and diplomatic affairs center. Visitors with Wi-Fi-enabled laptops or personal park volunteer. Whether locally or farther afield, Home to Governor Leland Stanford in the digital assistants (PDAs) can communicate with you can serve as a campground host, teach 1860s, the house is about to reenter govern- family and friends, share digital pictures of their children about their heritage, even build and ment service, serving our current governor and vacation, obtain driving directions, or locate maintain trails. Each year, 12,000 volunteers legislative leaders as the state’s diplomatic hiking trails or nearby restaurants. Park visitors give back to the community while making new reception and protocol center, where affairs of will be able to access such state websites as friends and learning about nature and history. state will be conducted much as they are in the www.reserveamerica.com (for making camp- For information go to www.Parks.CA.gov, or White House. ground reservations), www.dot.ca.gov (for getting call (916) 653-9069. The restoration of the 17,000-square-foot updates on highway conditions) and www. mansion is the result of a successful partner- gocalif.ca.gov (the state’s tourism site). ship between California State Parks and the Customers can view a list of SBC Wi-Fi Sightseeing at Año Nuevo SR A ranger-led Leland Stanford Foundation. Restored in both locations and obtain ordering information by nature walk at form and function to its 19th-century heyday, visiting www.sbc.com/freedomlink. Pt. Mugu SP the stately brick-and-plaster renaissance revival home will reopen to visitors and for business in Volunteers monitoring resident great winter escapes include Hearst Castle®, the fall of 2005; it will be the oldest house in elephant seals at Año Nuevo SR Bidwell Mansion, or Old Town San Diego. Sacramento to be open to the public. Summer tip: Campsites are often less crowded This historic location will house the gover- midweek, even in prime Sierra locations. nor’s office of protocol and serve as the governor’s diplomatic center and a meeting place where RANGER RECRUITMENT California’s future will be shaped. It will be where Looking for a job that offers culture, escape, California meets the world. and adventure? California State Parks is looking for rangers and lifeguards who seek career State Parks and SBC Offer Wi-Fi Internet choices beyond working in the woods, includ- Access in Parks ing lakes, beaches, deserts, and urban parks. Under an agreement announced in January by For information go to www.Parks.CA.gov or California State Parks and SBC Communica- call (866) PARK-JOBS. tions Inc., high-speed wireless Internet access (better known as Wi-Fi, which is short for wire- less fidelity) is coming to the picnic tables, ACCESSIBILITY: EVERYONE IS A V.I.P. tents, RV spaces and cabins of the more than 80 million visitors who enjoy state parks each S I H

California State Parks Department staff are work- retrofitting and construction T year. San Elijo State Beach, located outside of

• • L welcomes all visitors, ing to implement accessibility of new facilities statewide. A B

. S regardless of their abilities. improvements and remove • Comments may be K

When planning your visit, barriers to access. Should you made to the Department’s N A

R YOURS TO KEEP

please call the park to obtain encounter obstacles, please Accessibility Section, (916) F

; K

additional information or ask for assistance onsite. 445-8949, or via e-mail at A Y L here are many threats facing these lands, but there is only one independent request suitable arrangements. • We are proceeding [email protected]. As O D

group committed to preserving and protecting their natural legacy—the You can find accessible systematically with our vision of you can see, California state . J

• S I

K California State Parks Foundation. Join us in building on a proud history of H features throughout the parks universal-access facility design parks are for everyone. For a R T T A

L environmental stewardship and success. As a member, you’ll be more than a specta- M at access.parks.ca.gov. and programs that will benefit large format PDF version of A

: B tor of California’s natural beauty—you’ll be its caretaker too.

P .

Disabled Discount all visitors. As projects are this publication, please visit S O

• Become a member of the California State Parks Foundation and protect our T

K

Passes are also available funded over the coming years, www.parks.ca.gov and look N M parklands, for you, for future generations—for now and them. Call us today at (800) A O R (see Fees, pg. 15). access will be provided by the under the publications section. R

F 963-7275 or go to our website: www.calparks.org. F

8 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 9 E R

U LEFT: Castles in the sand at Lake Perris SP T >> ADVENTURE QUESTION 2 N At which Marin County SP was mountain biking first E

V FOR THE RECORD tested in the early 1970s?

A D Of course, it wouldn’t be California without a SP Tamalpais Mt. 2) nswer A few superlatives, like the most popular railroad Y

L museum in North America (California State Junior Lifeguard Program teaches visitors I

M Railroad Museum), the best view of California ages 8 to 15 about water safety and physical

A (Mount Diablo SP), and the best preserved conditioning. Our Litter-Getter Program F Western ghost town (Bodie SHP, California’s rewards children with a prize for every bag of official State Gold Rush Ghost Town). litter they collect, helping them to make their own contribution to the park. Call for a sched- EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS ule of programs at the park of your choice. California State Parks is one of the largest state agency providers of education. Our scientific, ENJOYING CALIFORNIA’S ecological, and historical assets, which make NATURAL RESOURCES possible day trips, environmental-living over- California is teeming with rare species, such as nights, in-school programs, and video confer- our giant sequoia trees and huge elephant encing, served more than 20,000 school groups seals. It’s a state where majestic bald eagles last year. Some 560 schools also booked tours soar above mountains that are peppered with at California’s State Capitol Museum. Using bighorn sheep. All of these species call video technology, the museum connects to California State Parks home, thriving in habitats classrooms nationwide for presentations on as various as sparkling tide pools, snowy peaks, capitol architecture, the legislative process, and foggy redwood groves, and sun-blasted desert Sacramento’s role in the Gold Rush. basins. Nature lovers, scientists, and travelers come from around the world to see and experi- VIRTUAL DIVING, A NEW WAY TO LEARN ence California’s rich natural heritage. One of our favorite video programs allows underwater divers at Crystal Cove SP to broad- cast in “real time” to classrooms. Children inter- Family act with the divers, watch the marine life of one of the state’s most pristine environments, and learn about the effects of commercialization and residential growth. This technology also Adventure lessens the impact of visitors on sensitive envi- ronments and allows children with disabilities to participate. Visit www.Parks.CA.gov for more FAMILY FUN FACTS Indians, to that of the Spanish missions, to the about these and other programs. This section invites visitors to understand and Gold Rush of 1849. In your parks, you will see Add everything up, and it becomes clear explore the many fun facts of California State Chumash cave paintings and Craftsman-style that California’s state parks are priceless Parks. Throughout it you’ll find adventure architecture (as found, for instance, at Asilomar resources for generations to come. Outings to questions that we hope will engage conversa- Conference Grounds). In your parks, you can learn the parks don’t just teach our children—they tions around the campfire. a Chaw’se Native American dance, grind corn for create lasting memories.

tortillas with mano and metate, or pan for gold like S I H

DIVERSITY AND a 19th-century prospector. And don’t forget the T FOR THE KIDS L A

COMMUNITY IN NUMBERS Spanish mission at La Purísima SHP and Colonel B Your state parks offer many learning opportuni-

. S

As California’s population has grown, so has Allensworth SHP in what’s left of Allensworth, the ties for children and families. In the Junior K

the state park system—to the tune of 270-plus only town in California founded, financed, and N Ranger Program, kids learn how issues in A R

individual units. State Parks bring the benefits governed by African-Americans. Perhaps the F parks relate to larger global concerns. The

of nature, culture, and healthy recreation within many ethnic strands woven through the seeming- S N the reach of every Californian. ly unending tapestry of California history are best I M

M >> ADVENTURE QUESTION 1

seen on Angel Island, in San Francisco Bay—as U C

Which state agency, other than the Dept. of Education,

HISTORY AND CULTURE ABOUND the West Coast’s version of Ellis Island, it was the D

R is one of the largest providers of education? A A trip through the State Parks is a trip through first stop for so many immigrants coming to the Parks State California 1) Answer World’s largest elephant seal rookery is at Año Nuevo SR H The Wild West remnants of Bodie SHP C time, California-style, from the era of the Pomo Golden State. I R

10 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 11 E R

U LEFT: Castles in the sand at Lake Perris SP T >> ADVENTURE QUESTION 2 N At which Marin County SP was mountain biking first E

V FOR THE RECORD tested in the early 1970s?

A D Of course, it wouldn’t be California without a SP Tamalpais Mt. 2) nswer A few superlatives, like the most popular railroad Y

L museum in North America (California State Junior Lifeguard Program teaches visitors I

M Railroad Museum), the best view of California ages 8 to 15 about water safety and physical

A (Mount Diablo SP), and the best preserved conditioning. Our Litter-Getter Program F Western ghost town (Bodie SHP, California’s rewards children with a prize for every bag of official State Gold Rush Ghost Town). litter they collect, helping them to make their own contribution to the park. Call for a sched- EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS ule of programs at the park of your choice. California State Parks is one of the largest state agency providers of education. Our scientific, ENJOYING CALIFORNIA’S ecological, and historical assets, which make NATURAL RESOURCES possible day trips, environmental-living over- California is teeming with rare species, such as nights, in-school programs, and video confer- our giant sequoia trees and huge elephant encing, served more than 20,000 school groups seals. It’s a state where majestic bald eagles last year. Some 560 schools also booked tours soar above mountains that are peppered with at California’s State Capitol Museum. Using bighorn sheep. All of these species call video technology, the museum connects to California State Parks home, thriving in habitats classrooms nationwide for presentations on as various as sparkling tide pools, snowy peaks, capitol architecture, the legislative process, and foggy redwood groves, and sun-blasted desert Sacramento’s role in the Gold Rush. basins. Nature lovers, scientists, and travelers come from around the world to see and experi- VIRTUAL DIVING, A NEW WAY TO LEARN ence California’s rich natural heritage. One of our favorite video programs allows underwater divers at Crystal Cove SP to broad- cast in “real time” to classrooms. Children inter- Family act with the divers, watch the marine life of one of the state’s most pristine environments, and learn about the effects of commercialization and residential growth. This technology also Adventure lessens the impact of visitors on sensitive envi- ronments and allows children with disabilities to participate. Visit www.Parks.CA.gov for more FAMILY FUN FACTS Indians, to that of the Spanish missions, to the about these and other programs. This section invites visitors to understand and Gold Rush of 1849. In your parks, you will see Add everything up, and it becomes clear explore the many fun facts of California State Chumash cave paintings and Craftsman-style that California’s state parks are priceless Parks. Throughout it you’ll find adventure architecture (as found, for instance, at Asilomar resources for generations to come. Outings to questions that we hope will engage conversa- Conference Grounds). In your parks, you can learn the parks don’t just teach our children—they tions around the campfire. a Chaw’se Native American dance, grind corn for create lasting memories.

tortillas with mano and metate, or pan for gold like S I H

DIVERSITY AND a 19th-century prospector. And don’t forget the T FOR THE KIDS L A

COMMUNITY IN NUMBERS Spanish mission at La Purísima SHP and Colonel B Your state parks offer many learning opportuni-

. S

As California’s population has grown, so has Allensworth SHP in what’s left of Allensworth, the ties for children and families. In the Junior K

the state park system—to the tune of 270-plus only town in California founded, financed, and N Ranger Program, kids learn how issues in A R

individual units. State Parks bring the benefits governed by African-Americans. Perhaps the F parks relate to larger global concerns. The

of nature, culture, and healthy recreation within many ethnic strands woven through the seeming- S N the reach of every Californian. ly unending tapestry of California history are best I M

M >> ADVENTURE QUESTION 1

seen on Angel Island, in San Francisco Bay—as U C

Which state agency, other than the Dept. of Education,

HISTORY AND CULTURE ABOUND the West Coast’s version of Ellis Island, it was the D

R is one of the largest providers of education? A A trip through the State Parks is a trip through first stop for so many immigrants coming to the Parks State California 1) Answer World’s largest elephant seal rookery is at Año Nuevo SR H The Wild West remnants of Bodie SHP C time, California-style, from the era of the Pomo Golden State. I R

10 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 11 E R

U Our state parks are priceless repositories of Unfortunately, human impact on California’s T A scenic overlook at PRESERVATION RULES

N nature, sanctuaries for the human spirit, places natural resources has been significant over the Mount Tamalpais SP E where anyone can observe, explore, and centuries, and our state parks also pay a price Put litter in its place. V •

D marvel at the beauty of the natural world. for their popularity. If the resources we enjoy • Stay on designated trails (no shortcuts). A and take for granted are to survive for future • Avoid disturbing tidepool creatures. Y

L PRESERVING YOUR PARKS generations, we must all accept responsibility Do not feed the animals. I •

M To protect this vast and varied heritage requires for their preservation. • Do not dispose of wastewater in A active management to repair damaged land- lakes and streams. F scapes and to help restore their natural cycles. HOW CALIFORNIA HELPS TO • Do not disturb historic and PRESERVE YOUR STATE PARKS archaeological artifacts. Fire management Because total fire suppression has resulted in dangerous accumulations of dry tinder that can feed destructive wildfires, “prescribed burn” have also kept species such as the California fires are allowed to slowly burn away duff, bighorn sheep, found at Anza-Borrego Desert smaller brush, and some trees. SP, and the tule elk (for which Tule Elk SR is Non-native species named) from disappearing. The impact of non-native plant and animal species on native ecosystems is of national PRESERVING OUR PAST concern. Among the greatest problems is the Archaeologists, historians, and restoration spe- well-intentioned feeding of feral animals, which cialists are involved in the study of California’s has resulted in a greater rabies hazard and a diverse cultures, helping to identify and protect threat to endangered native species. Native American burial grounds, restore Endangered species Spanish missions, and even maintain the state The past three decades have seen, in California of “arrested decay” found at the Gold Rush alone, 137 native animal species and more than ghost town of Bodie. California State Parks’ 400 native plant species classified as endan- >> ADVENTURE QUESTION 4 ongoing preservation work makes it possible to gered or threatened. In which State Historic Park does the oldest educate thousands of schoolchildren each year

continously used Chinese Temple exist?

Success stories about the importance of California’s past. eaverville Joss House SHP House Joss eaverville W

By 1994, the peregrine falcon and the 4) Answer California gray whale had come back from the A bobcat spotted in brink of extinction. Animal rescue programs Pacheco SP High drama at San Jacinto Mountain SP S N I M M U C

D R A H C I R

; A N N E K c M

) N 2 ( A

D S I N H E

>> ADVENTURE QUESTION 3 T R L B A

In which State Recreation Area does the largest : B P

.

O

inland sea exist? S

T Answer 3) Salton Sea SRA Sea Salton 3) Answer A guided tour at K M Calaveras Big Trees SP N O A R R F F

12 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 13 E R

U Our state parks are priceless repositories of Unfortunately, human impact on California’s T A scenic overlook at PRESERVATION RULES

N nature, sanctuaries for the human spirit, places natural resources has been significant over the Mount Tamalpais SP E where anyone can observe, explore, and centuries, and our state parks also pay a price Put litter in its place. V •

D marvel at the beauty of the natural world. for their popularity. If the resources we enjoy • Stay on designated trails (no shortcuts). A and take for granted are to survive for future • Avoid disturbing tidepool creatures. Y

L PRESERVING YOUR PARKS generations, we must all accept responsibility Do not feed the animals. I •

M To protect this vast and varied heritage requires for their preservation. • Do not dispose of wastewater in A active management to repair damaged land- lakes and streams. F scapes and to help restore their natural cycles. HOW CALIFORNIA HELPS TO • Do not disturb historic and PRESERVE YOUR STATE PARKS archaeological artifacts. Fire management Because total fire suppression has resulted in dangerous accumulations of dry tinder that can feed destructive wildfires, “prescribed burn” have also kept species such as the California fires are allowed to slowly burn away duff, bighorn sheep, found at Anza-Borrego Desert smaller brush, and some trees. SP, and the tule elk (for which Tule Elk SR is Non-native species named) from disappearing. The impact of non-native plant and animal species on native ecosystems is of national PRESERVING OUR PAST concern. Among the greatest problems is the Archaeologists, historians, and restoration spe- well-intentioned feeding of feral animals, which cialists are involved in the study of California’s has resulted in a greater rabies hazard and a diverse cultures, helping to identify and protect threat to endangered native species. Native American burial grounds, restore Endangered species Spanish missions, and even maintain the state The past three decades have seen, in California of “arrested decay” found at the Gold Rush alone, 137 native animal species and more than ghost town of Bodie. California State Parks’ 400 native plant species classified as endan- >> ADVENTURE QUESTION 4 ongoing preservation work makes it possible to gered or threatened. In which State Historic Park does the oldest educate thousands of schoolchildren each year

continously used Chinese Temple exist?

Success stories about the importance of California’s past. eaverville Joss House SHP House Joss eaverville W

By 1994, the peregrine falcon and the 4) Answer California gray whale had come back from the A bobcat spotted in brink of extinction. Animal rescue programs Pacheco SP High drama at San Jacinto Mountain SP S N I M M U C

D R A H C I R

; A N N E K c M

) N 2 ( A

D S I N H E

>> ADVENTURE QUESTION 3 T R L B A

In which State Recreation Area does the largest : B P

.

O

inland sea exist? S

T Answer 3) Salton Sea SRA Sea Salton 3) Answer A guided tour at K M Calaveras Big Trees SP N O A R R F F

12 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 13 S E I T I (800) 444-PARK. Other campgrounds may be State Park features purple sand verbena. In late

V PARK REGULATIONS I available first come, first served. For information, spring, columbine, lupine, and leopard lily grace T

C call (800) 777-0369 or (916) 653-6995. Several Emerald Bay State Park. Kruse Rhododendron Collecting of flowers, rocks, plants,

A • parks, some with horse rental facilities, provide State Reserve, Azalea State Reserve, and animals, and artifacts is prohibited. K equestrian camping. Call (916) 653-6995 for Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve dis-

R Fun Fun Firewood should not be gathered—it can • A more information. play acres of California’s beautiful blossoms. be purchased at most parks. P

Many California state parks offer surprising Fireworks are prohibited. R SIERRA SNO-PARKS displays of autumn foliage: Cuyamaca Rancho • U Stuff • Fishing licenses are required by state law. Easy access to some of the Sierra’s finest cross- State Park, Point Mugu State Park, Annadel O Hunting or the possession of loaded or Y country ski trails, snowmobile routes, and snow State Park, Sugar Pine Point State Park, and • unloaded firearms is prohibited in most ADVENTURE: IT’S IN OUR BLOOD play areas can be found at various plowed parking Grover Hot Springs State Park. Thanks to our parks, adventure recreation has lots. California State Parks administers this pro- During winter, snowshoe in the meadow at state parks. become a birthright for Californians. With more gram November 1 through May 30; from Septem- Grover Hot Springs, and then take a dip at the • Pets must be kept on a leash or in a vehicle. than 280 miles of coastline, over 1,200 miles of ber to March, rangers lead hikes and ski tours. natural hot springs; or explore the desert trails • Off-road vehicle driving is only allowed in waterfront, thousands of campsites and picnic Call (916) 324-1222 or www.OHV.parks.ca.gov. at Anza Borrego Desert State Park. California’s off-highway motor vehicle parks. areas, and hundreds of sites of historical, cul- Whether you’re visiting California State • Bicyclists under 18 years old are required tural, and ecological interest, your state parks HIKING: FOUR SEASONS OF ADVENTURE Parks in the summer, spring, winter, or fall, there by California state law to wear helmets. have something for everybody. With more than 300 miles of hiking, biking and will always be an adventure waiting for you. equestrian trails, California’s parks offer four BEACHES seasons of outdoor adventure and natural California State Parks’ beaches are legendary, beauty. In early spring, Anza Borrego Desert Fees + Passes from the ruggedly beautiful North Coast to Point Lobos (called the greatest meeting of ocean and • Day-Use: There is a nominal stamped envelope to Sierra stated income limitations. land in all the world) to the sandy playgrounds of day-use parking fee; during the District, POB 266, Tahoma, CA Application process required; southern California, where “beach culture” was same day, you can visit other 96142, or visit www.ohv call for details at (800) 777- virtually invented. California state parks (of a like .Parks.CA.gov. For informa- 0369, ext. 5. or lesser day-use fee) for free. tion, call (916) 324-1222. CAMPING • Limited Use Golden Bear: Busy parks may be full if you arrive without reser- • Annual Day-Use Pass & • Boating: Launch fees vary. Free parking for those 62 and vations, particularly during the summer season. Annual Boat Launch Pass: Overnight mooring fees apply. over, excluding peak season Many coastal parks remain busy year round, Passes are good for one year (Memorial Day through Labor especially on weekends. Fortunately, campsites from date of purchase. Some • Historic Sites and Day). Apply in person at most for individuals, families, or groups can be restrictions apply. For more Museums: Most are free or state parks or call (800) 777- reserved up to seven months in advance at information call (800) 777-0369, have a nominal charge. Tour 0369, ext. 5. www.Parks.CA.gov or via ReserveAmerica at ext. 5, or purchase at fees vary (children’s fees www.store.Parks.CA.gov. usually cost less). Avoid long • Other Discount Passes: >> ADVENTURE QUESTION 5 waits at Hearst Castle® and For disabled campers, the What National Park was the first California State Camping Fees: Call for Año Nuevo SR by calling Disabled Discount Pass offers Park, before the state’s park system existed? Climbing lessons at • Point Dume SB fees. Plan ahead; many parks (800) 777-0369. 50 percent off regular camping

Answer 5) Yosemite National Park National Yosemite 5) Answer accept reservations up to seven fees and day use; call for fee. months prior. Visit www.Parks • Senior Discounts: The Disabled Veteran/Prisoner .CA.gov or call (800) 444-PARK, Campers aged 62 or older of War Pass gives free camping Off-Highway Vehicles—Come Out And Play ext. 7275. Payment may be receive a nightly discount, but and day use at all California made by American Express®, only if requested when the state parks; call for fee. For all More than three decades ago, The Off-Highway Motor buggy riders, snowmobilers, Discover ®, MasterCard®, or reservation is made. The reser- rules, qualifications, and a pass California State Parks began an Vehicle Recreation Division mountain bikers, equestrians, VISA® by phone. You can also vation must be in the name of application, please call (800) effort to responsibly manage a operates six main recreation cross-country skiers, back- pay by check, traveler’s check, the eligible person, and that 777-0369, ext. 5 or write to: recreational sport that contin- areas and provides for a packers, hikers, campers, and or money order by mail. person must occupy the camp- California State Parks Pass ues to grow. Today, the state statewide system of managed even rock climbers. Visit site. Proof of eligibility required. Program, POB 942896, offers the largest off-highway recreational opportunities www.ohv.parks.ca.gov or • Sno-Park: Daily fees apply; Sacramento, CA 94296. E

vehicle recreation program in through funding to other public contact OHVMR, POB 942896, B seasonal pass available. Golden Bear Pass: Allows

B • A Please note: Fees, services, and the U.S., with the most environ- agencies. Among its visitors Sacramento, CA 94296; Call R Parking permits do not guaran- parking at state park–operated C

hours of operation may have

mentally friendly rules of any are dirt bikers, all-terrain (916) 324-4442 for more infor- Y tee a parking space. Send facilities for people on SSI or

R changed. Visit our website for U.S. state park system. vehicle drivers, 4x4 and dune mation regarding OHV access. A legal-sized self-addressed AFDC, or for those over 62 with

G the most current information.

