State Parks

Columbia's Birthday Celebration-March 27, 2010, from 12-4pm
Join us for a live reenactment of the discovery of gold, a speech on the museum steps, birthday cake, and venues open throughout town staffed with costumed docents. Learn about Columbia's history by going on a tour of the town and come join in on the fun as we celebrate the birth of this exciting gold rush town!

Diggins Tent Town 1852-June 3-6, 2010
Step back in time and experience a Gold Rush tent town of 1852! Walk down the dirt streets of our gold diggins and see miners panning for gold, ladies running a hotel and laundry, purchase an ice cold sarsaparilla, take in a theatre show and more! Look for information coming soon!

For special event information please call 209-588-9128.

Unlike many other settlements that disappeared due to fire, vandalism and time, Columbia survived. It was never completely deserted. In 1945 the State Legislature made the site a State Historic Park in order to preserve a typical Gold Rush town, an example of one of the most colorful eras in American history.

Visitors can taste hand-dipped chocolates, a superior cup of coffee, or savor fine dining, family fare, or purchase picnic provisions. Stagecoach rides are available on the weekends, weather permitting.

There's also the chance to relax at one of two comfortable hotels, listen to music in historic saloons, or take in a performances at the Fallon Theatre.

Visitors can make a candle or purchase Columbia made soap, wooden toys, old fashion clothes, or dress-up for a photograph.

They can take a walk to the two-story brick school house and cemetery overlooking town, or hike the one-mile nature trail where mule deer and wild flowers can be seen.

Colusa-Sacramento River SRA

Riverbank cottonwoods and willows shelter one of the finest fishing stretches in California, with king salmon, steelhead, rainbow trout and striped bass some of the catches.

The river is on a major migratory route for birds of the Pacific flyway and provides home to an amazing number of species.

The River Patwin Indian tribe once lived nearby the area and in 1872 John Muir camped near what is now the park.

The fall run of salmon comes in September and October. You can also catch them from November through January, though the fishing during high water isn't as satisfying. The spring run is April through June. The steelhead run is from late August to end of October; striped bass from April through June; and shad from mid-May to mid-June.

Bank fishing is easiest from the river's northwest bank, outside the park, or you can take the trail to the parks gravel bar-beach area. You'll be most successful if you fish by boat, searching out the deep holes in the river bed.
Seasons/Climate Recommended Clothing
Summer and spring are warm; fall and winter can be cool. Layered clothing is advised.

Corona del Mar SB

Cowell Ranch/John Marsh

Project/Site Description
Cowell Ranch/John Marsh encompasses 3,659 acres of natural habitat, wildlife, and unique cultural features, including the historic John Marsh Home. John Marsh lived on the property from 1837 to 1856. He was the first American Citizen to settle in what today is Contra Costa County. He was a medical doctor and developed Rancho Los Meganos as a large cattle ranch. The John Marsh Home when completed in 1856 was considered the 'finest ranch home in California”. Through the efforts of concerned citizens as well as the Trust for Public Land and other entities, Cowell Ranch/John Marsh is one of California's newest state parks, although currently not open to the public.

Partners in Park Planning
In a collaborative partnership, California State Parks and the City of Brentwood Parks and Recreation Department are participating in a joint planning process to plan the future development of Cowell Ranch/John Marsh. Working together with the community, this planning process will create a vision for the future; provide recommendations for the future of the historic John Marsh House, public recreation access, and natural resource management as well as guidelines for implementation of a long term vision for the Park so it can be enjoyed for years to come.

For planning information, click the General Planning Information Related link.

Crystal Cove SP

In addition to the Historic District, Crystal Cove State Park has 3.5 miles of beach and undeveloped woodland, which is popular for hiking and horseback riding. The offshore waters are designated as an underwater park. Crystal Cove is used by mountain bikers inland and scuba and skin divers underwater. The beach is popular with swimmers and surfers. Visitors can explore tidepools and sandy coves. Crystal Cove offers sand and surf, rocky reefs, ridges and canyons - plus recreational opportunities - that appeal to everybody. State Park Rangers conduct nature hikes in the winter.

The park features three miles of Pacific coastline, plus wooded canyons, open bluffs, and offshore waters designated as an underwater park. Crystal Cove is not just used by people who enjoy water related activities, such as swimming, surfing, sunbathing, scuba and skin diving, but also people who like to fish, mountain bike and hike.

The great expanse upland, north and east of the Pacific Coast Highway is for hikers, who can follow hillside and canyon trails to campsites that allow visitors to feel they are "away from it all," despite being near one of the greatest population centers in the United States.

A picnic table and a pit toilet are available.
The nearest telephone is in the El Moro Parking lot.
All sites are accessible only by foot. All vehicles must be left at the park office!!
No Pets Allowed.
All Sites are a 3 mile hike from parking lot.
No drinking water available, must pack it in.
No trash cans available - pack it in, pack it out.
Fires restricted to backpack stoves.
Park is reservable Year-round.

Cuyamaca Rancho SP

The beautiful park offers camping and hiking in an oak woodland forest, with a sprinkling of pines and lovely meadows with creeks. There are over 100 miles of trails which accommodate hikers, bikers, and equestrians. The two family camps, Paso Picacho and Green Valley, are open and on the reservation system spring through fall. Green Valley sits at an elevation of 4,000 feet and has a creek which runs through the middle of the campground. The day use area offers sets of cascades and shallow pools, great for water play on hot days. Green Valley has 81 campsites.

Paso Picacho, 5 miles north, sits at an elevation of 5,000 feet. The most popular hikes start from this camp, including the 2 mile hike up Stonewall Peak (elevation 5,700 feet), and the 3.5 mile hike up Cuyamaca Peak (elevation 6,512 feet), both which offer breathtaking views of the deserts to the east, the coast to the west, and Lake Cuyamaca at the bottom. Lake Cuyamaca, operated by the Helix Water District, is two miles north of Paso Picacho and offers boating and fishing. Paso Picacho campground has 85 campsites.

Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring. Restrooms with flush toilets and pay showers are in the campground. Water faucets a located every few campsites. There are no hookups. Each campground has a dump station. Firewood may be purchased at the camps. Interpretive programs are offered during the summer season. Campsites are $30 per night. Reservations are necessary for weekends April through October. The camping fee includes one motorized vehicle. Extra vehicles are $8 per night. There is a limit of 8 persons per campsite. Dogs are allowed but are restricted to the campgrounds, picnic areas, and paved roads and Cuyamaca Peak Fire Road. They may not be left unattended. Reservations may be made through ReservAmerica at 1-800-444-PARK.

Day use visitors may use the picnic areas provided at the campgrounds for $8 per vehicle. The receipt is good for the entire park for the day. The picnic areas offer tables, restrooms, and barbeques. Visitors may also park in legal turnouts along the highway and hike for free. Fire is not allowed anywhere except in the developed picnic areas and campgrounds. The park is located approximately 50 miles east of San Diego on Highway 79. It is 15 miles south of the quaint historical town of Julian.

D. L. Bliss SP

On the crest of Eagle Falls in Emerald Bay State Park, you can see a brilliant panorama of Emerald Bay, Fannette Island, Lake Tahoe, and the distant Nevada shore.

The park is named for a pioneering lumberman, railroad owner, and banker of the region. The D.L. Bliss family donated 744 acres to the State Park system in 1929.
Location – Directions
The park is located 17 miles south of Tahoe City on Highway 89, a couple of miles north of Emerald Bay.
Tahoma Latitude/Longitude: 38.9851 / -120.1304 Seasons/Climate Recommended Clothing
Summer temperatures range from about 75 degrees during the day to the low 40s at night, and winter temperatures average from a high of 40 to a low of 20 degrees; during extremely cold winters Emerald Bay freezes over.

Campgrounds are closed during the winter and, depending on the weather, are open from late May until the middle of September.

Food Storage Locker Information
Metal bear-resistant food lockers are provided in each campsite. All food, beverages, and tolietries are required by law to be stored in provided food lockers. The inside dimensions of the food lockedrs 36" deep, 43" wide, and 22" high. Violators will be cited.

Today, the Balancing Rock is the feature attraction of a short, half mile self-guided nature trail in the northwest section of D.L. Bliss State Park. The granite of this large rock began weathering more rapidly at the joint plane, an extensive horizontal crack that is easily seen at its "waist".

The overlying rock weighs around 130 tons and is now balanced on the rock below. This precarious remnant of granite rock will eventually fall when enough material has eroded away to break the equilibrium between the two pedestals.

Visitors can pick up a brochure at the start of the trail that describes 19 numbered markers, where you can stop and learn about the relationships between the soils, plants, and animals found in the park.

Del Norte Coast Redwoods SP

The mixed understory includes tanoak, madrone, red alder, big leaf maple, and California bay. Ground cover is dense with a wide range of species. Vegetation is predominately red alder which will eventually give way to fir and second growth redwood.

The topography is fairly steep with elevations from sea level to 1277'. The predominant mountain range is oriented in a north-south direction with steep cliffs adjacent to the Pacific Ocean, making the bulk of the rocky sea coast generally inaccessible except by Damnation Trail and Footsteps Rock Trail.

Wilson Beach or False Klamath Cove
This 1/2-mile of sandy beach is meant for strolling and provides excellent tidepool viewing at low tide. It is not safe for swimming due to the steep beach slope, rocky conditions, frequent rough seas and cold water.

Redwood National and State Parks
This park, along with Prairie Creek, Jedediah Smith, and the National Park Service's Redwood National Park, are managed cooperatively by the National Park Service and the California Department of Parks and Recreation. These parks make up 45 percent of all the old-growth redwood forest remaining in California.

Delta Meadows

Dockweiler SB

Doheny SB

Donner Memorial SP

The granite that rose within the crust of the earth in enormous bubbles, then cooled and hardened, to be exposed by erosion.

The older sedimentary rocks, transformed by temperature and pressure.

The Sierra's steep eastern face, created when gigantic upheavals tilted a section of the earth's crust.

The glaciers that dominated the area a few thousand years ago have left huge boulders and debris that remained when the ice melted.

Food Storage Locker Information
Metal bear-resistant food lockers are provided in each campsite. All food, beverages, and toiletries are required by law to be stored in provided food lockers. The inside dimensions of the food lockers are 36" deep, 43" wide, and 28" high. Violators will be cited.

Eastshore SP

The park includes tidelands and upland property along 8.5 miles of shoreline of the San Francisco Bay. The park extends from the City of Richmond in the north to Emeryville and Oakland in the south, ending near the east anchorage of the San Francisco Bay Bridge. The tidelands comprise rich tidal marshes, sub tidal areas, and mudflats that extend bay ward from the shoreline including the Emeryville Crescent, Albany Mudflat, and Hoffman Marsh. Much of the existing upland area is the result of fill placement in the Bay west of the historic shoreline. The shoreline reflects the unique influences of both natural systems and human intervention.

A General Plan, prepared in partnership with East Bay Regional Park District was completed for Eastshore State Park and approved by the State Park and Recreation Commission in December, 2002. The General Plan provides for the conservation of unique natural resources while providing outstanding recreational opportunities and protecting spectacular views of San Francisco Bay. An initial enhancement project is now being planned.

Some areas of the park are now open to the public providing hiking, biking, bird watching and other day-use activities. While no one road extends the entire length of the park, the San Francisco Bay Trail will link the entire park when completed.

Richmond Latitude/Longitude: 37.8808 / - 122.3471

Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point SP

Seasons
The campground will close for the winter season on November 30th and reopen on May 1st.

The ski trail parking on the west side of Highway 89 and the day use area on the east side of Highway 89 remain open during the winter.

Food Storage Locker Information
Metal bear-resistant food lockers are provided in each campsite. All food, beverages, and toiletries are required by law to be stored in provided food lockers. The inside dimensions of the food lockers 36" deep, 43" wide, and 22" high. Violators will be cited.

El Capitán SB

El Presidio de Santa Barbara SHP

The first Comandante of the new Presidio was Lt. José Francisco de Ortega. He was succeeded in 1784 by Lt. Felipe de Goicoechea, who supervised construction of the fortifications and living quarters for the soldiers and their families and remained in command until 1802.

One of the two remaining original sections of the Presidio is El Cuartel, the family residence of the soldier assigned to guard the western gate into the Plaza de Armas. This building is the oldest remaining in Santa Barbara and the second oldest in California. The second remaining original building is the Canedo Adobe, named after the Presidio soldier to whom it was deeded when the Presidio became inactive.

Also located within the boundaries of El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park is the Buenaventura Pico Adobe, an example of a Mexican-period adobe built circa 1830. Santiago de la Cruz Pico had arrived in California with the 1776 Anza Expedition and Santiago's grandson Buenaventura and his wife Anita moved into the adobe after their marriage in 1850.

The most recent addition to El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park is the Rochín Adobe, an example of an American-period adobe built in 1856 by José María Rochín. His wife, Lorenza Ordaz de Rochín, was a descendent of Francisco Ortega, the first Comandante of the presidio. The addition of the Rochín adobe to El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park compliments the Spanish-period Presidio adobes (1780s) and the Mexican-period Buenaventura Pico adobe (circa 1830).

El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park is operated by the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation under an operating agreement with California State Parks. The Santa Barbara Trust's mission is to preserve, restore, reconstruct and interpret historic sites in Santa Barbara County. It engages in archaeological and historical research and publication to expand knowledge about Santa Barbara's history. The Santa Barbara Trust works closely with California State Parks, the City of Santa Barbara, the County of Santa Barbara and various cultural and educational constituencies to attract and inform a broad audience through its restoration projects, exhibits, living history demonstrations, public events and lectures, and public school programs. For more information about the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation, visit its website at http://www.sbthp.org/index.html.

Emerald Bay SP

Food Storage Locker Information
Metal bear-resistant food lockers are provided in each campsite. All food, beverages, and tolietries are required by law to be stored in provided food lockers. The inside dimensions of the food lockedrs 36" deep, 43" wide, and 22" high. Violators will be cited.

Emeryville Crescent State Marine Reserve

Emma Wood SB

In order to respond to current budget reductions while minimizing reductions in public access to the greatest extent possible, the Ventura River Group Camp at Emma Wood State Beach is closed until further notice. The North Beach Campground at Emma Wood State Beach remains open for camping for self-contained vehicles only. Other parks in the Channel Coast District that remain open for camping and day use at this time include Carpinteria State Beach and El Capitan State Beach.

Parks in the Channel Coast District open for day use include San Buenaventura State Beach, Carpinteria State Beach, El Capitan State Beach, Refugio State Beach, Gaviota State Park, La Purisima Mission State Historic Park and El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park.

Please go to the web pages for these parks for further information. A recorded information line at (805) 968-1033 is updated as park conditions or status change.

