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8 Beautiful National Parks in California to Visit

Discover the Best National Parks California has to Offer

From golden deserts to misty redwood forests, California’s national parks offer some of the most breathtaking natural diversity in the U.S.—and there’s no better way to see them than on an RV trip. Start your journey with an RV rental in San Francisco or our Los Angeles station and hit the road to experience rare ecosystems, dramatic landscapes, and once-in-a-lifetime outdoor adventures. Below, you’ll find eight unforgettable California national parks to explore by RV—each one completely unique.


Joshua Tree National Park

Best Stargazing and Desert Landscapes

Joshua Tree National Park is a surreal desert escape defined by its rare intersection of two distinct desert ecosystems, otherworldly boulder piles, and skies famous for their clarity. Stargazing in Joshua Tree is among the best in the state, especially from spots like Skull Rock or Cottonwood Campground, where minimal light pollution reveals the Milky Way above and the soft call of coyotes echoes across the still desert. If you’re planning to stay overnight, get all the details on nearby camping options—like Black Rock Campground—in our California camping guide.

Best Time to Visit Joshua Tree

  • March–May: Temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s°F—perfect for hiking, photography, and stargazing.
  • October–November: Similar temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities without the extreme desert heat.

Iconic Natural Experience

  • Cholla Cactus Garden: Catch sunrise over a dense patch of spiny cacti that glow gold at dawn. The easy stroll along the boardwalk makes it an unforgettable start to your day.

Channel Island National Park

Often called the “Galapagos of North America,” Channel Islands National Park delivers a raw, untamed wilderness rarely seen on the mainland. Accessible only by boat, its five remote islands offer steep cliffs, sea caves, endemic species, and incredible opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing. Many travelers wonder how to get to Channel Islands National Park—reaching it requires advance booking of ferries or guided tours from Ventura or Oxnard. Before or after your island adventure, don’t miss the chance to relax at Ventura Beach, a classic Southern California stretch of sand with a laid-back vibe and plenty of local flavor. It’s a perfect spot to soak up the sun and start (or end) your Channel Islands journey.

Best Time to Visit Channel Islands

  • Year-Round: The park is open year-round, but the best weather and ocean conditions are from April through October.
  • Spring and Early Summer: Ideal for wildflowers, nesting birds, and whale watching.
  • Late Summer to Fall: Calm seas make it perfect for kayaking and snorkeling.

Iconic Natural Experience

  • Painted Cave on Santa Cruz Island: Paddle into one of the largest sea caves in the world. Its multicolored walls shimmer with mineral streaks, and sea lions often lounge near the entrance. Summer and early fall offer the best conditions for a safe, scenic experience.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley is the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S.—but also one of the most visually striking. From the golden badlands of Zabriskie Point to the vast salt flats of Badwater Basin, the landscape feels almost otherworldly. Death Valley National Park weather is most pleasant between fall and spring, when temperatures are cooler and conditions safer for RV travel. In spring, rare wildflower blooms transform the valley into a desert in full color—making it a must-see for anyone drawn to nature’s extremes. Looking for a place to stay? Check out the details for Death Valley RV Campground in our California camping guide for the best spot to base your adventure.

Best Time to Visit Death Valley

  • October to April: Most comfortable weather, with crisp mornings and cool evenings (40s–60s°F).
  • Spring: Wildflowers bloom, and daytime highs are mild (70s–80s°F).
  • June–September: Dangerously hot, with temps exceeding 120°F.

Iconic Natural Experience

  • Zabriskie Point at Sunrise: Watch the sun rise over the golden, pink, and bronze badlands. The early morning light reveals stunning details, making it the ideal time to explore.

Pinnacles National Park

Cliffside Hikes, Lava Formations, and Rare Wildlife

Pinnacles National Park captivates visitors with its dramatic volcanic spires, boulder-strewn canyons, and hidden talus caves. It’s a lesser-visited alternative to California’s iconic parks, ideal for spring wildflower hikes and spotting rare California condors overhead. Pinnacles National Park trails range from shady creekside strolls to steep, rocky climbs with panoramic views. Whether you’re winding through Bear Gulch Cave or scaling the High Peaks Trail, the park delivers wild beauty without the crowds.

Best Time to Visit Pinnacles National Park

  • March–May: Ideal for hiking and wildflowers.
  • October–early November: Cooler, quieter, and perfect for hiking.
  • Summer: Hot and dry—best for early morning hikes.
  • Winter: Cooler weather, but some cave closures may occur.

Iconic Natural Experience

  • Balconies Cave: Hike through a slot canyon filled with giant boulders and pitch-black passages. It’s one of the park’s most adventurous trails, requiring a flashlight and a bit of scrambling.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park

Massive Trees, Deep Canyons, and Rugged Peaks

These neighboring parks are home to the world’s largest trees, glacier-carved valleys, alpine meadows, and rugged granite peaks. Sequoia National Park RV camping is available near landmark groves like Giant Forest and Grant Grove, where morning light filters through 250-foot trunks and the scent of pine lingers in the crisp air. For camping details and the best places to stay our guide to Sequoia & Kings Canyon. Kings Canyon offers even more solitude, with deep canyons and roaring rivers nestled among remote wilderness.

Best Time to Visit Sequoia

  • June–September: Best for full access to the parks and trails.
  • October–November: Quieter trails and golden foliage.
  • Winter: Snow can close key roads like Generals Highway, limiting access to higher elevations.

