If you are planning to visit several national parks in any given year, consider getting the America the Beautiful Pass. And that’s not even counting the state parks and national monuments in California. With more than 15 million acres of national park land, it’s the ultimate haven for nature lovers looking for some wide-eyed solitude and sightseeing.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the number of California national parks and the scope of landscapes this mighty state has to offer, you’re starting to get the right idea. Joshua Tree National Park and Channel Islands National Park are well worth the drive south, especially considering their close proximity to Los Angeles. Meanwhile, Central California has a stretch of sunny recreational areas situated along a similar latitude, from Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon to Pinnacles National Park and Death Valley National Park, all within reach of the iconic Yosemite National Park. Driving south down the coast, you can start at Redwood National Park or Lassen Volcanic National Park, which are only a few hours drive from San Francisco. For those looking to reignite their appreciation for childlike wonder with a road trip through the US national parks, now’s the time and California’s the place, with more national parks than any other state.Ĭalifornia’s nine national parks offer an abundance of ways to plan your travel. Otherworldly landscapes abound, from colossal, ancient trees to volcanic basins and dangerous deserts, rocky plains and cacti-covered mesas. There’s a sense of fantasy that doesn’t hail from Hollywood, but from the size and scope of its natural wonders. California is the stuff of myths, legends, and lore.

California national parks map