Northern California is a truly magical place. I’m too lucky to have called it home for the last 20+ years!
With its diverse landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty, Northern California offers an abundance of scenic state parks to explore. Home to stunning waterfalls, towering redwood forests, and pristine beaches, these parks provide endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
As you embark on your journey through Northern California, you’ll discover a diverse array of parks featuring picturesque hiking trails, captivating wildlife, and awe-inspiring vistas.
From the incredible 129-foot Burney Falls at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park to the majestic redwoods of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, there is no shortage of enchanting state parks for you to visit.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast who’s looking for something new outside of the national parks or simply seeking a quiet getaway in the wild, these visit-worthy state parks of Northern California will offer you a grand ol’ time.
With the 15 state parks in this list (listed in no particular order because I think they’re ALL amazing), get ready to create lasting memories and immerse yourself in the unmatched beauty of these must-visit California state parks!
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15 Most Visit-Worthy State Parks In Northern California
Table of Contents
1. Mount Tamalpais State Park
Distance From San Francisco: 20 miles, 40-minute drive
Nestled in the heart of Northern California (super close to SF), Mount Tamalpais State Park is a nature lover’s paradise that promises to take your breath away! You’ll get it all here — stunning vistas, lush forests, coastal views, gushing waterfalls, and hikes that’ll knock your socks off!
One of the biggest highlights of Mount Tam is its hiking trails, which offer something for everyone, from easy strolls to challenging treks. By far the most iconic hike here is the Dipsea Trail, Steep Ravine Trail, and Matt Davis Loop, a 6.6-mile gem and local favorite (I’ve probably done this hike six times in my life already!).
The Dipsea Trail offers stunning views of Stinson Beach, the Pacific Ocean, and even the San Francisco Bay, while the Steep Ravine Trail takes you through a lush canyon filled with towering redwoods and ever-flowing waterfalls.
For something that’s half the length but equally as beautiful, opt for the 3.7-mile Dipsea to Steep Ravine Loop from Pantoll Campground.
Where To Stay In The Stinson/Mill Valley Area: Mill Valley Inn
2. Point Reyes National Seashore
Distance From San Francisco: 37 miles, 1-hour drive
If you’re looking for a truly unique outdoor experience in Northern California, look no further than Point Reyes National Seashore. While not quite a state park and not quite a national park, this stunning coastal wilderness area makes for a wonderful weekend getaway in the North Bay and is a must-visit for anyone who loves the great outdoors.
One of the highlights of Point Reyes National Seashore is its rugged coastline, which offers views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding hills — all of which are often shrouded in fog and clouds!
The park’s hiking trails are some of the best in the region, ranging from easy family-friendly strolls to more challenging treks. Three of the most popular hikes in the park are the Chimney Rock Trail, Tomales Point Trail, and the Alamere Falls Trail.
During the summer, I like the Tomales Point Trail. During the spring/winter, I like the Chimney Rock Trail. And Alamere Falls? That’s hike-worthy all year round!
If hiking is not your thing, you can also explore the park’s rich history and culture by visiting the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse. First lit in 1870, the lighthouse stands over 600 feet above sea level on a rocky outcropping ledge. When in town, you definitely can’t miss a visit to this landmark.
And if you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you’ll love the park’s abundant wildlife, which includes tule elk, harbor seals, and a variety of bird species!
Where To Stay In Point Reyes: Olema House
3. Castle Rock State Park
Distance From San Francisco: 70 miles, 1 hour 20-minute drive
Castle Rock State Park is such a cool place nestled deep in the South Bay Area. Should you choose to visit, I’d highly recommend the crown jewel hike of this park–the Saratoga Gap and Ridge Trail Loop!
This trail is a moderate and ever-so-slightly challenging hike that takes you through dense forests, over rocky outcroppings, and along narrow ridges. The trail is approximately 4.8 miles long and is a loop, making it easy to follow and navigate back to your car.
As you hike the Saratoga Gap and Ridge Trail Loop, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hillsides. Be sure to pack a picnic so you can enjoy some longer moments on one of the many sitting rocks that face the expansive basin. The views of the tree-filled basin are STELLAR.
Along the way, you may also spot the occasional snake or lizard basking in the sun amidst the rocks along the trail!
Where To Stay For Castle Rock SP: Aloft San Jose Cupertino
4. Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Distance From San Francisco: 70 miles, 1 hour 30-minute drive
Big Basin Redwoods State Park, located in Boulder Creek, is another beloved state park and hiking spot that offers easy access to towering ancient sequoia groves. For a relatively short day hike, take the 3.4-mile out-and-back hike to Sempervirens Falls.
