If you are a lover of outdoor activities, California is the number one place in the US to come and experience the majestic beauty of its snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, rushing rivers, and amazing representatives of the flora and fauna that reside in these beautiful nature retreats.

1. Redwood National Park is an ideal place to explore the beauty of the forests and learn how to preserve this unique ecosystem for generations to come. The coastal redwood ecosystem is also home to many rare species from the animal world such as black bears, lions, elk, banana slugs, and many more. Rare trees are also found throughout Redwood Park’s top attractions. Since many animals roam freely around the park and may be attracted to campers’ food, follow basic safety guidelines and travel in groups.

2. Death Valley National Park is the ideal destination if you are an adrenaline junkie who is not satisfied with an average type of recreation. This National Park in California has perhaps the warmest and most severe climate with a unique set of flora and fauna to explore during your visit. Ranger-led tours are recommended for a wide range of experiences in Death Valley National Park. Don’t miss out on the historic old mining sites, deep canyons, and acres of wilderness at your disposal. Winter is the best season to visit this place due to the dramatically high temperatures throughout the summer.

3. The Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are a testament to the great beauty and size of nature. Here you will be surrounded by tremendous mountains, steep hills, and the tallest trees in the world. Be aware of the dangers that walking or climbing rivers can bring and avoid it at all costs. Driving on winding mountain roads is beautiful, but at the same time dangerous for inexperienced drivers.

4. Lassen Volcanoes National Park is a place where the volcano can erupt at any time. You don’t have to be afraid to visit Lassen Volcanoes National Park, as the volcano is being closely monitored by multiple seismologists in the area. The last recorded eruption took place in 1921. Taking some of the most spectacular hikes around the bubbling mud holes and breathtaking views are the area’s top attractions.

5. The Gold Gate Bridge National Recreation Area is perhaps the most historically and culturally rich or all National Parks in the United States. Hike, hike, camp, hang glide or kite surf and do what your heart desires in this incredible place.

6. Point Reyes National Seashore offers unlimited natural exploration activities for terrestrial and marine flora and fauna. Picnicking along the many beaches and bird watching are among the most beloved activities in this area. The Point Reyes Lighthouse provides an incredible opportunity to view the staggering beauty of the seashore in the lens room. Multiple ranger-led tours are available to appreciate the true beauty of the ocean shoreline.

7. Yosemite National Park is one of the first parks to be founded in the United States. You have over 1200 square miles to explore in Yosemite along its famous waterfalls, vast meadows, deep valleys, and just plain great wilderness. Here you can embark on biking, hiking, horseback riding, backpacking, fishing, and rock climbing. The possibilities are truly endless here. Note that you need to obtain a permit to hike certain trails, be sure to check with the rangers for the list of specific locations.

8. Joshua Tree National Park is the land of extreme weather in the form of strong gusty winds, large fluctuations in temperature, and torrential rains. This National Park is the perfect playground for a nature lover taking a trip to California. Some of the best things you can do here are mountain biking, hiking, and rock climbing. Camping is especially enjoyable in this desert park.

9. Channel Islands National Park is a secluded natural oasis, home to many unique species of animals and plants. Representatives of marine life range from as small as plankton to as large as the blue whale. This national park is home to 5 California Channel Islands. Here you can reconnect with your inner senses and go back to the base of life. Some of the activities you can do here are limited only by your imagination. Multiple boat tours allow you to witness blue and gray whales that call the Channel Islands home.

10. Devil’s Postpile National Monument represents the geological wonder along the incredible mountain landscape. The columnar basalt formation reaches 60 feet in height and has unlikely symmetry. Walking and camping around the unspoiled nature is truly amazing.

Your trip to California will be unforgettable if you visit at least one of the many national parks mentioned above.