Moderate temperatures help make Emma Wood State Beach popular for swimming, surfing and fishing. Catches include perch, bass, cabezon and corbina. The Ventura River estuary is at the mouth of the Ventura River at the southeast end of the park. It attracts a variety of wildlife including raccoons, songbirds and great blue herons. Dolphins are occasionally seen just offshore. The park also features the crumbling ruins of a World War II coastal artillery site. The offshore Channel Islands can be seen from the beach.

Emma Wood State Beach offers family camping for self-contained vehicles only and group camping is available at Ventura River Group Camp.

Emma Wood State Beach offers primitive camping for fully self-contained vehicles ONLY. Tents are not permitted. No water, restrooms, electricity, fire rings, or phones or dump station are available. There are 90 campsites, which are not level and may contain a mixture of asphalt, dirt, cobble and ocean debris. Maximum vehicle length is 40 feet, due to small turnaround areas. The closest water and dump station is at McGrath State Beach 15 miles away.

Camping at Emma Wood State Beach is reservation only from mid-May through Labor Day. There is a one night only enroute camping at Ventura River Group Camp 2 miles South on Main Street in Ventura. During the off season, camping is on a first come first serve basis. Cost is $20 per night and extra vehicles are $8. From October 1st through March 31st, the park is open Friday through Saturday only. High tides may close the campground at any time. Railroad tracks and Highway 101 are adjacent to the campground which can be noisy. Leashed dogs are permitted in the campground only, and are prohibited on the beach. The entry and exit gate is locked from 10 pm to 6 am daily.

Group camping is available at Ventura River Group Camp, with reservations required year around. This group campground is separated by 2 freeway miles from Emma Wood State Beach. The group sites offer developed tent camping for groups of up to 30 people and primitive RV camping for groups up to 50 people and 20 vehicles. The maximum length for an RV is 45 feet.

Empire Mine SHP

Estero Bluffs SP

Folsom Lake SRA

Location
Folsom Lake State Recreation Area is located in the Sierra-Nevada foothills about 25 miles east of Sacramento, can be reached via either Highway 50 or I-80. Both Folsom Lake and Lake Natoma have many access points and entrances. The administrative offices are located at the base of Folsom Dam at the corner of Folsom-Auburn Road and Dam Road in Folsom, California.
Latitude/Longitude: 38.7075 / -121.1549

Park Entrances
The park has multiple entrances most of which are fairly easily accessed by either Interstate 80 to Douglas Blvd.(east), or Highway 50 to Hazel Ave., or Folsom Blvd., (north).

Directions to the Peninsula campground:
80 east Reno
From Hwy 80 take the Elm St. exit out of the city of Auburn, at the 1st light make a left, at your very next light you will make another left that is High St. High St turns into Hwy 49 you will travel on Hwy 49 for 10 miles towards the city of Cool. You will enter a small town called Pilot Hill from that small town you will turn right on Rattlesnake Bar Rd. that road will dead end into the campground in 9 miles.

Hwy 50 S.Lake Tahoe
From Hwy 50 you will take the El Dorado Hills Blvd. exit go north on El Dorado hills for about 10 miles (at some point the road changes names to Salmon Falls Rd.) you will enter the small town of Pilot Hill you will make a left on Rattlesnake Bar Rd. which dead ends onto the campground in 9 miles.

Directions to the Beals Point campground:
80 east Reno
From Hwy 80 you will take the Douglas Blvd. exit out of the city of Roseville. Go east on Douglas for about 6 miles make a right on Auburn-Folsom Rd. go about 2 ½ miles until you come to a stop light the sign will say Beals Point and you make a left.

Hwy 50 SLAKE Tahoe
Take the Folsom Blvd. exit go north on Folsom for about 7 miles (the road will change names to Folsom-Auburn) you will come to a stop light, the sign will say Baals Point and you make a right.

Transportation to the Park
A variety of transportation methods are available to park visitors at Folsom Lake and Lake Natoma. With its urban setting and the accessibility of the parks entrances, local bus services can be used reach Folsom Lake and Lake Natoma. Private vehicles as well as bicycles, horseback, and foot travel are the most frequently used methods of park entry.

Winters can be very cold with lengthy periods of central valley fog conditions. Dress in layers as the damp can bring on a penetrating chill.

Spring and Fall offer warm days and cooler evenings and nights. Dress in layers.

Good walking shoes are a must when exploring any of the park trails. Shoes or sandals are recommended on the lake's beaches and boat ramp areas.
Participate in the General Plan Update Process
The California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), in partnership with the U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation (BOR), recently began work on the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area General Plan and Resource Management Plan Update.

This two-year process will update the current plan and the long-range vision for the park. It will also result in a new plan that will guide the protection of natural and cultural resources, provide for and manage recreational opportunities, and outline the future development of public facilities.

Folsom Powerhouse SHP

Fort Humboldt SHP

Fort Ord Dunes SP

From Highway 1, exit Light Fighter Drive (bear right).

Turn left onto 2nd Avenue.

Turn left onto Divarty Street.

Turn right onto 1st Avenue.

Signs posted will direct you to the park entrance at the 8th Street overcrossing of Hwy 1.

Fort Ross SHP

Fort Tejon SHP

Talk with soldiers who grumble about fatique details. Visit the Blacksmith at his forge, the carpenter in his shop, or the soldiers in the barracks. Servants, cooks, officers, laundresses, and laborers are eager to share their stories with you.

Surround yourself with the sounds, sights and colors of the past. Smell and hear the bubbling stew simmering over an open hearth fire place. Hear the musketoons fire, the blast of the cannon, and see clothing of the era. You can witness women mending clothes, soldiers polishing brass, people stomping around in the adobe brick pit, cooks churning butter or children playing a game of graces.

Come take a step back in time and join with the men, women and children of Fort Tejon. Relive a day out of the past. These Living History demonstrations take place on the first Sunday of each month year around. At Fort Tejon visitors are always welcome and the modern world is checked at the gate.

Franks Tract SRA

Fremont Peak SP

• Do not touch any part of any telescope unless the owner instructs you on the proper method. In particular, do not touch any glass optical surfaces.
  
• Please be sure that all children are supervised around telescopes.
  
• Remember, using lights near telescopes at night is highly disruptive. A piece of red "cellophane" wrapped over the end of a flashlight and held in place with a rubber band works great.
  
  
  For more information take this link to the Fremont Peak Observatory Association
  

Garrapata SP

Gaviota SP

George J. Hatfield SRA

Governors Mansion SHP

California's executive mansion, popularly known at the Governor's Mansion, was built in 1877 for Albert and Clemenza Gallatin. Albert was a partner in the Sacramento hardware store of Huntington & Hopkins. The State of California purchased the house from Joseph and Louisa Steffens to use as a home for California's first families in 1903 for $32,500. Victorian architecture was somewhat out of style by then, but the house was suitably impressive, conveniently located, and comfortable.

Governor George Pardee, his wife Helen and four daughters were the first residents of the 'new” Governor's Mansion. During the next 64 years it was home to the families of 12 other governors. Among these were Nina and Earl Warren with six children, and Nancy and Ronald Reagan with their two children. Warren later became Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court, and Reagan became president of the United States.

Today's guests see marble fireplaces from Italy, gold framed mirrors from France, and exquisitely handcrafted hinges and doorknobs, all of which are reminders of the Gallatins and the Victorian era. Outside some of the Mansion's abundant vegetation includes flowers, shrubs, and trees dating back to 1877. But when visitors look behind the grape stake fence and see Governor Brown's swimming pool built in 1959, they are reminded that the Governor's Mansion State Historic Park is really a walk through time.

Gray Whale Cove SB

Great Valley Grasslands SP

Greenwood SB

Grizzly Creek Redwoods SP

Grover Hot Springs SP

Grover Hot Springs State Park is located on the east side of the Sierra at the edge of the Great Basin Province, characterized by open pine forest, and sagebrush and meadows. The park has a pool complex with a hot pool and a swimming pool hot springs, a campground, picnic area and hiking trails.

A full range of seasons and weather offer the visitor the opportunity to experience a variety of conditions, from major blizzards to dry scorchers, from warm clear nights to intense, blasting thunderstorms. Winds of great speeds are capable of whipping through the park causing damage during any month of the year. Pristine clear, warm days can be followed by cold stormy nights.

Proper preparation for the full range of potential conditions can make a visit to the park not only safe and warm but also dry and comfortable.

Location-Directions
Located four miles west of Markleeville, at the end of Hot Springs Road, the park is in an alpine meadow and pine forest at 5,900 feet surrounded by peaks that just top 10,000 feet.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The temperature can vary greatly over the course of a year and even during the course of a month.

Winter months generally fall into three types of weather patterns.

Clear and very cold: -5 to 20 degrees F.

Light to very heavy snow storms: 22 to 34 degrees F.

Sleet and rain at higher temperatures and clear or partly cloudy and rather warm: 35 to 50 degrees F.

There may be one to four feet of snow on the ground.

Late Spring and early Summer are the best weather months with very clear skies and warm to hot days, 66 to 95 degrees F., with cool to cold nights 24 to 45 degrees F.

Later Summer features very warm mornings, 68 to 83 degrees F., with afternoon thunder storms and comfortable to slightly cool evenings, 31 to 45 degrees F.

Fall is progressively cooling with mildly warm days, 45 to 77 degrees F., and freezing nights 20 to 36 degrees F. and increasing storm activity towards winter.

Early Fall storms are can be rain, turning to or snow later in the year.

Why are the Hot Springs Green?
The main reason for the color is the mineral deposits on the bottom of the pool. These mineral deposits are laid down on the surface of the paint by an oxidation reaction between the mineral salts in the water and the sanitizing agent (Bromine) used.

When the pool is viewed from some distance, rather than from directly overhead, the light that is reflected from the bottom loses certain wavelengths that are absorbed by the various color patterns on the bottom. The remaining light waves then pass back up through the water and are reflected at the surface. This reflected light is in the yellow-green wavelengths of the spectrum.

When are the Hot Springs Closed?
The pool complex is generally open every day from June through August. From September through May the pool hours and days of operation vary. Please call ahead for current operating hours (530) 694-2249 – this may save you an unnecessary trip.

The pools are closed for facility and pool maintenance during two weeks in September each year. Please call the park for closure dates.

The pool complex is also closed for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Days.

Finally the pools must close during nearby thunderstorms due to the possibility of lightning striking the water. Thunderstorms usually occur during the afternoon hours in the summer months of July and August. If thunderstorms are predicted by the National Weather Service for the Northern Sierra Nevada, then Grover may be affected.

During the winter, when snow is covering the ground, the pool complex will usually remain open. It may be closed during severe snow storms, and high accumulations of snow on the roads. The roads are generally plowed during the winter, but always carry snow chains and a shovel when traveling in the Sierras during the winter. Contact a weather service and Caltrans for conditions before departing.

Half Moon Bay SB

Four miles of broad, sandy beaches stretch out to welcome visitors to Half Moon Bay. This picturesque setting is ideal for sunbathing, fishing and picnicking. A campground provides accommodations for those who wish to visit longer.

PLEASE NOTE: Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground is now on the reservation system. Campsite reservations must be made through Reserve America by calling 1-800-444-PARK (7275) or through their website at www.reserveamerica.com.

Location/Directions
The beach is located a half-mile west of Highway 1 on Kelly Avenue in Half Moon Bay. There are three parking and beach access points:

Francis Beach, at the end of Kelly Avenue in the City of Half Moon Bay.
Venice Beach, at the end of Venice Boulevard off Highway 1.
Dunes Beach at the end of Young Avenue off Highway 1.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The major weather pattern for Half Moon Bay is fog in the summer, crisp, clear days in the fall and spring, and wet, windy winters. Temperatures are moderate with the summer highs in the mid 60's and winter lows in the mid 40's. Summer fog is most common in the mornings and evenings.

Facilities/Activities
The Half Moon Bay State Beach Visitor Center is open Saturdays and Sundays. Entrance to the Visitor Center is free. The Visitor Center is completely accessible to those with disabilities.

Come on in and learn about the exciting world of the beach and experience the cultural history of the Coastside.

Francis Beach has a campground with 52 individual sites, some suitable for tent camping, others for trailers or recreational vehicles. Although hookups are not available, there is a dump station.
Coin-operated hot showers are also available.
(approximately 2 minutes per quarter)

Venice Beach has outside showers, flush toilets, and a payphone.

Coastside Trail runs along the eastern boundary of the four beaches providing close to a three mile stretch to walk, jog or ride bikes. The trail continues north to Pillar Point Harbor.

A horse trail parallels Coastside Trail from Roosevelt Beach to Francis Beach. While in the state parks, horses are restricted to the designated horse trail and are not permitted on State Beaches.

Please, NO beach fires are allowed.

Dogs are prohibited on the beaches at all times. Dogs are permitted in the campground, in the day-use picnic areas, and on the Coastal Trail, provided they are controlled with a leash of no more than six feet at all times.

The Ocean - Always use caution when you are in or near the ocean. The ocean water is very cold year round. Even a short swim can cause cramps or hypothermia (a life threatening condition which occurs when your body temperature drops below normal). In addition, strong rip currents can pull even the most experienced swimmers off shore.

Please refrain from removing shells, driftwood, and other natural beach features. Fireworks are prohibited.

Harmony Headlands SP

The park is open for day use hiking from 6am to sunset. A small parking lot is visible along the west side adjacent to the southbound lane of Highway One. The parking lot can accommodate approximately 10 vehicles.

A one and half mile trail from the parking lot extends west to coastal marine terrace grassland with steep hills and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

There are no services available other than a portable restroom next to a small historic ranch house near the beginning of the trail. Cell phone service is sparse.

A group of State Park Volunteers walk the park and provide information to the hiking public and assist State Parks with monitoring park activities and reporting emergencies.

Public information number is 805-772-7434

Harry A. Merlo SRA

Hatton Canyon

Hearst San Simeon SHM

• W.R. Hearst Exhibit
• Food Services
• Gift Shop
• Museum Gift Shop
• National Geographic Hearst Castle Theater
• Ample Parking for cars and recreational vehicles

Hearst San Simeon SP

• Santa Rosa Creek Preserve is an area which includes valuable riparian forests and coastal wetlands, that provide habitat for endangered Tidewater Goby.
  
  
• San Simeon Natural Preserve consists of vast wetlands, riparian areas, and several undisturbed native plant communities including unique mima mound topography. The Preserve is also the wintering site for monarch butterfly populations.
  
  
• The 13.7 acre Pa-nu Cultural Preserve contains the most significant archeological site within San Simeon State Park. The site has been dated to 5850 years before the present, and it contains significant evidence documenting prehistoric technology, subsistence practices and social organization over the course of several centuries.

Heber Dunes SVRA

Hendy Woods SP

Henry Cowell Redwoods SP

Location - Directions
The park is near Felton on Highway 9 in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Traveling from San Jose to the main entrance: Take Highway 17 toward Santa Cruz. After you go over the mountains, turn right on Mt. Hermon Road. Follow Mt. Hermon road until it ends at Graham Hill Road. Turn right, and go to the next stop light (Highway 9). Turn left on Highway 9 and go through downtown Felton. The park entrance will be a half mile down on your left. You can park outside and walk a half mile into the park, or you can drive in and pay a fee.