For a longer option jam-packed with beauty, we love the 10.2-mile roundtrip Berry Creek Falls Loop Hike. Berry Creek Falls is by far the most popular destination in Big Basin SP!
This hike travels through the lush groves of old-growth redwood trees and giant sequoias of the beautiful Santa Cruz mountains.
Not only will you see Berry Creek Falls in all its glory, but you will also get a chance to visit Silver Falls and Cascade Falls. Depending on the time of year you hike it, you can very well spot dozens of banana slugs on the ground during the hike! It may sound like a pretty long hike, but it isn’t all that difficult.
While the intensity of the falls varies depending on the time of year (the best season is spring), the entire park is drop-dead gorgeous and worth a visit all year round.
FIRE CLOSURE: As of March 2021 there are closures in this park or area due to recent wildfires. For the latest information, please visit their website here.
5. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Distance From San Francisco: 140 miles, 2 hours 45-minute drive
If you’re looking for a breathtaking coastal experience in Northern California, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a must-visit destination.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is home to the ultra-iconic McWay Falls, a must-see during any Big Sur road trip! This 80-foot waterfall cascading right onto the secluded beach, flowing into the most turquoise blue water you’ll ever see, is absolutely stunning.
The combination of coastal flora, rocky cliffs, turquoise waters, and the waterfall makes for a gorgeous photo-op!
It’s important to note that you can’t walk down to the beach, but you can see it from above. It only takes about 5-10 minutes to get to the viewpoint from the parking lot. It’s really quite an effortless walk!
The park also offers a variety of hiking trails, including the Ewoldsen Trail, which takes you through a lush forest and offers stunning views of the coastline, all while giving you a little booty workout!
Pro Tip: Visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting. If you go during the afternoon when the sun is shining directly on the waterfall, it will be cast in shadows and will be difficult to see, and you won’t get good photos.
Where To Stay For Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP: Big Sur River Inn or Big Sur Lodge
6. Emerald Bay State Park
Distance From San Francisco: 196 miles, 3 hours 45-minute drive
Embrace the stunning beauty of Lake Tahoe at its crown jewel of a recreation area, Emerald Bay State Park. As one of the most picturesque landscapes in Northern California, you can easily enjoy panoramic views of the massive blue lake with all the hiking, boating, and wildlife-watching opportunities!
In terms of hiking, one of the best options here is the Rubicon Trail (not to be confused with the other 22-mile long, four-wheel-drive Rubicon Trail west of the lake). The Rubicon Trail in South Lake Tahoe connects two of the most beautiful state parks in all of California, D.L. Bliss SP and Emerald Bay SP.
This is a 6.5-mile one-way trail, and the best way to hike it is with 2 cars (one parked at each state park). This allows you to hike the trail as a 6.5-mile one-way instead of a 13-mile out and back.
Don’t feel like doing an intense 13-mile hike? Don’t worry, you can also shorten it by turning around at any time.
Another shorter but equally as great of a hike is the 1.4-mile Cascade Falls Trail. This beautiful trail leads to a gorgeous waterfall within Emerald Lake State Park on the southwest shore of Lake Tahoe.
The hike to Vikingsholm Castle is another really popular short hike. The walk down to the castle is manageable and is well worth the effort if you love castles! They give tours in the warmer months as well. In fact, the only way for the public to enter Vikingsholm is by tour.
Where To Stay In Lake Tahoe: Basecamp Tahoe South
For more tips on how to have the perfect weekend adventure in Lake Tahoe, check out this post: 3-Day Lake Tahoe Itinerary: The Perfect Summer Weekend
7. Henry W. Coe State Park
Distance From San Francisco: 80 miles, 1 hour 40-minute drive
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure that will take you off the beaten path, look no further than Henry W. Coe State Park. This hidden gem in Northern California is a must-visit for anyone who loves hiking, camping, and exploring the great outdoors.
One of the highlights of Henry W. Coe State Park is its extensive network of hiking trails, which offer something for hikers of all skill levels. Two of the most popular hikes in the park are the Frog Lake Loop Trail (moderate 5-miler) and the China Hole Loop Trail (longer and slightly more difficult).
But hiking isn’t the only thing to do in Henry W. Coe State Park. Non-hikers can also enjoy the park’s many other activities, such as camping, fishing, and wildlife watching.
Planning on heading to Henry W. Coe State Park? Why not pair it with a visit to nearby Santa Cruz, CA — it’s one of our favorite weekend getaways from the Bay Area!
