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Top 17 Hidden Gems To Visit in California

  1. Mono Lake – Nestled in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, this large, shallow salt lake boasts landscapes so unique and otherworldly, it’s as if you’ve been transported to another planet. Keep an eye out for the abundant birdlife as you take a guided tour, go birdwatching, or explore the lake and its surrounding areas on foot or by boat.
  2. Point Lobos State Reserve – Situated in Monterey, this state park is an absolute stunner. Known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, it offers hiking trails, scenic vistas, picnic areas, and chances for wildlife viewing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. It’s a whale of a good time!
  3. McWay Falls – Located in the Big Sur region of California, these scenic falls drop 80 feet into the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by stunning coastal views. Visitors can take guided tours, hike in the surrounding areas, or enjoy scenic drives along the coastline. It’s a splash!
  4. Lassen Volcanic National Park – With active volcanoes, thermal features, and awe-inspiring beauty, this national park in Northern California is sure to blow your mind. It offers hiking trails, scenic drives, wildlife viewing opportunities, backcountry camping, and fishing. It’s definitely lit!
  5. Castle Rock State Park – This state park in the Santa Cruz Mountains is a rock star! Known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, it features hiking trails, scenic vistas, picnic areas, rock climbing, wildlife viewing, and stargazing opportunities. It’s un-boulder-able! So come and explore these natural wonders, and get ready to be blown away by California’s stunning landscapes.
  6. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park – This state park in Southern California is known for its unique desert landscapes, scenic beauty, and outdoor recreation opportunities. It offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and chances for wildlife viewing, as well as backcountry camping and stargazing. It’s a real oasis!
  7. Crystal Cove State Park – Located in Orange County, this state park is a real gem. It’s known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and historic district. The park features hiking trails, picturesque beaches, picnic areas, and chances for wildlife viewing and beach camping. It’s a shore thing!
  8. Butano State Park – This state park in San Mateo County is a real beauty. It offers hiking trails, scenic vistas, and picnic areas, as well as wildlife viewing and camping opportunities. It’s a real tree-t!
  9. Mount Tamalpais State Park – This state park in Marin County is a sight for sore eyes. Known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and historic sites, the park offers hiking trails, scenic vistas, and picnic areas, as well as chances for wildlife viewing and stargazing. It’s simply celestial!
  10. Samuel P. Taylor State Park – a state park in Marin County known for its delightful scenery, recreational opportunities, and historical spots. The park features lovely hiking trails, picturesque vistas, and pleasant picnic areas, as well as opportunities for wildlife watching and camping.
  11. Big Basin Redwoods State Park – a state park in Santa Cruz County, famous for its ancient redwood forests and charming landscapes. The park boasts invigorating hiking trails, mesmerizing vistas, and delightful picnic areas, as well as opportunities for wildlife watching and camping.
  12. Pinnacles National Park – a national park in Central California known for its remarkable rock formations, striking beauty, and outdoor activities. The park features exhilarating hiking trails, breathtaking vistas, and opportunities for rock climbing, wildlife watching, and camping.
  13. Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve – a state park in Sonoma County, famous for its colossal redwoods and gorgeous landscapes. The park has scenic hiking trails, pleasant picnic areas, and chances for wildlife watching.
  14. Channel Islands National Park – a national park situated off the Southern California coast, recognized for its unusual ecosystems and stunning beauty. The park offers wonderful hiking trails, lovely beaches, and opportunities for wildlife watching, kayaking, and camping.
  15. Henry W. Coe State Park: This state park located in Santa Clara County is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and array of recreational activities. Visitors can revel in wonderful hiking trails, scenic vistas, and inviting picnic areas, as well as opportunities for wildlife watching and camping.
  16. Malibu Creek State Park: Nestled in Los Angeles County, this state park is celebrated for its splendid natural beauty, recreational activities, and historical significance. The park offers charming hiking trails, lovely vistas, and inviting picnic areas, as well as chances for wildlife watching and camping.
  17. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: Acknowledged for its unique cliffs and stunning beauty, this state park located in San Diego County is a must-visit destination. Visitors can enjoy delightful hiking trails, picturesque vistas, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife watching and beach activities.