To reach the campground entrance, turn left at Graham Hill Road, continue approximately 2.5 miles. The campground entrance is on the right side of the road.

Seasons - Climate - Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Facilities - Activities
The park has about 20 miles of trails, ranging from 0.4 miles long to 3.3 miles long. Some trails are very steep. Terrain varies from forest to chaparral. There are NO bridges at any river or creek crossing.

Hikers are allowed on all the trails and roads.

Dogs are welcome in the park but must be on a leash at all times, and kept in your car or tent at night. They may not be left unattended. Dogs are allowed in the picnic area, the campground, and on Pipeline Road, Graham Hill Trail, and Meadow Trail. They are not allowed on any other trails or interior roads.

Bicycles are allowed only on Pipeline Road, Rincon Fire Road, Ridge Fire Road, and Powder Mill Fire Road. Bicyclists under 18 must wear a helmet.

Horses are NOT allowed on the following trails:
Redwood Grove Trail
Meadow Trail
Ox Trail
Pipeline Road south of Rincon Fire Road

Motorcycles, cars, etc. are not permitted on any trail or interior road.

Trail Heads
Powder Mill Trail Head and parking lot is in the southeast corner of the park, on Graham Hill Road just north of Sims Road. Horse trailers are allowed, and horses may be ridden on all trails near the parking lot.

Rincon Fire Road and parking lot is on the south side of the park, on Highway 9 about three miles south of the main entrance.

Ox Trail Head and parking lot is on the west side of the park, on Highway 9 about 1.4 miles south of the main entrance.

Redwood Grove Trail is a flat, easy loop around the giant redwoods. Restrooms are available at the half-way point. Wheelchairs and strollers may use its smooth, packed trail. Self-guided brochures are available at the Nature Center for 25 cents. The trailhead is near the Nature Center.

Fishing is permitted in the San Lorenzo River during the Steelhead and Salmon season, approximately November through February. This activity is governed by the California Department of Fish and Game. They determine the exact fishing season, and require a Fishing license. No other fishing is permitted. The rules are enforced by both Park rangers and DFG wardens.

Roaring Camp Big Trees Railroad is next door to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. A brochure with general train information is available at the main entrance kiosk. You can call 831-335-4484 for more information. You can pay the day use fee, park in our parking lot, and walk a hundred yards to Roaring Camp.

Where is the tree I can drive through?
It's about 90 miles south of Eureka on Highway 101 in Myers Flat on the Avenue of the Giants.

Henry W. Coe SP

Henry W. Coe State Park is open and operating.

Coe Park is the largest state park in northern California of wild open spaces. The terrain of the park is rugged, varied and beautiful, with lofty ridges and steep canyons.

Once the home of Ohlone Indians, the park is now home to a fascinating variety of plants and animals, including the elusive mountain lion. Within Coe Park are the headwaters of Coyote Creek, long stretches of Pacheco and Orestimba creeks and a wilderness area.

The park is open year-round for hikers, mountain bikers, backpackers, equestrians, car campers, picnickers, photographers, and people who simply like to visit parks.

Dogs

Dogs are allowed in the main campground, paved roads and one trail that connects the Visitor Center to the parking lot off of E. Dunne Ave. Dogs are not allowed at the Hunting Hollow or Dowdy Ranch entrances or on any other trails within the park.

Hollister Hills SVRA

Welcome to Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area. Hollister Hills offers recreation for motorcyclists, 4-wheelers, picnickers, and campers in the Gabilan Mountains just an hour's drive from San Jose. Park elevations range from 660 feet to 2,425 feet.

The Upper Ranch
This 800-acre area, which has about 24 miles of trails, is used for 4-wheel drive recreation and for 4-wheel drive and motorcycle special events; a fenced motocross track is also located here. Four-wheel drive operators should call before coming, especially on weekends, to make sure that the area isn't reserved for a special event. To use the area for the day, register first at the park office. If your vehicle gets stuck or breaks down, you are responsible for removing it. The Upper Ranch may be accessed for day use from 8 a.m. to sunset. Vehicle operation is allowed only between sunrise and sunset.

The Lower Ranch
This 2,400-acre area, set aside for motorcycle and ATV use only, has about 64 miles of trails and several hill climbs. There are also two picnic areas, a practice Motocross Track, an ATV Track for three and four wheeled vehicles, a TT track, a mini-bike trail, and a mini-track. Washracks are located in Camping, and Day-Use Area. Riding is allowed from sunrise to sunset.

Camping
Facilities: The Upper Ranch has two family campgrounds, Sycamore and the Obstacle Course Camp. Each campground accommodates about 60 people. The Lower Ranch has five campgrounds. All camp sites have flush toilets. Walnut Camp in the Lower Ranch and Sycamore Camp in the Upper Ranch have showers. Camping at Hollister Hills requires no reservations and all sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The camping fee is $10 per night. Check-in at the Ranger Station for available camp sites and to pay your fees. No hookups are available in the campgrounds.

Fire/Firewood Restrictions: Fires are allowed in fire rings only. You may purchase firewood at the Park store or bring your own wood. Collection of downed wood for firewood is prohibited.

Special Events
Four-wheel drive groups can periodically reserve Area 5 for group camping. It accommodates up to 300 people. Motocross clubs can periodically reserve the GP Track for motocross events. Contact the park office to obtain more information on special event.

REGISTRATION
Current California off-road vehicle registration (green and red stickers) or highway registration are required at all times when operating OHVs on public lands. Funds generated from OHV registration along with a portion of the state gas tax are used for the acquisition, development, and operation of OHV areas throughout California.

RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Resource Management is a priority at Hollister Hills and all other OHV Trust Fund Areas. Effective resource management requires: proper trail layout and design; monitoring wildlife habitat; implementing erosion control measures; maintaining roads and trails; suppressing excessive dust; and protecting riparian areas, among other things. Please help us be good stewards of the land by staying on the trails and riding responsibly!

Please Note:

• The gates to the Upper Ranch area must be attended or kept locked at all times.
• Remember, others are using the area, so always expect to meet another vehicle.
• Motorcycles and ATV's are not allowed to be taken into the 4-wheel drive area, except on special event motorcycle weekends.
• Campers with disabilities should contact the park office to inquire about current site availability and accessible park features to determine if they meet their specific needs.

Safety Tips

• It is recommended that all ATV operators take part in a formal safety training course under supervision of a certified ATV instructor.
• Proper riding equipment is essential to the safe operation of an OHV. Each ATV rider must wear a helmet and should wear proper protective clothing.
• Before starting out, familiarize yourself with the terrain. AVOID SURPRISES.
• Inexperienced riders should thoroughly acquaint themselves with all vehicle controls before starting out.
• Drive within the limits of your ability. Don't go faster or climb higher than you can safely handle.
• Watch out for other riders. When in doubt, take time to think and look the situation over before you proceed.
  

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT:
Hollister Hills
State Vehicular Recreation Area
7800 Cienega Road
Hollister, CA 95023
(831) 637-3874

Accessibility
Campers with disabilities should contact the park office to inquire about current site availability and accessible park features to determine if they meet their specific needs.

Humboldt Lagoons SP

In the early 1900's Dry Lagoon was drained by early farmers and several types of crops were attempted but none proved economical.
Several dairy ranches were established along the shores of Stone Lagoon.

Later, when the highway was improved, a motel-restaurant called the "Little Red Hen" was located next to the lagoon. This business continued in operation until 1979. The restaurant building was remodeled into a museum and park office and is now the Humboldt Lagoons Visitor Center and bookstore.

Today the marshland habitat has returned and supports a rich variety of marsh plants, birds and other animals. There are day use only picnic areas at the visitor center and at the north end of Stone Lagoon on the beach. The park offers boating, fishing, beach combing, hiking.

Bring your own boat and enjoy exploring lagoon. At the beach you have access to six miles of beachcombing, bird watching, whale watching, agate hunting. There is also a three mile Coastal Trail.
Location/ Directions
Location/ Directions
40 miles north of Eureka and 55 miles south of Crescent City, CA on Highway 101. (Latitude/Longitude: 41.1900 / -124.1206)Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
Coastal/temperate. Summer 50-60 with coastal fog common. Winter 40- 50 with 60" annual rainfall occurring mostly Nov.-May. Spring & fall are typically very nice. Summer is foggy, cool and damp. Bring warm/layered clothing.

Humboldt Redwoods SP

Due to budget reductions, Hidden Springs Campground will remain closed until July of 2011, Albee Creek and Cuneo Creek Campgrounds will remain closed until Memorial Day weekend of 2010, and Humboldt Redwoods in its entirety will be closed for the month of December, 2009.

Humboldt Redwoods State Park encompasses nearly 53,000 acres, of which over 17,000 are untouched old growth coast redwoods. Created in 1921 with the small Bolling Memorial Grove the park has grown over the years to include a diverse ecosystem including the entire Bull Creek watershed and the Rockefeller Forest, the largest remaining old growth redwood forest in the world. This is the third largest California State Park and protects an environment unique to anywhere else on earth.

A wide variety of activities and facilities are available. There are over 250 family campsites in three different campgrounds, plus environmental camps, group camps, trail camps, and a horse camp. Over 100 miles of trail await exploration by hikers, bikers, and horse riders. The South Fork Eel River provides fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities, and there are many day use areas for picnicking, family activities, or for just enjoying the pristine environment.

Some favorite locations include the Founders Grove Nature Trail, the 32 mile Avenue of the Giants Auto Tour, and the Humboldt Redwoods Visitor Center. The Visitor Center offers a wide variety of fun and educational exhibits and activities, including a theatre, displays, a bookstore, and the famous Kellogg Travel Log. Auto Tour brochures are available at either end of the Avenue of the Giants and at the Visitor Center. During the summer season interpretive activities including nature walks, Junior Ranger programs, and campfire programs are held daily.

To help plan your trip be sure to check out all of the links located on the left side of the screen.

Location/ Directions

Park headquarters and the Visitor Center are located on the Avenue of the Giants, State Route 254, between the towns of Weott and Myers Flat. This is 45 miles south of Eureka and 20 miles north of Garberville off of Highway 101. Weott is 228 miles north of San Francisco on Highway 101. The 32 mile long Avenue of the Giants runs roughly parallel to Highway 101 from Phillipsville in the south to Pepperwood in the north.

Latitude / Longitude: 40.3225 / -123.9928

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing

Summer: Highs in the 70's to 90's, lows in the 50's.
Winter: Highs in the 50's to 60's, lows in the 20's to 30's.

Visitors should come prepared for any type of weather. The park receives between 60 and 80 inches of rain per year, the vast majority of which falls between October and May. Rain in the summer season is unusual, but does occur. In the summer there is often morning fog which usually burns off by noon at the very latest. Summer temperatures can vary widely – there can be as much as a thirty degree temperature difference between the extreme north end of the park, closer to the ocean, and the southern end of the park, just 30 miles away. Winter snow is unusual but does occur at the higher elevations in the park, usually above 2000 feet. Layered clothing is recommended at any time of year.

Hungry Valley SVRA

Quail Canyon Special Use Area Has Reopened

The Quail Canyon Special Use Area reopened to the public on December 4th. This family oriented facility now offers a broad variety of OHV opportunities including a motocross track, a vintage track, and a pee wee track. The area is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 8am to 5pm. The entrance fee is $5 and provides access to the Quail Canyon Motocross tracks as well as the rest of Hungry Valley SVRA. The facility welcomes riders of various skill levels and types of equipment. Applicable State laws for spark arrestors and sound limitations are enforced.

Visitors camping and riding in Hungry Valley SVRA may access the Quail Canyon Motocross tracks by using the Quail Pass Trail or Pronghorn Trail.

The Quail Canyon Special Use Area is available for special events. This is a unique opportunity as the features and layout of the tracks can be changed to accommodate differing skill levels and various types of events such as motocross or grand prix events. If you have any questions, or would like to book a special event, please call Peter Jones at 661-248-7013 or pjones@parks.ca.gov.

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Welcome to Hungry Valley SVRA. Hungry Valley is the second largest unit of California State Park's Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division. Located in the Tejon Pass north of Los Angeles and along the Interstate 5 corridor, Hungry Valley offers 19,000 acres and over 130 miles of scenic trails for motorcycle, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV), dune buggies, and 4x4 recreation. All levels of Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) operator skills will be challenged by the wide variety of terrain and trails at Hungry Valley SVRA.

Elevations at Hungry Valley range from 3,000 to nearly 6,000 feet. Occasional snowfalls occur during the winter. Summers are most often hot, dry and dusty. The most pleasant times of the year for OHV fun are during the Spring and Fall months when the temperatures are mild and occasional rain showers make for good traction and reduced dust. Nighttime temperatures often drop below freezing in the Spring and Fall, as well as during the Winter.

The wide variety of trails at Hungry Valley provides excitement for both beginner and experienced off-roaders. For experienced OHVers challenging trails can be found in the hills and sand washes of the back- country section of the SVRA. Beginners can enjoy the scenery and relative ease of the trails in the Native Grasslands Management Area. Trails in the adjoining Los Padres National Forest are recommended for experienced riders only.

Recreational Land Management
Providing long-term, sustained OHV recreation opportunity is a top priority in SVRA Management. Provisions in California law require actions to stabilize soils and to provide for healthy wildlife populations in OHV recreation areas. Projects are ongoing to stabilize soil areas by reshaping slopes, reseeding and replanting bare areas. Vegetation creates wildlife habitat while plant roots help stabilize the soil. Project areas are temporarily closed to OHV use through the use of barriers, such as fences, hay bales, brush piles and signing. Where possible, well-designed OHV trails are provided through project areas. Other project areas may be closed for a number of years before being opened again for OHV use. Your understanding and support in staying out of areas closed for restoration helps ensure OHV recreation opportunities for years to come.

Where to get help
The State Park Rangers who patrol Hungry Valley SVRA are peace officers, who are trained Emergency Medical Responders. Entrance station employees and park maintenance personnel can also summon medical help. If no State Park personnel are available, dial 911 from any telephone. Four emergency call boxes are located through the main valley of the park. Pay phones are located at many business locations in Gorman. Cellular telephone coverage is intermittent throughout most of the SVRA. There are no emergency medical facilities in Gorman. The nearest hospital to Hungry Valley SVRA is Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital, located approximately 30 miles to the south in Valencia. To drive to the hospital, take Interstate Highway 5 south to the McBean Parkway exit and turn left (east) on McBean Parkway. Henry Mayo Hospital is located approximately one mile from I-5 on the left-hand side at 23845 McBean Parkway.

Huntington SB

Huntington State Beach is the site of a nesting sanctuary for the California least tern, a rare and endangered species. The beach is also sanctuary for the threatened snowy plover. The park also features a bicycle trail. Surfing, skating and surf fishing are also popular. The park has fire rings for bonfires.

