A California national parks road trip takes you to each of 9 stunning national parks in “The Golden State”.
California has more national parks than any other state in the country, with 9. A California national parks road trip is the ideal way to enjoy them all, while appreciating the vast array of landscapes the state has to offer.
For anyone planning to make the trip who wants to ensure it goes as smoothly as possible, this is the article for you.
A California National Parks Road Trip: How Far Is It, How Long Will It Take & What Is The Best Route?
A California national parks road trip covers 2,200 miles (3,540 kilometres) and requires 41 hours of driving to complete. This route begins and ends at Los Angeles International Airport, making it an easy to follow option even for visitors who aren’t local to the region.
You begin by joining I-405 and following it north to the outskirts of Los Angeles, where you use Exit 63B to go west on U.S. Route 101. When you reach Exit 64, take it then turn left on South Victoria Avenue, then go right on Olivas Park Drive.
When the road ends, head straight across on Spinnaker Drive, which takes you into Ventura Harbor. Here you can book a trip with Island Packers Cruises to take you to Channel Islands National Park.
When your trip is over, head back down Spinnaker Drive to where you joined it and turn left onto East Harbor Boulevard. Turn right onto South Seaward Avenue then take the onramp to re-join U.S. Route 101 and follow it along a stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway.
When you reach Exit 101B, join California State Route 154 where it begins and follow it for its entire 32.3 mile (52 kilometre) duration, then re-join U.S. Route 101 again and continue heading north. After 140 miles (230 kilometres), take Exit 281 onto Bitterwater Road.
Go left on California State Route 25, then left again onto California State Route 146 (Pinnacles Highway), which takes you to Pinnacles National Park. Return to California State Route 25 the way you came and keep going north until you re-join U.S. Route 101 yet again.
Stay on Route 101 for 380 miles (615 kilometres), till you reach Orick and Redwood National Park. Go right on Bald Hills Road, then right again on French Camp Road.
When it ends, go right on Pine Creek Road and follow it to the town of Hoopa, where you merge onto California State Route 96.
Head south and merge with California State Route 299. Keep going until you reach Redding, then go east on California State Route 44. When you reach the exit to California State Route 89, this is the entrance to Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Continue following Route 44 to its conclusion, then briefly go east on California State Route 36, before heading south on U.S. Route 395. Follow this until the town of Lee Vining, then go west on California State Route 120, which runs through Yosemite National Park.
When you come to the fork by a gas station, go left on Big Oak Flat Road until it merges with El Portal Road. Turn right on Southside Drive then right again onto California State Route 41, which you’ll follow for 85 miles (140 kilometres), to Exit 128 in Fresno.
Go east on California State Route 180, which will take you straight into Kings Canyon National Park. When you are finished exploring Kings Canyon, the Generals Highway will then take you straight into neighbouring Sequoia National Park, through it, and out the other side.
Continue on Sierra Drive as you exit the park then turn left onto California State Route 198. Follow it till you pass the town of Yokohl, then go south on Road 204.
The road will change names a few times but keep going straight until you can merge with California State Route 65 and keep going south. You will eventually merge with California State Route 99, then use Exit 24 to go east on California State Route 58.
At Exit 167 go north on California State Route 14, then veer right onto Redrock Randsburg Road, near Cantil. Turn left on Garlock Road then join U.S. Route 395 and go north. A short while later, turn right onto Searles Station Cutoff, then continue north on Trona Road.
Follow this to its conclusion at California State Route 190, which you’ll turn right onto to drive through Death Valley National Park.
When you reach Death Valley Junction, go south on California State Route 127 to Baker, then take Kelbaker Road through the Mojave National Preserve. When it ends, go right on National Trails Highway, then left on Amboy Road.
When you reach Twentynine Palms, go left on Utah Trail, which takes you into Joshua Tree National Park. Use the south exit to the park and head west on I-10, then use Exit 3B to join I-405 and return to Los Angeles International Airport to complete your trip.
Best Time For A California National Parks Road Trip
The best time for a California national parks road trip for most people will be from late May to mid-August. This period offers the warmest, driest weather throughout California, ensuring you can fully enjoy each attraction along the way.
It also ensures you avoid the height of California wildfire season, which usually peaks each year from late August to the end of October. Depending on what you intend to do in Pinnacles National Park, you may want to narrow it down even further though.
