California
Golden paths to inspiring adventures
Experience vivid coastlines, towering trees, and unique parks in the Golden State.
Number of partner parks
10
Key wildlife
- California condors
- Mountain lions
- Tule elk
Most famous for
Golden beaches, Yosemite National Park, towering redwoods
California captures hearts with its diverse landscapes and endless possibilities for exploration. Here, beneath the golden sky, towering redwoods stand tall while rugged coastlines meet sun-kissed beaches. Home to many national parks and vibrant cities, California embodies the spirit of adventure, offering a deep connection to nature and culture that lingers long after you’ve gone.
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Must visit
View all parks
Pinnacles National Park
Some 23 million years ago, multiple volcanoes erupted, flowed, and slid to form a unique landscape. Journey through chaparral, oak woodlands, and canyon bottoms. Hike inside rare talus caves and emerge to towering rock spires teeming with life: prairie and peregrine falcons, golden eagles, and the inspiring California condor.
Plan ahead
Some of California's most beautiful places have spotty cell coverage. Have a backup method of navigation on hand.
Skip the crowds
Go to popular destinations on weekdays to enjoy them with fewer crowds.
Take the scenic route
Renting a car or an RV, may be the best way to see the incredible sites here.
Visit respectfully
California is home to more than a hundred federally recognized Indigenous tribes. Visit with respect and care.
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Kayaking, dune sledding, and more in California's parks.
Endless California
These exciting California itineraries include adventure, fascinating history, and more.
5 days in Santa Monica Mountains & Channel Islands
Discover the best of Southern California's land and sea with this coastal adventure in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Channel Islands National Park.
7 days in Northern California's untamed landscapes
Experience the rugged beauty of Northern California on this seven-day road trip through towering redwood forests, wild rivers, and pristine alpine lakes.
9 days on the Pacific Coast Highway
Experience the ultimate Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) road trip on this nine-day itinerary from Los Angeles to San Francisco.
1 day at Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial
Spend a reflective day visiting an important African American Civil Rights memorial. Learn how World War II's largest disaster on the home front shaped history.
3 days of history in San Francisco Bay
Experience San Francisco's rich maritime heritage and see the historic homes of naturalist John Muir and Nobel Prize-winning playwright Eugene O’Neill.
7 days in California's Mojave Desert
Experience Southeastern California's Mojave Desert landscapes in Joshua Tree National Park, Mojave National Preserve, and Death Valley National Park.
8 days on the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail
Follow in the footsteps of Juan Bautista de Anza's 1775–76 expedition on this eight-day road trip from Arizona to California featuring culture and history.
11 days through the Pacific Northwest
Discover the diverse landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, from misty rainforests and rugged coastlines to volcanic lakes and high mountain peaks.
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Explore the state
Discover national parks and nearby cities
Legend
- Partner Park
- Gateway City
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Gateway City
Monterey, California
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Gateway City
Redding, California
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Gateway City
San Francisco, California
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Gateway City
Twentynine Palms, California
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Gateway City
Ventura, California
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