This popular beach extends two miles from Beach Boulevard in Huntington Beach south to the Santa Ana River on the Newport Beach boundary.

Across from the beach is the 114-acre Huntington Beach Wetlands, operated by the Department of Fish and Game.
Location-Directions
The beach is located opposite Magnolia Avenue on Pacific Coast Highway.
Latitude/Longitude: 33.6190 / -117.9978

Indian Grinding Rock SHP

Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park is located in the Sierra Nevada foothills eight miles east of Jackson. The park nestles in a little valley 2,400 feet above sea level with open meadows and large valley oaks that once provided the native Americans of this area with an ample supply of acorns. The park was created in 1968 and preserves a great outcropping of marbleized limestone with some 1,185 mortar holes -- the largest collection of bedrock mortars in North America.

Location/Directions
The park is northeast of Stockton in the lower foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Take State Highway 88 East through Jackson to the town of Pine Grove. Take a left turn on the Pine-Grove-Volcano Road, and about a mile and a half later you will enter the Park. The SECOND turnoff is the main entrance (the first is to the small campground).

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The Sierra foothills experience warm, dry summers and cool, moist winters. Many summer days exceed ninety degrees. Snow falls occasionally during the winter in the Chaw'se area, but most precipitation takes the form of rain.

Facilities - Activities
The Chaw'se Regional Indian Museum
The museum features a variety of exhibits and an outstanding collection of Sierra Nevada Indian artifacts. A Miwok village complete with a ceremonial roundhouse has been reconstructed in the middle of the small valley.

The Museum has been designed to reflect the architecture of the traditional roundhouse. Exhibited in this two-story museum are outstanding examples of the technology and crafts of the Miwok and other Sierra Nevada native American groups.

As a regional Indian museum, the collection at Chaw'se includes Northern, Central and Southern Miwok, Maidu, Konkow, Monache, Nisenan, Tubatulabal, Washo, and Foothill Yokuts. Examples of basketry, feather regalia, jewelry, arrowpoints, and other tools are on display.

Big Time Events
Several times a year ceremonies are held in the hun'ge (roundhouse) by local Native Americans. Indian families gather at the park on the weekend following the fourth Friday in September for the annual acorn gathering season ceremonies. Dancing, hand games, singing and storytelling are traditional at this event. Spectators are welcome, but there is no fixed schedule of events. Native American crafts and foods are available.

School Group Tours
School group tours are conducted from March 1st through approximately the middle of June and also September 1st through approximately the middle of November. Reservations for School Group Tours must be made in advance. Please call the park to inquire about available dates and times as well as applicable fees. School Groups are limited to 40 students and 10 adults per tour.

Environmental Living/Group Camping
Camping in the U'macha'tam'ma' sites (bark houses to the north) is a unique experience. Here you can "get away from it all" and get back in touch with the natural world while simultaneously learning something about Miwok life.

Seven bark houses, each one suitable for up to six people, have been constructed in a secluded area of the park. They can be reserved for a group of up to 44 people. The camping is primitive; therefore you must haul water, supplies and equipment 200 yards or more from the parking area, but your time here will be unforgettable.

Reservations can be made up to six months in advance by phone or mail. Application forms are available by contacting the park by phone or by clicking the link on this page. Please contact the park for further information.

The consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in all areas of the park except the 23 developed family campsites at all times.

Camping
The parks has 23 campsites with paved parking (trailers and motor homes up to 27 feet), tables, food lockers, fire rings, piped water, restrooms with showers and flush toilets. Wood gathering is not allowed but firewood may be brought in or purchased at the park. Campsites are available on a first-come, first served basis. The park is open for camping all year but is subject to closure during Special Events or times of heavy snowfall.

Day Use
The day use area of the park contains the reconstructed Miwok village, which includes the Grinding Rock itself, bark houses, acorn granaries, a game field and the Ceremonial Round House. A picnic area with a shade ramada near the grinding rock can accommodate large groups (up to 150 persons). Reservations for the area are not accepted. There is also a small picnic area next to the museum. Please do not use campsites for picnicking. The consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in all areas of the park except the 23 developed family campsites at all times.

Trails
There are two developed trails within the park. The North Trail, a one-mile round-trip, starts near the museum. It traverses the ridge surrounding the meadow, passes by the old farm site, crosses the creek and continues to the reconstructed Miwok village site before returning to the museum by way of the roundhouse and grinding rock.

The half-mile long South Trail is a self guided nature trail and starts near the roundhouse. The trail guide describes the ethnobotany of the area and identifies some of the plants that were used by the Miwok.

Wildlife
The park is small, but offers many opportunities to observe wildlife. The mixture of oak woodlands and mixed pine forest provides a wide variety of habitats, just as it did in previous centuries when the Miwok lived here in the old way.

Birdlife varies depending on the season, but many species are seen year round, including turkey vultures, scrub and Steller's jays, California quail, acorn and hairy woodpeckers, northern flickers, hermit thrushes, wild turkeys (non-native), and California thrashers. In summer, the bright colors of the western tanager, northern oriole, calliope and Anna's hummingbirds can be seen in the woods around the meadow. A bird list is available at the museum.

Animal life in and around the park includes deer, fox, gray and California ground squirrels, black-tailed jackrabbits, bobcats, bats, and occasionally a mountain lion or black bear. The legendary coyote – the trickster of Miwok legend – can be heard singing on quiet summer nights.

Indio Hills Palms

Native California fan palms thrive in many locations but rarely in such numbers as in the canyons of the Indio Hills. Here, along a line where the San Andreas fault captures groundwater that nurtures the palms, is a wild parkland which is part of the adjacent Coachella Valley Preserve. The park contains some fine palm groves that include Hidden, Pushawalla, Briska, Macomber and Horseshoe palms. The nearest groves are relatively easy to reach from the trailhead and parking area 4-miles north of Indio.

Location
There are currently no marked access roads to the property. Please call the Salton Sea Sector Office (760) 393-3059 or Ranger Office (760) 393-3052 for information and directions.

Jack London SHP

Jack London State Historic Park is a memorial to writer and adventurer Jack London, who made his home at the site from 1905 until his death in 1916. The park was once part of the famous writer's Beauty Ranch.

The park contains the cottage residence where he wrote books, short stories, articles and letters while he oversaw various agricultural enterprises. After London's death, his wife, Charmian, continued to live in the cottage until her death in 1955. It was her wish that the ranch be preserved in memory of Jack London and his work.

Facilities and Activities

There is a museum in "The House of Happy Walls," which Mrs. London built in a redwood grove.

A 3/4 mile walk takes visitors to a dam, lake, and bathhouse built by London. Other hikes lead up through fir and oak woodlands to views of the Valley of the Moon. Another trail leads to Jack London's grave and to "Wolf House," London's dream house, which was destroyed by fire in 1913.

Dogs are not allowed on backcountry trails. Dogs are allowed on a leash in the Historic Area only. Dogs are not permitted beyond the silos or inside the museum.

Bicycling and horseback riding are permitted on some trails. A summer horseback riding concession is available in the park. Reservations for horseback rides can be made through Triple Creek Horse Outfit by calling (707) 887-8700.

Camping is available at nearby Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.

Location/Directions
The historic park is at 2400 London Ranch Road in Glen Ellen, about 20 minutes north of Sonoma.

The park's upper parking lot provides access to a picnic area, London's cottage, stables, stone barns, silos and "pig palace." The Kohler & Frohling winery ruins are near the cottage.


Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing.
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Jedediah Smith Redwoods SP

Established in 1929, this predominately old growth coast redwoods park is bisected by the last major free flowing river in California, the Smith River. Almost all of the park land is water shed for the Smith River and Mill Creek, a major tributary.

The park has about 20 miles of hiking and nature trails, river access, a visitor center with exhibits and a nature store. Drive Howland Hill Road (gravel-not recommended for trailers) and stroll in the Stout Grove.
Location/ Directions
Nine miles east of Crescent City on Highway 199.
Latitude/Longitude: 41.7817 / -124.1008

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
Summer 45-85 degrees. Winter 30-60 degrees.
Annual rainfall can be up to 100 inches during November through May.

Redwood National and State Parks
This park, along with Prairie Creek, Del Norte Coast, and the National Park Service's Redwood National Park, are managed cooperatively by the National Park Service and the California Department of Parks and Recreation. These parks make up 45 percent of all the old-growth redwood forest remaining in California.
About the park
The park is named after the intrepid explorer, Jedediah Strong Smith who was the first white man to explore the interior of northern California. His journey through the coast redwood belt was part of a remarkable two-year trapping expedition which began in 1826. Smith pioneered a trail southwest from the Great Salt Lake across the Mojave Desert through the San Bernadino Mountains into California.

Discovery of gold along the Sacramento and Trinity Rivers in the mid-1800's drew many thousands to northern California. The need for a supply route to remote mining camps initiated a spurt of exploration that motivated settlement of Humboldt and Del Norte counties.

Conifers other than redwoods include western hemlock, Sitka spruce, grand and Douglas fir, as well as the less common Port Orford cedar. Primary examples of the understory include tanoak, madrone, red alder, big leaf and vine maple, and California bay. Ground cover is dense with a wide range of species and varieties of shrubs, bushes, flowers, ferns, mosses and lichens common to the coast redwood environment.

Wildlife of the park is both abundant and varied including such animals as black bear, deer, coyote, bobcat, mountain lion, skunks, fox, beaver, river otter, squirrels, chipmunks and many others. Some of the rare or uncommon examples of bird life identified include the bald eagle, spotted owl, pileated woodpecker and marbled murrelet. The Smith River and Mill Creek are especially known for the king salmon and steelhead trout runs in the fall and winter. Mill Creek is a spawning ground for these fish.

John B. Dewitt Redwoods SNR

This property is newly acquired, please return to this page for further updates.

John Little SNR

The purpose of John Little State Natural Reserve, in Monterey County, is to preserve and protect an area of steep, rugged cliffs on the Big Sur coast where Lime Creek enters the Pacific Ocean. The unit contains the original 1917 cabin of early conservationist Elizabeth K. Livermore.

John Little State Natural Reserve is a scenically valuable point of land between State Highway 1 and the Pacific Ocean which embraces both banks of Lime Creek in Monterey County. A small portion of the reserve extends across Highway 1 at the north end. The reserve makes available for public enjoyment, in an unspoiled condition forever, the scenic and natural values of the property.

Jug Handle SNR

Jug Handle State Natural Reserve is located on the Mendocino coast. The park features a 2.5-mile self-guided nature trail called The Ecological Staircase which explores five wave-cut terraces formed by glacier, sea and tectonic activity that built the coast range.

Each of the terraces was uplifted from sea level about 100,000 years before the one below it. Plants on each terrace represent a more advanced stage in succession, indicating what the previous, next lower terrace may look like in 100,000 years. The lowest terrace consists of prairie; the second is covered with pines; the third supports a unique pigmy forest with knee-high trees possibly several decades old.

Location/Directions
The reserve is adjacent to Highway One, one mile north of Caspar.

The Reserve is located on the north coast of California about equal distance (five miles) between Fort Bragg and Mendocino in Mendocino County.

Bisected by State Highway 1, the reserve stretches inland from the coast to Jackson State Forest, approximately three miles.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.About the park
Ecological Staircase Trail
This trail takes the visitor on a tour of the geological updrift from the coast to the Pygmy Forest two and a half mile inland. This marine terrace sequence illustrates a successional story unparalleled elsewhere in California. The composition and processes responsible for this unique ecological setting offer a diverse selection of interpretive opportunities.

Jughandle State Natural Reserve is a special place. Few places on earth display a more complete record of ecological succession. Each of the five terraces represents one stage in a progression of successional environments. Jughandle, then, is one of the few opportunities to interpret this aspect of the coastal spectrum of ecological succession and landscape evolution.

The material base from which the terraces were fashioned is composed of a uniform body of graywacke sandstone (Bailey and Erwin 1959). Although each terrace has evolved from the same parent material, each has been weathered for different lengths of time. The soils, plants, and hydrologic associations on each terrace are affected by the degree of change the weathering has produced in the sandstone (Fox 1976 p. 5).

The structure of the terraces at Jughandle is a result of the movement of the earth's crust (plate tectonics) and the fluctuation of sea level during the Pleistocene. In the last several million years, the continent of North America has moved northwest, and the coastline along the Mendocino coast has risen slowly in relationship to the increase of the sea level brought on by the melting of the continental glaciers. These two factors are massive agents in the shaping of land forms and are rarely seen so clearly outside the desert regions of the world.

The principal sculpturing agent at Jughandle has been the sea. During periods of the Pleistocene when the glaciers were retreating northward, sea level rose more rapidly than the land was rising. As the pounding waves were uplifted onto the land, they fashioned a smooth underwater terrace. With renewal of glaciation, the waves slowly receded as the sea level fell.

Deposits of gravel and sand (beach material) were spread across the emerging terrace by the retreating waves (Jenny 1973 p. 8). Continued uplifting raised the terrace clear of subsequent rises in sea level. In this fashion, new terraces were created where older ones had existed. Terrace No. 5 (the oldest) was once at the elevation now occupied by No. 4 and so on.

This repetitive sequence proceeded at intervals of approximately 100,000 years and involved about 100 feet of uplift to form each of the terraces. The higher the terrace the older it is, and the longer its beach materials have been subjected to weathering.

Another active agent forming the land at Jug Handle has been the wind. Coastal breezes have been depositing beach material on the first terrace where the bluffs are low. Similarly, in the past the seaward edge of each terrace was covered with dune-building material that is now ancient.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP

This state park is named after Julia Pfeiffer Burns, a well respected pioneer woman in the Big Sur country. The park stretches from the Big Sur coastline into nearby 3,000-foot ridges. It features redwood, tan oak, madrone, chaparral, and an 80-foot waterfall that drops from granite cliffs into the ocean from the Overlook Trail. A panoramic view of the ocean and miles of rugged coastline is available from the higher elevations along the trails east of Highway 1.

Location-Directions
The park is 37 miles south of Carmel on Highway 1, and 12 miles south of Pfeiffer Big Sur.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
The weather can be changeable. Layered clothing is advised.

Facilities - Activities

Whale Watching
In December and January the bench at the end of Overlook trail is an excellent place to watch for gray whales migrating southward to their breeding and calving grounds off the Baja California coast. Many whales pass close to shore at this point, and occasionally one will come into the mouth of the cove. In March and April, they can be seen returning north to their summer feeding grounds in the North Pacific.

Sea otters can sometimes be seen in the cove, and harbor seals and California sea lions are occasional visitors. Many sea and shore birds - Sleek black cormorants, seagulls, brown pelicans, and black oystercatchers also make an appearance.

Underwater Area
Between Partington Point and McWay Creek is the Julia Pfeiffer Burns Underwater Area, which was established in 1970 and is now a scuba diving area. The rocky shoreline is the access to the underwater park. Special-use permits allow experienced scuba divers to explore the reserve.