8. Van Damme State Park
Distance From San Francisco: 150 miles, 3-hour drive
Located on the picturesque Mendocino Coast in Northern California, Van Damme State Park is a hidden gem that offers stunning coastal views of Northern California’s rugged coastline, lush green forests, and abundant wildlife.
With its breathtakingly green hiking trails, scenic campsites, and opportunities for relaxing and connecting with nature, Van Damme State Park is a true outdoor paradise that promises to leave visitors in awe!
Having camped here overnight myself, I can honestly say that Van Damme State Park is a great state park for outdoor activity and overnight camping. It’s also the perfect location to enjoy a small beach, a creekside hike, and the unspoiled forest!
Hands down, the best trail to do in this park is the Fern Canyon Trail. It’s one of the lushest and green trails I’ve ever experienced in California, so if you want to be transported to “Jurassic Park” times, I’d highly recommend doing a portion, if not the whole 8-mile hike.
At the end of the trail, you can continue on to see the Pygmy Forest, showcased by a raised boardwalk winds through a thicket of stunted century-old trees no more than 10 feet tall.
Head across the street to Van Damme Beach, famous for abalone diving. Though abalone diving and catching will be restricted until their population restores over the next few years, it’s still a super cool and convenient beach to check out (especially for sunset).
Where To Stay In Mendocino: Blue Door Inns, Four Sisters Collection or Agate Cove Inn
9. McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park
Distance From San Francisco: 250 miles, 4 hours 30-minute drive
Home to the majestic Burney Falls, McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park is a must-visit destination.
Without question, Burney Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the entire state. Located in the Cascade Mountains forty miles north of Lassen Volcanic National Park, you’ll find a large, ever-flowing set of falls fed by the melt of the surrounding mountains.
The 129ft waterfall draws many road trippers and adventurers to McArthur Burney Falls Memorial State Park all year round, even when the rest of the waterfalls in California have turned into small trickles in the summer.
There is a short 1-mile loop trail you can take after soaking in the beauty of the falls. Visitors can enjoy the interpretive signs on the nature trail and enjoy the shaded greenery of the park. The end of the trail leads you to the bottom of Burney Falls where you can experience the majestic falls up close.
Where To Stay Near Burney Falls: Shasta Pines Motel & Suites
10. Sue-Meg State Park
Distance From San Francisco: 300 miles, 5 hour 20-minute drive
Located near Trinidad, California way up north, Sue-Meg State Park (formerly known as Pactrick’s Point SP) is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the untouched beauty of Northern California and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.
What a lush and sprawling state park to visit! One of the main reasons to stop at Sue-meg SP is Agate Beach – it’s a beachcomber’s paradise. Agate Beach is two miles of solitude and splendor with awesome beachcombing opportunities.
On any given day, you can find a variety of rare rocks, such as jasper, agate, and even jade (hence, its name). Collecting stones at Agate Beach is allowed, but visitors are limited to one armload per person.
To get to the beach, make sure to wear relatively sturdy shoes; you’ll have to take a decently long/curvy trail down from the parking area.
For a nice hiking activity that’ll get your heart thumping just a bit, try out the 3.1-mile Patrick’s Point Rim Trail. After that, set up camp and enjoy the ocean breeze over the campfire!
Where To Stay: Sue-meg State Park Campground
11. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Distance From San Francisco: 319 miles, 5 hour 30-minute drive
Situated just a short drive from Sue-Meg State Park, Prairie Creek State Park is a nature lover’s paradise that promises to take your breath away.
Prairie Creek SP is the perfect spot for those with limited time. Reserve half a day for your visit — perhaps after a visit to Sue Meg State Park — and you won’t be sorry! The main attraction here? The Fern Canyon Loop Trail.
This hike really cannot be missed. It is hands down one of the most beautiful places in California I had ever laid my eyes on!
Here, you’ll have countless opportunities to see elk, streams/river crossings, massive canyon walls covered with foliage, and stunning redwoods. Take a drive on the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, which will be an eye-capturing adventure in itself.
In minutes, you’ll be enveloped in beautiful groves of mature redwoods lining the road. Trailheads appeared approximately every half-mile, so select some at random and explore different parts of the park for a few hours.
12. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Distance From San Francisco: 354 miles, 6 hours 20-minute drive
As you step into Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park located in the northernmost region of California, you’ll be transported to a world of enchantment and tranquility!