Some of its caves are closed due to breeding bats from mid-May to mid-July, while many of the climbing spots are unbearably hot throughout July and August. Take these factors into account if either activity is a major part of your trip.
How Many Days For A California National Parks Road Trip?
For the best experience possible, you will want to allow 23 full days to complete a California national parks road trip.
This will allow you to spend enough time at each of the state’s 9 national parks to enjoy everything they have to offer, while including enough time to comfortably drive between them as well.
If you can spare any additional time that is even better, as you will be able to enjoy many of the areas you drive through along the route as well.
For anyone who doesn’t have quite as much free time available, you can still have an enjoyable California national parks road trip over the course of 19 days. This will give you just enough time to get between the parks and see their most popular spots.
While it is possible to complete the trip in as little as 13 days, you will really be pushing it. Between the driving time and the minimal amount of time you actually get to spend in each park, it won’t be a very enjoyable experience, and some may find it is not even worth it at all.
Things To See On A California National Parks Road Trip
While the parks themselves are the main attraction on a California national parks road trip, that doesn’t mean they are the only things to do or see. With that in mind, we will now look at some of the best things to see and places to stop along the way to get maximum value out of your trip.
1. Los Angeles
Los Angeles is the 2nd most populous city in the United States and one of the most famous cities in the world. Synonymous with the entertainment industry, it is filled with iconic locations and attractions, with options on offer for people of all tastes and interests.
2. San Jose
The 3rd most populous city in California, San Jose is considered to be one of the most prominent hubs of the tech industry in the world. With many of the largest companies having been founded here, everything from the buildings to the businesses often represent the height of modern innovation.
3. San Francisco
Often called the friendliest city in America, San Francisco is also the 4th most populous city in California. Filled with iconic attractions like Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge, it is a wonderful city that makes you feel immediately at home while you explore.
4. Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa is the largest city in California’s legendary wine region, making it the perfect place for travellers hoping to explore vineyards and sample some local vintages. It is also the birthplace of the iconic Peanuts cartoon and its character Snoopy, with plenty of attractions dedicated to both dotted around the city for visitors to enjoy.
5. Redding
Redding is the 2nd largest city in California north of Sacramento and sits between Redwood and Lassen Volcanic national parks. Set on the banks of the Sacramento River, it is a great place to return to civilisation and rest up for a bit, while learning about the culture and history of northern California.
6. Reno
The largest city in Nevada outside of the Las Vegas Metropolitan area, Reno offers the casinos, bars, hotels, restaurants, and entertainment Sin City is famous for, just on a smaller scale. It provides the perfect opportunity to experience something a little different to the rest of the trip on the short stretch of our route that crosses over the state border.
7. Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America and largest by volume in the United States outside of The Great Lakes. One of the most popular spots for outdoor recreation in the country, you can enjoy swimming, boating, and various other water sports and aquatic activities, or simply relax and take in the stunning views from its many beaches, bars, and restaurants.
8. Fresno
The economic and cultural hub of central California, as well as the 5th most populous city in the state, Fresno is filled with attractions to help you learn about the region and embrace it.
It is also less than 90 minutes’ drive from 1/3 of the parks on our route, so is an ideal place to set up base for those who don’t want to be moving from place to place for the whole trip.
9. Bakersfield
Bakersfield is the 9th most populous city in California, as well as one of the most important in the state with regards to the music industry. From giving birth to the Bakersfield Sound subgenre of country to producing artists from various other styles, it is a great place for music fans to learn about legendary artists or see new ones performing live.
10. Baker
Baker is a small town that boasts some unique attractions. The world’s tallest thermometer was erected to commemorate the world’s hottest ever temperature being recorded nearby in Death Valley. Meanwhile, Alien Fresh Jerky sells one of the widest selections of jerky you will ever find, as well as alien memorabilia, sculptures, and artwork for you to buy or enjoy.
11. Mojave National Preserve
Mojave National Preserve is a protected area that centres around the Mojave Desert, the driest desert in North America. Created on the same day as both Death Valley and Joshua Tree national parks, which it sits directly between, it is known for its iconic desert landscape and wildlife, while also boasting its very own ghost town. This allows the Mojave National Preserve to fit perfectly into the theme of our trip, while still offering something different.
12. Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a fabulous resort destination located just to the east of the Los Angeles Metro. Known for its vibrant arts scene and culture, beautiful architecture, and extensive list of recreational activities on offer, it is the perfect place to unwind, relax, and treat yourself at the end of a long, tiring trip.
Stops On A California National Parks Road Trip
A California national parks road trip takes you to all 9 of the national parks in “The Golden State”. This includes Channel Islands, Pinnacles, Redwood, Lassen Volcanic, Yosemite, Kings Canyon, Sequoia, Death Valley, and Joshua Tree.
Each park boasts a range of its own unique landscapes and attractions. For anyone still planning their dream travel itinerary or hoping to learn a little more about each park, the above links to our guides will contain all the information you need to know.
For everyone who already knows what they plan to do and see when they arrive, we will now look at some of the best places to stay on a California national parks road trip, to add maximum enjoyment and convenience to your trip.
Channel Islands National Park is the 6th oldest and 6th largest national park in California, as well as the state’s least visited. Consisting of 5 of the 8 Channel Islands off the southeast coast of California, the park is filled with unique wildlife and breathtaking ocean vistas.
It is extremely popular for activities including boating, hiking, camping, and nature watching.
Best Hotel To Stay Near Channel Islands National Park – Four Points By Sheraton Ventura Harbor Resort
Four Points By Sheraton Ventura Harbor Resort is a 4-star resort just 5 minutes from Ventura Harbor. With amenities like business and fitness centres, tennis courts, a bar, restaurant, patio, and an outdoor hot tub and pool, it provides the highest levels of both quality and convenience.
Meanwhile, with spacious, stylish rooms, boasting a flat screen cable TV, refrigerator, coffee maker, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, seating area, private balcony, and ironing facilities, it is equally well equipped to help you relax as well.
Pinnacles National Park is the newest, smallest, and 2nd least visited national park in California.
Filled with a range of iconic rock formations that includes the pinnacles the park is named after, it is a great place for activities like caving and climbing, as well as spotting some of its unique wildlife.
Best Hotel To Stay Near Pinnacles National Park – Ridgemark Golf Club And Resort
Ridgemark Golf Club And Resort is a stunning property set just 30 minutes from Pinnacles National Park. Boasting amenities like a bar, restaurant, golf course, tennis courts, sitewide Wi-Fi, and free parking, it is the epitome of both class and convenience in the region.
With spacious rooms filled with things like a flat screen cable TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities, and a seating area and private bathroom boasting free toiletries, this pet friendly property is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring.
Redwood National Park is the 5th oldest, 6th most visited, and 7th largest national park in California.
Its sprawling Redwood forests stretch along the California coast and are filled with iconic locations and wildlife that have been used in movies and works of art for decades. It is considered by many to be one of the best hiking locations in the world.
Best Hotel To Stay Near Redwood National Park – Oreq-W Ranch House
The Oreq-W Ranch House is a beautiful, traditional home on the edge of Redwood National Park, near its visitor center. With a garden and BBQ facilities, the grounds and location make it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings.
Meanwhile, with 2 bedrooms, a spacious living room boasting a sofa, cable TV, and DVD player, a fully equipped bathroom, and a kitchen, it has everything to take care of the needs of you and your entire party throughout your stay.
Lassen Volcanic National Park is the 3rd oldest national park in California. However, it is also the 2nd smallest and 3rd least visited park the state has to offer.
Created to protect its wide range of volcanoes and hydrothermal features, the main draw of Lassen Volcanic National Park is that it is home to the largest lava dome volcano on Earth.
Best Hotel To Stay Near Lassen Volcanic National Park – Highlands Ranch Resort
Highland Ranch Resort is a beautiful little property, conveniently located just a short drive from Lassen Volcanic National Park. With a bar, restaurant, and free parking, it is a great place to grab a drink or bite to eat and rest up after a long, hard day.
With spacious rooms boasting a large seating area with a flat screen satellite TV, a private bathroom with a shower and hairdryer, and touches like luxury linens and towels and tea and coffee making facilities, you can relax in whatever way you see fit.
Yosemite National Park is the 2nd oldest national park in California and 3rd oldest in the United States. It is also California’s most visited and 3rd largest national park.
Known for its iconic landscape, which is filled with waterfalls and mountains, it also boasts a number of historic attractions, making it perhaps the most diverse park the state has to offer.