McWay Waterfall House
The terrace is all that remains of Waterfall House, the residence of Lathrop and Helen Hooper Brown. When the Browns began to acquire their Big Sur acreage in 1924, Mrs. Brown became acquainted with Julia Pfeiffer Burns, the daughter of a Big Sur pioneer family. In 1962, Mrs. Brown gave the ranch to the state for use as a state park dedicated to the memory of Julia Pfeiffer Burns.

Kenneth Hahn SRA

Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area, managed by the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation, includes large areas of native coastal sage scrub habitat, lawns and landscaped areas, picnic sites, tot lots, fishing lake, lotus pond, community center and five miles of trails. There are six restrooms; the community center has four administrative offices and a small meeting room.

One of the most actively used features is the park's variety of footpaths and trails. The Burke Roche Trail and the Rim Trail are the most recent trails created. More than 7 miles of existing trails include the Burke Roche trail which is 2.2 miles, the Bowl Loop at 0.8 miles, the Ridge trail at 2.6 miles, the Waterfall Trail at one mile and the Ballfield Walking Path at one half-mile.

Active recreation and facilities in KHSRA include the following:

Four playgrounds
One half basketball court
One fishing lake
Two lighted baseball diamonds
One lit multi-purpose field
One sand volleyball court
One administrative building with a meeting room

Passive recreation includes eight picnic rental shelters and 100 picnic tables throughout the park. There are also eight large barbecue pits and 60 small ones dispersed throughout the park.

Nearby neighborhood parks found along the main thoroughfares surrounding the Kenneth Hahn State Recreation area include Jim Gilliam Park, Norman O. Houston Park, Culver City Park and Ladera Park. Amenities in these parks include tennis and basketball courts, multi-use playing fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Location/Directions
4100 South La Cienega Boulevard (Los Angeles, CA 90056) in Baldwin Hills.
Latitude/Longitude: 34.0086 / -118.3644
Facilities/Activities
Los Angeles County operates Kenneth Hahn SRA -- please visit their website for additional information.

Kings Beach SRA

Kings Beach State Recreation Area features Ponderosa Pine and small brush covering the park's 700 feet of lake frontage area. This day-use only area is popular for water sports during the summer.

Location/Directions
The park is located in downtown Kings Beach.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
Summer temperatures range from about 75 degrees during the day to the low 40s at night, and winter temperatures average from a high of 40 to a low of 20 degrees.

Kruse Rhododendron SNR

Kruse Rhododendron State Natural Reserve is located adjacent to Salt Point State Park. Edward P. Kruse donated the land to the people of California in 1933 as a living memorial to his father, a founder of San Francisco's German Bank. The land was part of a large ranch established in 1880, on which the Kruse family raised sheep and carried on logging and tanbark harvesting operations.

Today, this pristine reserve contains second-growth redwood, Douglas fir, grand firs, tanoaks, and a plethora of rhododendrons. Each May these spectacular flowers burst into bloom and color the deep green of the forest with brilliant pink blossoms.

There are five miles of hiking trails through the quiet forest with a short loop trail that leads through clusters of rhododendrons. Ferns carpet the canyons where seasonal streams abound. In addition to the rhododendrons, other understory plants include salals, pacific wax myrtle, and California Huckleberry. Please remain on the trails so that the young plants may flourish. No dogs or bikes are allowed on the trails. Buses are not recommended as the narrow road has no turn around.

The wealth of rhododendrons in this reserve is a direct result of normal plant succession patterns following a severe fire that once occurred here. Today, the regenerating forest is gradually overwhelming the rhododendrons. As forests constantly evolve, plants compete for available sunlight, water and nutrients and the best suited species dominate the environment until they create conditions more conducive to the success of other plant populations. In order to maintain fine displays of rhododendron blooms, the current plant succession must be slowed, which is the goal the Department of Parks and Recreation in its management of the reserve. To achieve this goal, the tanoak trees have been thinned out and the rhododendrons revived with the renewal pruning practices. This has ensured vigorous new growth and a diversity of blooming heights. When the rejuvenation project began during the fall of 1979, there were few blooms, and those that did appear were all well above eye level. Tanoaks were crowding out the rhododendrons by successfully competing for available sunlight, resulting in rangy growth habits of the rhododendrons. Final major pruning occurred in the fall of 1981. By 1984 a significant increase in the floral displays was evident.

La PurÌsima Mission SHP

History
Misión la Purísima Concepción de María Santísima (Mission of the Immaculate Conception of Most Holy Mary) was founded by Father Presidente Fermin de Lasuén on December 8, 1787. It was the 11th of 21 Franciscan Missions established in Alta California.

A major earthquake on December 21, 1812, destroyed many of the mission buildings. Father Mariano Payeras received permission to relocate the mission community four miles to the northeast in La Cañada de los Berros, next to El Camino Real. La Purísima Mission was officially established in its new location on April 23, 1813. Materials salvaged from the buildings destroyed by the earthquake were used to construct the new buildings, which were completed within ten years.

The end of the California missions came in 1834, when the Mexican government, which had gained independence from Spain, transferred control of the missions from the Catholic Church to civil authorities. The property passed into private ownership and the mission buildings fell into ruin. In 1933, the Union Oil Company deeded several parcels to the State of California. Under direction of the National Park Service, the Civilian Conservation Corps restored or reconstructed many of the mission's adobe buildings.

Today, La Purísima Mission State Historic Park is considered the most completely restored mission in California, with ten of the original buildings fully restored and furnished, including the church, shops, quarters, and blacksmith shop. The mission gardens and livestock represent what would have been found at the mission during the 1820's. Special living history events are scheduled throughout the year. A visitor center features information, displays and artifacts, and a self-guided tour gives visitors the opportunity to step back in time for a glimpse of a brief, turbulent period in California's history.

Location/Directions
The park is about two miles northeast of Lompoc.
Driving time from Lompoc takes about 5 to 15 minutes depending on your location. Visitors can also bike, jog, or walk to the mission from Lompoc.

Lake Del Valle SRA

This park is ideal for picnicking, horseback riding, boating, fishing and swimming.

Lake Del Valle is located in Central Alameda County, about five miles south of the City of Livermore in the Arroya del Valle. Del Valle Dam and Lake Del Valle are features of the South Bay Aqueduct, which is part of the State Water Project.

Location/Directions
The park is located on Del Valle Road, just a few miles south of Interstate 580 in Livermore.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Facilities/Activities
East Bay Regional Park District operates Lake Del VAlle SRA -- please visit their website for additional information.

Lake Oroville SRA

Near the City of Oroville this man-made lake was formed by the tallest earth-filled dam (770 feet above the stream bed of the Feather River) in the country.

The lake offers a wide variety of outdoor activities including camping, picnicking, horseback riding, hiking, sail and power boating, water-skiing, fishing, swimming, boat-in camping, floating campsites and horse camping.

Lake Oroville Visitor Center has a museum, exhibits, videos and a store. The view from the 47-foot tower, with two high-powered telescopes, is a spectacular panoramic view of the lake, Sierra Nevadas, valley, foothills, and the Sutter Buttes mountain range (smallest in the world).

The area includes the Feather River Fish Hatchery, built by the Department of Water Resources to replace lost spawning areas for salmon and steelhead. Displays on the State Water Project and the area's natural and cultural history are featured at the visitor's center.
Bidwell Marina Mooring Cables and Hardware Repairs
A new concession contract for the operation of Bidwell Marina, Lake Oroville State Recreation Area, will go into effect starting December 2nd 2009. The new concessionaire, Forever Resorts, will be repairing and replacing mooring cables and hardware as needed to provide for safety to the boat mooring. Location-Directions
From Highway 70, go east on Highway 162 (Oroville Dam Blvd.). Continue on Oroville Dam Blvd., turning right at Olive Hwy. (Highway 162), proceed approximately 6 miles on Olive Highway to Kelly Ridge Road. Turn left and Kelly Ridge Road ends in the Visitor Center parking lot.

Lake Perris SRA

Boaters, picnickers, campers and fishermen flock to enjoy the sparkling waters of Lake Perris today, but can hardly imagine the changes that have occured here.

Two hundred years ago, when the first overland immigrants from Mexico passed through this area under the leadership of Captain Juan Bautista de Anza, they saw a fertile valley, well watered by springs and even a small river that ran into San Jacinto Lake. Now, the river has been diverted and several of the springs have dissapeared.

Lake Perris was built in the early 1970's as the last reservoir in the California Water Project to provide drinking water to Southern California residents. Nestled between Moreno Valley and Perris, Lake Perris SRA provides a place to escape the heat in the summer and to escape the bustle of city life all year round. There are many recreational activities to enjoy at Lake Perris SRA such as: Hiking, biking, water skiing, boating, jet skiing, fishing, swimming, horse back riding, camping and picknicking. We also have the Regional Indian Museum that is open on weekends and Wednesdays. Take this opportunity to leave behind the stress of the city, leave the T.V.'s and video games behind and reconnect with your family.


Weather

Lake Perris has hot, dry summers and cool, moist winters. Rainy weather is limited almost completely to the months between November and April. The area lies at a crossroads of weather influences. Coastal fog (and smog) comes from the west, while 'Santa Anas”—strong, hot dry winds—come from the deserts to the east and northeast.

Lake Elevation: 1555' (2-10-09)

The recreation area is located 11 miles south of Riverside via Highway 60 or I 215.

17801 Lake Perris Drive
Perris, California 92571
Latitude/Longitude: 33.8375 /-117.1400
Elevation: 1560 feet

Lake Valley SRA

Ringed by mountains, Lake Valley State Recreation Area features a championship 18-hole golf course. Since the elevation is over 6,000 feet, shots carry farther in the thin mountain air. In the winter, the recreation area has snowmobiling and cross country skiing.

Lake Tahoe Golf Course
2500 Emerald Bay Rd. (US 50)
South Lake Tahoe, CA

Par: 71
Holes: 18
Yards: 6707

Driving Range - Yes
Power Carts - Yes
Club Rental - Yes
Practice Greens - Yes
Pull Carts - Yes
Accommodations -No
Locker Rooms -No
Showers -No
Club House - Yes
Food / Beverage -Yes
Executive Course -No

Additional Facilities
Wedding and Banquet facilities.
Snowmobile Rentals from November to April.

Location/Directions
The area is located 3/12 miles southeast of South Lake Tahoe on U.S. 50.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
Summer temperatures range from about 75 degrees during the day to the low 40s at night, and winter temperatures average from a high of 40 to a low of 20 degrees.

Leland Stanford Mansion SHP

Welcome to Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park

After a 14-year, $22 million restoration and rehabilitation, the Mansion is now open to the public as a museum. It also serves the citizens of California as the state's official reception center for leaders from around the world.

The Leland Stanford Mansion is a stunning example of the splendor and elegance of the Victorian era in California. On your tour of the 19,000-square-foot Mansion you will see:

• 17-foot ceilings
• Gilded mirrors and exquisitely detailed carved moldings
• Beautifully restored woodwork
• Elegant 19th century crystal and bronze light fixtures
• Historic paintings
• Re-created carpeting and draperies based on photographs from the 1870s to
match the original interior design
• Original period furnishings that belonged to the Stanfords.
• 19th-Century style gardens

Originally built in 1856 by Gold Rush merchant Sheldon Fogus, the Mansion was later purchased and remodeled (twice!) by Leland and Jane Stanford. Leland Stanford served as Governor of California from 1862-1863. The Mansion served as the office of three governors during the turbulent 1860's - Leland Stanford, Fredrick Low and Henry Haight.

As a pro-Union Civil War governor and president of the Central Pacific Railroad, Leland Stanford negotiated political and business deals at the Mansion that helped complete the transcontinental railroad.

Jane Lathrop Stanford gave birth to their only child, Leland, Jr., here on May 14, 1868. The couple's new wealth enabled them to expand the mansion in 1872, creating the architectural legacy you can see today.

In 1900 Jane Stanford gave the mansion to the Catholic Diocese of Sacramento, with an endowment of $75,000 in railroad bonds, for the 'nurture, care and maintenance of homeless children.” The Sisters of Mercy, and later the Sisters of Social Service, adapted the aging building to their needs. As decades passed, the old neighborhood gave way to state office buildings, and the cost of upkeep grew. In 1987, the Stanford Home for Children moved to new facilities in north Sacramento.

In 1978 the State of California purchased the property for use as a state park. The imposing structure was listed as a National Historic Landmark in May 1987.

Leo Carrillo SP

The park has 1.5 miles of beach for swimming, surfing, windsurfing, surf fishing and beachcombing. The beach also has tide pools, coastal caves and reefs for exploring. Giant sycamores shade the main campgrounds. The park also features back-country hiking.

Nature walks and campfire programs are offered and a small visitor center has interpretive displays. During the summer, children's programs are available.

The park was named after Leo Carrillo (1880-1961), actor, preservationist and conservationist, served on the California Beach and Parks commission for eighteen years, and was instrumental in the state's acquisition of the Hearst property at San Simeon. He was related by blood and marriage to a long line of distinguished original Californians. Leo's greatest fame came from his portrayal of Pancho, the sidekick to Duncan Renaldo's Cisco Kid, an early 1950's TV series.

Location/Directions
The park is located 28 miles northwest of Santa Monica on the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1.)

Leucadia SB

Swimming, surfing, fishing and picnicking are popular at this small, rocky beach. The beach access is via an improved trail at the foot of Leucadia Boulevard.

On the maps, it's 'Leucadia State Beach,” but ask the locals, and they will just say, 'It's always been Beacon's. Even the sign at the top of the bluff reads Beacon's."

Location-Directions
The park is located north of San Diego, west of I-5, at Neptune in Encinitas.
Facilities/Activities
The City of Encinitas operates Leucadia State Beach (listed as Beacon's Beach) -- please visit their website for additional information.

Lighthouse Field SB

Also known as Point Santa Cruz, this area forms the northern boundary of Monterey Bay. It is one of the last open headlands in any California urban area. Surfers, tourists, birds - including the rare Black Swift and wintering Monarch butterflies are drawn to this area. Sea lions populate the offshore rocks.

This is one of the places where Monarch butterflies winter along the California coast. Monarchs are unique because they migrate each winter to avoid freezing weather. The Monarchs wintering here, come from the west of the Rocky Mountains. Monarchs east of the Rockies go to central Mexico for the winter.

The lighthouse is home to California's first surfing museum and is the location each Christmas for "Caroling Under the Stars," a Santa Cruz tradition which attracts hundreds of locals and visitors.

The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum is in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse at Lighthouse Point on West Cliff Drive. Overlooking internationally renowned surfing hotspot Steamer Lane, this museum has photographs, surfboards, and other interesting items tracing over 100 years of surfing history in Santa Cruz.

Location - Directions
The beach is on West Cliff Drive in downtown Santa Cruz.

Seasons - Climate - Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Limekiln SP

The park features breathtaking views of the Big Sur Coast, the beauty of the redwoods, the rugged coast and the cultural history of limekilns. The park has 33 campsites.