14 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 15 S E I T I (800) 444-PARK. Other campgrounds may be State Park features purple sand verbena. In late

V PARK REGULATIONS I available first come, first served. For information, spring, columbine, lupine, and leopard lily grace T

C call (800) 777-0369 or (916) 653-6995. Several Emerald Bay State Park. Kruse Rhododendron Collecting of flowers, rocks, plants,

A • parks, some with horse rental facilities, provide State Reserve, Azalea State Reserve, and animals, and artifacts is prohibited. K equestrian camping. Call (916) 653-6995 for Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve dis-

R Fun Fun Firewood should not be gathered—it can • A more information. play acres of California’s beautiful blossoms. be purchased at most parks. P

Many California state parks offer surprising Fireworks are prohibited. R SIERRA SNO-PARKS displays of autumn foliage: Cuyamaca Rancho • U Stuff • Fishing licenses are required by state law. Easy access to some of the Sierra’s finest cross- State Park, Point Mugu State Park, Annadel O Hunting or the possession of loaded or Y country ski trails, snowmobile routes, and snow State Park, Sugar Pine Point State Park, and • unloaded firearms is prohibited in most ADVENTURE: IT’S IN OUR BLOOD play areas can be found at various plowed parking Grover Hot Springs State Park. Thanks to our parks, adventure recreation has lots. California State Parks administers this pro- During winter, snowshoe in the meadow at state parks. become a birthright for Californians. With more gram November 1 through May 30; from Septem- Grover Hot Springs, and then take a dip at the • Pets must be kept on a leash or in a vehicle. than 280 miles of coastline, over 1,200 miles of ber to March, rangers lead hikes and ski tours. natural hot springs; or explore the desert trails • Off-road vehicle driving is only allowed in waterfront, thousands of campsites and picnic Call (916) 324-1222 or www.OHV.parks.ca.gov. at Anza Borrego Desert State Park. California’s off-highway motor vehicle parks. areas, and hundreds of sites of historical, cul- Whether you’re visiting California State • Bicyclists under 18 years old are required tural, and ecological interest, your state parks HIKING: FOUR SEASONS OF ADVENTURE Parks in the summer, spring, winter, or fall, there by California state law to wear helmets. have something for everybody. With more than 300 miles of hiking, biking and will always be an adventure waiting for you. equestrian trails, California’s parks offer four BEACHES seasons of outdoor adventure and natural California State Parks’ beaches are legendary, beauty. In early spring, Anza Borrego Desert Fees + Passes from the ruggedly beautiful North Coast to Point Lobos (called the greatest meeting of ocean and • Day-Use: There is a nominal stamped envelope to Sierra stated income limitations. land in all the world) to the sandy playgrounds of day-use parking fee; during the District, POB 266, Tahoma, CA Application process required; southern California, where “beach culture” was same day, you can visit other 96142, or visit www.ohv call for details at (800) 777- virtually invented. California state parks (of a like .Parks.CA.gov. For informa- 0369, ext. 5. or lesser day-use fee) for free. tion, call (916) 324-1222. CAMPING • Limited Use Golden Bear: Busy parks may be full if you arrive without reser- • Annual Day-Use Pass & • Boating: Launch fees vary. Free parking for those 62 and vations, particularly during the summer season. Annual Boat Launch Pass: Overnight mooring fees apply. over, excluding peak season Many coastal parks remain busy year round, Passes are good for one year (Memorial Day through Labor especially on weekends. Fortunately, campsites from date of purchase. Some • Historic Sites and Day). Apply in person at most for individuals, families, or groups can be restrictions apply. For more Museums: Most are free or state parks or call (800) 777- reserved up to seven months in advance at information call (800) 777-0369, have a nominal charge. Tour 0369, ext. 5. www.Parks.CA.gov or via ReserveAmerica at ext. 5, or purchase at fees vary (children’s fees www.store.Parks.CA.gov. usually cost less). Avoid long • Other Discount Passes: >> ADVENTURE QUESTION 5 waits at Hearst Castle® and For disabled campers, the What National Park was the first California State Camping Fees: Call for Año Nuevo SR by calling Disabled Discount Pass offers Park, before the state’s park system existed? Climbing lessons at • Point Dume SB fees. Plan ahead; many parks (800) 777-0369. 50 percent off regular camping

Answer 5) Yosemite National Park National Yosemite 5) Answer accept reservations up to seven fees and day use; call for fee. months prior. Visit www.Parks • Senior Discounts: The Disabled Veteran/Prisoner .CA.gov or call (800) 444-PARK, Campers aged 62 or older of War Pass gives free camping Off-Highway Vehicles—Come Out And Play ext. 7275. Payment may be receive a nightly discount, but and day use at all California made by American Express®, only if requested when the state parks; call for fee. For all More than three decades ago, The Off-Highway Motor buggy riders, snowmobilers, Discover ®, MasterCard®, or reservation is made. The reser- rules, qualifications, and a pass California State Parks began an Vehicle Recreation Division mountain bikers, equestrians, VISA® by phone. You can also vation must be in the name of application, please call (800) effort to responsibly manage a operates six main recreation cross-country skiers, back- pay by check, traveler’s check, the eligible person, and that 777-0369, ext. 5 or write to: recreational sport that contin- areas and provides for a packers, hikers, campers, and or money order by mail. person must occupy the camp- California State Parks Pass ues to grow. Today, the state statewide system of managed even rock climbers. Visit site. Proof of eligibility required. Program, POB 942896, offers the largest off-highway recreational opportunities www.ohv.parks.ca.gov or • Sno-Park: Daily fees apply; Sacramento, CA 94296. E

vehicle recreation program in through funding to other public contact OHVMR, POB 942896, B seasonal pass available. Golden Bear Pass: Allows

B • A Please note: Fees, services, and the U.S., with the most environ- agencies. Among its visitors Sacramento, CA 94296; Call R Parking permits do not guaran- parking at state park–operated C

hours of operation may have

mentally friendly rules of any are dirt bikers, all-terrain (916) 324-4442 for more infor- Y tee a parking space. Send facilities for people on SSI or

R changed. Visit our website for U.S. state park system. vehicle drivers, 4x4 and dune mation regarding OHV access. A legal-sized self-addressed AFDC, or for those over 62 with

G the most current information.

14 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 15 97

N Mount Shasta 139 O

I (14,162 ft)

T 101 >>Regional Information A 89 299 M 5 he state of California can be divided into 12 distinct regions that R W

O encompass a rich diversity of culture, terrain, and wildlife. From the

F T 299 299 395

N Eureka Gold Country to the San Francisco Bay Area, from the Central Coast to I 44 L Redding San Diego County, these regions are home to 278 state parks renowned

A W

N 36 for natural beauty, historic significance, and recreational opportunities. O I G

E 70 R THE STATE ICONS Mendocino • STATE ANIMAL Lake 20 Tahoe Ursus arctos horribilis, as the 80 California Grizzly Bear was Clearlake called, definitely lived up to 50 his name. But today he is 101 Sacramento seen only on the state flag 88 S I

H or state seal. W T S L 5 I A B

E 395

. • STATE FLOWER

R S

Yosemite R K The golden poppy A N Stockton National A (Eschscholtzia californica) can R

Park F W 580 6 be found blooming some- A gray whale calf 99 where in California every caught “spy-hopping” Mammoth Bishop month of the year. San Francisco S W Lakes A N • STATE MARINE MAMMAL 101 N E V You can spy the mighty J D O Fresno A E California gray whale A D A Q Mount Whitney T A H (Eschrichtius robustus) Monterey U (14,494 ft) P V as it travels in groups IN A A Visalia L called pods off the coast V 5 A L C Big Sur 395 E each winter and spring. L Y L E 99 • STATE BIRD I Y F Stout and social, the California I C quail (Callipepla californica) can be seen individually or in Bakersfield 15 flocks of up to 1,000. San Luis Obispo Barstow • STATE REPTILE The desert tortoise W O (Gopherus agassizii) is an 101 40 Needles endangered species that has C 5 15 MO JAVE lived in California for thou- E DESERT A Santa Barbara sands of years. It should W never be handled. 0 100 mi N W San Bernardino • STATE FISH The golden trout 0 100 km 10 Los Angeles W (Oncorhynchus aguabonita) can be found in certain Catalina Island 5 15 W California Welcome Centers Salton high-altitude Sierra W Sea streams and lakes. www.visitcalifornia.com

8 San Diego 18 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 19 97

N Mount Shasta 139 O

I (14,162 ft)

T 101 >>Regional Information A 89 299 M 5 he state of California can be divided into 12 distinct regions that R W

O encompass a rich diversity of culture, terrain, and wildlife. From the

F T 299 299 395

N Eureka Gold Country to the San Francisco Bay Area, from the Central Coast to I 44 L Redding San Diego County, these regions are home to 278 state parks renowned

A W

N 36 for natural beauty, historic significance, and recreational opportunities. O I G

E 70 R THE STATE ICONS Mendocino • STATE ANIMAL Lake 20 Tahoe Ursus arctos horribilis, as the 80 California Grizzly Bear was Clearlake called, definitely lived up to 50 his name. But today he is 101 Sacramento seen only on the state flag 88 S I

H or state seal. W T S L 5 I A B

E 395

. • STATE FLOWER

R S

Yosemite R K The golden poppy A N Stockton National A (Eschscholtzia californica) can R

Park F W 580 6 be found blooming some- A gray whale calf 99 where in California every caught “spy-hopping” Mammoth Bishop month of the year. San Francisco S W Lakes A N • STATE MARINE MAMMAL 101 N E V You can spy the mighty J D O Fresno A E California gray whale A D A Q Mount Whitney T A H (Eschrichtius robustus) Monterey U (14,494 ft) P V as it travels in groups IN A A Visalia L called pods off the coast V 5 A L C Big Sur 395 E each winter and spring. L Y L E 99 • STATE BIRD I Y F Stout and social, the California I C quail (Callipepla californica) can be seen individually or in Bakersfield 15 flocks of up to 1,000. San Luis Obispo Barstow • STATE REPTILE The desert tortoise W O (Gopherus agassizii) is an 101 40 Needles endangered species that has C 5 15 MO JAVE lived in California for thou- E DESERT A Santa Barbara sands of years. It should W never be handled. 0 100 mi N W San Bernardino • STATE FISH The golden trout 0 100 km 10 Los Angeles W (Oncorhynchus aguabonita) can be found in certain Catalina Island 5 15 W California Welcome Centers Salton high-altitude Sierra W Sea streams and lakes. www.visitcalifornia.com

8 San Diego 18 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 19 1 T

S >>North Coast A any length, begins at the Armstrong Redwoods ing and picnicking. The day-use area has a sea- O his wild, green, and rugged part of the state C picnic area. District office (707) 865-2391. sonal lake for water activities. Benbow hosts a

H Tis characterized by old- and second-growth AZALEA SR summer arts festival. (707) 247-3318. T redwood forests, coastal bluffs, secluded coves, Western azaleas thrive in this 30-acre reserve R BOTHE-NAPA VALLEY SP

O and wildlife areas. The rich history of the North north of Eureka. In spring, pink and white blos- This area was home to the Wappo Indians until N soms scent the air. (707) 677-3132. the 1840s. The park has a seasonal swimming Coast includes Sonoma, the site of the 1846 Bear pool and accessible camping, picnicking, visitor

1 BALE GRIST MILL SHP Flag Revolt and where the last California mission Edward Turner Bale turned Napa Valley’s grain center (open weekends), and trails. A horse- N

O was built, and Fort Ross, Imperial Russia’s south- into flour on land received via a Mexican grant back riding concession operates during summer I

G ernmost outpost in North America. in the 1840s. The park is open every day; the and fall. (707) 942-4575. E restored mill, most days. (707) 942-4575. CASPAR HEADLANDS SB & SR R BENBOW LAKE SRA These 2 park units protect about half a mile of Located on the Eel River near the historic sculpted rocks, crashing waves, and splashy Benbow Inn, this park offers accessible camp- displays of seasonal wildflowers. The reserve’s ADMIRAL WILLIAM STANDLEY SRA bicyclists. The park is open for day use only. Escape the crowds for a day of quiet picnicking District office (707) 938-1519. and hiking at this 45-acre redwood grove. ARMSTRONG REDWOODS SR A rough unpaved road continues to the coast. The 440-acre grove preserved by Colonel (707) 247-3318. James Bodyston Armstrong in the 1890s has ANDERSON MARSH SHP grown to 805 acres. The park has a multisenso- Once home to the Pomo, the 1,065-acre park is ry accessible trail, as well as accessible rest- popular for picnics, hikes, bird-watching, and rooms, parking, visitor center, and picnicking. its August Blackberry Festival. (707) 994-0688. District office (707) 865-2391. ANNADEL SP AUSTIN CREEK SRA This park preserves significant native and early Open forests and rugged terrain contrast the California quarry industry sites and the most cool, dark redwoods in adjoining Armstrong outstanding example of northern oak woodland reserve. More than 25 miles of trails are ideal for in existence. Trails within Annadel’s 5,000 acres hikers and equestrians. The road, closed to vehi- are popular with hikers, equestrians, and cles more than 20 feet long and pulled trailers of S I H T L A B

. S

K

Morning sun in Patrick’s Point SP N A R F

20 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 21 1 T

S >>North Coast A any length, begins at the Armstrong Redwoods ing and picnicking. The day-use area has a sea- O his wild, green, and rugged part of the state C picnic area. District office (707) 865-2391. sonal lake for water activities. Benbow hosts a

H Tis characterized by old- and second-growth AZALEA SR summer arts festival. (707) 247-3318. T redwood forests, coastal bluffs, secluded coves, Western azaleas thrive in this 30-acre reserve R BOTHE-NAPA VALLEY SP

O and wildlife areas. The rich history of the North north of Eureka. In spring, pink and white blos- This area was home to the Wappo Indians until N soms scent the air. (707) 677-3132. the 1840s. The park has a seasonal swimming Coast includes Sonoma, the site of the 1846 Bear pool and accessible camping, picnicking, visitor

1 BALE GRIST MILL SHP Flag Revolt and where the last California mission Edward Turner Bale turned Napa Valley’s grain center (open weekends), and trails. A horse- N

O was built, and Fort Ross, Imperial Russia’s south- into flour on land received via a Mexican grant back riding concession operates during summer I

G ernmost outpost in North America. in the 1840s. The park is open every day; the and fall. (707) 942-4575. E restored mill, most days. (707) 942-4575. CASPAR HEADLANDS SB & SR R BENBOW LAKE SRA These 2 park units protect about half a mile of Located on the Eel River near the historic sculpted rocks, crashing waves, and splashy Benbow Inn, this park offers accessible camp- displays of seasonal wildflowers. The reserve’s ADMIRAL WILLIAM STANDLEY SRA bicyclists. The park is open for day use only. Escape the crowds for a day of quiet picnicking District office (707) 938-1519. and hiking at this 45-acre redwood grove. ARMSTRONG REDWOODS SR A rough unpaved road continues to the coast. The 440-acre grove preserved by Colonel (707) 247-3318. James Bodyston Armstrong in the 1890s has ANDERSON MARSH SHP grown to 805 acres. The park has a multisenso- Once home to the Pomo, the 1,065-acre park is ry accessible trail, as well as accessible rest- popular for picnics, hikes, bird-watching, and rooms, parking, visitor center, and picnicking. its August Blackberry Festival. (707) 994-0688. District office (707) 865-2391. ANNADEL SP AUSTIN CREEK SRA This park preserves significant native and early Open forests and rugged terrain contrast the California quarry industry sites and the most cool, dark redwoods in adjoining Armstrong outstanding example of northern oak woodland reserve. More than 25 miles of trails are ideal for in existence. Trails within Annadel’s 5,000 acres hikers and equestrians. The road, closed to vehi- are popular with hikers, equestrians, and cles more than 20 feet long and pulled trailers of S I H T L A B

. S

K

Morning sun in Patrick’s Point SP N A R F

20 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 21 1 T S A and native displays depicting then-common O

C events of the region. The park has a logging

H museum, an exhibit, and 2 operational steam T engines. (707) 445-6567. R

O FORT ROSS SHP N

Fort Ross was in operation from 1812 to 1841

as a trading outpost for the Russian-American 1 Company. One original and five reconstructed N

O buildings exist within the stockade’s walls. A I

G visitor center with accessible restrooms reveals

E the 3,000-acre park’s unique natural and cultur- R al history. The Reef Campground is located 1 mile south of the fort and is open seasonally (no reservations accepted). (707) 847-3286. GREENWOOD SB Sea stacks and coastal bluffs make this a classic North Coast park. Once the site of a redwood lumber mill (as seen in the Visitor Center Exhibit), it is now favored by picnickers and anglers. (707) 937-5804. GRIZZLY CREEK REDWOODS SP Once the noon stop for stagecoaches, this 399- acre park is a fine place for swimming or fishing in the Van Duzen River and hiking through the redwoods. (707) 777-3683. HENDY WOODS SP This 850-acre park encompasses more than 100 acres of old-growth redwoods and the Navarro River. Campgrounds have become Hiking into Prairie base camps for travelers visiting the Wine Creek Redwoods SP Country. (707) 937-5804. HARRY A. MERLO SRA & HUMBOLDT LAGOONS SP entry permit can be obtained free of charge at Three lagoons grace these two parks. the California State Parks district office 2 miles Beachcombing, kayaking, fishing and surfing north of Mendocino at Russian Gulch, east of are popular activities. The lagoons are separat- Hwy. 1 at Pt. Cabrillo Drive. (707) 937-5804. ed from the ocean by a 200-yard-wide barrier CLEAR LAKE SP beach. (707) 677-3132. This park is on the south end of California’s HUMBOLDT REDWOODS SP third-largest freshwater lake. Fishing for bass, This park includes 17,000 acres of old-growth catfish, and bluegill is accessible, as are redwoods and the majestic Avenue of the picnicking and camping. Summer brings Giants among its 53,000 acres. Campers can swimmers and water-skiers to the lake’s choose from family campsites, environmental relatively warm waters. (707) 279-4293. sites, trail camps, a hike and bike camp, DEL NORTE COAST REDWOODS SP group and horse camps. (707) 946-2409 or Combining spectacular Pacific coastline with (707) 946-2015; www.humboldtredwoods.org. dense stands of old-growth redwoods, this JACK LONDON SHP park has a campground with accessible camp- The Call of the Wild author made Sonoma’s sites and restrooms. (707) 464-6101, ext. 5120. Valley of the Moon his home in 1905. From his

FORT HUMBOLDT SHP cottage, he wrote short stories, novels, and O R I

This outpost, built in the 1850s to settle the articles while overseeing ambitious agricultural M I S

conflict between local Native Americans and enterprises on what is now 1,400 acres of cul- A C

incoming settlers, is now partially reconstructed tural and historical trails. (707) 938-5216. E V E and features a historical museum with military JEDEDIAH SMITH REDWOODS T SP S

22 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov 1 T S A This 10,000-acre park with some of the world’s O MENDOCINO HEADLANDS SP

C tallest old-growth trees was named for Wind through the picturesque village of

H Jedediah Smith, who in 1827 became the first Mendocino, just off Hwy. 1, and you will be T white man known to have crossed the coastal greeted by headlands that jut into the Pacific R

O range. Accessible group camping and restrooms, Ocean. The park’s paths provide ocean vistas, N

hiking trails, river access, and fishing are also seasonal whale migration viewing, and spring-

available. (707) 464-6101, ext. 5112. time wildflower displays. The 7,400-acre Big 1 JUG HANDLE SR River Unit has a sandy beach, multipurpose N

O This reserve offers a firsthand look at 500,000 redwood forest trails, and estuary exploration I

G years of California’s geological history. A 2.5- opportunities for nonmotorized watercraft

E mile self-guided interpretive nature trail leads travelers. (707) 937-5804. R through 5 terraces uplifted from the sea approx- MENDOCINO WOODLANDS SP imately 100,000 years apart. The lowest terrace This 720-acre, year-round retreat lies deep in a still battles ocean waves, the third terrace has a peaceful redwood forest 7 miles east of unique pygmy forest, and terraces above dis- Mendocino’s spectacular coastline. Each of its play a more advanced vegetation. Picnicking 3 camp areas (for groups only) is equipped with and beach access. (707) 937-5804. rustic, well-appointed dining and recreation KRUSE RHODODENDRON SR halls, 2- and 4-bedroom cabins, and communal This park, north of Jenner, boasts thickets of restrooms with hot showers and electricity. For sun-loving rhododendrons, which sprang up reservations call (707) 937-5755. after the original forest was destroyed by fire. MONTGOMERY WOODS SR Now, clusters of pink blossoms cover parts Remote and beautiful, the reserve’s 1,140 of the reserve from April through June. acres offer picnicking and a 2-mile nature trail District office. (707) 865-2391. that winds through small yet impressive LITTLE RIVER SB old-growth stands of redwoods. West of Hwy. The park’s 112 acres of undeveloped expanses 101 in the heart of the Coast Range, it is near of flat sand and low dunes are located on the the resort of Orrs Springs. (707) 937-5804. south side of Little River. (707) 677-3132. NAVARRO RIVER REDWOODS SP MacKERRICHER SP This 673-acre park parallels the Navarro River Eight miles of beach offer refuge to harbor and Hwy. 128. Walking paths from the highway seals, plus a visitor center, exhibits, fishing, to the river are available. There are 2 year-round and accessible camping and trails. There are campgrounds: Paul M. Dimmick, with 25 devel- 139 developed and 10 walk-in campsites, as oped sites, and Navarro Beach, with 10 well as a horseback riding concession nearby. primitive sites (no water, chemical toilets). From December through March, the park’s Ranger-led canoe trips are offered at Navarro headland is a great place to see migrating Beach spring through fall. (707) 937-5804. whales. (707) 964-5804. PATRICK’S POINT SP MAILLIARD REDWOODS SR Whale watching from high bluffs, wandering By redwood park standards, Mailliard miles of beach, exploring tide pools, and Redwoods is quite small, with only 242 acres searching for agates are typical activities at of old-growth and second-growth forests, but Patrick’s Point. Sumeg, a recently constructed it is a good place in which to escape crowds. Yurok Indian village, offers a look at an ancient (707) 937-5804. and fascinating culture. Accessible camping, MANCHESTER SP picnicking, exhibits, and trails. (707) 677-3570. The San Andreas Fault runs into the ocean at PELICAN SB 1,400-acre Manchester State Park in southern Travel north of Crescent City along California’s Mendocino County. The park offers winter coastline to find this small, secluded beach, a steelhead runs in 2 creeks, habitat for tundra quiet retreat for beachcombers. Pay close swans, great surf fishing, and 5 miles of sandy attention, as the road to the beach is easy to beach. Primitive camping is available year- miss; take the last road before the agricultural round. Efforts are under way to move 18 camp- inspection station, 21 miles north of Crescent sites out of the Point Arena mountain beaver City on Hwy. 101. (707) 464-6101, ext. 5151. habitat; this will be a temporary inconvenience PETALUMA ADOBE SHP this coming year. (707) 937-5804. In the 19th century, General Mariano Guadalupe

24 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov 1 T

S A trail ride through the A dunes at Sonoma Coast SB This small beach and headland is for picnicking, dunes, lakes, ponds, and marshes. Coastal O

C beachcombing, and surfing. (707) 937-5804. accesses are not well signposted. Take Lake

H SINKYONE WILDERNESS SP Earl Drive, turn west on Lower Lake Road, and T Located on the rugged Lost Coast of California, access the park by turning west on Kellogg or R

O this park has spectacular scenery, abundant Pala Road. For access from the south, take N

wildlife, and some 20 miles of hiking trails. Northcrest Drive north from Crescent City, turn

There is a primitive campground at Usal Beach west on Old Mill Road and follow to the end. 1 and walk-in tent sites at Needle Rock. Access (707) 464-6101, ext. 5151. N

O roads are steep, narrow, and unpaved; trailers TRINIDAD SB I

G and motor homes are not recommended. (707) Tucked in a secluded cove near the small

E 986-7711 or (707) 247-3318. town of Trinidad, 15 miles north of Arcata, this R SMITHE REDWOODS SR sandy beach is a pleasant retreat. It’s a short Formerly a private resort, this stand of old- hike through woods, across open bluffs, and growth redwoods makes a pleasant stopping past seasonal wildflowers down to the beach. point for travelers on Highway 101. There is There is a natural arch near the north end of undeveloped access to the Eel River for fishing the beach. Low tide is the best time to visit. and swimming. No restrooms. (707) 925-6482. (707) 677-3132. SONOMA SHP Sonoma was home of California’s last mission, VAN DAMME SP San Francisco Solano, built in 1823. Later it was secularized by the Mexican commander of San The park’s sheltered and easily reached beach Francisco’s Presidio, Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, Vallejo created an agricultural empire on his (707) 464-6101, ext. 5301 or 5300 or 5064. who was imprisoned by American settlers during is a gathering place for abalone and sea urchin 66,000-acre Mexican land grant. From 1834 RICHARDSON GROVE SP 1846’s Bear Flag Revolt. (707) 938-9560. until 1850, Vallejo ran his cattle hide and tallow Stately old-growth redwood trees line the south SONOMA COAST SB divers. Ten miles of hiking trails follow the Little business, raised sheep, bred horses, and grew fork of the Eel River in this 2,000-acre park Spectacular views, sandy strands, and quiet numerous crops. Part of his 2-story adobe named after a former California governor. The coves invite exploration of 19 miles of coastline. River. The park has accessible camping, a vis- headquarters has been restored and outfitted park is a traditional destination for vacationing Enjoy picnics, exhibits, and accessible trails as with early California furnishings and ranch families and offers camping, picnicking, hiking, well as spring wildflowers, colorful sunsets, and itor center, and exhibits, as well as a wheel- equipment. (707) 762-4871. and swimming. The historic lodge building has whale-watching. Reservations (800-444-7275) POINT CABRILLO LIGHT STATION a visitor center and a nearby self-guided nature are recommended at the 2 popular coastal chair-accessible trail in the pygmy forest. (707) The preserve occupies a spectacular headland trail. (707) 247-3318. campgrounds: Bodega Dunes (wheelchair thrusting out into the Pacific Ocean. Park and ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON SP accessible) and Wright’s Beach. (707) 875-3483. 937-5804. walk the half-mile down the access road to In 1880 the author of Treasure Island spent his STANDISH-HICKEY SRA WESTPORT-UNION LANDING SB explore the light station. It comprises the light- honeymoon on the slopes of 4,343-foot Mount Located at the southern gateway of the The 41-acre park is a narrow, 2-mile-long strip house, three original lightkeepers’ houses, St. Helena. Today hikers climb the 5-mile trail to state’s redwood country, this park offers camp- with primitive camping and beautiful beaches. outbuildings, a new visitor center and a museum. the mountain’s summit for spectacular views of ing and hiking in the redwoods, and good It is a haven for tidepool explorers, surf The fully restored lighthouse is open Saturdays Mt. Shasta, Lassen Peak, and, on clear days, the access to the south fork of the Eel River for anglers, abalone divers, and spearfishing and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. from the distant Sierra Nevada. (707) 942-4575. swimming and fishing. (707) 925-6482. enthusiasts. (707) 937-5804. first weekend in March through the last week- RUSSIAN GULCH SP SUGARLOAF RIDGE SP end in October. Guided walks in the preserve Mendocino’s coast, waterfalls, and trails high- The park’s 2,700 acres offer 25 miles of hiking are available every May through September. light this 1,300-acre park. Waves enter via the trails, the headwaters of Sonoma Creek, and a Accessible parking is available in front of the “Punch Bowl” tunnel, churning inside a collapsed horseback riding concession. Clear days bring light station residences. (707) 937-5804 or sea cave. RV and tent camping sites are avail- breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge www.pointcabrillo.org. able, along with a picnic area on the bluffs and and the Sierra Nevada from the 2,729-foot- PRAIRIE CREEK REDWOODS SP beach access. (707) 937-5804. summit of Bald Mountain. In addition, there are Paralleling 8 miles of Hwy. 101, 50 miles north SALT POINT SP accessible picnicking spots, educational of Eureka, this is one of California’s most popu- This 6,000-acre park offers 6 miles of dramatic exhibits, and the Ferguson Observatory to visit. lar redwood parks. Roosevelt elk graze in the coastline, with an underwater park that’s a (707) 833-5712 or (707) 938-1519. open prairie adjacent to the Newton B. Drury favorite of free-divers and scuba enthusiasts. TOLOWA DUNES SP E

