Ready to pack up the RV and take a trip through the beautiful state of California? As the most biodiverse state in the US, California has a near-infinite number of sights to see when you visit. Let’s take a look at the top 9 state parks for RV owners to visit in California.
1. Crystal Cove State Park
Starting off the list in Orange County, Crystal Cove is a Southern California treasure. Moro campground offers rugged beachside views, beautiful sunsets, and plenty of caves to explore. Being down the road from the famed Newport Beach doesn’t hurt either.
2. Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Home of the tallest and longest-lasting trees in the world, Humboldt Redwoods will inspire awe in any camper. A mix of old and new growth, this state park is home to the most ancient redwoods on Earth and absolutely deserves a spot on this list.
3. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Parks
The Pfeiffer Big Sur campground is an incredible staging point to see attractions like McWay Falls and the Big Sur River. There are 189 campsites and it’s a very popular park, so you will want to check Reserve California to make a reservation. Each campsite includes a parking area for at least one car, a fire pit and a picnic table. No hookups are provided at any site. Fresh water, hot showers and toilets are located throughout the campground.
4. McArthur Burney Falls Memorial State Park
The waterfalls this park is named after are well worth the drive to McArthur Burney Falls. Right around the corner from lake Britton, this park offers incredible hiking, fishing, and camping in the northernmost areas of California.
Visiting San Francisco?
Mount Tamalpais belongs on your agenda. Just past the north end of San Francisco Bay, Mt. Tamalpais offers gorgeous views over the bay year-round with a hike to the top of the mountain, all while being just a short drive from the Golden gate Bridge. Again, you can make a reservation through Reserve California online.
Morro Bay is a coastal state park and lagoon on the Central Coast. Best known for the huge Morro Rock, the state park also offers fishing, hiking, sailing, and much more! The park also features an 18 hole public golf course and marina along with a museum of natural history that you’ll want to check out!
7. Portola Redwoods State Park
Located south of the San Francisco Bay, Portola is a hidden treasure of a state park. A very relaxed atmosphere way stop, the towering trees keep gentle watch over you and your family as you enjoy the abundant hiking, swimming, and picnic opportunities within. The park boasts over 18 miles of trails, as well as waterfalls on Fall and Pescadero Creeks. Be advised there is no cell phone service within this park and the surrounding area, so ride sharing services are discouraged. If unplugging is on your list of things to do- this park is for you!
8. Russian Gulch State Park
Russian Gulch state park might be California’s best-kept secret. Nestled on the coast in the far northern reaches of the state, this park offers incredible views of the coast, forests, and wildlife that call the area home. If you want to experience everything that Russian Gulch has to offer, make sure you visit in the summer because the park closes in the cold months.
9. Emerald Bay State Park
Last on the list is the gem of California’s state parks. Nestled into the southwest corner of blue Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay state park truly offers some of the most fantastic scenery to be found in the entire state. You will want to check their website to plan your visit based on the most current information.
The park even includes a massive castle named Vikingsholm. Finished in the 1920s, this monolith is a must-see for any tourists passing through the park. However, the walk down to the castle is incredibly steep and there are no rides back up. The park advises that visitors with medical conditions or mobility issues avoid the steep 1 mile hike.
Get on the Road
Whether you’re ready to take your family on a road trip to the west, or if you have more questions, please check out our blog for all the information you need to plan your trips!