Location-Directions
The park is 56 miles south of Carmel, off Highway One; two miles south of Lucia.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
The weather can be changeable. Layered clothing is advised.

Little River SB

Little River State Beach features dunes and a broad open beach. The beach is bordered on the north by Little River and on the south by Clam Beach County Park which provides camping and day use facilities.

Location/Directions
The beach is located five miles south of Trinidad and 13 miles north of Eureka, just off Highway 101. Latitude/Longitude: 41.0164 / -124.1086

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Los Angeles SHP

Los Angeles State Historic Park provides an extraordinary opportunity for recreation and education in the heart of Los Angeles. Within its 32 acres of open space directly adjacent to Chinatown, park visitors can wander pathways and enjoy a view of downtown, as well as discover and celebrate the natural and cultural heritage of Los Angeles. Hargreaves Associates (a San Francisco based landscape architecture firm) won a design competition held for Los Angeles State Historic Park in 2006, and their design demonstrated the possiblilites for a world-class park. Hargreaves Associates and California State Parks are currently in the Schematic Design Phase for permanent development of the park. In the interim, California State Parks has developed a temporary, 13-acre portion of the park so that the public can enjoy the park now. Through our partnerships with educational institutions and community organizations allow for creative and innovative public events such as Junction (a multimedia project in cooperation with UCLA), the Red Nation Pow Wow celebrating American Indian culture, and Safe Moves 'Walk, Ride and Roll” which teaches kids how to ride bicycles safely and provides them with free helmets. State Parks invites you to engage in the past, present and future of Los Angeles at Los Angeles State Historic Park.Things To Do

You can run, walk, ride a bike, have a picnic, fly a kite and even look for urban wildlife such as birds traveling down the Pacific flyway. Do all of these things and more while inventive architectural features in the landscape hint of the park's history. The Metro Gold Line zips past the south side of the park on raised tracks following the course of a water system which stretched from the Los Angeles River to El Pueblo in the early 1800's. It may be difficult to imagine, but this place was once a fertile basin, and within a mile of the park is the last recorded location of Yang-na, a large Tongva village. The history of the Southern Pacific Railroad's River Station, opened in 1875, include a waterwheel, freight house, roundhouse, depot and station yard. Rows of deer grass now hint of the vanished railroad tracks, and you can stand and reflect on the travels of the thousands of people who arrived here from all over the country and world. The Pacific Hotel opened here in 1879 and once served '25 minute meals” to River Station passengers. The approximate shape of the hotel is marked today by a boundary of recycled glass.

Several historical buildings are within walking distance of the park. On the north side, the Flat Iron Building is the second oldest industrial building standing in Los Angeles and dates from 1890. On the southern end of the park, the Capitol Milling Company building from 1883 is easily visible. Surrounding the Park are the historic and ethnically diverse communities of Lincoln Heights, Elysian Park, Solano Canyon, Chinatown, Chavez Ravine and William Mead Homes.

Location-Directions

There are several routes into the park's main entrance at 1245 North Spring Street. If you have access to the Metro Rail, the park is less than a block away from the Chinatown Station on the gold line. If you are traveling northbound or southbound on the 101F, exit Alameda Street, turn right at the off ramp and Alameda turns into North Spring Street. The park will be on your left. If you are traveling on the I-5 Freeway, exit Broadway, go west and stay in left lane. When Broadway splits in two directions, take North Spring Street to the left.

Accessibility

All pathways and restrooms are accessible. There is also an accessible telescope to view the park and neighboring areas.

Park Activities

Free guided interpretive programs and public events are offered at the park. For information, call the park staff at (323) 441-8819

Los Encinos SHP

Los Encinos State Historic Park, at the corner of Balboa and Ventura Blvd. in Encino, California, was the hub of Rancho El Encino. Located in the San Fernando Valley, this California rancho includes the original nine-room de la Ossa Adobe, the two-story limestone Garnier building, a blacksmith shop, a natural spring, and a pond.

The natural spring provided a year-round source of water for the ancient village of Siutcanga, home to the Tongva people, for thousands of years. An excellent description of this village was recorded as part of the 1769 Portola Expedition. This Spanish expedition reached the San Fernando Valley and named it 'El Valle de Santa Catalina de Bononia de Los Encinos” (The Valley of St. Catherine of Bononia of the Oaks).

Located along a significant travel route between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, the property passed through many hands between the 1840s and the early 20th century. Today, the park contains exhibits related to the agricultural enterprises of Rancho El Encino's various owners, including Mission Indian, Mexican Californio, French, and French Basque families.

Location-Directions
Take the 101 Ventura Freeway to the Balboa off ramp. Go South on Balboa to Moorpark--one block before Ventura Blvd. Turn left onto Moorpark and park on the street. There is no parking lot. Enter through the gate.

Los Osos Oaks SNR

This Reserve features ancient sand dunes covered with centuries-old coast live oak trees. According to botanists, five major plant communities thrive within the reserve. They are coastal sage scrub, central coastal scrub, dune oak scrub, coast live oak forest, and riparian (streamside). The oak communities exist close to each other, but each has its own character. The oak scrub has dwarf oak trees growing on the ancient (relict) sand dune. Though they are coast live oak trees, they rarely grow more than six to eight feet tall. The larger coast live oaks are located where the soil is moister. These giants can grow to 25 feet in height. Their massive trunks and gnarled branches twist into all sorts of fantastic shapes

Location - Directions
The reserve is located on Los Osos Valley Road in the Los Osos Valley, just outside the town of Los Osos, about halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Latitude/Longitude: 35.3049 / -120.8610

Seasons - Climate - Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Facilities - Activities

Hiking
At the beginning of the reserve's trail, traffic noise from the busy road dominates. Penetrating deeper into the park, these sounds diminish, giving way to birds singing, water trickling in Los Osos Creek, and wind rustling through the oaks. Trails traverse through the variety of plant communities, and the trail is alternately in bright sunlight or dappled shade. A word of caution: one of the predominant undergrowth plants in the area is poison oak. A sign at the entrance helps visitors identify and stay away from this pesky plant. Staying on the trails helps to avoid contact.

One of the trails goes through remnants of an old Chumash Indian midden (trash dump) site. Fragments of clam and abalone shells the Chumash consumed long ago are found here. The nomadic Chumash had temporary encampments all over the Morro Bay watershed area, and this is just one reminder that many other people have come before us.

There is a variety of wildlife in the park. Visitors can spot a shy plain titmouse, or see a California valley quail rustling through the underbrush. Visitors may also see a brush rabbit darting across the trail, or encounter the home of a nocturnal dusky-footed wood rat.

The Reserve is also the home of several species of lichen that can be found nowhere else. Visitors should look for wisps of lichens and mosses dangling from oak branches throughout the reserve.

About the Park
In 1769, Gaspar de Portola's expedition passed through the Los Osos Valley. Father Crespi's diary notes that the expedition saw "troops of bears (osos)" in the valley, and, since then, it became known as the Los Osos Valley. When the new Monterey mission populace faced starvation, a hunting expedition was sent to the Los Osos Valley, killed many grizzlies, and packed the meat back to Monterey, saving the people there from disaster.

Los Osos Oaks was part of a Mexican land grant that was eventually divided into farm and ranchland. Incredibly, unlike the trees in the surrounding area which were cleared away to allow for agriculture, the magnificent oaks in the park are still growing.

MacKerricher SP

MacKerricher State Park offers a variety of habitats; beach, bluff, headland, dune, forest and wetland. Tidepools are along the shore. Seals may be seen on the rocks off the park's coastline. More than 90 species of birds visit or live near Cleone Lake, a formal tidal lagoon. During winter and spring, the nearby headland provides a good lookout for whale watching. The park is popular with hikers, joggers, equestrians and bicyclists. Fishing is also popular at Cleone lake. The park has a wheelchair accessible nature trail.

Location/Directions
The park is three miles north of Fort Bragg on Highway 1, near the town of Cleone. The park encompasses much of the land west of Cleone and a strip of beach between Fort Bragg and Ten Mile River.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

About the Park
The Park is the only one in the park system that was at one time part of the Mendocino Indian Reservation. It is the only park unit that was part of the Union Lumber Company's vast timber and shipping holdings in northern Mendocino County. A small, independent logging and shipping operation began here, then was absorbed by the larger corporation. MacKerricher, known historically as Cleone, thus followed a pattern common to many of the small areas in the region. The park was officially opened in 1952; land was added along the Ten Mile beach until 1977.

Mailliard Redwoods SNR

The purpose of Mailliard Redwoods State Natural Reserve, in Mendocino County, is to preserve and protect, in an essentially natural condition, the coast redwood forest and associated wildlife habitat which occurs along the Garcia River and adjacent watersheds.

Malakoff Diggins SHP

Camping Information
Campground and Group Camp is currently closed for the season.

Cabins are closed for the season.

Park Information
Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park is the site of California's largest "hydraulic" mine. Visitors can see huge cliffs carved by mighty streams of water, results of the gold mining technique of washing away entire mountains to find the precious metal. Legal battles between mine owners and downstream farmers ended this method. The park also contains a 7,847 foot bedrock tunnel that served as a drain. The visitor center has exhibits on life in the old mining town of North Bloomfield.

Location-Directions
From Nevada City, travel 11-miles north on highway-49 toward Downieville. North Bloomfield Road is not recommended. Turn right on Tyler Foote Rd. turnoff from Highway 49 and follow the main paved road to the park.The main road changes names a few times (Cruzon Grade Road, Back Bone Road, Derbec Road, North Bloomfield Road). You will stay on paved roads all the way to the park. These are not high-speed roads. The park is 26-miles (50 min drive time) from Nevada City.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
Summer and spring are warm; fall and winter can be cool. Layered clothing is advised.

Malibu Creek SP

Just 25 miles from downtown Los Angeles, the park features hiking, fishing, bird watching and horseback riding opportunities.

There are 15 miles of streamside trail through oak and sycamore woodlands an chaparral-covered slopes.

Twenty-five-mile Malibu Creek in the park is the principal water-course of the Santa Monica Mountains - from Boney Mountain to Malibu Lagoon.

The park was the center of Chumash Native American life for centuries and was once used to film numerous movies and TV shows, such as Planet of the Apes and M*A*S*H.

Location-Directions
The park is located four miles south of Highway 101 on Las Virgenes/Malibu Canyon Road.
Latitude/Longitude: 34.1033 / -118.7331

Malibu Lagoon SB

The Malibu Lagoon is where Malibu Creek meets the Pacific Ocean. Malibu's Surfrider Beach has a long standing as a premier surfing beach.

On the east side of Malibu Creek Bridge, the famous Malibu Pier™ allows for excellent saltwater fishing. On the west side of Malibu Creek Bridge, visitors will find picnic tables and a nature area, excellent for bird watching and the study of a unique eco-system, a Southern California saltwater marsh.

The Adamson House, a National Historic Site located in Malibu Lagoon State Beach, is a showplace of Malibu historical artifacts. Completed in 1929 by the Frederick Hastings Rindge's daughter, Rhoda Adamson, the Spanish-Moor revival residence features tile from the renowned Malibu Potteries and sits on a spectacular overlook of the Malibu Pier and Surfrider Beach.

The adjacent Malibu Lagoon Museum allows visitors to walk through the history of the area from the days of the California Indian "Chumash" tribe, to the gentlemen ranchers, and finally to the birth of the surfing era. Museum docents give delightful tours filled with local legends and anecdotes.

Guided tours of the wetlands and other natural elements such as grunion, the monarch butterfly, tidepools, and the gray whale are scheduled seasonally. The Malibu Lagoon beach features wetlands, flower gardens and a sandy beach.

Location-Directions
From Santa Monica, follow the Pacific Coast Highway 13 miles west. From the 101 Freeway, exit at Las Virgenes Road, proceed 10-miles west through Malibu Canyon, turn left at Pacific Coast Highway, travel 1.5-miles east. Entrance for parking and the nature area is at Cross Creek Road. Walk east across the bridge and follow the dirt lane at to the Adamson House.
Latitude/Longitude: 34.0333 / -118.6783

The State Beach parking lot is located on the west side of the Malibu Creek Bridge. A county parking lot is located directly in front of the Adamson House.

Disabled Access
Vehicles are not allowed on the grounds unless the license plate displays the disabled emblem. Disabled access to the museum and the first floor of the house is available. A video of the upper floor is available upon request.

Manchester SP

The park has a beach, sand dunes, and flat grasslands, with nearly 18,000 feet of ocean frontage. The beach line curves gently to form a "catch basin" for sea debris, which accounts for the volume of driftwood found here. Five miles of gentle, sandy beach stretches southward towards the Point Arena Lighthouse.

One of the main attractions is the excellent steelhead fishing in the park's two streams, Brush Creek and Alder Creek. Please check with the Department of Fish and Game for seasonal closures and restrictions at www.dfg.ca.gov/regulations.

The park features a variety of coastal wildflowers, including sea pinks, poppies, lupines, baby blue eyes and blue irises. The park provides habitat for tundra swans. The San Andreas Fault runs into the sea at the park.

The park takes its name from the village of Manchester, which is located in Mendocino County on Coast Highway 1 about seven miles north of Point Arena.

This is an area of rich grazing lands flocks of sheep and herds of cattle which add a pastoral note to some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in the world.

Location/Directions
The main park entrance is located at 44500 Kinney Lane (off Hwy 1), 1/2 mile north of the town of Manchester.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
Temperatures seldom rise above 72 nor dip below 50 . Rainfall is heavy from September to May, and morning and evening fog is common during the summer months. Strong winds prevail year-round.

Mandalay SB

The purpose of Mandalay State Beach is to make available the sandy ocean beach and adjacent coastal dunes for public recreational day use and enjoyment. In general, all public beach-related recreational activities may be provided that can be accommodated without impairing the scenic or natural integrity of the site. Also, the dune and wetlands (marshland) ecosystem is recognized for its important natural values and shall be managed for its protection and perpetuation.
Facilities/Activities
The County of Ventura operates Mandalay SB -- please visit their website for additional information.

Manresa SB

Manresa State Beach features a beautiful expanse of sea and sand, with surf fishing, surfing, and recreation.

Location - Directions
From Highway 1, south of Aptos, San Andreas Road heads southwest and continues for several miles to Manresa, the first beach access upon reaching the coast.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Marconi Conference Center SHP

The Marconi Conference Center is situated on wooded hills overlooking scenic Tomales Bay in Marin County.

The California State Parks Foundation acquired the property in 1984 with Buck Trust funds, remodeled it as a conference center, and gave it to the California Department of Parks and Recreation which now operates it as a non-profit facility.

The conference center operation enables these grounds to be preserved and protected, while the historical buildings constructed by Marconi await restoration.

Lodging
Most rooms have stunning views; all are smoke-free, with private baths and study desks. The lounge area provides games, books and film libraries, snacks and beverages for evening relaxation. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served buffet style.