Parkway and along much of Gold Bluffs Beach. Hike through Bishop pines to see a pygmy forest B The Smith River ends its journey to the Pacific B A

Along with more than 70 miles of trails, the and prairie, or walk along the bluffs. Campsites R Ocean after passing through a rich delta that C

14,500-acre park has campsites in Elk Prairie and picnic areas available. (707) 847-3221. Y consists of a sandy beach, grass-covered R A

Campground and next to Gold Bluffs Beach. SCHOONER GULCH SB G

26 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 27 1 T

S A trail ride through the A dunes at Sonoma Coast SB This small beach and headland is for picnicking, dunes, lakes, ponds, and marshes. Coastal O

C beachcombing, and surfing. (707) 937-5804. accesses are not well signposted. Take Lake

H SINKYONE WILDERNESS SP Earl Drive, turn west on Lower Lake Road, and T Located on the rugged Lost Coast of California, access the park by turning west on Kellogg or R

O this park has spectacular scenery, abundant Pala Road. For access from the south, take N

wildlife, and some 20 miles of hiking trails. Northcrest Drive north from Crescent City, turn

There is a primitive campground at Usal Beach west on Old Mill Road and follow to the end. 1 and walk-in tent sites at Needle Rock. Access (707) 464-6101, ext. 5151. N

O roads are steep, narrow, and unpaved; trailers TRINIDAD SB I

G and motor homes are not recommended. (707) Tucked in a secluded cove near the small

E 986-7711 or (707) 247-3318. town of Trinidad, 15 miles north of Arcata, this R SMITHE REDWOODS SR sandy beach is a pleasant retreat. It’s a short Formerly a private resort, this stand of old- hike through woods, across open bluffs, and growth redwoods makes a pleasant stopping past seasonal wildflowers down to the beach. point for travelers on Highway 101. There is There is a natural arch near the north end of undeveloped access to the Eel River for fishing the beach. Low tide is the best time to visit. and swimming. No restrooms. (707) 925-6482. (707) 677-3132. SONOMA SHP Sonoma was home of California’s last mission, VAN DAMME SP San Francisco Solano, built in 1823. Later it was secularized by the Mexican commander of San The park’s sheltered and easily reached beach Francisco’s Presidio, Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, Vallejo created an agricultural empire on his (707) 464-6101, ext. 5301 or 5300 or 5064. who was imprisoned by American settlers during is a gathering place for abalone and sea urchin 66,000-acre Mexican land grant. From 1834 RICHARDSON GROVE SP 1846’s Bear Flag Revolt. (707) 938-9560. until 1850, Vallejo ran his cattle hide and tallow Stately old-growth redwood trees line the south SONOMA COAST SB divers. Ten miles of hiking trails follow the Little business, raised sheep, bred horses, and grew fork of the Eel River in this 2,000-acre park Spectacular views, sandy strands, and quiet numerous crops. Part of his 2-story adobe named after a former California governor. The coves invite exploration of 19 miles of coastline. River. The park has accessible camping, a vis- headquarters has been restored and outfitted park is a traditional destination for vacationing Enjoy picnics, exhibits, and accessible trails as with early California furnishings and ranch families and offers camping, picnicking, hiking, well as spring wildflowers, colorful sunsets, and itor center, and exhibits, as well as a wheel- equipment. (707) 762-4871. and swimming. The historic lodge building has whale-watching. Reservations (800-444-7275) POINT CABRILLO LIGHT STATION a visitor center and a nearby self-guided nature are recommended at the 2 popular coastal chair-accessible trail in the pygmy forest. (707) The preserve occupies a spectacular headland trail. (707) 247-3318. campgrounds: Bodega Dunes (wheelchair thrusting out into the Pacific Ocean. Park and ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON SP accessible) and Wright’s Beach. (707) 875-3483. 937-5804. walk the half-mile down the access road to In 1880 the author of Treasure Island spent his STANDISH-HICKEY SRA WESTPORT-UNION LANDING SB explore the light station. It comprises the light- honeymoon on the slopes of 4,343-foot Mount Located at the southern gateway of the The 41-acre park is a narrow, 2-mile-long strip house, three original lightkeepers’ houses, St. Helena. Today hikers climb the 5-mile trail to state’s redwood country, this park offers camp- with primitive camping and beautiful beaches. outbuildings, a new visitor center and a museum. the mountain’s summit for spectacular views of ing and hiking in the redwoods, and good It is a haven for tidepool explorers, surf The fully restored lighthouse is open Saturdays Mt. Shasta, Lassen Peak, and, on clear days, the access to the south fork of the Eel River for anglers, abalone divers, and spearfishing and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. from the distant Sierra Nevada. (707) 942-4575. swimming and fishing. (707) 925-6482. enthusiasts. (707) 937-5804. first weekend in March through the last week- RUSSIAN GULCH SP SUGARLOAF RIDGE SP end in October. Guided walks in the preserve Mendocino’s coast, waterfalls, and trails high- The park’s 2,700 acres offer 25 miles of hiking are available every May through September. light this 1,300-acre park. Waves enter via the trails, the headwaters of Sonoma Creek, and a Accessible parking is available in front of the “Punch Bowl” tunnel, churning inside a collapsed horseback riding concession. Clear days bring light station residences. (707) 937-5804 or sea cave. RV and tent camping sites are avail- breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge www.pointcabrillo.org. able, along with a picnic area on the bluffs and and the Sierra Nevada from the 2,729-foot- PRAIRIE CREEK REDWOODS SP beach access. (707) 937-5804. summit of Bald Mountain. In addition, there are Paralleling 8 miles of Hwy. 101, 50 miles north SALT POINT SP accessible picnicking spots, educational of Eureka, this is one of California’s most popu- This 6,000-acre park offers 6 miles of dramatic exhibits, and the Ferguson Observatory to visit. lar redwood parks. Roosevelt elk graze in the coastline, with an underwater park that’s a (707) 833-5712 or (707) 938-1519. open prairie adjacent to the Newton B. Drury favorite of free-divers and scuba enthusiasts. TOLOWA DUNES SP E

Parkway and along much of Gold Bluffs Beach. Hike through Bishop pines to see a pygmy forest B The Smith River ends its journey to the Pacific B A

Along with more than 70 miles of trails, the and prairie, or walk along the bluffs. Campsites R Ocean after passing through a rich delta that C

14,500-acre park has campsites in Elk Prairie and picnic areas available. (707) 847-3221. Y consists of a sandy beach, grass-covered R A

Campground and next to Gold Bluffs Beach. SCHOONER GULCH SB G

26 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 27 1 Bale GristMill Sonoma MacKerricher Little River Clear Lake REGION 1 NORTH COAST Hendy Woods T Van Damme Annadel Sugarloaf Ridge Salt Point Russian Gulch Petaluma Adobe Patrick’s Point Navarro RiverRedwoods Mendocino Headlands Kruse Rhododendron Fort Humboldt Bothe-Napa Valley Azalea A Anderson Marsh Sinkyone Wilderness Manchester Westport-Union Landing T Smithe Redwoods Schooner Gulch Robert LouisStevenson Prairie CreekRedwoods Point CabrilloLightStation Pelican Montgomery Woods Jug Handle Jedediah SmithRedwoods Jack London Humboldt Lagoons Harry A.Merlo Grizzly CreekRedwoods Greenwood Fort Ross Caspar Headlands B Standish-Hickey Mendocino Woodlands Humboldt Redwoods D Austin Creek Sonoma Coast Mailliard Redwoods Richardson Grove rinidad olowa Dunes rmstrong Redwoods el NorteCoastRedwoods enbow Lake Admiral WilliamStandley NORTH COAST REGION 1 R tt erainAe;S tt ec;SR =StateVehicularRecreation Area; SS =StateSeashore. =StateBeach;SVRA =StateRecreation Area;SB SRA authorities. OHV operations (916) 324-4442. StateParksbutoperatedbylocal Other parksinthisregion maybeownedbyCalifornia Specific phone numbers:Generalparkinformation(800)777-0369;Campsitereservations (800)444-7275; www.Parks.CA.gov. For detailedcurrent informationaboutparks,includingreservations, fees,andaccessibility, visitthewebsite 28 SR SB SHP SB SP SHP SP SP SB SR SB SP SP SHP SRA S SP SP SHP SP SB SP SP SRA P=SaePr;SP=SaeHsoi ak H tt itrclMnmn;S =State Reserve; = StateHistorical Monument;SR = StateHistoricPark; SHM SHP = StatePark; SP SHP RA SB SP SHP SRA SHP SP SR SB &SR SP SP SR SR SP SR SP S SP rni for a StateParks R SP Cal i SP SP SB SP SP SRA SP S P • • ••••• •• • • •• • • • •••••••• ••• •• • •••• •• • •• • • • ••• • • ••• • • •• •• • • •• ••••• •• • • • • • • • • • • • ••••• •• • ••• • • • •• • • • • • ••• • ••••• • •• • • • • • •• ••• ••• • • • •• ••• • • • • • • • • • •• • •• •• • • ••• •• • • • • • • •••••• •••••• • • • • • •• • • •• • • • •• •• ••• ••• • ••• ••• •• • •• •• • •••••••• ••• •••••••• ••• •••••• • • ••••••• ••• • •• ••••• • • • ••••••••• ••• •••• • •••• •••••••••• • •••••• •••• ••••• •••• • ••• ••••••••• •• • • ••••• ••••••••••• • ••• •• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •••• • •• • • •• • • • • •••• • • •• • ••••• • ••••••••••••••• • • • •••••••••••••• ••••••• • ••••• • •• • •••••••• • • • • • • • •••••• ••• • •••• •• • ••• • •• www.Parks.CA.gov •• ••• • •• •• • 2 REGION 2 SHASTA CASCADE one mileonRiverRoad.(530)342-5185. south crossing betweenChicoandI-5,thenturn canoeists, andkayakers.Take Hwy. 32attheriver that serveasanaccesspointforboaters,rafters, The park’s 180acres include4milesofriverfront BIDWELL-SACRAMENTO RIVER home datestothe1860s.(530)895-6144. 10,000-square-foot John Bidwell’s 26-room, Agriculturalist, socialactivist,andpolitician BIDWELL MANSION pools, andlavaflows.(530)335-2777. clear water, aswell6,000acres ofwaterways, Redding containsabundantspringsofcold, accessible onlybyboat,thisparknortheastof Surr AHJUMAWI LAVA SPRINGS > > 30 ounded byanetworkofriversandlakes > > S S rni for a StateParks Cal i h h a a SHP s s t t SP a a T wildlife abounds. 4,000-foot granitespires, andarichvarietyof full ofcoldwaterspringsviesforattentionwith California’s great pioneers.Here averdant park room mansionbringhome thestoriesofsome of aGoldRushtown.Historicadobesand26- Chinese temple,ancientlavaflowsandtheruins

SP combines sleepingvolcanoesandanold he granddramaoftheShastaCascadearea C C a a lake surface.(530)538-2219. 167 milesofshoreline and23square milesof lake suppliesboatersandhorsecamperswith The second-largest the reservoir inCalifornia, LAKE OROVILLE acr pit ringedwithlowhills—isthesiteofthis220- Or miles westofOroville, wasusedtobuildLake Clay takenfrom theFeatherRiverValley, three CLAY PIT has 76developedcampsites.(530)235-2684. spires toweringabovetheSacramentoRiver. It The 4,350-acr CASTLE CRAGS vehicles, anddune-buggies.(530)538-2200. s s oville. Ther e r c c ecr eation ar a a SVRA d d e parkoffers viewsofgranite esulting depr ea formotor SP e e SRA ession—a shallow cycles, all-terrain www.Parks.CA.gov

MARK J. DOLYAK ec;SR =StateVehicularRecreation Area; SS=State Seashore. Beach; SVRA SHP 4442. Specific phonenumbers:Generalparkinformation (800)777-0369;Campsitereservations (800)444-7275;OHVoperations(916)324- For detailedcurr Plumas Eureka Lake Oroville Clay PitSVRA Castle Crags McArthur evril osHueSP••• • • • • • • • • • • • • • SRA • Woodson Bridge SHP • William B.IdeAdobe SHP • Weaverville JossHouse • Shasta • • Bidwell-Sacramento RiverSP Bidwell MansionSHP Ahjumawi LavaSprings CASCADE SHASTA REGION 2 www.Parks.CA.gov Norther This parkhonorsthe“QueenCityof SHAST The 6,700-acr PLUMAS-EUREKA sites inther cade eachday—surely oneofthemostdramatic gallons ofwaterflowingoverthis129-footcas- Camp totheambientsoundsof100million MEMORIAL McARTHUR-BURNEY FALLS country skiinwinter. (530)836-2380. Camp andfishhere duringsummerandcross- Mohawk StampMillandseveralotherbuildings. M M d 100 milliongallonsper = StateHistoricPark; Other parksinthisr ay andcounting,at SHP cArthur-Burney Falls emorial SP Bre al e.S • • • • • • • • -Burney FallsMem.SP n Mines.”Therestored courthouseis A SP SRA P•• • SP SHP ent informationaboutparks,includingr egion (530)335-2777. e parkpr SP SP egion maybeowned by Califor SHM SP otects ther = StateHistoricalMonument; •• • • • • • • • • • • emains ofthe • • • ••• •••• •• • • •• • ••• •• • • • • ••• eservations, fees,andaccessibility nia StateParksbutoperated bylocalauthorities. bass, andsalmonfishing.(530)839-2112. mento River, great forshad,steelhead,striped Acres ofvalleyoakmeadowsflanktheSacra- WOODSON BRIDGE Flag Republic.(530)529-8599. River This park,locatednexttotheSacramento WILLIAM B.IDEADOBE 1874 afterthefirstonebur thisjoss housewasrebuilt inCalifornia, temple The oldestcontinuouslyusedintactChinese WEAVERVILLE JOSSHOUSE ings by early California artists.(530)243-8194. ings byearlyCalifornia now amuseumdisplayingmore than100paint- • SR = StateReserve; , honorsWilliamB.Ide,aleaderoftheBear • • • • • •• •• • • • • • • • • SRA , visitthewebsitewww • • • • • • • tt erainAe;S =State = StateRecreation Area; SB SRA •• • • • • • ned. (530)623-5284. •• • • • • • • SHP • • • • • Parks e St at rni for a Cal i • • • • • • • •• •• SP SHP • • • • •• = • • • State Park .Parks.CA.gov • • • •• • • • 31 • • • ; • • • • • . • 2 REGION 2 SHASTA CASCADE one mileonRiverRoad.(530)342-5185. south crossing betweenChicoandI-5,thenturn canoeists, andkayakers.Take Hwy. 32attheriver that serveasanaccesspointforboaters,rafters, The park’s 180acres include4milesofriverfront BIDWELL-SACRAMENTO RIVER home datestothe1860s.(530)895-6144. 10,000-square-foot John Bidwell’s 26-room, Agriculturalist, socialactivist,andpolitician BIDWELL MANSION pools, andlavaflows.(530)335-2777. clear water, aswell6,000acres ofwaterways, Redding containsabundantspringsofcold, accessible onlybyboat,thisparknortheastof Surr AHJUMAWI LAVA SPRINGS > > 30 ounded byanetworkofriversandlakes > > S S rni for a StateParks Cal i h h a a SHP s s t t SP a a T wildlife abounds. 4,000-foot granitespires, andarichvarietyof full ofcoldwaterspringsviesforattentionwith California’s great pioneers.Here averdant park room mansionbringhome thestoriesofsome of aGoldRushtown.Historicadobesand26- Chinese temple,ancientlavaflowsandtheruins

SP combines sleepingvolcanoesandanold he granddramaoftheShastaCascadearea C C a a lake surface.(530)538-2219. 167 milesofshoreline and23square milesof lake suppliesboatersandhorsecamperswith The second-largest the reservoir inCalifornia, LAKE OROVILLE Or miles westofOroville, wasusedtobuildLake Clay takenfrom theFeatherRiverValley, three CLAY PIT has 76developedcampsites.(530)235-2684. spires toweringabovetheSacramentoRiver. It The 4,350-acr CASTLE CRAGS vehicles, anddune-buggies.(530)538-2200. acr pit ringedwithlowhills—isthesiteofthis220- s s oville. Ther e r c c ecr eation ar a a SVRA d d e parkoffers viewsofgranite esulting depr ea formotor SP e e SRA ession—a shallow cycles, all-terrain www.Parks.CA.gov

MARK J. DOLYAK ec;SR =StateVehicularRecreation Area; SS=State Seashore. Beach; SVRA SHP 4442. Specific phonenumbers:Generalparkinformation (800)777-0369;Campsitereservations (800)444-7275;OHVoperations(916)324- For detailedcurr Plumas Eureka Lake Oroville Clay PitSVRA Castle Crags McArthur evril osHueSP••• • • • • • • • • • • • • • SRA • Woodson Bridge SHP • William B.IdeAdobe SHP • Weaverville JossHouse • Shasta • • Bidwell-Sacramento RiverSP Bidwell MansionSHP Ahjumawi LavaSprings CASCADE SHASTA REGION 2 www.Parks.CA.gov Norther This parkhonorsthe“QueenCityof SHAST The 6,700-acr PLUMAS-EUREKA sites inther cade eachday—surely oneofthemostdramatic gallons ofwaterflowingoverthis129-footcas- Camp totheambientsoundsof100million MEMORIAL McARTHUR-BURNEY FALLS country skiinwinter. (530)836-2380. Camp andfishhere duringsummerandcross- Mohawk StampMillandseveralotherbuildings. M M d 100 milliongallonsper = StateHistoricPark; Other parksinthisr ay andcounting,at SHP cArthur-Burney Falls emorial SP Bre al e.S • • • • • • • • -Burney FallsMem.SP n Mines.”Therestored courthouseis A SP SRA P•• • SP SHP ent informationaboutparks,includingr egion (530)335-2777. e parkpr SP SP egion maybeowned by Califor SHM SP otects ther = StateHistoricalMonument; •• • • • • • • • • • • emains ofthe • • • ••• •••• •• • • •• • ••• •• • • • • ••• eservations, fees,andaccessibility nia StateParksbutoperated bylocalauthorities. bass, andsalmonfishing.(530)839-2112. mento River, great forshad,steelhead,striped Acres ofvalleyoakmeadowsflanktheSacra- WOODSON BRIDGE Flag Republic.(530)529-8599. River This park,locatednexttotheSacramento WILLIAM B.IDEADOBE 1874 afterthefirstonebur thisjoss housewasrebuilt inCalifornia, temple The oldestcontinuouslyusedintactChinese WEAVERVILLE JOSSHOUSE ings by early California artists.(530)243-8194. ings byearlyCalifornia now amuseumdisplayingmore than100paint- • SR = StateReserve; , honorsWilliamB.Ide,aleaderoftheBear • • • • • •• •• • • • • • • • • SRA , visitthewebsitewww • • • • • • • tt erainAe;S =State = StateRecreation Area; SB SRA •• • • • • • ned. (530)623-5284. •• • • • • • • SHP • • • • • Parks e St at rni for a Cal i • • • • • • • •• •• SP SHP • • • • •• = • • • State Park .Parks.CA.gov • • • •• • • • 31 • • • ; • • • • • . • 3 Y

R >>Gold Country T

N California to “mine the pockets of the miner.” one of the state’s richest, producing nearly 6 mil- he excitement of the 1848 gold discovery U Over 20 concessions in the historic district lion ounces. The entrance to 367 miles of aban- O Tat Coloma, the Gold Rush that followed, and recreate the businesses of the Gold Rush, from doned and flooded mine shafts is open, along C the movement for statehood come to life in this saloons, to hotels, to dry-goods merchants, to with many mine buildings, the former owner’s D

L region. Roam the “diggings,” and visit Gold Rush a candy store. Activities such as gold panning home, and the formal gardens. (530) 273-8522. O are also available. (209) 588-9128. FOLSOM LAKE SRA

G towns to learn about the adventurous men and DELTA MEADOWS Located at the base of the Sierra Nevada gold

3 women who built them. Among the attractions Delta Meadows preserves a remnant of the country, Folsom Lake is one of the most popular

N are the Governor’s Mansion, the State Capitol Sacramento River Delta as it was before dams recreational lakes in the state. Its 75 miles of O I Museum, and the State Railroad Museum. and levees controlled the annual flooding. The shoreline offer beautiful vistas of the Sierra

G 300-acre park is most accessible by boat. Boats Nevada foothills. Access to more than 32 miles E Come ride a steam engine through classic may anchor for up to 15 consecutive days in of paved bike/hike paths provides connection R Western countryside! “Railway Slough.” (916) 777-7701. to multipurpose trails offering horseback riding, EMPIRE MINE SHP hiking, and mountain biking opportunities. Grass Valley was an active gold-mining town for Within the park, Lake Natoma offers 14 miles AUBURN SRA a 40-acre garden) are accessible; assistive more than 100 years, and its Empire Mine was of shoreline and is ideal for canoeing, kayaking, Go whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and hik- hearing devices for tours are available. (916) ing in this 42,000-acre park covering 40 miles of 324-0333; www.StateCapitolMuseum.com. steep river canyon on the north and middle forks CALIFORNIA STATE of the American River. Mammoth Bar OHV Area, INDIAN MUSEUM SHP located in the Sierra Nevada foothills, 30 miles As many as 300,000 Indians lived in California northeast of Sacramento, has been in use for before the arrival of the first Europeans. nearly 25 years and offers a wide range of trails In addition to a fine collection of cultural artifacts, and conditions. (530) 885-5821. Lake Clementine the accessible museum includes an exhibit that offers fishing, limited power boating, and boat-in explores the impact of the Gold Rush on camping (reservations required), and primitive California’s indigenous peoples. (916) 324-0971. camping (first come, first served). (530) 885-4527. CALIFORNIA STATE CALIFORNIA STATE CAPITOL MUSEUM MINING AND MINERAL MUSEUM Restored rooms offer fascinating glimpses into The museum displays California’s official miner- California’s turn-of-the-century architecture, al collection, established in the 19th century. society, and politics. Free guided tours are given Nearly 13,000 specimens make up these treas- hourly from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For groups of 10 or ures of nature. Displays include the Fricot more, call toll free (866) 240-4655. Exhibits and Nugget, the largest crystalline gold specimen most areas of the Capitol and grounds (including surviving from the Gold Rush era, and exhibits that relate the importance of minerals and The rebuilt village at Indian mining in the past, present, and future. Largely Grinding Rock SP accessible. (209) 742-7625. CALIFORNIA STATE RAILROAD MUSEUM The role of the railroads in shaping the West is depicted throughout the building, regarded as the finest interpretive railroad museum in North America. Included is a Pullman-style sleeping car and a fully equipped dining car. Exhibits and restrooms are accessible. Steam train rides are available weekends, April through September. (916) 445-6645 or (916) 323-9280; www.califor- niastaterailroadmuseum.org. COLUMBIA SHP

The town of Columbia sprung up quickly after K A Y

the discovery of gold in March 1850, to provide L O D

services and supplies to the miners who flood- . J

ed the area. Today, the six-block historic district K R tells the story of the merchants who came to A M

32 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 33 3 Y

R >>Gold Country T

N California to “mine the pockets of the miner.” one of the state’s richest, producing nearly 6 mil- he excitement of the 1848 gold discovery U Over 20 concessions in the historic district lion ounces. The entrance to 367 miles of aban- O Tat Coloma, the Gold Rush that followed, and recreate the businesses of the Gold Rush, from doned and flooded mine shafts is open, along C the movement for statehood come to life in this saloons, to hotels, to dry-goods merchants, to with many mine buildings, the former owner’s D

L region. Roam the “diggings,” and visit Gold Rush a candy store. Activities such as gold panning home, and the formal gardens. (530) 273-8522. O are also available. (209) 588-9128. FOLSOM LAKE SRA

G towns to learn about the adventurous men and DELTA MEADOWS Located at the base of the Sierra Nevada gold

3 women who built them. Among the attractions Delta Meadows preserves a remnant of the country, Folsom Lake is one of the most popular

N are the Governor’s Mansion, the State Capitol Sacramento River Delta as it was before dams recreational lakes in the state. Its 75 miles of O I Museum, and the State Railroad Museum. and levees controlled the annual flooding. The shoreline offer beautiful vistas of the Sierra

G 300-acre park is most accessible by boat. Boats Nevada foothills. Access to more than 32 miles E Come ride a steam engine through classic may anchor for up to 15 consecutive days in of paved bike/hike paths provides connection R Western countryside! “Railway Slough.” (916) 777-7701. to multipurpose trails offering horseback riding, EMPIRE MINE SHP hiking, and mountain biking opportunities. Grass Valley was an active gold-mining town for Within the park, Lake Natoma offers 14 miles AUBURN SRA a 40-acre garden) are accessible; assistive more than 100 years, and its Empire Mine was of shoreline and is ideal for canoeing, kayaking, Go whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and hik- hearing devices for tours are available. (916) ing in this 42,000-acre park covering 40 miles of 324-0333; www.StateCapitolMuseum.com. steep river canyon on the north and middle forks CALIFORNIA STATE of the American River. Mammoth Bar OHV Area, INDIAN MUSEUM SHP located in the Sierra Nevada foothills, 30 miles As many as 300,000 Indians lived in California northeast of Sacramento, has been in use for before the arrival of the first Europeans. nearly 25 years and offers a wide range of trails In addition to a fine collection of cultural artifacts, and conditions. (530) 885-5821. Lake Clementine the accessible museum includes an exhibit that offers fishing, limited power boating, and boat-in explores the impact of the Gold Rush on camping (reservations required), and primitive California’s indigenous peoples. (916) 324-0971. camping (first come, first served). (530) 885-4527. CALIFORNIA STATE CALIFORNIA STATE CAPITOL MUSEUM MINING AND MINERAL MUSEUM Restored rooms offer fascinating glimpses into The museum displays California’s official miner- California’s turn-of-the-century architecture, al collection, established in the 19th century. society, and politics. Free guided tours are given Nearly 13,000 specimens make up these treas- hourly from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For groups of 10 or ures of nature. Displays include the Fricot more, call toll free (866) 240-4655. Exhibits and Nugget, the largest crystalline gold specimen most areas of the Capitol and grounds (including surviving from the Gold Rush era, and exhibits that relate the importance of minerals and The rebuilt village at Indian mining in the past, present, and future. Largely Grinding Rock SP accessible. (209) 742-7625. CALIFORNIA STATE RAILROAD MUSEUM The role of the railroads in shaping the West is depicted throughout the building, regarded as the finest interpretive railroad museum in North America. Included is a Pullman-style sleeping car and a fully equipped dining car. Exhibits and restrooms are accessible. Steam train rides are available weekends, April through September. (916) 445-6645 or (916) 323-9280; www.califor- niastaterailroadmuseum.org. COLUMBIA SHP

The town of Columbia sprung up quickly after K A Y

the discovery of gold in March 1850, to provide L O D

services and supplies to the miners who flood- . J

ed the area. Today, the six-block historic district K R tells the story of the merchants who came to A M

32 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 33 3 Y R T

N sailing, fishing, and swimming. Group camping Sacramento businessman Shelton C. Fogus Sierra foothills. Accessible parking and exhibits.

