List National Parks in California
List of National Parks in California
California is known for its stunning natural landscapes and diverse ecosystems. With nine incredible national parks, this state offers a plethora of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and nature photographers. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient trees, breathtaking mountains, or picturesque coastline, California’s national parks have it all. Let’s dive into the details of each of these remarkable national parks.
1. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park, located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, is renowned for its majestic waterfalls, granite cliffs, and giant sequoias. This iconic park attracts millions of visitors each year, offering endless opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, camping, and wildlife watching.
Nearest Major Airports:
- Fresno Yosemite International Airport – 64 miles
- Merced Regional Airport – 77 miles
- San Jose International Airport – 195 miles
Contact Information:
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm
- Phone Number: (209) 372-0200
- Mailing Address: PO Box 577, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
2. Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is renowned for its unique desert landscapes, rugged rock formations, and the iconic Joshua trees that dominate the park’s scenery. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, stargazing, and exploring the park’s fascinating geological features.
Nearest Major Airports:
- Ontario International Airport – 51 miles
- Palm Springs International Airport – 36 miles
- Los Angeles International Airport – 140 miles
Contact Information:
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/jotr/index.htm
- Phone Number: (760) 367-5500
- Mailing Address: 74485 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277-3597
3. Redwood National and State Parks
Redwood National and State Parks encompass a collection of awe-inspiring ancient redwood groves and pristine coastline. These parks are home to the tallest trees on Earth, offering visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in a truly magical and humbling environment.
Nearest Major Airports:
- Arcata-Eureka Airport – 23 miles
- Crescent City Airport – 20 miles
- San Francisco International Airport – 330 miles
Contact Information:
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/redw/index.htm
- Phone Number: (707) 464-6101
- Mailing Address: 1111 Second Street, Crescent City, CA 95531
4. Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park is a land of extremes and striking desert landscapes. It is the hottest and driest national park in the United States, attracting visitors with its dramatic mountains, salt flats, sand dunes, and unique geological features.
Nearest Major Airports:
- McCarran International Airport (Las Vegas, Nevada) – 124 miles
- Palm Springs International Airport – 116 miles
- Los Angeles International Airport – 254 miles
Contact Information:
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/deva/index.htm
- Phone Number: (760) 786-3200
- Mailing Address: PO Box 579, Death Valley, CA 92328
5. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are neighboring parks that protect a significant portion of the southern Sierra Nevada mountain range. These parks are home to towering sequoia trees, deep canyons, alpine lakes, and stunning mountain vistas.
Nearest Major Airports:
- Fresno Yosemite International Airport – 62 miles
- Visalia Municipal Airport – 48 miles
- Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport – 135 miles
Contact Information:
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/seki/index.htm
- Phone Number: (559) 565-3341
- Mailing Address: 47050 Generals Highway, Three Rivers, CA 93271-9700
6. Channel Islands National Park
Channel Islands National Park is a unique and remote archipelago off the coast of Southern California. It comprises five of the eight Channel Islands, offering visitors a chance to explore pristine coastline, go kayaking, snorkeling, or observe diverse marine life.
Nearest Major Airports:
- Los Angeles International Airport – 31 miles
- Bob Hope Airport (Burbank) – 49 miles
- John Wayne Airport (Orange County) – 66 miles
Contact Information:
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/chis/index.htm
- Phone Number: (805) 658-5700
- Mailing Address: 1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA 93001-4354
7. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park, located in northern California, offers a unique opportunity to witness a landscape shaped by volcanic activity. With its volcanic peaks, hydrothermal areas, and crystal-clear lakes, this park is a paradise for hikers, photographers, and geology enthusiasts.
Nearest Major Airports:
- Redding Municipal Airport – 55 miles
- Reno-Tahoe International Airport – 150 miles
- Sacramento International Airport – 225 miles
Contact Information:
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/lavo/index.htm
- Phone Number: (530) 595-4480
- Mailing Address: PO Box 100, Mineral, CA 96063
8. Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles National Park, located in central California, showcases unique rock formations shaped by ancient volcanic activity. This park offers opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, bird watching, and exploring caves.
Nearest Major Airports:
- San Jose International Airport – 80 miles
- Monterey Regional Airport – 94 miles
- San Francisco International Airport – 116 miles
Contact Information:
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/pinn/index.htm
- Phone Number: (831) 389-4486
- Mailing Address: 5000 Highway 146, Paicines, CA 95043
9. Point Reyes National Seashore
Point Reyes National Seashore is a unique coastal park that protects and preserves a diverse ecosystem, including beaches, estuaries, and forests. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and exploring historic sites within the park.
Nearest Major Airports:
- San Francisco International Airport – 46 miles
- Oakland International Airport – 58 miles
- Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (Santa Rosa) – 38 miles
Contact Information:
- Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/pore/index.htm
- Phone Number: (415) 464-5100
- Mailing Address: 1 Bear Valley Road, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
Exploring California’s national parks is an adventure like no other. These protected areas offer an opportunity to connect with nature, experience breathtaking landscapes, and learn about the rich biodiversity of the region. Plan your visit to one of these national parks and embark on an unforgettable journey through the natural wonders of California.