The towering redwoods, some of which are over a thousand years old, will leave you awestruck with their sheer size and grandeur. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale forest as you hike through the lush greenery, surrounded by ferns and moss-covered ground.
The sparkling Smith River, with its crystal-clear waters, is a sight you cannot miss while you’re here! It’s the perfect spot for fishing, swimming, or kayaking, and you’ll feel refreshed and invigorated as you take a dip in its cool waters.
13. Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Distance From San Francisco: 75 miles, 1 hour 30-minute drive
If you’re looking for a few hours’ escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is the perfect Northern California destination for you.
Located just north of the Russian River in a canyon 2 miles from Guerneville’s Main Street, this stunning reserve offers a quieter experience with fewer crowds, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of the redwoods.
One of the highlights of Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is the towering redwoods themselves. These ancient trees, some of which are over a thousand years old, are a sight you’ve gotta see with your own eyes.
If you’re limited on time, the must-do trail here is the Armstrong Redwoods Grove Loop Trail. For something a bit longer, take on the 5-mile East Ridge and Pool Ridge Loop Trail!
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale forest as you hike through the lush greenery, surrounded by ferns and a moss-covered forest floor. It’s got Lord Of The Rings vibes all the way!
And if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat after your stroll, the park’s picnic areas offer the perfect spot to relax and take in all the relaxing vibes.
Where To Stay In Guerneville: We personally love the rustic vibes at Highlands Resort! For an extra unique stay, see if you can snag a night or two at Autocamp, hosting a stylish collection of hipster Airstream trailers and luxurious glamping tents.
If you’re planning on visiting, check out the other 25+ things you can busy yourself with in Sonoma County!
14. Salt Point State Park
Distance From San Francisco: 100 miles, 2-hour drive
If you’re up for a road trip up the California Coast, just past Jenner, CA sits Salt Point State Park, another hidden gem of the state!
Expect nothing less than a scenic, rocky coastline featuring panoramic views, gorgeous hiking trails, secluded coves, and campgrounds backdropped by both the coast and forest!
One of the best hikes in Salt Point State Park is the Salt Point Trail. This 6.9-mile loop trail takes you through a scenic landscape of towering redwoods, open grasslands, and stunning ocean vistas. Along the way, you’ll pass by some of the park’s most unique rock formations, including the Salt Point, which is a massive rock outcropping that juts out into the ocean.
The Salt Point Trail also offers a great opportunity to spot wildlife! You’re going to want to keep an eye out for harbor seals, sea lions, and a whole variety of bird species. You might even spot a gray whale or two during the winter season!
Where to stay for Salt Point SP: Inn on the Russian River or the iconic glamping option — Autocamp!
15. Castle Crags State Park
Distance From San Francisco: 230 miles, 4-hour drive
While lesser-known than others on this list, Castle Crags State Park is such a lovely state park with an array of different terrain to enjoy, as well as some breathtaking views of Mount Shasta and the beautiful Shasta Valley right behind it!
Located in the Shasta Cascade region of Northern California, the park is known for its towering granite spires and rugged terrain — almost reminiscent of what you get when you visit Yosemite National Park.
By far the most popular hike in the park is the Castle Dome via Crags Trail, which takes you on a strenuous 5.8-mile round trip journey through a beautiful forest and up up up! In the end, you’ll get to soak in some truly stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding granite spires.
If you’re planning on doing this hike, bring lots more water than you think you need, and start as early as you possibly can. It gets hot super fast and you’ll be climbing up most of the time until you reach the top. Bring bug spray for the summertime!
Where To Stay For Castle Crags State Park: Inn At Mount Shasta or Mount Shasta Resort
Other Amazing State Parks Worth Checking Out
Our list above contains just 15 state parks in Northern California, but there are dozens more! A few that deserve an honorable mention include:
- Portola Redwoods State Park – Distance From San Francisco: 50 miles, 1 hour 10-minute drive
- Butano State Park – Distance From San Francisco: 65 miles, 1 hour 30-minute drive
- Russian Gulch State Park – Distance From San Francisco: 157 miles, 3 hour 10-minute drive
- Humboldt Redwoods State Park – Distance From San Francisco: 260 miles, 4 hours 30-minute drive
Looking for more Northern California travel tips? You may also like:
45 Must-Have Road Trip Essentials For Your Next Road Trip
20+ Best Campgrounds in Northern California For Your Next Trip (+ Glamping Spots!)
Northern California Coast Road Trip: San Francisco to Redwood National Park
15 Best RV Campgrounds in Northern California For Your Next Adventure