Meeting Pavilions
Some meeting spaces have commanding Bay views, others are in a peaceful forest setting. State of the art audio/visual and modem capabilities are available, and meeting facilities can be configured for casual or auditorium-type seating. Break-out rooms are within each Meeting Pavilion.

Directions-Location
On Highway 1, two miles south of Marshall, CA.

Mailing Address
P.O. Box 789
Marshall, CA 94940

Basic Visit Recommendations
Outdoor recreational diversions include a jogging trail with a paracourse, volleyball and badminton courts, horseshoe pits, bicycling on nearby country roads, bird-watching, and fishing in Tomales Bay.

Regional attractions include Point Reyes National Seashore, Sonoma Valley wine country, historic Petaluma, Tomales Bay State Park, coastal redwood groves, golf courses, and riding stables.

Marconi Hotel Restoration
The main building of the Marconi Wireless Station on this site is known as the Marconi Hotel and is destined to become a grand landmark when restoration is finally accomplished.

Restoration of the Marconi Hotel will provide administration facilities, gift shop, conference services rooms, lounges and museum; on the second floor will be a fully restored guest room, library/reading room, and a variety of meeting rooms.

This was quite a remote site in 1914 when the Hotel housed station workers and Marconi guests. It offered the conveniences of a library, dining hall, billiard room and state-of-the-art plumbing. Built of concrete and tile, the three-story building's front verandah was designed in the classic Italinate villa style.

Marina SB

The beach area winds through the Marina Dunes Natural Preserves. The beach is known for hang-gliding. Radio-controlled gliders and kites are also popular. The beach is a favorite site for picnics. Water recreation is extremely hazardous due to strong rip currents.

Location-Directions
The park is at the foot of Reservation Road in Marina, 10 miles north of Monterey.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
The weather can be changeable. Layered clothing is advised.

Marshall Gold Discovery SHP

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park is implementing a service reduction plan in order to meet budget reductions the Department is facing this fiscal year. In order to realize significant savings to help meet this budget reduction while limiting impacts to the many visitors who enjoy our State Parks, park days and hours will be reduced starting November 1, 2009. We sincerely regret any inconvenience.

Effective November 1, 2009 – May 28, 2010 the park will be closed on Sundays and Mondays

Park will be open Tuesday – Saturday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

From May 29, 2010 - Sept. 7, 2010 the park will be closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Park will be open Thursday – Monday 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

North Beach Picnic Area will be closed November 1, 2009 – May 28, 2010.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
Summer and spring are warm; fall and winter can be cool. Layered clothing is advised.
James W. Marshall discovered gold in 1848 on the South Fork of the American River in the valley the Nisenan Indians knew as Cullumah. This event led to the greatest mass movement of people in the Western Hemisphere and was the spark that ignited the spectacular growth of the West during the ensuing decades. The gold discovery site, located in the still visible tailrace of Sutter's sawmill, in present day Coloma California, is one of the most significant historic sites in the nation.

The purpose of Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park is to secure for the people and to make available for their observation, inspiration, and enjoyment, the gold discovery site and its environs as an accurate portrayal of the story that unfolded at the time of the discovery and Gold Rush. The park's interpretive program primarily embraces the period from 1847 through 1852, but also shows the town of Coloma as it developed.

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park is the place where James W. Marshall found shining flecks of gold in the tailrace of the sawmill he was building for himself and John Sutter. This discovery in 1848 changed the course of California's and the nation's history. See a replica of the original sawmill and over 20 historic buildings including mining, house, school, and store exhibits.

Visitors have the opportunity to try panning for gold in the American River and enjoy hikes and picnics under the riparian oak woodlands. Overlooking the beautiful river canyon, where the gold discoverer rests today, see California's first historic monument, the statue of James Marshall pointing at his gold discovery site .

Throughout the year the park provides daily interpretive programs at the sawmill replica. Participate in special events, exhibits and "Live History Days" planned regularly throughout the year; contact the Gold Discovery Museum and Visitor Center for details. Location-Directions
The park is located in Coloma on Highway 49 between Placerville and Auburn.

Coloma, CA Latitude/Longitude: 38.8000/-120.8892

Martial Cottle Park

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial SP

McConnell SRA

McGrath SB

Mendocino Headlands SP

In any season, a visit to the Mendocino Headlands will provide a memorable experience. You might come to see the spring wildflowers, enjoy a crisp and clear fall day, escape to a cool summer climate or witness the winter migration of grey whale. The park provides Mendocino with a buffer area that preserves the town's historical presence. In return, the town provides a view of a unique blend of natural, ecological, cultural and social diversity. Activities range from hiking and surfing to fishing. Photographers and painters frequently visit various parts of Mendocino Headlands enjoying and capturing the scenic wonders. There are no camping facilities; visitors are day users only.

On the south side of Mendocino, accessible by vehicle from Highway 1, or by trails down the bluffs, is Big River Beach. This beach is used by picnickers, sun bathers and players in the surf. Mendocino Headlands State Park began operation in 1974. In 2002 the Big River wetlands was added to the park creating a 7,400-acre wildlife corridor which links diverse coastal and inland habitats into the largest piece of connected public land entirely within Mendocino County. Reaching from the Big River's mouth to 800-foot elevation inland ridges, the Big River wetlands includes a wide range of habitats. On the north it adjoins Jackson Demonstration State Forest and Mendocino Woodlands State Park. Public lands reach to the sea from Jackson Demonstration State Forest at Jug Handle State Reserve and Russian Gulch State Park. To the south, separated by a narrow strip of private land and Comptche Ukiah Road, lies Van Damme State Park with an RV campground and ocean access.

Mendocino Woodlands SP

Millerton Lake SRA

With over 40 miles of shore land for water sports, this SRA offers visitors swimming, fishing, and boating. The hills surrounding the lake provide good hiking opportunities. Wildlife in the park includes ground squirrels, cottontails, mule deer, badgers and bald and golden eagles. During winter, the park has special boat tours to view the bald eagles.

The lake was created by construction of the Friant Dam across the San Joaquin River in 1944. The park’s camping facilities include boat camping. The park contains the original Millerton County Courthouse, built in 1867.

Location - Directions
The area is 20 miles northeast of Fresno via Highway 41 and Highway 145.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Mono Lake Tufa SNR

The reserve was established to preserve the spectacular "tufa towers," calcium-carbonate spires and knobs formed by interaction of freshwater springs and alkaline lake water. It also protects the lake surface itself as well as the wetlands and other sensitive habitat for the 1 – 2 million birds that feed and rest at Mono Lake each year.

Mono Lake is a majestic body of water covering about 65 square miles. It is an ancient lake, over 1 million years old -- one of the oldest lakes in North America. It has no outlet.

Throughout its long existence, salts and minerals have washed into the lake from Eastern Sierra streams. Freshwater evaporating from the lake each year has left the salts and minerals behind so that the lake is now about 2 1/2 times as salty as the ocean and very alkaline.

Location/Directions
Highway 395, 13 miles east of Yosemite National Park, near the town of Lee Vining, California.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Winter is a particularly beautiful time at Mono Lake. The crowds are gone, a quiet stillness prevails, and snow crystals sparkle on the tufa towers.

The road to South Tufa is kept plowed, when staffing permits, allowing year round access except immediately after large storms.

South Tufa, Navy Beach, and the Old Marina area are all wonderful places to cross-country ski when snow conditions permit.

Facilities - Activities

Interpretive Programs
These programs are a cooperative effort of the State Natural Reserve, U.S. Forest Service and the Mono Lake Committee. Rangers lead free tufa walks at the South Tufa area -- tours are at 1:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays May through October.

Tours are offered 3 times daily from late June through Labor Day (10am, 1pm, and 6pm); and daily at 1pm late May through September.

Bird walks are offered at the Mono Lake County Park/State Natural Reserve boardwalk at 8:00 a.m. Fridays and Sundays mid-May through Labor Day.

A spooky Moonlight Walk is offered each October.

Visitor Center
The Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center is a great place to start your visit to this area. The center is located just off Highway 395, north of Lee Vining and includes a variety of exhibits about the natural and human history of the Mono Basin. Visitor center staff stand ready to help you plan your explorations of Mono Lake and the Eastern Sierra. The Visitor Center is closed Dec. 1 - March 31.

Outdoor Activities
Hiking, photography, bird watching, swimming, boating, and cross-country skiing are just a few of the many activities you can enjoy at this unusual lake.

Photographers come from all over the world to capture the interplay of light on the mountains, desert, and water. The natural history of the lake is described and explained in a one-mile self-guided nature trail at South Tufa. This is the best place to visit if you have time for only one stop. A boardwalk (ADA) trail below the Mono Lake County Park allows access to the north shore tufa area and wetland. A new trail links the Scenic Area Visitor Center near Lee Vining with the Old Marina area at the shore. A trail at Panum Crater leads to the dome and crater rim.

A swim in Mono Lake is a memorable experience. The lake''s salty water is denser than ocean water, and provides a delightfully buoyant swim. Old timers claim that a soak in the lake will cure almost anything. Keep the water out of your eyes or any cuts, as it will sting.

Camping
The State Natural Reserve is surrounded by the Mono Basin National Forest Scenic Area, operated by the Forest Service. There are no campgrounds in the State Natural Reserve or the Scenic Area. Dispersed camping is permitted in most of the Scenic Area above the exposed lake bed lands. Campfire permits are required. Established campgrounds are located nearby in Lundy Canyon, Lee Vining Canyon, and the June Lake Loop.

Boating
All types of boating are permitted on Mono Lake, although access is restricted to all islands between April 1 and August 1 each year to protect the nesting gulls. Boaters must not approach within 200 yards of Osprey nesting sites located on offshore tufa towers April 1st through Sept. 1st. It is advisable to stay near shore while boating and to be alert for sudden high winds. We recommend launching canoes and kayaks at Navy Beach, on the south shore, where a parking lot is close to the water. For those with boats too large to carry, an unimproved launch ramp is available near Lee Vining Creek. Stop by the Scenic Area Visitor Center for directions or for more information.

Montaña de Oro SP

Montara SB

Monterey SB

Monterey SHP

Monterey State Historic Park is a collection of significant historic houses and buildings interspersed throughout Old Monterey. The inside of the Stevenson House, Larkin House, Cooper-Molera Adobe, and Casa Soberanes can ONLY be viewed with a State Park Guide. These four guided house tours, the Guided Walking Tour of Old Monterey, the Pacific House Museum and Custom House are all FREE. Guided Walking Tours begin at the Pacific House Museum in Custom House Plaza – a great way to start your discovery of Monterey.

Step into the past on the 'Monterey Walking Path of History” and view the site where Spanish explorers first landed in Monterey in 1602. See one of the nation's last remaining whalebone sidewalks. Walk the same streets that famed author Robert Louis Stevenson walked in 1879. Explore this two-mile path and discover some of California's most historic homes, buildings and beautiful gardens along the way.

Monterey served as California's capital under Spanish, Mexican and U.S. military rule. The U.S. flag was first officially raised in California here on July 7, 1846, bringing 600,000 square miles of land to the United States.

Monterey's Path of History can be entered at any point. Just follow the yellow-tiled markers and discover Monterey State Historic Park, an area that preserves and interprets places and objects of statewide historic significance. Twelve buildings, including the Custom House, the oldest government building in California, and several residences (now house museums with guided tours), are all part of Monterey's 55 Path of History sites.

For more information call the Monterey State Historic Park office (831) 649-7118, located at 20 Custom House Plaza.
Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
The weather can be changeable. Layered clothing is advised.

Location-Directions
The park is at 20 Custom House Plaza, in Monterey.
Monterey, CA Latitude/Longitude: 36.6001 / -121.8822


Driving Directions to Monterey State Historic Park office

... from the NORTH
From San Francisco, San Jose, Gilroy, Marina and other cities from the north, take the Pacific Grove/Del Monte Avenue exit off of Highway 1.

There are two other Del Monte exits prior to this one that are incorrect. Follow Del Monte for approximately one and a half miles. Turn right into the Fisherman's Wharf, Historic Park parking lot. If you end up going through the tunnel, continue on until you can legally turn around. Then return to this parking lot turning left this time. Watch for the signs.

... from the SOUTH
From Big Sur and Carmel, take the Munras Street exit off of Highway 1. Continue down Munras which eventually becomes Abrego Street. Continue on Abrego which eventually becomes Washington Street. Follow Washington Street until it ends at the Fisherman's Wharf parking lot. This entire journey is less than two miles in length.

... from the EAST
From Los Angeles, San Luis Obispo, Salinas, Fresno, Sacramento, Los Banos, Hollister and other cities from the east, take Highway 68 to Highway 1. At this major intersection move into the left lane as this will take you toward Monterey. (You don't want to go to Seaside or Santa Cruz.) Take the Fremont Street exit and follow to the third signal. Turn right onto Abrego Street which shortly becomes Washington Street. Follow Washington Street until it ends in the Fisherman's Wharf parking lot. This entire journey is less than two miles in length.

Montgomery Woods SNR

Moonlight SB

Facilities/Activities
The City of Encinitas operates Moonlight State Beach -- please visit their website for additional information.

Morro Bay SP

Morro Strand SB

Location - Directions
The beach is two miles south of Cayucos on Highway 1. Take the Yerba Buena exit, a short distance north of Morro Bay, 24^th Street allows access to the northern part of the beach.

Seasons - Climate - Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Moss Landing SB

Mount Diablo SP

WATER CONSERVATION February 5, 2009
Low rainfall and drought conditions are prompting Water Conservation at Mount Diablo State Park.
The measures being taken include:
◊ Showers are not available
◊ Water Conservation signs are posted at each spigot
Park conditions and website information will be updated when the groundwater supply is able to produce enough water to keep up with day use picnicking and camping demand.


Dogs must be on a leash under your control at all times. Dogs are not allowed on trails. Dogs must be in a tent, camper or enclosed vehicle during the night.


Location-Directions
The park may be accessed by vehicle from the Walnut Creek area (North Gate Road).

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
Summers are generally hot and dry. The rainy season is generally from November through mid-March. Visitors in the winter occasionally experience a snowfall on the mountain peak.

A Road and Trail Plan is a recommended management plan for the roads and trails within Mount Diablo State Park. At this time Mount Diablo State Park is developing a Road and Trail Plan for the park. The staff at Mount Diablo State Park is very excited to be able to a part of this process. This plan will be used as a long term guiding document and takes into consideration all of the elements of the park's values, goals and mission.

• Maximize visitor uses and experiences.
  
  
• Reduce potential safety conflicts.
  
  
• Minimize natural and cultural resource impacts.
  
  
• Coordinate with local and regional planning efforts.
  
  
• Provide access to surrounding public lands.

An essential part of the Road and Trail Plan is creating an opportunity for the public to provide meaningful input. The park staff of Mount Diablo State Park will be setting up a series of public meetings during which time comments will be accepted. Times and dates of these meetings will be posted in the near future.