Iconic Natural Experience

  • General Sherman Tree: Stand beneath the largest tree on Earth. This sequoia towers nearly 275 feet and has a base nearly 36 feet in diameter—its sheer size is truly awe-inspiring.

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Yosemite National Park

Towering Cliffs, Roaring Waterfalls, and Alpine Meadows

Yosemite is one of the most iconic national parks in the world, known for its towering granite cliffs, roaring waterfalls, high alpine meadows, and glacier-fed rivers. Camping in Yosemite gives RV travelers the chance to stay close to trailheads for Half Dome, Mirror Lake, and the Merced River, making sunrise hikes and golden-hour views of El Capitan effortlessly accessible. If you want a great base in the heart of the park, find out more about Wawona Campground in our California camping guide. With four distinct seasons and a wide range of elevations, Yosemite delivers a new experience every time you visit.

Best Time to Visit Yosemite

  • May–October: Best for RV travel, with full access to trails and scenic viewpoints.
  • Spring: Dramatic waterfalls and blooming dogwoods.
  • Summer: High-country access via Tioga Road and Glacier Point.
  • Fall: Quieter trails, golden trees, and cool, clear days.
  • Winter: Snow transforms the valley, but expect road closures and limited RV access.

Iconic Natural Experience

  • Glacier Point Sunset: Capture sweeping views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the Merced River Valley, all bathed in golden light. This iconic viewpoint is accessible via a seasonal road (open May–November).

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Boiling Mud Pots, Steam Vents, and Active Volcanoes

Lassen Volcanic National Park is a geothermal marvel, offering boiling mud pots, steam vents, and the towering summit of Lassen Peak. It’s the only U.S. national park where you can see all four types of volcanoes—shield, plug dome, cinder cone, and composite—in one place, making it a fascinating stop for science lovers and solitude seekers alike. Lassen Volcanic National Park camping is best enjoyed in summer, when the roads are clear and geothermal sites like Bumpass Hell and Sulphur Works are fully accessible.

Best Time to Visit Lassen

  • July–September: Best for full access to trails and geothermal sites.
  • Spring and Fall: Cooler temperatures, but some roads may be closed due to snow.
  • Winter: Most of the park closes, but it’s great for snowshoeing and skiing.

Iconic Natural Experience

  • Lassen Peak Summit Hike: A challenging 5-mile round-trip trail that rewards you with panoramic views of volcanic terrain and Mount Shasta in the distance.

Redwoods National Park

Giant Trees, Misty Forests, and Coastal Views

Redwood National and State Parks transport you into a world of giants—where coast redwoods soar over 300 feet high and ferns blanket the forest floor. These ancient trees, some more than 2,000 years old, tower in misty silence along rugged coastal bluffs and river valleys. Redwood National Park camping offers peaceful, forested spots perfect for RV travelers looking to immerse themselves in nature. Trails like Fern Canyon or Prairie Creek reveal narrow paths lined with towering ferns, the gentle rush of water underfoot, and shafts of light breaking through the canopy.

Best Time to Visit Redwood National Park

  • June–August: Best for hiking with warmer temperatures and fewer rains.
  • March–May: Ideal for wildflower sightings.
  • September–November : Cooler weather and quieter trails.
  • Winter: The wettest season, but fog and solitude create a mystical atmosphere.

Iconic Natural Experience

  • Fern Canyon: Walk through 50-foot-tall canyon walls covered in lush ferns, moss, and mist—this iconic trail feels like stepping into a prehistoric world.

More California Road Trips to Explore

Looking to go beyond the national parks? These curated road trip itineraries offer the perfect way to explore more of California:


Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting National Parks in California

When is the best time to visit California’s national parks?

The best time to visit is from April to June and September to October, when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. These months offer excellent hiking conditions and fewer traffic restrictions.

Do I need a reservation to enter California national parks?

Some parks, like Yosemite, require timed-entry reservations during peak season. Check the official NPS reservation page before visiting.

How much does it cost to enter California national parks?

Most national parks charge an entrance fee of $30–35 per private vehicle, valid for 7 consecutive days. The America the Beautiful Annual Pass costs $80 and covers all U.S. national parks and federal lands for one year.

Where can I rent an RV for my California national park trip?

roadsurfer offers fully equipped RV rentals with unlimited mileage and a free second driver. You can start your trip in cities like Las Vegas or San Francisco.

Can I sleep overnight in my RV inside national parks?

Yes, but only in designated camping spots. Sleeping in your RV outside of designated areas is not allowed. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak season. Visit Recreation.gov to check availability and book.

Are there size restrictions for RVs in national parks?

Yes. Many roads and camping spots in California parks have length restrictions. For example, Sequoia National Park advises avoiding certain roads with vehicles longer than 22 feet. Review size rules on each park’s website, such as Sequoia vehicle restrictions.

What should I know about wildlife safety in California parks?

Stay at least 100 yards from bears and 25 yards from other wildlife. Never feed animals, and store food in bear-safe containers when required. Visit the NPS wilderness safety page for more information.

Can I build a campfire?

Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings or grills and are often restricted during dry seasons. Always check fire regulations on the park’s official website, like Joshua Tree’s rules.


RV parked beneath a Joshua tree at night with starry skies and desert boulders in Joshua Tree National Park.

Your Ultimate California National Parks RV Adventure Awaits!

Explore the stunning landscapes and iconic parks of California on an unforgettable RV road trip. Rent your perfect camper today and start your journey through nature’s finest destinations!

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