California State ParksCalifornia State Parks include more than 270 parks, reserves, beaches, recreation areas and historical sites. Whether you like to hike, camp, picnic, or explore, there are parks that have what you're looking for. Campground fees at State Parks are generally more affordable than at private campgrounds and many offer a wider variety of activities for your family. These are just a few of the State Parks we've visited. Please remember to be respectful of nature as you enjoy California's State Parks. Leave harmful plants and animals alone. Always be aware of your surroundings and changeable weather. Stay on trails. Remove your trash, but not the flowers or other natural or historic objects you may find. If we all take care, everyone will be able to enjoy the beauty and adventure California State Parks.
Samuel P. Taylor State Park
is the perfect place for a hike or picnic on a hot summer day in Marin County. There is plenty of shade among the trees. There are equestrian trails and a horse camp with a corral, hitching racks, etc. The campground has lovely sites tucked in among the redwoods. You can bike along the creek or hike through the woods and meadows.
China Camp State Park is also located in Marin County, but it's very different from Samuel P. Taylor. Located on San Francisco Bay, this park offers swimming, hiking, camping, fishing and more. We have often taken the kids to play in the water at the beach near the China Camp Village. We have also camped here in the walk-in campground near the park entrance. The camp sites are wooded and pretty quiet, but they can get pretty dry and dusty during the summer. Folsom Lake State Recreation Area is located in Placer County near Sacramento. We attended a picnic there many years ago and enjoyed the picnic area and swimming in the lake. Fishing, hiking, boating and other activities are also available, as well as family, group and environmental campsites. 
Natural Bridges State Beach
is a sandy beach in Santa Cruz with natural rock bridges just off shore. It's a great place to play in the water or watch for birds, migrating whales, otters or seals. There are good tide pools at low tide where you can find sea stars and other shallow water sea life. If you visit during the winter months you can also see the Monarch Grove, where hundreds of migrating Monarch Butterflies overwinter.
Morro Bay State Park is located near San Luis Obispo and offers many opportunities to learn about and enjoy the natural lagoon and bay habitat. From Morro Rock to the Museum of Natural History to the 18-hole public golf course, this State Park has a little something for everyone. We camped here years ago, before we had kids, and look forward to returning to share this fun and scenic area with the boys. These are just a few of the many
California State Parks.
The Parks website lists all of the parks by region or alphabetically and you can find the one that fits your family vacation there. If you love touring old mansions, be sure to visit
Hearst Castle.
Or if you prefer California historic sites, check out one of the many historical parks in the system. There are historic lighthouses, missions and more.
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