U by reservation. (916) 988-0205. built this home in 1857. Four years later, Leland (209) 984-3953 or recorded information: (916) O FOLSOM POWERHOUSE SHP Stanford, one of the Big Four of the Central 445-6645; www.railtown1897.org. C To the accompaniment of a 100-gun salute, the Pacific Railroad, and governor of California SOUTH YUBA RIVER SP D

L Folsom Powerhouse brought electric power to from 1862 to 1864, purchased the mansion. This park stretches 20 miles along the South

O Sacramento in 1895. Fully operational until Stanford expanded and remodeled the home, Yuba River from Edwards Crossing to Bridge- G 1952, it still looks much as it did 100 years ago. residing in it until 1874. Scheduled to reopen in port, site of the world’s longest single-span

3 The vintage turbines are still in place, as is the 2005. (916) 324-7405. wooden-truss covered bridge. Bridgeport has a

N marble control switchboard. Accessible rest- MALAKOFF DIGGINS SHP Living History program, docent-led talks, and O

I rooms. (916) 988-0205; tours (916) 985-4843. Though legal battles between mine owners and gold-panning demonstrations. There’s an

G GOVERNOR’S MANSION SHP downstream communities ended the mining accessible trail to the river and accessible pic- E The mansion was built by hardware store technique of using powerful jets of water to nic and fishing areas. The whole-access R merchant Albert Gallatin in 1877. It became the wash away the hillsides, the effects are still Independence Trail follows the old Excelsior The California State Railroad Museum official residence for California’s governors in visible in the 3,000-acre park. Accessible Ditch. (530) 432-2546 or (530) 273-3884. at Old Sacramento SHP 1903 and was used by all subsequent gover- camping, picnicking, exhibits, restrooms, and SUTTER’S FORT SHP nors until 1967, when Ronald Reagan became fishing (with assistance). (530) 265-2740. John Sutter, a Swiss immigrant, applied for a the last governor to reside in it. Guided tours MARSHALL GOLD DISCOVERY SHP Mexican land grant in the Sacramento Valley in offer insight into the lives of the families that This park encompasses about 70 percent of the 1839. Sutter’s Fort became the destination for lived in the mansion. (916) 323-3047. town of Coloma and has displays on Gold early migrants to California, including the ill-fated INDIAN GRINDING ROCK SHP Rush–era mining methods, household articles, Donner Party. Restored to its 1846 appearance, The park offers camping year round among the and tools. Other exhibits tell the story of John the fort is open daily, except for some major holi- pines and oak woodlands where Miwoks once A. Sutter and James Marshall and the discovery days. Accessible grounds, exhibits, restrooms, lived. There is a reconstructed village used that altered their lives (and history). There are and text transcripts. (916) 445-4422. for celebrations and ceremonies by several hiking trails and picnic areas along the South California Native American communities; the Fork of the American River. (530) 622-3470. Chaw’se Regional Indian Museum displays OLD SACRAMENTO SHP Miwok culture. Accessible camping, picnicking, In this registered National Historic Landmark, exhibits, and video. (209) 296-7488. early Sacramento and California Gold Rush his- LELAND STANFORD MANSION SHP tory can be seen in such structures as the Big Four Building, where much of the Trans- continental Railroad was planned, and the B.F. REGION 3 Hastings Building, the western terminus of the GOLD COUNTRY Pony Express. (916) 445-6645 or (916) 323- 9280; www.californiastaterailroadmuseum.org. PRAIRIE CITY SVRA Auburn SRA • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • With approximately 850 acres of rolling hills and California State Capitol Museum • • • ••• • •• • California State Indian Museum ••• • •• cobbled mine tailings to ride on, beginners as CA State Mining & Mineral Mus. ••••• • • • • • well as experts find the variety of terrains, trails, California State Railroad Mus. • • • • • • • • and tracks for motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, Columbia SHP • • •• • •• • •• Delta Meadows •• ••• •• • and 4-wheel-drive vehicles both challenging Empire Mine SHP • • ••• • • •••• • and enjoyable. Prairie City is located at the base Folsom Lake SRA • ••• • • • ••• • • • • • • • • • • • of the Sierra foothills, 20 miles east of Folsom Powerhouse SHP • • • •• • Sacramento and 3 miles south of Hwy. 50. The Governor’s Mansion SHP • ••• ••• Indian Grinding Rock SHP • • •••• • • ••• •• park is open Thursday through Tuesday for day Leland Stanford Mansion SHP SCHEDULED TO OPEN IN 2005 use only. (916) 985-7378. Malakoff Diggins SHP • ••• • • • • • • • • • • • • • RAILTOWN 1897 SHP Marshall Gold Discovery SHP • • • •• •• ••• • Old Sacramento SHP • • • • • ••• The home of the historic Sierra Railroad Shops Prairie City SVRA ••• • and Roundhouse combines industrial heritage Railtown 1897 SHP • • •• ••• and railroad history with the lore of Hollywood’s South Yuba River SP • • •• ••• •••• •• • S S

I I Sutter’s Fort SHP ••• • •

film industry. The park’s historic locomotives H H T T

L L For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website www.Parks.CA.gov.

and railroad cars have appeared in more than A A B B

Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; OHV operations (916) 200 films, TV productions, and commercials. . . S S

324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local authorities. SP = State Panning for gold at Columbia On weekends from April though October, climb K K N N Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; SRA = State Recreation Area;

SHP, near Sonora A A

aboard for a scenic steam train ride through the R R SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore. F F

34 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 35 3 Y R T

N sailing, fishing, and swimming. Group camping Sacramento businessman Shelton C. Fogus Sierra foothills. Accessible parking and exhibits.

U by reservation. (916) 988-0205. built this home in 1857. Four years later, Leland (209) 984-3953 or recorded information: (916) O FOLSOM POWERHOUSE SHP Stanford, one of the Big Four of the Central 445-6645; www.railtown1897.org. C To the accompaniment of a 100-gun salute, the Pacific Railroad, and governor of California SOUTH YUBA RIVER SP D

L Folsom Powerhouse brought electric power to from 1862 to 1864, purchased the mansion. This park stretches 20 miles along the South

O Sacramento in 1895. Fully operational until Stanford expanded and remodeled the home, Yuba River from Edwards Crossing to Bridge- G 1952, it still looks much as it did 100 years ago. residing in it until 1874. Scheduled to reopen in port, site of the world’s longest single-span

3 The vintage turbines are still in place, as is the 2005. (916) 324-7405. wooden-truss covered bridge. Bridgeport has a

N marble control switchboard. Accessible rest- MALAKOFF DIGGINS SHP Living History program, docent-led talks, and O

I rooms. (916) 988-0205; tours (916) 985-4843. Though legal battles between mine owners and gold-panning demonstrations. There’s an

G GOVERNOR’S MANSION SHP downstream communities ended the mining accessible trail to the river and accessible pic- E The mansion was built by hardware store technique of using powerful jets of water to nic and fishing areas. The whole-access R merchant Albert Gallatin in 1877. It became the wash away the hillsides, the effects are still Independence Trail follows the old Excelsior The California State Railroad Museum official residence for California’s governors in visible in the 3,000-acre park. Accessible Ditch. (530) 432-2546 or (530) 273-3884. at Old Sacramento SHP 1903 and was used by all subsequent gover- camping, picnicking, exhibits, restrooms, and SUTTER’S FORT SHP nors until 1967, when Ronald Reagan became fishing (with assistance). (530) 265-2740. John Sutter, a Swiss immigrant, applied for a the last governor to reside in it. Guided tours MARSHALL GOLD DISCOVERY SHP Mexican land grant in the Sacramento Valley in offer insight into the lives of the families that This park encompasses about 70 percent of the 1839. Sutter’s Fort became the destination for lived in the mansion. (916) 323-3047. town of Coloma and has displays on Gold early migrants to California, including the ill-fated INDIAN GRINDING ROCK SHP Rush–era mining methods, household articles, Donner Party. Restored to its 1846 appearance, The park offers camping year round among the and tools. Other exhibits tell the story of John the fort is open daily, except for some major holi- pines and oak woodlands where Miwoks once A. Sutter and James Marshall and the discovery days. Accessible grounds, exhibits, restrooms, lived. There is a reconstructed village used that altered their lives (and history). There are and text transcripts. (916) 445-4422. for celebrations and ceremonies by several hiking trails and picnic areas along the South California Native American communities; the Fork of the American River. (530) 622-3470. Chaw’se Regional Indian Museum displays OLD SACRAMENTO SHP Miwok culture. Accessible camping, picnicking, In this registered National Historic Landmark, exhibits, and video. (209) 296-7488. early Sacramento and California Gold Rush his- LELAND STANFORD MANSION SHP tory can be seen in such structures as the Big Four Building, where much of the Trans- continental Railroad was planned, and the B.F. REGION 3 Hastings Building, the western terminus of the GOLD COUNTRY Pony Express. (916) 445-6645 or (916) 323- 9280; www.californiastaterailroadmuseum.org. PRAIRIE CITY SVRA Auburn SRA • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • With approximately 850 acres of rolling hills and California State Capitol Museum • • • ••• • •• • California State Indian Museum ••• • •• cobbled mine tailings to ride on, beginners as CA State Mining & Mineral Mus. ••••• • • • • • well as experts find the variety of terrains, trails, California State Railroad Mus. • • • • • • • • and tracks for motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, Columbia SHP • • •• • •• • •• Delta Meadows •• ••• •• • and 4-wheel-drive vehicles both challenging Empire Mine SHP • • ••• • • •••• • and enjoyable. Prairie City is located at the base Folsom Lake SRA • ••• • • • ••• • • • • • • • • • • • of the Sierra foothills, 20 miles east of Folsom Powerhouse SHP • • • •• • Sacramento and 3 miles south of Hwy. 50. The Governor’s Mansion SHP • ••• ••• Indian Grinding Rock SHP • • •••• • • ••• •• park is open Thursday through Tuesday for day Leland Stanford Mansion SHP SCHEDULED TO OPEN IN 2005 use only. (916) 985-7378. Malakoff Diggins SHP • ••• • • • • • • • • • • • • • RAILTOWN 1897 SHP Marshall Gold Discovery SHP • • • •• •• ••• • Old Sacramento SHP • • • • • ••• The home of the historic Sierra Railroad Shops Prairie City SVRA ••• • and Roundhouse combines industrial heritage Railtown 1897 SHP • • •• ••• and railroad history with the lore of Hollywood’s South Yuba River SP • • •• ••• •••• •• • S S

I I Sutter’s Fort SHP ••• • •

film industry. The park’s historic locomotives H H T T

L L For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website www.Parks.CA.gov.

and railroad cars have appeared in more than A A B B

Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; OHV operations (916) 200 films, TV productions, and commercials. . . S S

324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local authorities. SP = State Panning for gold at Columbia On weekends from April though October, climb K K N N Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; SRA = State Recreation Area;

SHP, near Sonora A A

aboard for a scenic steam train ride through the R R SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore. F F

34 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 35 4 175 miles 20 miles to Reno Donner Memorial

A to Burton Creek

R >>High Sierra San Kings Beach 80 R Francisco Tahoe E I rystal-clear lakes high in the snow country, Tahoe City Sugar Pine Point

S 525-7232 or (530) 525-7982. steaming hot springs, and giant sequoias D.L. Bliss H C TAHOE SRA Emerald Bay South Lake Tahoe

G This 57-acre park offers excellent views of I reaching for the clouds—these describe the Washoe Meadows

H the lake, direct access to the shoreline, a

Lake Valley

beautiful High Sierra. This region also is the site of 89 historic dam, an Indian basket museum 88 4 a large gold-mining ghost town; a state historic and 26 campsites. (530) 583-3074. Grover Hot Springs N park used for Native American ceremonies; and 4 Calaveras Big Trees

O WASHOE MEADOWS SP

I 182 The Washoe tribe of Native Americans Bodie G magnificent Lake Tahoe and eerie Mono Lake, 108 Bridgeport

E fished in this area for thousands of years. 270 Mono Lake Tufa 167

R whose 60 square miles of salty, alkaline waters The 620-acre park’s meadows and Closed in Winter and stark “towers” of tufa tempt photographers. forestlands have not been developed. 120 (530) 525-3345. Mammoth Yosemite Lakes WASSAMA ROUND HOUSE SHP 140 Village BODIE SHP This 27-acre park is still used as a cere- 130 miles 41 to Monterey 49 California’s most notorious gold-mining town, monial meeting place; visitors can view Bishop Bodie, attracted miners, gamblers, prostitutes, the massive wooden round house, the Wassama and hotel operators. Now it’s the best-preserved focus of cermonial activities of local Round House 168 ghost town in the West. (760) 647-6445. Miwok and Chukchansi. (209) 742-7625. BURTON CREEK SP Boasting 2,000 acres of undeveloped forest, meadows, and streams, much of the park is 180 open in winter for cross-country skiing. Park: 198 (530) 525-3345. Ski center: (530) 583-5475. For detailed current information about parks, CALAVERAS BIG TREES SP including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit Sugar Pine Point SP, on Lake Tahoe Two protected groves of giant sequoias provide the website www.Parks.CA.gov. Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; a mid-Sierra elevation experience in this park Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; OHV 0 50 mi located northeast of Stockton. (209) 795-2334. One of Lake Tahoe’s most-photographed natural operations (916) 324-4442. Other parks in this D.L. BLISS SP attractions, this park offers the Emerald Bay Trail region may be owned by California State Parks 0 50 km This Tahoe beach offers 2.9 miles of lakefront (5.5 miles) and also showcases the Vikingsholm but operated by local authorities. SP = State Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State 178 campsites and trails connecting to the Emerald castle, an eclectic combination of Scandinavian Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; 178 Bay Trail, as well as the world’s highest-eleva- architecture. (530) 541-3030. SRA = State Recreation Area; SB = State 110 miles to Los Angeles tion historic lighthouse. (530) 525-7277. GROVER HOT SPRINGS SP Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore. DONNER MEMORIAL SP Cross-country skiing and 102-degree mineral A memorial to the Donner Party’s attempted spring waters add to this park’s appeal. mountain crossing in 1846–47, the park offers (530) 694-2248. the Emigrant Trail Museum and accessible KINGS BEACH SRA camping and picnicking. (530) 582-7892. Visitors come to swim, bask in the sun, and play EMERALD BAY SP volleyball at this day-use-only park on the north REGION 4 shore of Lake Tahoe. (530) 546-4212. HIGH SIERRA S

Navy Beach, Mono LAKE VALLEY SRA N I

Lake Tufa SR This park offers a championship 18-hole golf M M

course during summer and a snowmobile and U C

cross-country ski area during winter. Golf D Bodie SHP • • • • • ••• R

A Burton Creek SP •

course: (530) 577-0802. H

C Calaveras Big Trees SP • • • • • • ••• • • •• • •• • I R

MONO LAKE TUFA SR D.L. Bliss SP • • • • • •••• • • • ;

K Donner Memorial SP ••• • • • • • • • • • • • • • Mono Lake offers spectacular scenery, including A Y

L Emerald Bay SP • • • • ••• • ••••• •

unusual tufa formations. The alkaline lake sup- O

D Grover Hot Springs SP • • ••• • •

.

ports large bird populations. (760) 647-6331. J Kings Beach SRA • • • • •

K Lake Valley SRA • SUGAR PINE POINT SP R A Mono Lake Tufa SR • • • • ••• • • • M

Year-round campgrounds provide access to : Sugar Pine Point SP • • ••••••••• • •• •• • P

beach areas and the Pine Lodge in summer, O Tahoe SRA • • •••••••• • ••• • T Washoe Meadows SP • and cross-country trails in winter. Historic mar- M

O Wassama Round House SHP • •• • ••• itime exhibits showcase 1920s boats. (530) R F

36 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 37 4 175 miles 20 miles to Reno Donner Memorial

A to Burton Creek

R >>High Sierra San Kings Beach 80 R Francisco Tahoe E I rystal-clear lakes high in the snow country, Tahoe City Sugar Pine Point

S 525-7232 or (530) 525-7982. steaming hot springs, and giant sequoias D.L. Bliss H C TAHOE SRA Emerald Bay South Lake Tahoe

G This 57-acre park offers excellent views of I reaching for the clouds—these describe the Washoe Meadows

H the lake, direct access to the shoreline, a

Lake Valley

beautiful High Sierra. This region also is the site of 89 historic dam, an Indian basket museum 88 4 a large gold-mining ghost town; a state historic and 26 campsites. (530) 583-3074. Grover Hot Springs N park used for Native American ceremonies; and 4 Calaveras Big Trees

O WASHOE MEADOWS SP

I 182 The Washoe tribe of Native Americans Bodie G magnificent Lake Tahoe and eerie Mono Lake, 108 Bridgeport

E fished in this area for thousands of years. 270 Mono Lake Tufa 167

R whose 60 square miles of salty, alkaline waters The 620-acre park’s meadows and Closed in Winter and stark “towers” of tufa tempt photographers. forestlands have not been developed. 120 (530) 525-3345. Mammoth Yosemite Lakes WASSAMA ROUND HOUSE SHP 140 Village BODIE SHP This 27-acre park is still used as a cere- 130 miles 41 to Monterey 49 California’s most notorious gold-mining town, monial meeting place; visitors can view Bishop Bodie, attracted miners, gamblers, prostitutes, the massive wooden round house, the Wassama and hotel operators. Now it’s the best-preserved focus of cermonial activities of local Round House 168 ghost town in the West. (760) 647-6445. Miwok and Chukchansi. (209) 742-7625. BURTON CREEK SP Boasting 2,000 acres of undeveloped forest, meadows, and streams, much of the park is 180 open in winter for cross-country skiing. Park: 198 (530) 525-3345. Ski center: (530) 583-5475. For detailed current information about parks, CALAVERAS BIG TREES SP including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit Sugar Pine Point SP, on Lake Tahoe Two protected groves of giant sequoias provide the website www.Parks.CA.gov. Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; a mid-Sierra elevation experience in this park Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; OHV 0 50 mi located northeast of Stockton. (209) 795-2334. One of Lake Tahoe’s most-photographed natural operations (916) 324-4442. Other parks in this D.L. BLISS SP attractions, this park offers the Emerald Bay Trail region may be owned by California State Parks 0 50 km This Tahoe beach offers 2.9 miles of lakefront (5.5 miles) and also showcases the Vikingsholm but operated by local authorities. SP = State Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State 178 campsites and trails connecting to the Emerald castle, an eclectic combination of Scandinavian Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; 178 Bay Trail, as well as the world’s highest-eleva- architecture. (530) 541-3030. SRA = State Recreation Area; SB = State 110 miles to Los Angeles tion historic lighthouse. (530) 525-7277. GROVER HOT SPRINGS SP Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore. DONNER MEMORIAL SP Cross-country skiing and 102-degree mineral A memorial to the Donner Party’s attempted spring waters add to this park’s appeal. mountain crossing in 1846–47, the park offers (530) 694-2248. the Emigrant Trail Museum and accessible KINGS BEACH SRA camping and picnicking. (530) 582-7892. Visitors come to swim, bask in the sun, and play EMERALD BAY SP volleyball at this day-use-only park on the north REGION 4 shore of Lake Tahoe. (530) 546-4212. HIGH SIERRA S

Navy Beach, Mono LAKE VALLEY SRA N I

Lake Tufa SR This park offers a championship 18-hole golf M M

course during summer and a snowmobile and U C

cross-country ski area during winter. Golf D Bodie SHP • • • • • ••• R

A Burton Creek SP •

course: (530) 577-0802. H

C Calaveras Big Trees SP • • • • • • ••• • • •• • •• • I R

MONO LAKE TUFA SR D.L. Bliss SP • • • • • •••• • • • ;

K Donner Memorial SP ••• • • • • • • • • • • • • • Mono Lake offers spectacular scenery, including A Y

L Emerald Bay SP • • • • ••• • ••••• •

unusual tufa formations. The alkaline lake sup- O

D Grover Hot Springs SP • • ••• • •

.

ports large bird populations. (760) 647-6331. J Kings Beach SRA • • • • •

K Lake Valley SRA • SUGAR PINE POINT SP R A Mono Lake Tufa SR • • • • ••• • • • M

Year-round campgrounds provide access to : Sugar Pine Point SP • • ••••••••• • •• •• • P

beach areas and the Pine Lodge in summer, O Tahoe SRA • • •••••••• • ••• • T Washoe Meadows SP • and cross-country trails in winter. Historic mar- M

O Wassama Round House SHP • •• • ••• itime exhibits showcase 1920s boats. (530) R F

36 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 37 5 A E >>San Francisco Bay Area R A his region is home to some of the world’s Y A Tmost recognizable sights as well as, Big Basin B Redwoods State park, California’s first state park. O

C Sheltered coves lead to forests traced by hiking S I and horse trails; northern elephant seals breed on C

N an austere point that also marks the path of a A

R monarch butterfly migration. Lighthouses, oak- F studded hillsides, a mountain that surveys 20,000 N Robert W. Crown Memorial* A square miles—it’s the San Francisco Bay Area. S

San Bruno Mt.*

5

N

O ANGEL ISLAND SP AÑO NUEVO SP & SR

I * A brief ferry trip from San Francisco, Tiburon, This park is set aside to protect a substantial area G

E Vallejo, or Oakland/Alameda, this former Civil War of the Central Coast Range inland of Año Nuevo R camp preserves many of its wooden army build- Point. Also, this reserve is a gathering area for ings. It was a jumping-off point for soldiers return- northern elephant seals. In the breeding season, ing from the World War II Pacific campaigns and December 15 through March 31, access to the later home to a Nike missile base. The island reserve is only available via guided walks: (800) offers campsites, biking and hiking trails, bike 444-4445. In that season, wheelchair-accessible rentals, and sea kayak tours with breathtaking guided walks and ASL guides are offered week- Lighthouse Fields* views. The Immigration Station Museum details ends only. (650) 879-2033. Accessible picnicking the arrival of Asian immigrants. Accessible pic- and visitor center (650) 879-0227. nicking, boating, tram tour, exhibits, Cove Café, BENICIA SRA and a van with a lift (call ahead). (415) 435-1915. On the Carquinez Strait (where the strait nar- Tram tours: (415) 897-0715. rows before emptying into San Francisco Bay), the park’s grass-covered hillsides and wetlands have become a popular destination for exercise is only 3 miles from the ocean. Trails meander is open seven days a week. (925) 447-9027. enthusiasts, including runners, cyclists, walkers, through coastal scrub and redwood forests. CASTLE ROCK SP and in-line skaters. (707) 648-1911. The higher mountains afford coastal views. Stands of coastal redwood, madrone, and BENICIA CAPITOL SHP Butano offers 20 developed campsites, as well Douglas fir are broken by rock formations and California’s early statehood saw a succession as 18 walk-in sites. (800) 444-7275. Accessible views of the coast range to the ocean. More of capitals, with Benicia the third before visitor center. (650) 879-2040. than 33 miles of trails for hikers and equestrians Sacramento became the seat of government. CANDLESTICK POINT SRA wind through the park. Overnight camping for The Capitol’s interior has been restored in This popular Bay Area park has many activities backpackers. (408) 867-2952 or (831) 338-8861 intricate detail, showcasing mid-19th century to offer—windsurfing, group picnicking, and (for backcountry registration). craftmanship. (707) 745-3385. bike riding along the trail. Accessible approach CHINA CAMP SP BETHANY RESERVOIR SRA to the pier, fishing platform, picnic area, and Site of the Bay Area’s last Chinese shrimp- This lake is popular among anglers, wind- garden. (415) 671-0145. fishing village—dating to the 1880s—this park surfers, and cyclists. (209) 599-3810. CARNEGIE SVRA offers 30 developed walk-in campsites. Visitors BIG BASIN REDWOODS SP With more than 1,500 acres of open area, come to watch the multitudes of birds and to California’s oldest state park, established in Carnegie offers a variety of terrain upon which mountain bike, hike, swim, fish, boat, or wind- 1902, has grown to more than 18,000 acres, to ride. Characterized by rocky washes, rolling surf. Accessible camping. (415) 456-0766. with more than 80 miles of trails passing among hills and rugged canyons, the park provides a THE FOREST OF NISENE MARKS SP streams, waterfalls, and old-growth redwoods. setting for off-highway vehicle users of all skill In 1963, the Marks family donated 10,000 acres There are 147 developed campsites (some levels. Carnegie offers a motocross track, an of second-growth redwood forest to the state.