Best Hotel To Stay Near Yosemite National Park – Evergreen Lodge At Yosemite
Evergreen Lodge At Yosemite boasts the traditional style of the region and is surrounded by forests and nature. Its spacious rooms with seating areas, private bathrooms, luxury furnishings and linens, free toiletries, and tea and coffee making facilities are ideal for a relaxing stay.
With amenities including a bar, kid’s play area, games room, mini mart, outdoor pool and hot tub, and restaurant, you will also have plenty of things to keep you occupied as well.
Kings Canyon National Park is the 4th oldest and 4th largest national park in the state of California, as well as its 5th most visited.
Set inside the eponymous Kings Canyon, the national park is filled with caves, rivers, rapids, and waterfalls. It is an equally great destination whether you want to soak in some views of the unique landscapes or take part in some exhilarating activities.
Sequoia National Park is the oldest national park in California and 2nd oldest in the country (behind Yellowstone). It is also the 5th largest and 4th most visited in the state.
Sequoia National Park centres around the giant, old growth trees that it is named after, and the incredible collection of wildlife that lives around their bases. It is the perfect place for those who love strolling in the woods and taking in stunning scenery.
Best Hotel To Stay Near Kings Canyon National Park & Sequoia National Park – Montecito Sequoia Lodge
A 4-star hotel located on the Generals Highway that connects Kings Canyon and Sequoia, Montecito Sequoia Lodge is the perfect place to set up base and explore both parks. The rooms are all spacious and designed for families, while boasting views of the nearby forests, lakes, and rivers.
The property includes amenities like a bar, kid’s play area, outdoor pool, snack bar, arts and crafts programs, basketball and tennis courts, and a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
With free parking and sitewide Wi-Fi, it has everything you need to relax and appreciate the stunning natural beauty of these two incredible national parks.
Death Valley National Park is the largest national park in both California and the contiguous United States, as well as the 5th largest in the country as a whole. Death Valley also ranks as the 7th oldest and 3rd most visited national park in the state.
The site of the hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth, as well as the driest, hottest, and lowest point in the United States, it boasts dramatic badlands, canyons, deserts, mountains, and sand dunes, as well as features like mines and springs, which are great to explore either on foot or by car.
Best Hotel To Stay Near Death Valley National Park – The Ranch At Death Valley
The Ranch At Death Valley is a legendary, 4-star property in Death Valley’s iconic Furnace Creek area. Perfectly situated at the heart of the park, it is ideal for all your exploration needs.
Rooms are spacious, air conditioned, and feature a private bathroom. Meanwhile, the property itself boasts a bar, garden, kids play area, outdoor swimming pool, restaurant, tennis court, and terrace, all of which are perfect to help you unwind and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Joshua Tree National Park is the joint 7th oldest national park in California, with both it and Death Valley National Park having been established on October 31st, 1994. It is also the 2nd largest and 2nd most visited national park in the state.
It covers sections of both the lower Colorado Desert and higher Mojave Desert and boasts the largest collection of the iconic Joshua Trees that it is named after anywhere in the world. It is a fabulous place to take a drive and soak in the stereotypical desert landscape.
Best Hotel To Stay Near Joshua Tree National Park – El Rancho Dolores At JT National Park
El Rancho Dolores At JT National Park is a wonderful little motel conveniently located right on the edge of the park. Each of the rooms boast a simple yet stylish design, with comfortable furnishings and amenities like a flat screen satellite TV, microwave, and refrigerator.
With free parking and sitewide Wi-Fi, an outdoor swimming pool, and conveniences like a 24 hour front desk, and fax and photocopying services, it has all of your most pressing needs taken care of, without having to divert from your route or stay too far away.
Conclusion
A California national parks road trip is an incredible adventure that takes you to some of the most stunning natural beauty spots in America. With the route passing through a number of fabulous towns and cities as well, it gives you a taste of the very best destinations the U.S. has to offer.
Our guide should have given you everything you need to make this dream vacation a reality. From the best route to take, when to make the trip, and how long you will need, to the best things to see and places to stay along the way, you can now start building your dream travel itinerary.
All you have left to do now then is start getting everything booked. That way, you can look forward to seeing and experiencing it all for yourself, as soon as possible.