accessible), 5 trail camps, 35 tent cabins, and A ATV track, a track for younger riders, and a 4x4 There are several picnic areas, but the only D J

accessible natural and cultural history exhibits. E obstacle course, as well as a campground and campground is located 6 miles from the nearest H C Other accessible features include nature and I picnic area. Carnegie is located in the hills off parking area. (831) 763-7062 or (831) 429-2850. M

E

hiking trails and tent cabins. (831) 338-8860. I I-580 between Livermore and Tracy. Day-use HENRY COWELL REDWOODS SP Mountain biker at N A hours are from 8 a.m. until sunset, and the park Enjoy some of the most spectacular redwoods BUTANO SP F

China Camp SP E Located in the Santa Cruz mountains, this park T S

38 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 39 5 A E >>San Francisco Bay Area R A his region is home to some of the world’s Y A Tmost recognizable sights as well as, Big Basin B Redwoods State park, California’s first state park. O

C Sheltered coves lead to forests traced by hiking S I and horse trails; northern elephant seals breed on C

N an austere point that also marks the path of a A

R monarch butterfly migration. Lighthouses, oak- F studded hillsides, a mountain that surveys 20,000 N Robert W. Crown Memorial* A square miles—it’s the San Francisco Bay Area. S

San Bruno Mt.*

5

N

O ANGEL ISLAND SP AÑO NUEVO SP & SR

I * A brief ferry trip from San Francisco, Tiburon, This park is set aside to protect a substantial area G

E Vallejo, or Oakland/Alameda, this former Civil War of the Central Coast Range inland of Año Nuevo R camp preserves many of its wooden army build- Point. Also, this reserve is a gathering area for ings. It was a jumping-off point for soldiers return- northern elephant seals. In the breeding season, ing from the World War II Pacific campaigns and December 15 through March 31, access to the later home to a Nike missile base. The island reserve is only available via guided walks: (800) offers campsites, biking and hiking trails, bike 444-4445. In that season, wheelchair-accessible rentals, and sea kayak tours with breathtaking guided walks and ASL guides are offered week- Lighthouse Fields* views. The Immigration Station Museum details ends only. (650) 879-2033. Accessible picnicking the arrival of Asian immigrants. Accessible pic- and visitor center (650) 879-0227. nicking, boating, tram tour, exhibits, Cove Café, BENICIA SRA and a van with a lift (call ahead). (415) 435-1915. On the Carquinez Strait (where the strait nar- Tram tours: (415) 897-0715. rows before emptying into San Francisco Bay), the park’s grass-covered hillsides and wetlands have become a popular destination for exercise is only 3 miles from the ocean. Trails meander is open seven days a week. (925) 447-9027. enthusiasts, including runners, cyclists, walkers, through coastal scrub and redwood forests. CASTLE ROCK SP and in-line skaters. (707) 648-1911. The higher mountains afford coastal views. Stands of coastal redwood, madrone, and BENICIA CAPITOL SHP Butano offers 20 developed campsites, as well Douglas fir are broken by rock formations and California’s early statehood saw a succession as 18 walk-in sites. (800) 444-7275. Accessible views of the coast range to the ocean. More of capitals, with Benicia the third before visitor center. (650) 879-2040. than 33 miles of trails for hikers and equestrians Sacramento became the seat of government. CANDLESTICK POINT SRA wind through the park. Overnight camping for The Capitol’s interior has been restored in This popular Bay Area park has many activities backpackers. (408) 867-2952 or (831) 338-8861 intricate detail, showcasing mid-19th century to offer—windsurfing, group picnicking, and (for backcountry registration). craftmanship. (707) 745-3385. bike riding along the trail. Accessible approach CHINA CAMP SP BETHANY RESERVOIR SRA to the pier, fishing platform, picnic area, and Site of the Bay Area’s last Chinese shrimp- This lake is popular among anglers, wind- garden. (415) 671-0145. fishing village—dating to the 1880s—this park surfers, and cyclists. (209) 599-3810. CARNEGIE SVRA offers 30 developed walk-in campsites. Visitors BIG BASIN REDWOODS SP With more than 1,500 acres of open area, come to watch the multitudes of birds and to California’s oldest state park, established in Carnegie offers a variety of terrain upon which mountain bike, hike, swim, fish, boat, or wind- 1902, has grown to more than 18,000 acres, to ride. Characterized by rocky washes, rolling surf. Accessible camping. (415) 456-0766. with more than 80 miles of trails passing among hills and rugged canyons, the park provides a THE FOREST OF NISENE MARKS SP streams, waterfalls, and old-growth redwoods. setting for off-highway vehicle users of all skill In 1963, the Marks family donated 10,000 acres There are 147 developed campsites (some levels. Carnegie offers a motocross track, an of second-growth redwood forest to the state.

accessible), 5 trail camps, 35 tent cabins, and A ATV track, a track for younger riders, and a 4x4 There are several picnic areas, but the only D J

accessible natural and cultural history exhibits. E obstacle course, as well as a campground and campground is located 6 miles from the nearest H C Other accessible features include nature and I picnic area. Carnegie is located in the hills off parking area. (831) 763-7062 or (831) 429-2850. M

E

hiking trails and tent cabins. (831) 338-8860. I I-580 between Livermore and Tracy. Day-use HENRY COWELL REDWOODS SP Mountain biker at N A hours are from 8 a.m. until sunset, and the park Enjoy some of the most spectacular redwoods BUTANO SP F

China Camp SP E Located in the Santa Cruz mountains, this park T S

38 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 39 5 A E R

A in the Bay Area at this conveniently located panoramic vistas of the Petaluma Basin and

Y park. In wintertime, anglers fish for steelhead hills beyond. Day use only. Accessible

A and salmon. The nature center, nature trail picnicking. Visitor center (415) 892-3383. B campground, gift shop, and programs are all PIGEON POINT LIGHT STATION SHP O accessible. (831) 335-4598. The grounds of this historic 1872 lighthouse C S

I MARCONI CONFERENCE CENTER SHP are open for tours on weekends; the light-

C This site was once home to a mile-high radio house itself is closed for repairs. Reservations N antenna that controlled ship-to-shore communica- recommended for the youth hostel. Hostel A

R tions for the western seaboard. Historic buildings office is closed between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 F

provide a spectacular setting for walking trails p.m. (650) 879-2120. Park: (650) 879-2120. N with views of Tomales Bay and its abundant PORTOLA REDWOODS SP A

S wildlife. (415) 663-9020. This state park is covered by Douglas fir, oaks,

MOUNT DIABLO SP and coastal redwoods, one of which, at 300 feet 5 Some 20,000 square miles of the state—including in height, is among the tallest in the Santa Cruz N Lassen Peak, the Farallon Islands, and the Sierra Mountains. Some campsites. (650) 948-9098. O I Nevada—are visible from this Contra Costa SAMUEL P. TAYLOR SP G

E County mountain’s summit on a clear day. The Enjoy open hillsides with hiking, mountain R park offers camping as well as day use. Camping biking, and equestrian trails, creeks, canyons, reservations recommended. (925) 837-2525. and thriving redwoods. Some accessible camp- MOUNT TAMALPAIS SP sites, 4 group camps, an equestrian camp, The twisting road to the mountain’s 2,571-foot accessible picnic area and trail. (415) 488-9897. summit is a paradise for hikers and bicyclists. SAN MATEO COAST SBs Mountain biking was first tested at Marin’s Mt. Between San Francisco and Santa Cruz, travel- Tam in the early 1970s. It has 16 developed ers are greeted by a series of state beaches: walk-in campsites and 10 rustic cabins that Gray Whale Cove, Montara, Half Moon Bay, perch on a bluff overlooking the Pacific. San Gregorio, Pomponio, Pescadero Marsh Accessible picnicking and cabin; annual Nature Preserve, and Bean Hollow. Most have Mountain Play. (415) 388-2070. parking lots, picnic tables, and restroom facili- NATURAL BRIDGES SB ties. For marsh and tide pool: (650) 879-2170. Named for picturesque rock formations off its Overnight accommodations: Point Montara coastal bluffs, the park is world-famous for its Light Station, (650) 728-7177. State beach annual monarch butterfly migration (October to information: (650) 726-8819. February). Picnicking, nature trail, visitor center, SANTA CRUZ SBs and exhibits are accessible. Call for beach Several popular state beaches line this part of wheelchair and tide pool tours. (831) 423-4609. the coast. At New Brighton, swimming, fishing, OLOMPALI SHP and accessible picnicking and camping are the This park was the site of a large Coast Miwok rule; (831) 464-6330. Call (831) 475-2275 for surf village. Hikers will find excellent opportunities to conditions at Manresa, where accessible camp- hike the slopes of Mount Burdell with great ing is also available. Twin Lakes is a popular place for swimming and picnicking, and bird watching at Schwan Lagoon is excellent. (831) 427-4868. SANTA CRUZ MISSION SHP Dating to 1793, this mission was lost to earth- quake damage in 1857; the Neary-Rodriguez Adobe, the last building to survive, tells the story. The park has picnic facilities and accessible rest- rooms and exhibits. (831) 425-5849. SEACLIFF SB This long stretch of sand and bluffs has great accessible facilities including an interpretive E

center, fishing pier, a stranded cement ship, and B B A

RV-only camping (reservations recommended). R C

The gentle foothills of

Call for beach wheelchair. (831) 685-6500. Y

Mount Diablo SP R SUNSET A SB G

40 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov 5 A E R

A Pines and dunes protect this beach’s accessible The ranch offers 33 miles of hiking, biking, and

Y campground from stiff breezes. An accessible equestrian trails through coastal terraces and

A picnic area is close to surf-fishing and beach- wooded valleys. Tours and an accessible museum B combing. Strong currents make swimming haz- present the history of early dairy ranchers and O ardous. Call for beach wheelchair. (831) 763-7062. farmers. (831) 426-0505. C S

I TOMALES BAY SP

C Featuring sheltered coves, beaches, and tidal N marshes, this day-use park is great for swim- A

R ming, windsurfing, hiking, and kayaking. Located F

next to Point Reyes National Seashore, it also N offers accessible picnic areas. (415) 669-1140. A

S WILDER RANCH SP

5

N O I G E R REGION 5 SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA

Angel Island SP • • • ••• • •••••••••• • Año Nuevo SP & SR • • • • • • • • • Bean Hollow SB • • • •• • Benicia SRA • • ••• • Benicia Capitol SHP • • • • • Bethany Reservoir SRA • • • •• •• Big Basin Redwoods SP • • • •••• • • ••••• • ••• • Butano SP • • • • • ••••• • Candlestick Point SRA • • • • • •• • • Carnegie SVRA • • • • • • •• •• Castle Rock SP • • •• ••• China Camp SP • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Forest of Nisene Marks SP • • •• • • • • • • Gray Whale Cove SB • • • • ••• Half Moon Bay SB • • • • • • • • ••• • ••• • Henry Cowell Redwoods SP • • • • • • • •• •• ••• Manresa SB • ••• • •• •• Marconi Conference Center SHP • • • •• • Montara SB • • • • • • • • • Mount Diablo SP • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Mount Tamalpais SP • • • ••• • • • • • • • Natural Bridges SB • ••• ••• •••• New Brighton SB • • • • • •••••• • • Olompali SHP • • • •• • ••• • Pescadero SB • • • • • • • • Pigeon Point Light Station SHP • • • •• •••••• • Point Montara Light Station • • • Pomponio SB • • • • • • • Portola Redwoods SP • • • • • • • • • Samuel P. Taylor SP • • • • • • • • • •••• • San Gregorio SB • • • • • Santa Cruz Mission SHP • • • • • • • • Seacliff SB • • • • • • • ••• • • Sunset SB • • •• • • • • • •••• Tomales Bay SP • • ••• • •• Twin Lakes SB • • • • • • • Wilder Ranch SP • • • • • • • • • • • • • For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website www.Parks.CA.gov. Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; OHV operations (916) 324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local authorities. SP = State Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; SRA = State Recreation Area; SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore.

42 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov 6 54 miles to San Francisco T Henry W. Coe

S >>Central Coast 101 A Zmudowski O n this breathtaking region, redwoods march Moss Landing 152 Pacheco C

Salinas River San Juan Bautista L I down to the sea, and lighthouses guard Marina A ® Monterey Hollister Hills

R the coastline. Dream-like Hearst Castle floats Salinas T Asilomar

N ethereally above the clouds, and missions take us Monterey 68 E back to California’s Spanish heritage. Beaches, Carmel River C

Point Lobos

waterfalls, natural and cultural preserves, and the Garrapata 6 world-renowned Asilomar Conference Center are Point Sur 25 N Andrew Molera 101

O Pfeiffer Big Sur 198 I all part of the Central Coast.

G Julia Pfeiffer Burns E Limekiln R

1 150 miles to Yosemite Valley Rocky tide pools, a sandy beach, and stands Hearst Castle Paso Robles 46 ANDREW MOLERA SP of sycamore and oak make for great swimming, William Randolph Hearst Memorial 41 46 A river and miles of trails wind through this park. fishing, surfing, or beach-going afternoons. Call San Simeon 1 A riding concession lets visitors enjoy the area ahead for beach wheelchair. (805) 968-1033. Morro Strand 229 Morro Bay 58 on horseback. (831) 667-2315. EL PRESIDIO DE SANTA BARBARA SHP Los Osos Oaks San Luis Obispo ASILOMAR SB & Until 1846, this presidio served as the military/ 101 CONFERENCE GROUNDS government headquarters for lands from Los Chumash Painted Estero Bay Cave Located on the Monterey Peninsula, the confer- Angeles to San Luis Obispo. (805) 965-0093. Pismo 166 El Presidio de ence facilities (with individual lodging) features EMMA WOOD SB Oceano Dunes Santa Maria Santa Barbara historic buildings by architect Julia Morgan. For The ruins of a World War II artillery site occupy Point Sal reservations: (831) 372-8016 or www.Visit this popular beach just outside the quiet surf 135 Asilomar.com. Ranger’s office: (831) 372-4076. town of Ventura. (805) 968-1033. 154 33 CARMEL RIVER SB ESTERO BAY 0 50 mi 1 Santa Barbara This coastal strand, near its namesake town, This 355-acre parcel consists of grassland- 0 50 km Gaviota 101 150 offers a lagoon, fishing, and birdwatching. dominated coastal terraces. A recent addition Refugio Carpinteria 33 126 El Capitan Ventura Extremely dangerous surf. (831) 624-4909. to State Parks, Estero Bay has intertidal areas, Emma Wood 118 23 CARPINTERIA SB wetlands and coastal terraces. (805) 772-7434. San Buenaventura 101 McGrath 1 Named by the Spanish for the Chumash Indians FREMONT PEAK SP Oxnard 60 miles to who used the area’s tar to seal plank boats, this Mountain and astronomical vistas come Point Mugu Los Angeles park offers a mile of swimming beach. Call together with 5 miles of hiking trails. Picnicking, ahead for beach wheelchair. (805) 968-1033. camping, and educational programs are also CHUMASH PAINTED CAVE SHP offered. Park information (831) 623-4255 or Bring a flashlight to view this colorful sand- www.fpoa.net; observatory (831) 623-2465. 4445 or www.hearstcastle.com. limited accomodations. (831) 667-2315. stone cave painted by Chumash Indians in the GARRAPATA SP HENRY W. COE SP LA PURÍSIMA MISSION SHP 19th century. (805) 968-1033. Trails from Big Sur beaches wind through A hiker’s paradise with over 400 miles of trails Founded in 1787, the most completely restored EL CAPITAN SB stands of cacti and redwood groves. There are and dirt roads. (408) 779-2728. mission includes a visitor center, museum, 3- no entrance signs; park at Soberanes Point, 7 HOLLISTER HILLS SVRA mile trail, and historic buildings. (805) 733-3713. The Neptune Pool miles south of Carmel. Garrapata Beach, 11 The Lower Ranch offers more than 2,400 acres LIMEKILN SP at Hearst Castle® miles south of Carmel. (831) 624-4909. and 64 miles of trails for motorcycles and ATVs. This rugged area includes crashing surf, 32 devel- GAVIOTA SP The Upper Ranch, an 800-acre area, is used for oped campsites—some in the trees along Limekiln Gaviota Peak looks over the Channel Islands. 4-wheel-drive, recreation, and motorcycle Creek and some near the beach—and 3 hiking Call for beach wheelchair. (805) 968-1033. events. The park is open 7 days a week, 24 trails through a redwood forest. (831) 667-2403. HEARST CASTLE® hours a day; the Upper Ranch is open from LOS OSOS OAKS SR Also known as “Hearst San Simeon SHM,” this 8 a.m. until sunset. The red sticker riding sea- This small reserve protects several oak stands house museum was the collaboration of pub- son is October 1 to May 31. (831) 637-3874. dating back 700 years. (805) 772-7434. S N lisher William Randolph Hearst and architect I

M JULIA PFEIFFER BURNS SP MARINA SB M

Julia Morgan. State Parks offers guided tours of U This park encompasses some of Big Sur’s most This beach offers a ranger station, surf fishing, C

the 165 rooms, the art collection, and 127 acres D spectacular coastline, including an 80-foot water- kite flying, an accessible boardwalk, and acces- R

of gardens. Wheelchair accessible; tours. A fall. Individual environmental campsites provide sible hang-gliding conditions. (831) 384-7695. H C Reservations are strongly suggested (800) 444- I R

44 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 45 6 54 miles to San Francisco T Henry W. Coe

S >>Central Coast 101 A Zmudowski O n this breathtaking region, redwoods march Moss Landing 152 Pacheco C

Salinas River San Juan Bautista L I down to the sea, and lighthouses guard Marina A ® Monterey Hollister Hills

R the coastline. Dream-like Hearst Castle floats Salinas T Asilomar

N ethereally above the clouds, and missions take us Monterey 68 E back to California’s Spanish heritage. Beaches, Carmel River C

Point Lobos

waterfalls, natural and cultural preserves, and the Garrapata 6 world-renowned Asilomar Conference Center are Point Sur 25 N Andrew Molera 101

O Pfeiffer Big Sur 198 I all part of the Central Coast.

G Julia Pfeiffer Burns E Limekiln R

1 150 miles to Yosemite Valley Rocky tide pools, a sandy beach, and stands Hearst Castle Paso Robles 46 ANDREW MOLERA SP of sycamore and oak make for great swimming, William Randolph Hearst Memorial 41 46 A river and miles of trails wind through this park. fishing, surfing, or beach-going afternoons. Call San Simeon 1 A riding concession lets visitors enjoy the area ahead for beach wheelchair. (805) 968-1033. Morro Strand 229 Morro Bay 58 on horseback. (831) 667-2315. EL PRESIDIO DE SANTA BARBARA SHP Los Osos Oaks San Luis Obispo ASILOMAR SB & Until 1846, this presidio served as the military/ 101 CONFERENCE GROUNDS government headquarters for lands from Los Chumash Painted Estero Bay Cave Located on the Monterey Peninsula, the confer- Angeles to San Luis Obispo. (805) 965-0093. Pismo 166 El Presidio de ence facilities (with individual lodging) features EMMA WOOD SB Oceano Dunes Santa Maria Santa Barbara historic buildings by architect Julia Morgan. For The ruins of a World War II artillery site occupy Point Sal reservations: (831) 372-8016 or www.Visit this popular beach just outside the quiet surf 135 Asilomar.com. Ranger’s office: (831) 372-4076. town of Ventura. (805) 968-1033. 154 33 CARMEL RIVER SB ESTERO BAY 0 50 mi 1 Santa Barbara This coastal strand, near its namesake town, This 355-acre parcel consists of grassland- 0 50 km Gaviota 101 150 offers a lagoon, fishing, and birdwatching. dominated coastal terraces. A recent addition Refugio Carpinteria 33 126 El Capitan Ventura Extremely dangerous surf. (831) 624-4909. to State Parks, Estero Bay has intertidal areas, Emma Wood 118 23 CARPINTERIA SB wetlands and coastal terraces. (805) 772-7434. San Buenaventura 101 McGrath 1 Named by the Spanish for the Chumash Indians FREMONT PEAK SP Oxnard 60 miles to who used the area’s tar to seal plank boats, this Mountain and astronomical vistas come Point Mugu Los Angeles park offers a mile of swimming beach. Call together with 5 miles of hiking trails. Picnicking, ahead for beach wheelchair. (805) 968-1033. camping, and educational programs are also CHUMASH PAINTED CAVE SHP offered. Park information (831) 623-4255 or Bring a flashlight to view this colorful sand- www.fpoa.net; observatory (831) 623-2465. 4445 or www.hearstcastle.com. limited accomodations. (831) 667-2315. stone cave painted by Chumash Indians in the GARRAPATA SP HENRY W. COE SP LA PURÍSIMA MISSION SHP 19th century. (805) 968-1033. Trails from Big Sur beaches wind through A hiker’s paradise with over 400 miles of trails Founded in 1787, the most completely restored EL CAPITAN SB stands of cacti and redwood groves. There are and dirt roads. (408) 779-2728. mission includes a visitor center, museum, 3- no entrance signs; park at Soberanes Point, 7 HOLLISTER HILLS SVRA mile trail, and historic buildings. (805) 733-3713. The Neptune Pool miles south of Carmel. Garrapata Beach, 11 The Lower Ranch offers more than 2,400 acres LIMEKILN SP at Hearst Castle® miles south of Carmel. (831) 624-4909. and 64 miles of trails for motorcycles and ATVs. This rugged area includes crashing surf, 32 devel- GAVIOTA SP The Upper Ranch, an 800-acre area, is used for oped campsites—some in the trees along Limekiln Gaviota Peak looks over the Channel Islands. 4-wheel-drive, recreation, and motorcycle Creek and some near the beach—and 3 hiking Call for beach wheelchair. (805) 968-1033. events. The park is open 7 days a week, 24 trails through a redwood forest. (831) 667-2403. HEARST CASTLE® hours a day; the Upper Ranch is open from LOS OSOS OAKS SR Also known as “Hearst San Simeon SHM,” this 8 a.m. until sunset. The red sticker riding sea- This small reserve protects several oak stands house museum was the collaboration of pub- son is October 1 to May 31. (831) 637-3874. dating back 700 years. (805) 772-7434. S N lisher William Randolph Hearst and architect I

M JULIA PFEIFFER BURNS SP MARINA SB M

Julia Morgan. State Parks offers guided tours of U This park encompasses some of Big Sur’s most This beach offers a ranger station, surf fishing, C

the 165 rooms, the art collection, and 127 acres D spectacular coastline, including an 80-foot water- kite flying, an accessible boardwalk, and acces- R

of gardens. Wheelchair accessible; tours. A fall. Individual environmental campsites provide sible hang-gliding conditions. (831) 384-7695. H C Reservations are strongly suggested (800) 444- I R

44 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 45 6 T S A recreation; it’s the only state park in California This cove offers ocean kayaking, picnicking, O McGRATH SB

C This is one of the state’s best bird-watching where vehicles may drive and camp on the beach. and easy beach access. (805) 927-2010.

L areas, with over 200 species. Call ahead for Reservations: (800) 444-7275 or (805) 473-7223. ZMUDOWSKI SB A beach wheelchair. (805) 968-1033. This park north of Monterey is popular with bird- R PACHECO SP T MONTAÑA DE ORO SP This park offers panoramic views of the San ers and equestrians. Fishing and hiking are also N

E This park features more than 8,000 acres of Joaquin and Santa Clara valleys. (209) 826-6283. available. (831) 649-7118 or (831) 649-2976.

C cliffs, pocket beaches, coastal plains, canyons, PFEIFFER BIG SUR SP

and hills. There are trails for hiking, biking and The Big Sur River, giant redwoods, and coastal 6 horseback riding, plus primitive and equestrian mountains converge here, providing spectacular N campsites. (805) 528-0513 or 772-7434. camping and hiking. (831) 667-2315. O I

G MONTEREY SB PISMO SB

E Enjoy scuba diving, kayaking, surf-fishing, kite- This 1,000-acre park along a broad, open beach R flying, an accessible boardwalk, and volleyball has two campgrounds as well as a golf course and at this park’s 3 beaches. While impressive, the restaurant. Thousands of monarch butterflies dark, churning water is known for its hazardous spend the winter here. The Oceano campground REGION 6 has a nature center as well as a freshwater lagoon. CENTRAL COAST Refugio SB, just north of Reservations: (800) 444-7275. Santa Barbara POINT LOBOS SR Sea lions, harbor seals, gray whales, and sea Andrew Molera SP • • • • • • ••• •••• •• otters make this reserve their home. (831) 624- Asilomar SB & Conf. Grounds • • • • •• •• Carmel River SB • • • • • 4909. Scuba diving by reservation only: Carpinteria SB • • • • • • • • •• ••• • •• www.pointlobos.org. Chumash Painted Cave SHP • • • • POINT MUGU SP El Capitan SB • • • • • • • •• •••• • ••• El Presidio de Santa Barbara SHP • • • • • • This park includes the Boney Mountain State Emma Wood SB • • • • • • ••• • •• Wilderness area and excellent whale watching. Estero Bay Call for beach wheelchair. (818) 880-0350. Fremont Peak SP • • • • • • Garrapata SP • • • • • POINT SUR SHP Gaviota SP • • • • • • • • • • •••• California’s only complete turn-of-the-century Hearst Castle® • • • • • • • ••• • • • • • ••• light station open to the public captures the Henry W. Coe SP • • • • ••• •••• • • • state’s seafaring past. (831) 625-4419. Hollister Hills SVRA • • • • • • • • •• Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP • • •• • •• rip currents. (831) 649-7118 or (831) 649-2976. REFUGIO SB La Purísimaí Mission SHP • • • • • • • • • • • • • MONTEREY SHP Palm trees lend a tropical look to the beach’s Limekiln SP • • • •• • •• As an early capital under Spanish and Mexican campsites and picnic areas. Call ahead for Los Osos Oaks SR • • • • rule, this area is filled with historic buildings and beach wheelchair. (805) 968-1033. Marina SB • • • • • McGrath SB • • •• • • • • • •••• sites. (831) 649-7118. SALINAS RIVER SB Montaña de Oro SP • • • • • • • •••••• • MORRO BAY SP The park includes protected habitats of snowy Monterey SB • • • This park offers kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking, plover and other native dune animals and Monterey SHP • • • • • • • • • Morro Bay SP • • • • • • • • • •• •••• • and birdwatching. Docents lead guided tours plants. (831) 649-7118 or (831) 649-2976. Morro Strand SB • • • • • •• and school tours. The 18-hole golf course over- SAN BUENAVENTURA SB Moss Landing SB • • • • • • • • • looks the Morro Bay estuary. There are camp- Picnic or surf on 2 miles of beach and dunes Oceano Dunes SVRA • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Pacheco SP • • • • •• sites for RVs, tents and groups. (805) 772-7434. here. Call for beach wheelchair. (805) 968-1033. Pfeiffer Big Sur SP • •••• • • • • • • • • MORRO STRAND SB SAN JUAN BAUTISTA SHP Pismo SB • • • • • • • •••••• Windsurfers come for the reliable gusts; fishing These buildings and exhibits portray the early Point Lobos SR • • • • • • • • • enthusiasts come for the catch; anyone else for Mexican and American eras. (831) 623-4881. Point Mugu SP • • • • • • •• ••••••• •• Point Sur SHP • •• • • •• the beach and the view. The 83-site camp- SAN SIMEON SP Refugio SB • • • • • • • •••• • ••• ground is located behind the low dunes of This park has the closest campground to Hearst Salinas River SB • • • • • Morro Bay. (805) 772-7434. Castle ®, and offers two miles of coastline with San Buenaventura SB • • • • • • • • • San Juan Bautista SHP • • • • • • • • • MOSS LANDING SB three day-use areas between Cambria and San San Simeon SP • • • • • • ••••• • • This reserve offers great opportunities for bird- Simeon. Camping reservations are available from Wm. Randolph Hearst Mem. SB • • • • • • • • Zmudowski SB • • • • • watching, but water recreation is hazardous. April to September by calling (800) 444-7275, K A Y

(831) 649-7118 or (831) 649-2976. otherwise, they’re given out first-come first-serve. L For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website www.Parks.CA.gov. O D

Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; OHV operations (916)

OCEANO DUNES SVRA (805) 927-2035. . J

324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local authorities. SP = State

Located south of Pismo Beach, this SVRA WILLIAM RANDOLPH HEARST K

R Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; SRA = State Recreation Area; includes 1,500 acres of open sand dunes for OHV MEMORIAL A SB M SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore.

46 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 47 6 T S A recreation; it’s the only state park in California This cove offers ocean kayaking, picnicking, O McGRATH SB

C This is one of the state’s best bird-watching where vehicles may drive and camp on the beach. and easy beach access. (805) 927-2010.

L areas, with over 200 species. Call ahead for Reservations: (800) 444-7275 or (805) 473-7223. ZMUDOWSKI SB A beach wheelchair. (805) 968-1033. This park north of Monterey is popular with bird- R PACHECO SP T MONTAÑA DE ORO SP This park offers panoramic views of the San ers and equestrians. Fishing and hiking are also N

E This park features more than 8,000 acres of Joaquin and Santa Clara valleys. (209) 826-6283. available. (831) 649-7118 or (831) 649-2976.

C cliffs, pocket beaches, coastal plains, canyons, PFEIFFER BIG SUR SP

and hills. There are trails for hiking, biking and The Big Sur River, giant redwoods, and coastal 6 horseback riding, plus primitive and equestrian mountains converge here, providing spectacular N campsites. (805) 528-0513 or 772-7434. camping and hiking. (831) 667-2315. O I

G MONTEREY SB PISMO SB

E Enjoy scuba diving, kayaking, surf-fishing, kite- This 1,000-acre park along a broad, open beach R flying, an accessible boardwalk, and volleyball has two campgrounds as well as a golf course and at this park’s 3 beaches. While impressive, the restaurant. Thousands of monarch butterflies dark, churning water is known for its hazardous spend the winter here. The Oceano campground REGION 6 has a nature center as well as a freshwater lagoon. CENTRAL COAST Refugio SB, just north of Reservations: (800) 444-7275. Santa Barbara POINT LOBOS SR Sea lions, harbor seals, gray whales, and sea Andrew Molera SP • • • • • • ••• •••• •• otters make this reserve their home. (831) 624- Asilomar SB & Conf. Grounds • • • • •• •• Carmel River SB • • • • • 4909. Scuba diving by reservation only: Carpinteria SB • • • • • • • • •• ••• • •• www.pointlobos.org. Chumash Painted Cave SHP • • • • POINT MUGU SP El Capitan SB • • • • • • • •• •••• • ••• El Presidio de Santa Barbara SHP • • • • • • This park includes the Boney Mountain State Emma Wood SB • • • • • • ••• • •• Wilderness area and excellent whale watching. Estero Bay Call for beach wheelchair. (818) 880-0350. Fremont Peak SP • • • • • • Garrapata SP • • • • • POINT SUR SHP Gaviota SP • • • • • • • • • • •••• California’s only complete turn-of-the-century Hearst Castle® • • • • • • • ••• • • • • • ••• light station open to the public captures the Henry W. Coe SP • • • • ••• •••• • • • state’s seafaring past. (831) 625-4419. Hollister Hills SVRA • • • • • • • • •• Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP • • •• • •• rip currents. (831) 649-7118 or (831) 649-2976. REFUGIO SB La Purísimaí Mission SHP • • • • • • • • • • • • • MONTEREY SHP Palm trees lend a tropical look to the beach’s Limekiln SP • • • •• • •• As an early capital under Spanish and Mexican campsites and picnic areas. Call ahead for Los Osos Oaks SR • • • • rule, this area is filled with historic buildings and beach wheelchair. (805) 968-1033. Marina SB • • • • • McGrath SB • • •• • • • • • •••• sites. (831) 649-7118. SALINAS RIVER SB Montaña de Oro SP • • • • • • • •••••• • MORRO BAY SP The park includes protected habitats of snowy Monterey SB • • • This park offers kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking, plover and other native dune animals and Monterey SHP • • • • • • • • • Morro Bay SP • • • • • • • • • •• •••• • and birdwatching. Docents lead guided tours plants. (831) 649-7118 or (831) 649-2976. Morro Strand SB • • • • • •• and school tours. The 18-hole golf course over- SAN BUENAVENTURA SB Moss Landing SB • • • • • • • • • looks the Morro Bay estuary. There are camp- Picnic or surf on 2 miles of beach and dunes Oceano Dunes SVRA • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Pacheco SP • • • • •• sites for RVs, tents and groups. (805) 772-7434. here. Call for beach wheelchair. (805) 968-1033. Pfeiffer Big Sur SP • •••• • • • • • • • • MORRO STRAND SB SAN JUAN BAUTISTA SHP Pismo SB • • • • • • • •••••• Windsurfers come for the reliable gusts; fishing These buildings and exhibits portray the early Point Lobos SR • • • • • • • • • enthusiasts come for the catch; anyone else for Mexican and American eras. (831) 623-4881. Point Mugu SP • • • • • • •• ••••••• •• Point Sur SHP • •• • • •• the beach and the view. The 83-site camp- SAN SIMEON SP Refugio SB • • • • • • • •••• • ••• ground is located behind the low dunes of This park has the closest campground to Hearst Salinas River SB • • • • • Morro Bay. (805) 772-7434. Castle ®, and offers two miles of coastline with San Buenaventura SB • • • • • • • • • San Juan Bautista SHP • • • • • • • • • MOSS LANDING SB three day-use areas between Cambria and San San Simeon SP • • • • • • ••••• • • This reserve offers great opportunities for bird- Simeon. Camping reservations are available from Wm. Randolph Hearst Mem. SB • • • • • • • • Zmudowski SB • • • • • watching, but water recreation is hazardous. April to September by calling (800) 444-7275, K A Y

(831) 649-7118 or (831) 649-2976. otherwise, they’re given out first-come first-serve. L For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website www.Parks.CA.gov. O D

Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; OHV operations (916)

OCEANO DUNES SVRA (805) 927-2035. . J

324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local authorities. SP = State

Located south of Pismo Beach, this SVRA WILLIAM RANDOLPH HEARST K

R Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; SRA = State Recreation Area; includes 1,500 acres of open sand dunes for OHV MEMORIAL A SB M SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore.

46 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 47 7 Y

E >>Central Valley L

L boats. (559) 822-2332.

A ere in California’s agricultural heartland

V SAN LUIS RESERVOIR SRA

L Hflows a seemingly endless aquatic treasure This area includes 3 reservoirs with world-class A of rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, offering unsur- boardsailing, fishing, picnicking, camping, and R

T passed opportunities for recreation. Historic sites swimming; off-highway vehicle riding at Jasper N Sears. Weather: (800) 805-4805; information E include the state’s only town founded, financed,

C hotline: (800) 346-2711; park: (209) 826-1196.

and governed by African-Americans; a U.S. Army TOMO-KAHNI SHP 7 fort from the 1850s; a tule elk reserve; and the This 240-acre park offers (guided-only) walking N tours of the Nuooah Native American Village O last of the early small-town opera houses. I Site on spring and fall weekends. Not recom- G

E mended for small children. (661) 942-0662.

R Great Valley Grasslands SP casting its spell TULE ELK SR The reserve hosts a herd of elk descended from BRANNAN ISLAND SRA Today, the town is coming back to life as a state the 28 introduced in 1895. (661) 764-6881. The Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta forms a historic park. (661) 849-3433. accessed by boat. (916) 777-6671 or 777-7701. TURLOCK LAKE SRA maze of waterways and islands ideal for wildlife COLUSA-SACRAMENTO RIVER SRA GEORGE J. HATFIELD SRA This area offers campers fishing, boating, and viewing, boating, and windsurfing. Brannan Visitors enjoy educational programs, picnic Oak forests skirt the confluence of the Merced picnicking (all accessible) as well as waterskiing. Island has 125 campsites, a boat launch, and sites, and a launch ramp for boats. Fishing and and San Joaquin rivers. (209) 632-1852. (209) 874-2008 or (209) 874-2056. 32 slips. (916) 777-6671 or 777-7701. camping make it ideal for overnight anglers. GREAT VALLEY GRASSLANDS SP WOODLAND OPERA HOUSE SHP CASWELL MEMORIAL SP (530) 458-4927. This park offers anglers access to the San This is the last of the once-numerous opera Preserving an aquatic habitat of 258 acres of FORT TEJON SHP Joaquin River. (209) 826-1197. houses of California’s early small towns; open willows, oaks, and cottonwoods, this park shel- The Army’s 1st U.S. Dragoons established a McCONNELL SRA for tours and classes. (530) 666-9617. ters an abundance of wildlife. (209) 599-3810. permanent fort here in 1854, to protect and This area showcases the Merced River’s camping, COLONEL ALLENSWORTH SHP control Native Americans living in the Sebastian fishing, and swimming. (209) 394-7755. In 1908, a group of African-Americans, led by Indian Reservation. (661) 248-6692. MILLERTON LAKE SRA Colonel Allen Allensworth, established a small FRANKS TRACT SRA In spring, wildflowers carpet the hills; in winter, farming community in the San Joaquin Valley. This Sacramento River Delta fishing area is bald eagles may be spotted from special tour

REGION 7 CENTRAL VALLEY

Brannan Island SRA •• ••• • •••••••••• • •• Caswell Memorial SP • • • •••••• •• • Colonel Allensworth SHP • • • • • ••• Colusa-Sacramento River SRA • • • • • • • ••• •• • • Fort Tejon SHP • • • • • • • ••• Franks Tract SRA •• George J. Hatfield SRA • • • • • • • • • Great Valley Grasslands SP • • • McConnell SRA • • • • •• • • Millerton Lake SRA • • • • • • • • • • • • •••••• •• San Luis Reservoir SRA • • • • • • • • • • • • ••••••• •• Tomo-Kahni SHP • Tule Elk SR • • • • • • • Turlock Lake SRA • • • • ••• • •• • • Woodland Opera House SHP • • E

B For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website www.Parks.CA.gov. B

A Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; OHV operations (916) R

C 324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local authorities. SP = State

Y Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; SRA = State Recreation Area; R

A SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore. G

48 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 49 7 Y

E >>Central Valley L

L boats. (559) 822-2332.

A ere in California’s agricultural heartland

V SAN LUIS RESERVOIR SRA

L Hflows a seemingly endless aquatic treasure This area includes 3 reservoirs with world-class A of rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, offering unsur- boardsailing, fishing, picnicking, camping, and R

T passed opportunities for recreation. Historic sites swimming; off-highway vehicle riding at Jasper N Sears. Weather: (800) 805-4805; information E include the state’s only town founded, financed,

C hotline: (800) 346-2711; park: (209) 826-1196.

and governed by African-Americans; a U.S. Army TOMO-KAHNI SHP 7 fort from the 1850s; a tule elk reserve; and the This 240-acre park offers (guided-only) walking N tours of the Nuooah Native American Village O last of the early small-town opera houses. I Site on spring and fall weekends. Not recom- G

E mended for small children. (661) 942-0662.

R Great Valley Grasslands SP casting its spell TULE ELK SR The reserve hosts a herd of elk descended from BRANNAN ISLAND SRA Today, the town is coming back to life as a state the 28 introduced in 1895. (661) 764-6881. The Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta forms a historic park. (661) 849-3433. accessed by boat. (916) 777-6671 or 777-7701. TURLOCK LAKE SRA maze of waterways and islands ideal for wildlife COLUSA-SACRAMENTO RIVER SRA GEORGE J. HATFIELD SRA This area offers campers fishing, boating, and viewing, boating, and windsurfing. Brannan Visitors enjoy educational programs, picnic Oak forests skirt the confluence of the Merced picnicking (all accessible) as well as waterskiing. Island has 125 campsites, a boat launch, and sites, and a launch ramp for boats. Fishing and and San Joaquin rivers. (209) 632-1852. (209) 874-2008 or (209) 874-2056. 32 slips. (916) 777-6671 or 777-7701. camping make it ideal for overnight anglers. GREAT VALLEY GRASSLANDS SP WOODLAND OPERA HOUSE SHP CASWELL MEMORIAL SP (530) 458-4927. This park offers anglers access to the San This is the last of the once-numerous opera Preserving an aquatic habitat of 258 acres of FORT TEJON SHP Joaquin River. (209) 826-1197. houses of California’s early small towns; open willows, oaks, and cottonwoods, this park shel- The Army’s 1st U.S. Dragoons established a McCONNELL SRA for tours and classes. (530) 666-9617. ters an abundance of wildlife. (209) 599-3810. permanent fort here in 1854, to protect and This area showcases the Merced River’s camping, COLONEL ALLENSWORTH SHP control Native Americans living in the Sebastian fishing, and swimming. (209) 394-7755. In 1908, a group of African-Americans, led by Indian Reservation. (661) 248-6692. MILLERTON LAKE SRA Colonel Allen Allensworth, established a small FRANKS TRACT SRA In spring, wildflowers carpet the hills; in winter, farming community in the San Joaquin Valley. This Sacramento River Delta fishing area is bald eagles may be spotted from special tour

REGION 7 CENTRAL VALLEY

Brannan Island SRA •• ••• • •••••••••• • •• Caswell Memorial SP • • • •••••• •• • Colonel Allensworth SHP • • • • • ••• Colusa-Sacramento River SRA • • • • • • • ••• •• • • Fort Tejon SHP • • • • • • • ••• Franks Tract SRA •• George J. Hatfield SRA • • • • • • • • • Great Valley Grasslands SP • • • McConnell SRA • • • • •• • • Millerton Lake SRA • • • • • • • • • • • • •••••• •• San Luis Reservoir SRA • • • • • • • • • • • • ••••••• •• Tomo-Kahni SHP • Tule Elk SR • • • • • • • Turlock Lake SRA • • • • ••• • •• • • Woodland Opera House SHP • • E

B For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website www.Parks.CA.gov. B

A Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; OHV operations (916) R

C 324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local authorities. SP = State

Y Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; SRA = State Recreation Area; R

A SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore. G

48 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 49 8 Y

T >>Los Angeles County N

U his area is rich in natural and cultural O

C significance, from acres of high-desert T S wildflowers to museums devoted to local Native E L

E American cultures; from surfing beaches made

G famous in Hollywood movies to an adobe built by N A

the last Mexican governor of California. Wild S places and canyonlands abound within minutes Verdugo Mts.* O L

of the homes of millions, and the climate invites

8 outdoor adventure.

N O I

G ANTELOPE VALLEY INDIAN MUSEUM SHP E

R CALIFORNIA POPPY RESERVE SR Built on the rocks of Piute Butte, this museum From mid-March to mid-May, fresh rains features California, Great Basin, and Southwest transform this 1,780-acre reserve from a American Indian cultures. Open weekends from parched, high-desert landscape to fields of mid-September through mid-June. Limited SB golden poppies and other wildflowers. accessibility due to the historic construction at Accessible 200-foot pathway, exhibits, rest- the museum. On East Avenue M, between rooms, and picnicking. Located on Lancaster 150th Street East and 170th Street East, about Road (Ave. I), 15 miles west of Hwy. 14 near 20 miles east of Lancaster. (661) 942-0662. Lancaster. (661) 724-1180 or 942-0662. ARTHUR B. RIPLEY 1932 Olympic Village. Located at 4100 S. La rancho, including the construction of the two- ANTELOPE VALLEY DESERT WOODLAND SP Cienega Blvd. in Baldwin Hills. (323) 298-3660. story limestone structure in the late 1800s. This 560-acre woodland preserves fine exam- LEO CARRILLO SP Living history days occur every third Sunday of A quiet strand at ples of California juniper and Joshua trees. On Named for a state parks advocate and celebrity the month, except December. Accessible El Matador SB the north side of the park off Lancaster Road, descended from Californios, this beach and picnicking and restrooms. The park is located at visitors may take a self-guided walk on the canyon park offers tidepooling, swimming, 16756 Moorpark St. in Encino. (818) 784-4849. nature trail. Located 5 miles west of the windsurfing, and hiking. Giant sycamores MALIBU CREEK SP Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve; shade the campground. Accessible camping, This 8,000-acre park in the Santa Monica access the park via Lancaster Road (Ave. I), 19 picnicking, partial pathway, beach wheelchair, Mountains includes land once owned by 20th miles west of Lancaster. (661) 942-0662. and restrooms. Located 25 miles west of Santa Century Fox; TV and movie productions such HUNGRY VALLEY SVRA Monica on Hwy. 1. (818) 880-0350. as M*A*S*H and Planet of the Apes were filmed Hungry Valley includes more than 19,000 acres LOS ENCINOS SHP here. The park offers hiking, equestrian, and with 4,000 acres of open riding area and 130 In 1769, Spanish explorer Captain Gaspar de mountain biking trails. Tapia Park, a recent miles of trails. Visitors can enjoy the Quail Portolá stopped at a natural spring that had addition, is ideal for day use. There are 60 Canyon motocross track, adjacent to the park attracted Native Californians to the San developed campsites and one group site. and accessed by a separate entrance gate for Fernando Valley for centuries. De La Ossa Accessible camping, restrooms, and a visitor an extra fee. Features inside the park include a Adobe, which dates from 1849, is the center- center. The entrance is at 1925 Las Virgenes 4WD obstacle course, a practice track for 90cc piece of the park, as it was for the 4,460-acre Rd., 4 miles south of Hwy. 101 in Calabasas. (or smaller) motorcycles and ATVs, and a new Rancho El Encino. Basque rancher Eugene (818) 880-0367. mile-long motorcycle-only practice track. There Ganier made other major improvements to the MALIBU LAGOON SB are spectacular wildflower displays in spring & ADAMSON HOUSE with ranger-guided tours on weekends. The Museum exhibits cover the Native American park is located off I-5 at Gorman, 60 miles period through the mid-20th century, when north of Los Angeles. Open 24 hours a day, 7 Rancho Malibu was a 22-mile-long private days a week. (661) 248-7007. coastal domain of 17,000 acres. The 1930 Adamson House is known for its famous Malibu KENNETH HAHN SRA S S N I I

This park offers picnic and play areas, two fish- H tile and custom-built features. House tours are M T L M A

ing lakes, a manmade stream, and hiking trails. U available Wednesday through Saturday 11 a.m. B C

.

Its Olympic Forest holds one tree for each of the D to 2 p.m. Call (310) 456-8432. On the west side S

R Antelope Valley K 140 nations that participated in the 1984 games A of Malibu Creek Bridge, enjoy nature trails, bird- N H California Poppy Reserve SR A C I in Los Angeles. The area was also the site of the R watching, tide pools, surfing, and picnicking. F R

50 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 51 8 Y

T >>Los Angeles County N

U his area is rich in natural and cultural O

C significance, from acres of high-desert T S wildflowers to museums devoted to local Native E L

E American cultures; from surfing beaches made

G famous in Hollywood movies to an adobe built by N A

the last Mexican governor of California. Wild S places and canyonlands abound within minutes Verdugo Mts.* O L

of the homes of millions, and the climate invites

8 outdoor adventure.

N O I

G ANTELOPE VALLEY INDIAN MUSEUM SHP E

R CALIFORNIA POPPY RESERVE SR Built on the rocks of Piute Butte, this museum From mid-March to mid-May, fresh rains features California, Great Basin, and Southwest transform this 1,780-acre reserve from a American Indian cultures. Open weekends from parched, high-desert landscape to fields of mid-September through mid-June. Limited SB golden poppies and other wildflowers. accessibility due to the historic construction at Accessible 200-foot pathway, exhibits, rest- the museum. On East Avenue M, between rooms, and picnicking. Located on Lancaster 150th Street East and 170th Street East, about Road (Ave. I), 15 miles west of Hwy. 14 near 20 miles east of Lancaster. (661) 942-0662. Lancaster. (661) 724-1180 or 942-0662. ARTHUR B. RIPLEY 1932 Olympic Village. Located at 4100 S. La rancho, including the construction of the two- ANTELOPE VALLEY DESERT WOODLAND SP Cienega Blvd. in Baldwin Hills. (323) 298-3660. story limestone structure in the late 1800s. This 560-acre woodland preserves fine exam- LEO CARRILLO SP Living history days occur every third Sunday of A quiet strand at ples of California juniper and Joshua trees. On Named for a state parks advocate and celebrity the month, except December. Accessible El Matador SB the north side of the park off Lancaster Road, descended from Californios, this beach and picnicking and restrooms. The park is located at visitors may take a self-guided walk on the canyon park offers tidepooling, swimming, 16756 Moorpark St. in Encino. (818) 784-4849. nature trail. Located 5 miles west of the windsurfing, and hiking. Giant sycamores MALIBU CREEK SP Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve; shade the campground. Accessible camping, This 8,000-acre park in the Santa Monica access the park via Lancaster Road (Ave. I), 19 picnicking, partial pathway, beach wheelchair, Mountains includes land once owned by 20th miles west of Lancaster. (661) 942-0662. and restrooms. Located 25 miles west of Santa Century Fox; TV and movie productions such HUNGRY VALLEY SVRA Monica on Hwy. 1. (818) 880-0350. as M*A*S*H and Planet of the Apes were filmed Hungry Valley includes more than 19,000 acres LOS ENCINOS SHP here. The park offers hiking, equestrian, and with 4,000 acres of open riding area and 130 In 1769, Spanish explorer Captain Gaspar de mountain biking trails. Tapia Park, a recent miles of trails. Visitors can enjoy the Quail Portolá stopped at a natural spring that had addition, is ideal for day use. There are 60 Canyon motocross track, adjacent to the park attracted Native Californians to the San developed campsites and one group site. and accessed by a separate entrance gate for Fernando Valley for centuries. De La Ossa Accessible camping, restrooms, and a visitor an extra fee. Features inside the park include a Adobe, which dates from 1849, is the center- center. The entrance is at 1925 Las Virgenes 4WD obstacle course, a practice track for 90cc piece of the park, as it was for the 4,460-acre Rd., 4 miles south of Hwy. 101 in Calabasas. (or smaller) motorcycles and ATVs, and a new Rancho El Encino. Basque rancher Eugene (818) 880-0367. mile-long motorcycle-only practice track. There Ganier made other major improvements to the MALIBU LAGOON SB are spectacular wildflower displays in spring & ADAMSON HOUSE with ranger-guided tours on weekends. The Museum exhibits cover the Native American park is located off I-5 at Gorman, 60 miles period through the mid-20th century, when north of Los Angeles. Open 24 hours a day, 7 Rancho Malibu was a 22-mile-long private days a week. (661) 248-7007. coastal domain of 17,000 acres. The 1930 Adamson House is known for its famous Malibu KENNETH HAHN SRA S S N I I

This park offers picnic and play areas, two fish- H tile and custom-built features. House tours are M T L M A

ing lakes, a manmade stream, and hiking trails. U available Wednesday through Saturday 11 a.m. B C

.

Its Olympic Forest holds one tree for each of the D to 2 p.m. Call (310) 456-8432. On the west side S

R Antelope Valley K 140 nations that participated in the 1984 games A of Malibu Creek Bridge, enjoy nature trails, bird- N H California Poppy Reserve SR A C I in Los Angeles. The area was also the site of the R watching, tide pools, surfing, and picnicking. F R

50 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 51 8 Y T

N A Joshua tree at sand dune/coastal strand communities. Shuttle U Saddleback Butte SP

O service available from Westward Beach Road. C

An accessible pay parking lot at Westward

S Beach just off Hwy. 1 gives access to a trail to E

L the top of the bluff. (818) 880-0350. E ROBERT H. MEYER MEMORIAL SBs G

N The incredibly scenic “pocket” beaches of El A

Matador, La Piedra, and El Pescador are

S great for sunbathing, photography, surfing, O

L swimming, and diving. Parking is on the bluff,

and the beaches are accessed by long

8

descending staircases and trails. Located

N about 22 miles west of Santa Monica on Hwy.1, O I these beaches are within one mile of each other.

G (818) 880-0350. E

R SADDLEBACK BUTTE SP This 3,651-foot-high butte, standing 1,000 feet above the valley floor, offers spectacular views. The primitive campground at this 3,000-acre The lush springtime hills and park has limited accessibility. The park offers calm waters of Malibu Creek SP camping, picnicking, and hiking in a unique botanical Joshua tree plant community. The park entrance is on East Ave. J and 170th St., 17 miles east of Lancaster. (661) 942-0662. SANTA SUSANA PASS SHP This 670-acre historic park offers panoramic views of the rugged natural landscape as a striking contrast to the developed communities nearby. Hikers enjoy a set of networking trails. The park is approximately 1 mile south of Hwy. 118. Follow Topanga Canyon Boulevard south and turn right on Devonshire to park entrance. (310) 454-8212. TOPANGA SP REGION 8 More than 11,000 acres of the Santa Monica LOS ANGELES Accessible: parking, a quarter-mile trail, and the Mountains are preserved in this park. Hikers COUNTY first floor of the house. From Santa Monica, enjoy 36 miles of trails; mountain bikers are follow the Coastal Hwy. west 12 miles to 23200 restricted to fire roads. The vast majority of the Antelope Valley CA Poppy Res. • • • • • • Pacific Coast Hwy. (818) 880-0350. park is located entirely within the boundaries of Antelope Valley Indian Mus. SHP • •• • ••• • the city of Los Angeles. Accessible parking. The Arthur B. Ripley Desert Wood. SP • • • • PÍO PICO SHP Hungry Valley SVRA • • • • • • • •• • Pío Pico was the last governor of Mexican park’s entrance is on Entrada Road, off of Kenneth Hahn SRA • • • • • • • • • California, and the adobe home he built on what Topanga Canyon Boulevard, 8 miles south of Leo Carrillo SP • • • • • • •••••• • ••• was El Ranchito, his 8,894-acre ranch, is now U.S. 101. (310) 455-2465. Los Encinos SHP • • • • • • •• Malibu Creek SP • • • • • • • • • •••• •• •• • • the focus of this 5-acre state park. Located in WILL ROGERS SHP Malibu Lagoon SB/Adamson Hse. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Whittier, west of I-605 at Pioneer and Whittier Humorist Will Rogers made his home here in Pío Pico SHP •• boulevards. (562) 695-1217. the 1920s and ’30s. His love of horses shows in Point Dume SB • • • • • • • • • Robert H. Meyer Memorial SBs • • • • • POINT DUME SB the park’s stables, riding and roping rings, and Saddleback Butte SP • • • •• • • • • • • • This undeveloped 32-acre beach and natural polo field (weekend matches still take place). Santa Susana Pass SHP • • • • • • • • preserve is a small park with significant Accessible visitor center. The park sits on 186 Topanga SP • •• •• • • • • •• S S N I

I Will Rogers SHP • • • • • • • • • • • •

resources. It is the southern limit for a rare flow- acres in Pacific Palisades, at 1501 Will Rogers H M T L M For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website A

ering plant, the giant coreopsis, and has an State Park Rd. (310) 454-8212. U B C

www.Parks.CA.gov. Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; .

excellent view of the annual gray whale D S

R OHV operations (916) 324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local K migration. Two miles of scenic trails traverse A N

H authorities. SP = State Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; A C I grasslands, southern coastal bluff scrub, and R SRA = State Recreation Area; SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore. R F

52 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 53 8 Y T

N A Joshua tree at sand dune/coastal strand communities. Shuttle U Saddleback Butte SP

O service available from Westward Beach Road. C

An accessible pay parking lot at Westward

S Beach just off Hwy. 1 gives access to a trail to E

L the top of the bluff. (818) 880-0350. E ROBERT H. MEYER MEMORIAL SBs G

N The incredibly scenic “pocket” beaches of El A

Matador, La Piedra, and El Pescador are

S great for sunbathing, photography, surfing, O

L swimming, and diving. Parking is on the bluff,

and the beaches are accessed by long

8

descending staircases and trails. Located

N about 22 miles west of Santa Monica on Hwy.1, O I these beaches are within one mile of each other.

G (818) 880-0350. E

R SADDLEBACK BUTTE SP This 3,651-foot-high butte, standing 1,000 feet above the valley floor, offers spectacular views. The primitive campground at this 3,000-acre The lush springtime hills and park has limited accessibility. The park offers calm waters of Malibu Creek SP camping, picnicking, and hiking in a unique botanical Joshua tree plant community. The park entrance is on East Ave. J and 170th St., 17 miles east of Lancaster. (661) 942-0662. SANTA SUSANA PASS SHP This 670-acre historic park offers panoramic views of the rugged natural landscape as a striking contrast to the developed communities nearby. Hikers enjoy a set of networking trails. The park is approximately 1 mile south of Hwy. 118. Follow Topanga Canyon Boulevard south and turn right on Devonshire to park entrance. (310) 454-8212. TOPANGA SP REGION 8 More than 11,000 acres of the Santa Monica LOS ANGELES Accessible: parking, a quarter-mile trail, and the Mountains are preserved in this park. Hikers COUNTY first floor of the house. From Santa Monica, enjoy 36 miles of trails; mountain bikers are follow the Coastal Hwy. west 12 miles to 23200 restricted to fire roads. The vast majority of the Antelope Valley CA Poppy Res. • • • • • • Pacific Coast Hwy. (818) 880-0350. park is located entirely within the boundaries of Antelope Valley Indian Mus. SHP • •• • ••• • the city of Los Angeles. Accessible parking. The Arthur B. Ripley Desert Wood. SP • • • • PÍO PICO SHP Hungry Valley SVRA • • • • • • • •• • Pío Pico was the last governor of Mexican park’s entrance is on Entrada Road, off of Kenneth Hahn SRA • • • • • • • • • California, and the adobe home he built on what Topanga Canyon Boulevard, 8 miles south of Leo Carrillo SP • • • • • • •••••• • ••• was El Ranchito, his 8,894-acre ranch, is now U.S. 101. (310) 455-2465. Los Encinos SHP • • • • • • •• Malibu Creek SP • • • • • • • • • •••• •• •• • • the focus of this 5-acre state park. Located in WILL ROGERS SHP Malibu Lagoon SB/Adamson Hse. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Whittier, west of I-605 at Pioneer and Whittier Humorist Will Rogers made his home here in Pío Pico SHP •• boulevards. (562) 695-1217. the 1920s and ’30s. His love of horses shows in Point Dume SB • • • • • • • • • Robert H. Meyer Memorial SBs • • • • • POINT DUME SB the park’s stables, riding and roping rings, and Saddleback Butte SP • • • •• • • • • • • • This undeveloped 32-acre beach and natural polo field (weekend matches still take place). Santa Susana Pass SHP • • • • • • • • preserve is a small park with significant Accessible visitor center. The park sits on 186 Topanga SP • •• •• • • • • •• S S N I

I Will Rogers SHP • • • • • • • • • • • •

resources. It is the southern limit for a rare flow- acres in Pacific Palisades, at 1501 Will Rogers H M T L M For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website A

ering plant, the giant coreopsis, and has an State Park Rd. (310) 454-8212. U B C

www.Parks.CA.gov. Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; .

excellent view of the annual gray whale D S

R OHV operations (916) 324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local K migration. Two miles of scenic trails traverse A N

H authorities. SP = State Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; A C I grasslands, southern coastal bluff scrub, and R SRA = State Recreation Area; SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore. R F

52 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 53 9 Y

T >>Orange County N

U road, level expanses of sand make this part O

C of California a beach-lover’s paradise. B E Dramatic cliffs frame the antics of swimmers, G

N divers, and beachcombers, while nature A

R preserves draw those who enjoy watching birds. O

Visitors flock here for wooded canyons threaded

9

by bike trails and a small beach community N established in the 1920s. O I G E R CRYSTAL COVE SP indoor tide pool, aquariums, food service, and This 2,800-acre park has wooded canyons, beach wheelchair. The entrance is on Dana open bluffs, and more than three miles of Point Harbor Dr., off Pacific Coast Hwy. in Dana Pacific coastline. Swimmers, surfers, and sun- Point. (949) 496-6171 or 492-0802. bathers congregate on the beach. Accessible HUNTINGTON AND BOLSA CHICA SBs picnicking, restrooms, paved pathway, a board- These wheelchair-accessible beaches (call walk and environmental/primitive campsites. ahead to use the wheelchairs) are connected by a The park is located off Route 73 or Pacific bike trail. Together, they form 5 miles of sandy Coast Hwy. between Corona del Mar and beach. Bolsa Chica, off Pacific Coast Hwy., about Laguna Beach. (949) 494-3539. 1 mile south of Warner Avenue, has camping for DOHENY SB self-contained vehicles only; picnicking, rest- Another sunny day at Doheny SB This 62-acre park has 120 developed camp- rooms, and food service are accessible at both sites, some only steps from the beach. Many beaches. (714) 846-3460. Huntington, opposite sites, of which 72 offer RV hookups. Trails lead to campsites (some accessible) are within walking Magnolia Avenue on the PCH, has a 7.5-acre a mile of beach that is popular with surfers, body distance of picturesque Dana Point Harbor and preserve for the least tern and snowy plover. surfers, and swimmers. Accessible camping, only 4 miles from San Juan Capistrano Mission. (714) 536-1454. restrooms, picnicking, trail, and exhibits. Call The south day-use area is popular for beach SAN CLEMENTE SB ahead to use the beach wheelchair. Entrance via parties and campfires, and large groups can San Clemente is a camping park along a scenic the Avenida Calafia exit off I-5 near the south end enjoy the shaded beach areas of the north day- stretch of California coast that evokes the of San Clemente. (949) 492-3156. use area. Accessible picnicking, visitor center, Golden Era of the 1920s. There are 157 camp-

Historic cottages line the shore at Crystal Cove SP

REGION 9 ORANGE COUNTY

Bolsa Chica SB • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Crystal Cove SP • • • • • • • • • •• •••••• •• Doheny SB • •••••• •• • • • • ••••• Huntington SB • • • • • • • • • • • • S S I I San Clemente SB • ••• •• • • • • •• • •• H H T T L L For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website A A B B

www.Parks.CA.gov. Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; . . S S

OHV operations (916) 324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local K K N N authorities. SP = State Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; A A R R SRA = State Recreation Area; SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore. F F

54 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 55 9 Y

T >>Orange County N

U road, level expanses of sand make this part O

C of California a beach-lover’s paradise. B E Dramatic cliffs frame the antics of swimmers, G

N divers, and beachcombers, while nature A

R preserves draw those who enjoy watching birds. O

Visitors flock here for wooded canyons threaded

9

by bike trails and a small beach community N established in the 1920s. O I G E R CRYSTAL COVE SP indoor tide pool, aquariums, food service, and This 2,800-acre park has wooded canyons, beach wheelchair. The entrance is on Dana open bluffs, and more than three miles of Point Harbor Dr., off Pacific Coast Hwy. in Dana Pacific coastline. Swimmers, surfers, and sun- Point. (949) 496-6171 or 492-0802. bathers congregate on the beach. Accessible HUNTINGTON AND BOLSA CHICA SBs picnicking, restrooms, paved pathway, a board- These wheelchair-accessible beaches (call walk and environmental/primitive campsites. ahead to use the wheelchairs) are connected by a The park is located off Route 73 or Pacific bike trail. Together, they form 5 miles of sandy Coast Hwy. between Corona del Mar and beach. Bolsa Chica, off Pacific Coast Hwy., about Laguna Beach. (949) 494-3539. 1 mile south of Warner Avenue, has camping for DOHENY SB self-contained vehicles only; picnicking, rest- Another sunny day at Doheny SB This 62-acre park has 120 developed camp- rooms, and food service are accessible at both sites, some only steps from the beach. Many beaches. (714) 846-3460. Huntington, opposite sites, of which 72 offer RV hookups. Trails lead to campsites (some accessible) are within walking Magnolia Avenue on the PCH, has a 7.5-acre a mile of beach that is popular with surfers, body distance of picturesque Dana Point Harbor and preserve for the least tern and snowy plover. surfers, and swimmers. Accessible camping, only 4 miles from San Juan Capistrano Mission. (714) 536-1454. restrooms, picnicking, trail, and exhibits. Call The south day-use area is popular for beach SAN CLEMENTE SB ahead to use the beach wheelchair. Entrance via parties and campfires, and large groups can San Clemente is a camping park along a scenic the Avenida Calafia exit off I-5 near the south end enjoy the shaded beach areas of the north day- stretch of California coast that evokes the of San Clemente. (949) 492-3156. use area. Accessible picnicking, visitor center, Golden Era of the 1920s. There are 157 camp-

Historic cottages line the shore at Crystal Cove SP

REGION 9 ORANGE COUNTY

Bolsa Chica SB • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Crystal Cove SP • • • • • • • • • •• •••••• •• Doheny SB • •••••• •• • • • • ••••• Huntington SB • • • • • • • • • • • • S S I I San Clemente SB • ••• •• • • • • •• • •• H H T T L L For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website A A B B

www.Parks.CA.gov. Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; . . S S

OHV operations (916) 324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local K K N N authorities. SP = State Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; A A R R SRA = State Recreation Area; SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore. F F

54 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 55 10 Y

T >>San Diego County N

U he sandstone bluffs, gentle surf, and wide O C Tsandy beaches of this region offer great O recreation—swimming, surfing, surf fishing, and G E

I strolling on the beach. This is also a place of D historic battlefields, lively celebrations of the N

A Mexican and Californio era, important natural S

preserves, and access to a world-class

0 observatory at Palomar Mountain. 1

N O I G E

R BORDER FIELD SP This 14-acre beach is located at the foot of At this beach, an obelisk set into the fence coastal bluffs just south of the town of Carlsbad. marks the international boundary between A gradually sloping shore and gentle surf make Mexico and the U.S. that was established it popular with swimmers, surfers, picnickers, in 1848. Accessible picnicking, parking, and and anglers. Accessible picnicking and parking. restrooms. The visitor center is located 3 miles From I-5, exit Encinitas Blvd, make a left to north in Imperial Beach. (619) 575-3613. Hwy. 101, make another left, and look for the CARDIFF SB sign to San Elijo State Beach. (760) 438-3143. This level stretch of beach has some of the CUYAMACA RANCHO SP most popular surfing locations in the state, if This inland park covers 24,577 acres of mead- not the entire western United States. ows and woodlands at elevations ranging from Accessible restrooms are available, and beach- 3,000 feet to over 6,000 feet. Since the destruc- goers will appreciate the convenient, accessible tive fires of 2003, the beauty of the park has parking. The park is in the south point of recovered. Cuyamaca Rancho offers some of Campground has a creek running through it, on Old Hwy. 101 in Encinitas. (760) 753-5091. Encinitas on Old Hwy. 101. (760) 753-5091. the best equestrian, mountain biking, and hik- and Paso Picacho Campground is only 2 miles SAN ONOFRE SB CARLSBAD SB ing opportunities in the state. Green Valley from Lake Cuyamaca. The park is located on San Onofre is a 3,000-acre park with two camp- Hwy. 79, approximately 50 miles east of San grounds, The Bluffs and San Mateo. The Bluffs Diego. (760) 765-0755. campground is located on Basilone Road and OLD TOWN SAN DIEGO SHP has 173 developed, non-hookup campsites. It This park is located on the site of San Diego’s first Pueblo settlement and features restored and reconstructed buildings with accessible museums, exhibits, shops, and restaurants depicting the lifestyle of the early Californians. Restrooms and parking are accessible. Park at Taylor and Pacific Hwy., and walk through the tunnel to the park. (619) 220-5422. PALOMAR MOUNTAIN SP This 1,897-acre park has spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean from its forested vantage point. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, and fishing here as well as accessible camping, restrooms, parking, and a campfire center. Located off Hwy. 76, up Hwy. S6, then left on Hwy. S7 State Park Road at the junction near S S N N I I the peak. (760) 742-3462. M M M M

U U SAN ELIJO SB C C

D D San Elijo offers a prime camping location, with Cinco de Mayo at Old R R Hang gliding off Torrey Pines SR A A surfing breaks and beaches for tidepool play. Town San Diego SHP H H C C I I Accessible camping and restrooms. The park is R R

56 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 57 10 Y

T >>San Diego County N

U he sandstone bluffs, gentle surf, and wide O C Tsandy beaches of this region offer great O recreation—swimming, surfing, surf fishing, and G E

I strolling on the beach. This is also a place of D historic battlefields, lively celebrations of the N

A Mexican and Californio era, important natural S

preserves, and access to a world-class

0 observatory at Palomar Mountain. 1

N O I G E

R BORDER FIELD SP This 14-acre beach is located at the foot of At this beach, an obelisk set into the fence coastal bluffs just south of the town of Carlsbad. marks the international boundary between A gradually sloping shore and gentle surf make Mexico and the U.S. that was established it popular with swimmers, surfers, picnickers, in 1848. Accessible picnicking, parking, and and anglers. Accessible picnicking and parking. restrooms. The visitor center is located 3 miles From I-5, exit Encinitas Blvd, make a left to north in Imperial Beach. (619) 575-3613. Hwy. 101, make another left, and look for the CARDIFF SB sign to San Elijo State Beach. (760) 438-3143. This level stretch of beach has some of the CUYAMACA RANCHO SP most popular surfing locations in the state, if This inland park covers 24,577 acres of mead- not the entire western United States. ows and woodlands at elevations ranging from Accessible restrooms are available, and beach- 3,000 feet to over 6,000 feet. Since the destruc- goers will appreciate the convenient, accessible tive fires of 2003, the beauty of the park has parking. The park is in the south point of recovered. Cuyamaca Rancho offers some of Campground has a creek running through it, on Old Hwy. 101 in Encinitas. (760) 753-5091. Encinitas on Old Hwy. 101. (760) 753-5091. the best equestrian, mountain biking, and hik- and Paso Picacho Campground is only 2 miles SAN ONOFRE SB CARLSBAD SB ing opportunities in the state. Green Valley from Lake Cuyamaca. The park is located on San Onofre is a 3,000-acre park with two camp- Hwy. 79, approximately 50 miles east of San grounds, The Bluffs and San Mateo. The Bluffs Diego. (760) 765-0755. campground is located on Basilone Road and OLD TOWN SAN DIEGO SHP has 173 developed, non-hookup campsites. It This park is located on the site of San Diego’s first Pueblo settlement and features restored and reconstructed buildings with accessible museums, exhibits, shops, and restaurants depicting the lifestyle of the early Californians. Restrooms and parking are accessible. Park at Taylor and Pacific Hwy., and walk through the tunnel to the park. (619) 220-5422. PALOMAR MOUNTAIN SP This 1,897-acre park has spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean from its forested vantage point. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, and fishing here as well as accessible camping, restrooms, parking, and a campfire center. Located off Hwy. 76, up Hwy. S6, then left on Hwy. S7 State Park Road at the junction near S S N N I I the peak. (760) 742-3462. M M M M

U U SAN ELIJO SB C C

D D San Elijo offers a prime camping location, with Cinco de Mayo at Old R R Hang gliding off Torrey Pines SR A A surfing breaks and beaches for tidepool play. Town San Diego SHP H H C C I I Accessible camping and restrooms. The park is R R

56 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 57 10 Y T

N is located on a sandstone bluff with beach simple sandcastle. There are stretches of open select water sports. (619) 435-5184. U

O access to 3 miles of unspoiled coastline and is beach, nature trails, an overnight campground SOUTH CARLSBAD SB C

popular with those who wish to surf and sun- for recreational vehicles (self-contained Staircases lead down to the beach at this 110-

O bathe. Dogs allowed in certain areas; there are motorhome or trailer only), and a new Aquatics acre park located just south of Carlsbad. G no hot showers. The San Mateo Campground is Center specializing in instructional classes for Visitors can swim, fish, picnic, skin-dive, and E I located 1 mile east of I-5 on Cristianitos Road surf. Its 226 developed, bluff-top campsites D and has 65 campsites that offer water and elec- (some accessible) are a favorite. Accessible N

A tric hook-ups, and 90 tent campsites. There is a 200-foot paved path to the beach and rest- S

1.5-mile trail that leads to Trestles Beach, one rooms. From I-5, take the Palomar Airport Road

of the most well-known surf breaks in Southern exit west to Carlsbad Boulevard. (Hwy. 521), 0

1 California. Hot showers and campfire programs. then go south to the park. (760) 438-3143.

N Accessible camping, parking, and restrooms. TORREY PINES SR & SB O

I (949) 492-4872. These adjacent park units cover over 1,700

G SAN PASQUAL BATTLEFIELD SHP acres of beach, marsh, and coastal bluffs. E On December 6, 1846, during the Mexican- Hiking trails take in the picturesque pine trees R American War, 160 soldiers led by General (which grow only here and on Santa Rosa Stephen W. Kearny attacked Mexican troops at Island, off Santa Barbara), eroded bluffs, and a the Indian village of San Pasqual. The American gloriously undeveloped set of sandy beaches. losses were heavy, but both sides claimed victory. Accessible parking, restrooms, and visitor cen- Accessible museum, restrooms, and parking. ter (at reserve). Reserve entrance on North Located on Hwy. 78, at 15808 San Pasqual Torrey Pines Road (Hwy. S21) as it parallels I-5, Valley Rd. in Escondido, 1.25 miles east of the south of Del Mar. (858) 755-2063. San Diego Wild Animal Park. (760) 737-2201. SILVER STRAND SB This stretch of sandy beach separates the San Diego Bay from the Pacific Ocean. Nestled between natural dunes and endangered plants and wildlife species are recreational opportuni- ties such as swimming, surfing, windsurfing, A sunset paddle at The end of the day at fishing, hiking, picnicking or just building a Carlsbad SB Torrey Pines SB

REGION 10 SAN DIEGO COUNTY

Border Field SP • • • • • • • • • Cardiff SB • • • •••• Carlsbad SB ••• • • • •• Cuyamaca Rancho SP• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Old Town San Diego SHP • • • • • • • • Palomar Mountain SP • • • • • • • •••• San Elijo SB • ••• •• • • • • •• • •• San Onofre SB • • • • • • • • ••• • • ••• San Pasqual Battlefield SHP • • • • • • •

Silver Strand SB • • • • ••••• • • • • •••• • ) 2 ( South Carlsbad SB • • • • • • •• •• • •• S S N N

Torrey Pines SB • •• •• • •• I I M Torrey Pines SR • • • • • • M M M U U C C

For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website D D R www.Parks.CA.gov. Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; R A Cinco de Mayo mock battle, A A H OHV operations (916) 324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local H Old Town San Diego SHP C C I authorities. SP = State Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; I R R SRA = State Recreation Area; SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore.

58 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 59 10 Y T

N is located on a sandstone bluff with beach simple sandcastle. There are stretches of open select water sports. (619) 435-5184. U

O access to 3 miles of unspoiled coastline and is beach, nature trails, an overnight campground SOUTH CARLSBAD SB C

popular with those who wish to surf and sun- for recreational vehicles (self-contained Staircases lead down to the beach at this 110-

O bathe. Dogs allowed in certain areas; there are motorhome or trailer only), and a new Aquatics acre park located just south of Carlsbad. G no hot showers. The San Mateo Campground is Center specializing in instructional classes for Visitors can swim, fish, picnic, skin-dive, and E I located 1 mile east of I-5 on Cristianitos Road surf. Its 226 developed, bluff-top campsites D and has 65 campsites that offer water and elec- (some accessible) are a favorite. Accessible N

A tric hook-ups, and 90 tent campsites. There is a 200-foot paved path to the beach and rest- S

1.5-mile trail that leads to Trestles Beach, one rooms. From I-5, take the Palomar Airport Road

of the most well-known surf breaks in Southern exit west to Carlsbad Boulevard. (Hwy. 521), 0

1 California. Hot showers and campfire programs. then go south to the park. (760) 438-3143.

N Accessible camping, parking, and restrooms. TORREY PINES SR & SB O

I (949) 492-4872. These adjacent park units cover over 1,700

G SAN PASQUAL BATTLEFIELD SHP acres of beach, marsh, and coastal bluffs. E On December 6, 1846, during the Mexican- Hiking trails take in the picturesque pine trees R American War, 160 soldiers led by General (which grow only here and on Santa Rosa Stephen W. Kearny attacked Mexican troops at Island, off Santa Barbara), eroded bluffs, and a the Indian village of San Pasqual. The American gloriously undeveloped set of sandy beaches. losses were heavy, but both sides claimed victory. Accessible parking, restrooms, and visitor cen- Accessible museum, restrooms, and parking. ter (at reserve). Reserve entrance on North Located on Hwy. 78, at 15808 San Pasqual Torrey Pines Road (Hwy. S21) as it parallels I-5, Valley Rd. in Escondido, 1.25 miles east of the south of Del Mar. (858) 755-2063. San Diego Wild Animal Park. (760) 737-2201. SILVER STRAND SB This stretch of sandy beach separates the San Diego Bay from the Pacific Ocean. Nestled between natural dunes and endangered plants and wildlife species are recreational opportuni- ties such as swimming, surfing, windsurfing, A sunset paddle at The end of the day at fishing, hiking, picnicking or just building a Carlsbad SB Torrey Pines SB

REGION 10 SAN DIEGO COUNTY

Border Field SP • • • • • • • • • Cardiff SB • • • •••• Carlsbad SB ••• • • • •• Cuyamaca Rancho SP• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Old Town San Diego SHP • • • • • • • • Palomar Mountain SP • • • • • • • •••• San Elijo SB • ••• •• • • • • •• • •• San Onofre SB • • • • • • • • ••• • • ••• San Pasqual Battlefield SHP • • • • • • •

Silver Strand SB • • • • ••••• • • • • •••• • ) 2 ( South Carlsbad SB • • • • • • •• •• • •• S S N N

Torrey Pines SB • •• •• • •• I I M Torrey Pines SR • • • • • • M M M U U C C

For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website D D R www.Parks.CA.gov. Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; R A Cinco de Mayo mock battle, A A H OHV operations (916) 324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local H Old Town San Diego SHP C C I authorities. SP = State Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; I R R SRA = State Recreation Area; SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore.

58 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 59 11 E R

I >>Inland Empire

P camping, fishing, swimming, hiking, rock-climb-

M ajestic mountains and rugged desert-like ing, and picnicking. In addition, Lake Perris E hillsides surround this region. Four granite- offers a variety of interpretive programs from

D M

N bound peaks more than 10,000 feet high and May through September and hosts the “Lights A on the Lake” Christmas boat parade in L two lakes are home to a great diversity of plant

N December. Visitors can enjoy 167 tent camp- I

and animal life, including both bald and golden sites and 265 paved sites with RV hookups.

1 eagles. Miles of hiking, mountain biking, and Located 11 miles east of Riverside via Hwy. 60, 1 equestrian trails wind through this area of or I-215. (951) 657-0676. N

O MOUNT SAN JACINTO SP I abundant recreational opportunities. Hikers and backpackers may roam this vast G

E and rugged 13,700-acre park, which boasts 4 R mountain peaks above 10,000 feet. Wildlife abounds, including lizards, birds, deer, and coy- CALIFORNIA CITRUS SHP CHINO HILLS SP otes. There are 32 developed campsites in the Patterned after an early 1900s city park, this In the golden hills north of Santa Ana Canyon near Idyllwild Campground, with hot showers and 400-acre historic site evokes the days when the Riverside lies an undeveloped, 12,000-acre park. flush toilets. Stone Creek Campground has 50 word “California” meant oranges (and other Its 55 miles of trails running through stands of oaks developed sites, vault toilets, and fresh drinking easy-to-grow produce) to the rest of the world. and sycamores, and its rolling grasslands welcome water. All sites have picnic tables and fire rings. The importance of the citrus industry is recog- hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians alike. In this state wilderness, the 48 campsites in 4 nized here with an ampitheater, a visitor center, (951) 780-6222. primitive camping areas are not reachable by Tahoe? No—it’s and interpretative groves. Accessible rest- LAKE PERRIS SRA car. Wilderness permits are required for day Lake Perris SRA rooms, picnicking, and visitor center. Guided This 8,800-acre park has a stunning lake amid hikers, and camping permits are required for tours are also offered. Located in Riverside, one imposing rock formations. Recreational activi- backpackers. The park can be reached from the sites in the developed campground, with acces- mile east of Hwy. 91. (951) 780-6222. ties include, but are not limited to, boating, mountains via Hwy. 243 or from the desert side sible showers and restrooms. Bald eagles winter via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (fee), in the park, giving visitors the rare opportunity to which takes visitors to the Mountain Station at see this national symbol in its natural environ- 8,500 feet. (909) 659-2607 or (760) 327-0222. ment. Guided eagle tours are offered (reserva- SILVERWOOD LAKE SRA tions are recommended). Other animal sightings Fire damage has been significant to the highest may include coyotes, black bears, bobcats, and reservoir in the California State Water Project, deer. Call the park for more information. which nonetheless offers boating, water skiing, (760) 389-2303 or (760) 389-2281. fishing, and swimming; the surrounding park has hiking and biking trails. Numerous picnic areas and a visitor center are available. There are 136

REGION 11 INLAND EMPIRE

California Citrus SHP • • • • • • • • •• Chino Hills SP • • • • • • •• ••••• Lake Perris SRA • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Mount San Jacinto SP • • • • • • • • •• ••••• S

N Silverwood Lake SRA • • ••••• • ••• • • • • • • • • • I M

M For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website www.Parks.CA.gov. U C

Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; OHV operations (916) D

R 324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local authorities. SP = State A

H Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; SRA = State Recreation Area; C I SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore. R

60 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 61 11 E R

I >>Inland Empire

P camping, fishing, swimming, hiking, rock-climb-

M ajestic mountains and rugged desert-like ing, and picnicking. In addition, Lake Perris E hillsides surround this region. Four granite- offers a variety of interpretive programs from

D M

N bound peaks more than 10,000 feet high and May through September and hosts the “Lights A on the Lake” Christmas boat parade in L two lakes are home to a great diversity of plant

N December. Visitors can enjoy 167 tent camp- I

and animal life, including both bald and golden sites and 265 paved sites with RV hookups.

1 eagles. Miles of hiking, mountain biking, and Located 11 miles east of Riverside via Hwy. 60, 1 equestrian trails wind through this area of or I-215. (951) 657-0676. N

O MOUNT SAN JACINTO SP I abundant recreational opportunities. Hikers and backpackers may roam this vast G

E and rugged 13,700-acre park, which boasts 4 R mountain peaks above 10,000 feet. Wildlife abounds, including lizards, birds, deer, and coy- CALIFORNIA CITRUS SHP CHINO HILLS SP otes. There are 32 developed campsites in the Patterned after an early 1900s city park, this In the golden hills north of Santa Ana Canyon near Idyllwild Campground, with hot showers and 400-acre historic site evokes the days when the Riverside lies an undeveloped, 12,000-acre park. flush toilets. Stone Creek Campground has 50 word “California” meant oranges (and other Its 55 miles of trails running through stands of oaks developed sites, vault toilets, and fresh drinking easy-to-grow produce) to the rest of the world. and sycamores, and its rolling grasslands welcome water. All sites have picnic tables and fire rings. The importance of the citrus industry is recog- hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians alike. In this state wilderness, the 48 campsites in 4 nized here with an ampitheater, a visitor center, (951) 780-6222. primitive camping areas are not reachable by Tahoe? No—it’s and interpretative groves. Accessible rest- LAKE PERRIS SRA car. Wilderness permits are required for day Lake Perris SRA rooms, picnicking, and visitor center. Guided This 8,800-acre park has a stunning lake amid hikers, and camping permits are required for tours are also offered. Located in Riverside, one imposing rock formations. Recreational activi- backpackers. The park can be reached from the sites in the developed campground, with acces- mile east of Hwy. 91. (951) 780-6222. ties include, but are not limited to, boating, mountains via Hwy. 243 or from the desert side sible showers and restrooms. Bald eagles winter via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (fee), in the park, giving visitors the rare opportunity to which takes visitors to the Mountain Station at see this national symbol in its natural environ- 8,500 feet. (909) 659-2607 or (760) 327-0222. ment. Guided eagle tours are offered (reserva- SILVERWOOD LAKE SRA tions are recommended). Other animal sightings Fire damage has been significant to the highest may include coyotes, black bears, bobcats, and reservoir in the California State Water Project, deer. Call the park for more information. which nonetheless offers boating, water skiing, (760) 389-2303 or (760) 389-2281. fishing, and swimming; the surrounding park has hiking and biking trails. Numerous picnic areas and a visitor center are available. There are 136

REGION 11 INLAND EMPIRE

California Citrus SHP • • • • • • • • •• Chino Hills SP • • • • • • •• ••••• Lake Perris SRA • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Mount San Jacinto SP • • • • • • • • •• ••••• S

N Silverwood Lake SRA • • ••••• • ••• • • • • • • • • • I M

M For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website www.Parks.CA.gov. U C

Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; OHV operations (916) D

R 324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local authorities. SP = State A

H Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; SRA = State Recreation Area; C I SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore. R

60 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 61 12 S

T >>Deserts R

E INDIO HILLS PALMS SP is located in the campground area. The park is

S ore than just a hot, arid environment, this The harsh, beautiful life of the desert is on display located 25 miles northeast of Mojave on Hwy. E region is rich with colorful geological D M here; a concessionaire offers lively covered 14. (661) 942-0662.

formations, badlands, fan-palm oases, hardy wagon tours of oases. (760) 393-3059. SALTON SEA SRA 2

1 OCOTILLO WELLS SVRA An accidental break in a hastily constructed

flora and fauna, riparian wetlands toward the More than 82,000 acres of desert are available dike supplying Colorado River water to the N eastern Sierra, spring wildflowers, mile-high O for off-highway exploration and recreation. Imperial Valley created one of the world’s I

G peaks, spectacular limestone caverns, and an Located in east San Diego County and west largest inland seas here. There are 150 devel- E Imperial County, Ocotillo Wells is accessible via oped campsites (some accessible), and 3 prim-

R “accidental” saltwater lake. Here, rare and endangered species get a chance at survival, and Hwy. 86. Ocotillo Wells is open to the public 24 itive campgrounds, plus fishing, boating, and hours a day, 7 days a week. (760) 767-5391. waterskiing. Accessible picnicking and visitor visitors learn about the desert’s fragility. PICACHO SRA center. The visitor center is 25 miles southeast This park lies near the remains of a former of Indio via Hwy. 111. (760) 393-3052. Colorado River gold-mining town. There’s ANZA-BORREGO DESERT SP HEBER DUNES SVRA boating, hiking, fishing, and primitive camping At 600,000 acres, Anza-Borrego is the state’s This area has 343 acres of land that was part of as well as accessible camping. Take the 6-mile largest and oldest desert park. Assistive listen- the Imperial County park system. It is primarily paved road, followed by 18 miles of unpaved ing devices are available. Accessible camping, used for off-road recreation. Restrooms with road north from Winterhaven. (760) 393-3052. picnicking, and nature trail. The park is reached showers and camping ramadas are available. PROVIDENCE MOUNTAINS SRA via Hwys. 78 and 79 from the east and west, The park’s most prominent features are sand Mitchell Caverns are the draw at this 5,500-acre and by I-8 from the south. (760) 767-5311. dunes and tamarisk trees. (760) 767-5391. park. Cavern tours take place daily (on week- ends only during summer months). Activities include accessible camping, picnicking, and hiking. Located 100 miles east of Barstow, 17 miles from I-40 on Essex Road. (760) 928-2586. RED ROCK CANYON SP The colorful rock formations of this 27,000-acre park were a landmark for 19th-century stage- coaches. Many major movies and television shows have been filmed here. There are 50 primitive campsites, 2 are accessible to the dis- abled. Pit toilets, running water, tables and fire rings are provided. An accessible visitor center Wildflower season at Anza-Borrego Desert SP

REGION 12 DESERTS

Anza-Borrego Desert SP • • • • • • • • • •• •• •• Heber Dunes SVRA • • • • Indio Hills Palms SP • • Ocotillo Wells SVRA • • • • • Picacho SRA • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Providence Mountains SRA • • • •• • • ••• •• Red Rock Canyon SP • • • • • • •• •• • S

N Salton Sea SRA • • • • • • • • •• ••• • •• I M

M For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website U C

www.Parks.CA.gov. Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; D

R OHV operations (916) 324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local A

H authorities. SP = State Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; C I SRA = State Recreation Area; SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore. R

62 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 63 12 S

T >>Deserts R

E INDIO HILLS PALMS SP is located in the campground area. The park is

S ore than just a hot, arid environment, this The harsh, beautiful life of the desert is on display located 25 miles northeast of Mojave on Hwy. E region is rich with colorful geological D M here; a concessionaire offers lively covered 14. (661) 942-0662.

formations, badlands, fan-palm oases, hardy wagon tours of oases. (760) 393-3059. SALTON SEA SRA 2

1 OCOTILLO WELLS SVRA An accidental break in a hastily constructed

flora and fauna, riparian wetlands toward the More than 82,000 acres of desert are available dike supplying Colorado River water to the N eastern Sierra, spring wildflowers, mile-high O for off-highway exploration and recreation. Imperial Valley created one of the world’s I

G peaks, spectacular limestone caverns, and an Located in east San Diego County and west largest inland seas here. There are 150 devel- E Imperial County, Ocotillo Wells is accessible via oped campsites (some accessible), and 3 prim-

R “accidental” saltwater lake. Here, rare and endangered species get a chance at survival, and Hwy. 86. Ocotillo Wells is open to the public 24 itive campgrounds, plus fishing, boating, and hours a day, 7 days a week. (760) 767-5391. waterskiing. Accessible picnicking and visitor visitors learn about the desert’s fragility. PICACHO SRA center. The visitor center is 25 miles southeast This park lies near the remains of a former of Indio via Hwy. 111. (760) 393-3052. Colorado River gold-mining town. There’s ANZA-BORREGO DESERT SP HEBER DUNES SVRA boating, hiking, fishing, and primitive camping At 600,000 acres, Anza-Borrego is the state’s This area has 343 acres of land that was part of as well as accessible camping. Take the 6-mile largest and oldest desert park. Assistive listen- the Imperial County park system. It is primarily paved road, followed by 18 miles of unpaved ing devices are available. Accessible camping, used for off-road recreation. Restrooms with road north from Winterhaven. (760) 393-3052. picnicking, and nature trail. The park is reached showers and camping ramadas are available. PROVIDENCE MOUNTAINS SRA via Hwys. 78 and 79 from the east and west, The park’s most prominent features are sand Mitchell Caverns are the draw at this 5,500-acre and by I-8 from the south. (760) 767-5311. dunes and tamarisk trees. (760) 767-5391. park. Cavern tours take place daily (on week- ends only during summer months). Activities include accessible camping, picnicking, and hiking. Located 100 miles east of Barstow, 17 miles from I-40 on Essex Road. (760) 928-2586. RED ROCK CANYON SP The colorful rock formations of this 27,000-acre park were a landmark for 19th-century stage- coaches. Many major movies and television shows have been filmed here. There are 50 primitive campsites, 2 are accessible to the dis- abled. Pit toilets, running water, tables and fire rings are provided. An accessible visitor center Wildflower season at Anza-Borrego Desert SP

REGION 12 DESERTS

Anza-Borrego Desert SP • • • • • • • • • •• •• •• Heber Dunes SVRA • • • • Indio Hills Palms SP • • Ocotillo Wells SVRA • • • • • Picacho SRA • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Providence Mountains SRA • • • •• • • ••• •• Red Rock Canyon SP • • • • • • •• •• • S

N Salton Sea SRA • • • • • • • • •• ••• • •• I M

M For detailed current information about parks, including reservations, fees, and accessibility, visit the website U C

www.Parks.CA.gov. Specific phone numbers: General park information (800) 777-0369; Campsite reservations (800) 444-7275; D

R OHV operations (916) 324-4442. Other parks in this region may be owned by California State Parks but operated by local A

H authorities. SP = State Park; SHP = State Historic Park; SHM = State Historical Monument; SR = State Reserve; C I SRA = State Recreation Area; SB = State Beach; SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area; SS = State Seashore. R

62 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov www.Parks.CA.gov Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i 63 INDEX

20 Admiral William Standley SRA 56 Cuyamaca Rancho SP 51 Malibu Creek SP 26 Robert Louis Stevenson SP 30 Ahjumawi Lava Springs SP 36 D.L. Bliss SP 51 Malibu Lagoon SB 39 Robert W. Crow Memorial SB* 20 Anderson Marsh SHP 22 Del Norte Coast Redwoods SP 24 Manchester SP 27 Russian Gulch SP 44 Andrew Molera SP 33 Delta Meadows 45 Mandalay SB* 52 Saddleback Butte SP 38 Angel Island SP 51 Dockweiler SB* 40 Manresa SB* 46 Salinas River SB 20 Annadel SP 54 Doheny SB 40 Marconi Conference 27 Salt Point SP 38 Año Nuevo SP & SR 36 Donner Memorial SP Center SHP 63 Salton Sea SRA 50 Antelope Valley CA 44 El Capitan SB 46 Marina SB 40 Samuel P. Taylor SP Poppy Reserve 44 El Presidio de Santa 34 Marshall Gold Discovery SHP 46 San Buenaventura SB 50 Antelope Valley Indian Barbara SHP 31 McArthur-Burney Falls 55 San Clemente SB Museum S HP 36 Emerald Bay SP Memorial SP 57 San Elijo SB 62 Anza-Borrego Desert SP 44 Emma Wood SB 49 McConnell SRA 40 San Gregorio SB 20 Armstrong Redwoods SR 33 Empire Mine SHP 46 McGrath SB 46 San Juan Bautista SHP 50 Arthur B. Ripley Desert 44 Estero Bay 24 Mendocino Headlands SP 49 San Luis Reservoir SRA Woodland SP 33 Folsom Lake SRA 24 Mendocino Woodlands SP 40 San Mateo Coast SBs 44 Asilomar SB & 34 Folsom Powerhouse SHP 49 Millerton Lake SRA 58 San Onofre SB Conference Grounds 39 The Forest of Nisene 36 Mono Lake Tufa SR 58 San Pasqual Battlefield SHP 32 Auburn SRA Marks SP 46 Montaña de Oro SP 47 San Simeon SP 20 Austin Creek SRA 22 Fort Humboldt SHP 40 Montara SB 40 Santa Cruz SBs 21 Azalea SR 22 Fort Ross SHP 46 Monterey SB 40 Santa Cruz Mission SHP 21 Bale Grist Mill SHP 48 Fort Tejon SHP 46 Monterey SHP 52 Santa Susana Pass SHP 40 Bean Hollow SB 49 Franks Tract SRA 24 Montgomery Woods SR 27 Schooner Gulch SB 21 Benbow Lake SRA 44 Fremont Peak SP 57 Moonlight SB* 42 Seacliff SB 38 Benicia SRA 44 Garrapata SP 46 Morro Bay SP 31 Shasta SHP 38 Benicia Capitol SHP 44 Gaviota SP 46 Morro Strand SB 59 Silver Strand SB 38 Bethany Reservoir SRA 49 George J. Hatfield SRA 46 Moss Landing SB 61 Silverwood Lake SRA 30 Bidwell Mansion SHP 34 Governor’s Mansion SHP 40 Mount Diablo SP 27 Sinkyone Wilderness SP 30 Bidwell-Sacramento River SP 40 Gray Whale Cove SB 61 Mount San Jacinto SP 27 Smithe Redwoods SR 38 Big Basin Redwoods SP 49 Great Valley Grasslands SP 40 Mount Tamalpais SP 27 Sonoma SHP 36 Bodie SHP 22 Greenwood SB 40 Natural Bridges SB 27 Sonoma Coast SB 54 Bolsa Chica SB 22 Grizzly Creek Redwoods SP 24 Navarro River Redwoods SP 59 South Carlsbad SB 56 Border Field SP 36 Grover Hot Springs SP 40 New Brighton SB 35 South Yuba River SP 21 Bothe-Napa Valley SP 40 Half Moon Bay SB 46 Oceano Dunes SVRA 27 Standish-Hickey SRA 48 Brannan Island SRA 22 Harry A. Merlo SRA 63 Ocotillo Wells SVRA 36 Sugar Pine Point SP 39 Burleigh H. Murray Ranch* 44 Hearst Castle® 34 Old Sacramento SHP 27 Sugarloaf Ridge SP 36 Burton Creek SP 62 Heber Dunes SVRA 57 Old Town San Diego SHP 42 Sunset SB 39 Butano SP 22 Hendy Woods SP 40 Olompali SHP 35 Sutter’s Fort SHP 36 Calaveras Big Trees SP 40 Henry Cowell Redwoods SP 46 Pacheco SP 37 Tahoe SRA 60 California Citrus SHP 45 Henry W. Coe SP 39 Pacifica SB* 57 Tijuana Estuary NP* 32 California State Capitol 45 Hollister Hills SVRA 57 Palomar Mountain SP 27 Tolowa Dunes SP Museum 22 Humboldt Lagoons SP 24 Patrick’s Point SP 42 Tomales Bay SP 32 California State Indian 22 Humboldt Redwoods SP 26 Pelican SB 49 Tomo-Kahni SHP Museum SHP 50 Hungry Valley SVRA 40 Pescadero SB 52 Topanga SP 32 California State Mining and 54 Huntington SB 26 Petaluma Adobe SHP 59 Torrey Pines SR & SB Mineral Museum 34 Indian Grinding Rock SHP 46 Pfeiffer Big Sur SP 27 Trinidad SB 32 California State Railroad 63 Indio Hills Palms SP 63 Picacho SRA 49 Tule Elk SR Museum 24 Jack London SHP 40 Pigeon Point Light 49 Turlock Lake SRA 39 Candlestick Point SRA 24 Jedediah Smith Redwoods SP Station SHP 40 Twin Lakes SB 56 Cardiff SB 24 Jug Handle SR 52 Pío Pico SHP 27 Van Damme SP 56 Carlsbad SB 45 Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP 46 Pismo SB 51 Verdugo Mountains* 44 Carmel River SB 50 Kenneth Hahn SRA 51 Placerita Canyon SP* 37 Washoe Meadows SP 39 Carnegie SVRA 36 Kings Beach SRA 31 Plumas-Eureka SP 37 Wassama Round House SHP 44 Carpinteria SB 24 Kruse Rhododendron SR 26 Point Cabrillo Light Station 51 Watts Tower of Simon Rodia* 22 Caspar Headlands SB & SR 45 La Purísima Mission SHP 52 Point Dume SB 31 Weaverville Joss House SHP 51 Castaic Lake SRA* 39 Lake Del Valle SRA* 46 Point Lobos SR 27 Westport-Union Landing SB 30 Castle Crags SP 30 Lake Oroville SRA 40 Point Montara Light Station 42 Wilder Ranch SP 39 Castle Rock SP 60 Lake Perris SRA 46 Point Mugu SP 51 Will Rogers SB* 48 Caswell Memorial SP 36 Lake Valley SRA 45 Point Sal SB* 53 Will Rogers SHP 45 Cayucos SB* 34 Leland Stanford Mansion SHP 46 Point Sur SHP 31 William B. Ide Adobe SHP 39 China Camp SP 51 Leo Carrillo SP 40 Pomponio SB 47 Wm. Randolph Hearst 60 Chino Hills SP 57 Leucadia SB* 40 Portola Redwoods SP Memorial SB 44 Chumash Painted Cave SHP 39 Lighthouse Field SB* 34 Prairie City SVRA 49 Woodland Opera House SHP 30 Clay Pit SVRA 45 Limekiln SP 26 Prairie Creek Redwoods SP 31 Woodson Bridge SRA 22 Clear Lake SP 24 Little River SB 63 Providence Mountains SRA 47 Zmudowski SB 48 Colonel Allensworth SHP 51 Los Encinos SHP 35 Railtown 1897 SHP 32 Columbia SHP 45 Los Osos Oaks SR 63 Red Rock Canyon SP *State Parks Property 48 Colusa-Sacramento River SRA 24 MacKerricher SP 46 Refugio SB operated by separate entity. 55 Corona Del Mar SB* 24 Mailliard Redwoods SR 26 Richardson Grove SP + No public access. 54 Crystal Cove SP 34 Malakoff Diggins SHP 52 Robert H. Meyer Memorial SBS

64 Parkseor Stat f a Cal ni i www.Parks.CA.gov