Facilities - Activities
Many visitors to Mount Diablo head straight for the summit to enjoy the famous view. Summer days are sometimes hazy, and the best viewing is often on the day after a winter storm. Then, you can look to the west, beyond the Golden Gate Bridge, to the Farallon Islands; southeast to the James Lick Observatory on Mount Hamilton at 4,213 feet elevation; south to Mount Loma Prieta in the Santa Cruz Mountains at 3,791 feet elevation, north to Mount Saint Helena in the Coast Range at 4,344 feet elevation, and still farther north to Mount Lassen in the Cascades at 10,466 feet. North and east of Mount Diablo the San Joaquin and Sacramento Rivers meet to form the twisting waterways of the Delta. To the east beyond Califomia's great central valley, the crest of the Sierra Nevada seems to float in space.

• Mary Bowerman Trail
  Just below the summit, this trail offers spectacular vistas that can be enjoyed along the way. The first half of the gentle 0.7-mile loop trail is accessible to visitors in wheelchairs. Pick up a copy of the trail Nature Guide at the trailhead.
• Rock City
  You'll find unusually large sandstone formations and small caves here.
• Boy Scout Rocks and Sentinel Rock
  These are popular places near Rock City for rock climbing. Check with the ranger for regulations and the best approach.
• Fossil Ridge
  Evidence of previous residents is embedded in these rocks. Please leave them for future visitors to see.
• Deer Flat
  You are likely to see some of the mountain's natural wildlife as you take this moderately strenuous 1.6-mile hike from Juniper Camp.
• Mitchell Canyon Staging Area
  This is the main access point to trails on the mountain's north side. From here you can hike to Deer Flat (3.7 miles) or all the way to the summit (6.8 miles) by way of Juniper Camp.
• Diablo Valley Overlook
  From here near Juniper Campground, 3,200 feet above sea level, you can see the Golden Gate.
• Summit Museum - Open Daily 10:00am - 4:00pm
  The summit museum is located in the historic stone building atop Mt. Diablo's highest peak. The tower was constructed during the late 1930's of fossiliferous sandstone blocks quarried in the park. The Visitor Center highlights the cultural and natural history of Mt. Diablo State Park. Visit the Mitchell Canyon Information Center on the north side of the mountain. Exhibits
  Impressive exhibits chronicle the history of the mountain and capture its majesty. A rock wall with instructional video examines the geological forces which created the mountain. Panels describe the native American history of the region. A diorama, complete with native sounds, offers an overview of the park's ecosystems. A model of the mountain acquaints visitors with important park locations. Splendid photographs enhance the visitor's experience. In addition to the exhibits, the summit museum features a gift shop and audio-visual room.
• Art Gallery
  Rotating displays of the fine interpretive art by local artists and photographers complement the permanent exhibits.
• Observation Deck
  Telescopes are mounted on the deck to help visitors enjoy one of the finest views in the world. On the walk up the circular stairway to the observation deck, visitors are treated to a look at ancient marine fossils embedded in the sandstone walls of the summit building. In the rotunda they are reminded of Mt. Diablo's importance as a survey point. Above the rotunda is a beacon, historically important to aviators and now lighted once a year on December 7 in memory of those who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor.
• Mitchell Canyon Interpretive Center
  The Mitchell Canyon Interpretive Center, located in Mount Diablo State Park at the south end of Mitchell Canyon Road in Clayton, California, is staffed by park volunteers. The gift shop is supported by the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association, which works with the park to provide visitors with information so they can better enjoy Mount Diablo State Park and its natural wonders.
  
  The Center has displays about various aspects of Mt. Diablo State Park, such as geology, wildlife, trails, and plant life. Interpretive materials about the Park, such as geology, wildlife, and plants, are for sale. There are also postcards, note cards, trail maps, and water for sale.
  

Mount San Jacinto SP

Mount Tamalpais SP

Just north of San Francisco's Golden Gate is Mount Tamalpais. It has redwood groves and oak woodlands with a spectacular view from the 2,571-foot peak.

On a clear day, visitors can see the Farallon Islands 25 miles out to sea, the Marin County hills, San Francisco and the bay, hills and cities of the East Bay, and Mount Diablo. On rare occasions, the Sierra Nevada's snow-covered mountains can be seen 150 miles away.

Coastal Miwok Indians lived in the area for thousands of years before Europeans arrived. In 1770, two explorers named the mountain La Sierra de Nuestro Padre de San Francisco, which was later changed to the Miwok word Tamalpais.

With the Gold Rush of 1849, San Francisco grew and more people began to use Mount Tamalpais for recreation. Trails were developed and a wagon road was built. Later, a railway was completed and became known as "The Crookedest Railroad in the World." It was abandoned in 1930 after a wildfire damaged the line.

Facilities and Activities
Hiking and Bicycle Trails: More than 50 miles of trail are within the park and connect to a larger, 200-mile-long trail system. Bicyclists are challenged by the twisting road to the top of the park's summit.

The park has the Bootjack Picnic Area with tables, stoves, piped drinking water and flush toilets.

The East Peak Summit features a visitor center and a refreshment stand that are usually only open on weekends (during the summer, the refreshment stand is open daily). Phone, picnic tables and fully accessible restroom are also available.

The Mountain Theater (a.k.a. The Cushing Memorial Theater) in the park was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The natural-stone amphitheater seats 3,750 people and features the Mountain Play each spring, produced every year since 1913.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
Summer and spring are warm, fall and winter can be cool. Layered clothing is best.

Natural Bridges SB

Location - Directions
Take Swift Avenue west from Highway 1, or follow West Cliff Drive north along the in-town bluffs until it ends at Natural Bridges.

Facilities - Activities
A picnic area is located off the main parking lot in a eucalyptus and pine trees grove. Tables, barbecues, water faucets and restroom facilities are available. There is a day-use fee per car to park in the state beach area.

The visitor center highlights local natural history, and the bookstore has a selection of butterfly shirts, postcards and books for all ages.

Next to the park's Visitor Center is a demonstration milkweed patch where visitors may view Monarch eggs, caterpillars and chrysalides. For about half a year, milkweed is the Monarch's home, super market and maternity ward.

Seasons - Climate - Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve
The park's Monarch Grove provides a temporary home for up to 100,000 Monarchs each winter. From roughly mid-October through mid-February, the Monarchs form a "city in the trees." The areas mild ocean air and eucalyptus grove provide a safe roost until spring. In the spring and summer, the butterflies live in the valley regions west of the Rocky Mountains where milkweed, the only plant a Monarch caterpillar eats, is plentiful. Monarch migration is variable, and numbers vary each year. Before you visit, you may want to call the park for current information on the population.

The Monarch Grove has been declared a Natural Preserve, thus protecting the Monarchs and their winter habitat from human encroachment or harm. This is the only State Monarch Preserve in California. Access to the preserve area is limited to a handicap accessible boardwalk and observation area.

Monarchs begin arriving in October and most are gone by the first week of March. The grove contains eucalyptus trees which are located in a canyon, providing the Monarch needed shelter from the wind. These winter flowering trees are also a convenient food source for the butterfly. On chilly days when the temperature drops below 60 degrees, the butterflies cluster together in the eucalyptus trees for warmth.

The park maintains a demonstration milkweed patch where visitors may view Monarch eggs, caterpillars and chrysalides. For about half a year, milkweed is the Monarch's home, super market and maternity ward. The Monarch larva eats only the milkweed plant.

Tours
Docent-led butterfly, tidepool and nature trail tours are available. Large groups should reserve beach use and tours by phone at least 2 weeks in advance. Special event reservations should be made at least 1 month in advance.

Visitors can view the over-wintering Monarchs by walking down the park's wheelchair and stroller-accessible boardwalk to an observation deck in the eucalyptus grove.

• Please, do not touch or throw objects at the fragile butterflies.
• For everyone's enjoyment, no smoking, dogs, bicycles, skates, or skateboards on the boardwalk.
• Quiet please. Monarchs and other visitors are relaxing.

Navarro River Redwoods SP

New Brighton SB

Location - Directions
The beach is in the town of Capitola, just south of Santa Cruz. The beach can be reached by taking the New Brighton/Park Avenue exit off Highway One.

Seasons - Climate - Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Oceano Dunes SVRA

• Clammers must have a fishing license and an accurate (rigid) measuring device in possession.
• Only Pismo clams at least 4 1/2" in length may be possessed.
• Undersized Pismo clams must be immediately reburied in the area where dug.
• Bag limit is 10 Pismo clams.
• Hours of clamming are 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset.

• Drop your tire pressure, but don't go below 15 lbs PSI.
• Dig out the sand from around your tires.
• Recruit some friends and — keeping the front wheels straight — push and drive your vehicle either forward or backward. Don't allow your wheels to spin, this will dig you in deeper.
• Beach towing is available if needed.

Dangerous currents, called rip currents, are caused by the combination of wave action and the shape of the shoreline. Should you become caught in a rip current while swimming, don't try to swim against the current. Swim parallel to the shore until you're out of the rip. Then make your way to shore. There is lifeguard service available at Oceano Dunes SVRA June through Labor Day.

• It is recommended that all ATV operators take part in a formal safety training course under supervision of a certified ATV instructor. Such training is mandatory for those under 18.
• Proper riding equipment is essential to the safe operation of an OHV. Each ATV rider must wear a helmet and should wear proper protective clothing.
• Before starting out, familiarize yourself with the terrain. Learn to recognize the telltale signs of a slipface. AVOID SURPRISES.
• Inexperienced riders should thoroughly acquaint themselves with all vehicle controls before starting out. Be especially cautious when driving east in the dunes because dune slipfaces normally face to the east.
• Drive within the limits of your ability. Don't go faster or climb higher than you can safely handle. Watch out for other riders. When in doubt, take time to think and look the situation over before you proceed.

Ocotillo Wells SVRA

Old Sacramento SHP

Old Sacramento State Historic Park is a cluster of noteworthy, early Gold Rush commercial structures. Historic buildings include the 1849 Eagle Theater; the 1853 B. F. Hastings Building, once home to the California Supreme Court; and the 1855 Big Four Building. Old Sacramento's historical significance comes from it being the western terminus of the Pony Express postal system, the first transcontinental railroad, and the transcontinental telegraph.

Old Sacramento is a California Historical Landmark. The National Park Service named the entire original historic 1850s business district of Old Sacramento a National Historic Landmark in 1965. With over 50 historic buildings, Old Sacramento has more buildings of historic value in its 28 acres than any area of similar size in the West.

Location and Parking:
Old Sacramento State Historic Park is located in downtown Sacramento and is convenient to reach by all freeways. Coming from any direction in the state, take Interstate 5 to the ”J Street” exit and follow the signs into park. Abundant covered parking is available at the main parking structure located at 3rd and J Streets. There are a limited number of metered, 90-minute on-street parking spaces throughout the park.

Wi-Fi Service
Old Sacramento State Historic Park now offers AT&T Wi-Fi Service!
This service enables park visitors with wireless enabled laptop computers or personal digital assistants (PDAs) to access the Internet. You can access this service if you are within a 150 foot range base of the Main Office located in the park. For more information about this service please see News Release.

Old Town San Diego SHP

Olompali SHP

Pacheco SP

Pacheco State Park is the last remaining portion of the Mexican land grant, El Rancho San Luis Gonzaga. Francisco Pacheco and his son Juan were granted the property and built the first house in Merced County on this land in 1843. The land remained in the Pacheco family through five generations until Paula Fatjo, the great-great granddaughter of Francisco Pacheco, donated the land in 1992 to be a park for future generations who share her love of animals, horse back riding, history, and unspoiled land. This land has been a horse and a cattle ranch since 1843 and has breath taking views of the Central Valley to the east and the Santa Clara Valley to the west.

The park has beautiful displays of spring wildflowers, scenic vistas, and outstanding trails for horse-back riding, hiking, and mountain biking. The 28 miles of trails offer several loop options to give visitors the choice of a hike or ride of from one to twenty miles or more. During the spring the park's grassy slopes abound with blossoming wildflowers. The park is home to tule elk, deer, bobcat, coyote, fox, several hawks, golden eagles and many other smaller animals. Cattle continue to graze on the ranch in the winter and spring months.

Among the historic features of the park are an old line shack used by Henry Miller's cattle company in the 1800s, part of the old Butterfield Stage line route, and the remains of the original Pacheco adobe. There is also a wind turbine farm which generates enough clean electrical power for 3,500 homes.

Although the total park area is 6,890 acres only the western 2,600 acres are open for public use at this time.

Location/Directions: Pacheco State Park is located 24 miles west of Los Banos or 20 miles east of Gilroy off Highway 152 on Dinosaur Point Road.

Address:
38787 Dinosaur Point Road
Hollister, CA 95023

Telephone: (209) 826 6283 Fax: (209) 827 3704

Operation Hours: All year. Day use hours are 8:00 a.m. until sunset.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing: The area is semiarid, with daytime temperatures ranging from 80 to 100 degrees in the summer and 45 to 65 degrees in the winter. Evening are quite cool all year due to coastal marine air moving eastward across the Pacheco Pass. Remember to bring a hat, sunscreen, and a lot of drinking water especially in the summer months.

Camping: There are no facilities for camping except for special events. There is no potable water for human consumption at this time but there is water in the park's several lakes for horses. Camping is available at nearby San Luis State Recreation Area.

Recommendation: During the mild spring and fall months, visitors are encouraged to roam the hills that have been traversed by Central Valley Yokut Indians, Spanish missionaries and soldiers, Mexican vaqueros, gold seekers and bandits.

Special Events/programs: Springtime guided walks and rides highlight park history and wildflower displays. Call the park for dates and times.

Fees: $5 day use fee per vehicle

NOTE: No Dogs allowed on the trails

Pacifica SB

Palomar Mountain SP

Patrick's Point SP

Pelican SB

Pescadero SB

Petaluma Adobe SHP

Pfeiffer Big Sur SP

Picacho SRA

Pigeon Point Light Station SHP

Pio Pico SHP

The five acre park encompasses historic gardens and the beautiful restored adobe home of Pío Pico. It is registered as California Historic Landmark NO. 127. A bell marks the original El Camino Real, which passed directly in front of the park during Pío Pico's time. The park was once part of Pío Pico's 9,000 acre ranch, Rancho Paso de Bartolo. Visitors can enjoy the park with picnics, bird watching and exploring the parks features including; a fifteen room adobe with interpretive displays, an horno (bread oven), a dovecote and a children's archaeological sand box. The park is located near the entrance to the Greenway Bike Trail.

The park is located at 6003 Pioneer Boulevard in the city of Whittier, just west of the 605 freeway.

The adobe home is accessible for visitors with mobility impairments.

Guided tours of the adobe are offered Wednesday- Sunday, and groups of 10 or more need to reserve ahead of time.
Interpretive school group programs aligned to California Education Content Standards are offered Wednesday- Friday. Guided programs are limited to 40 students, and self-guided programs are limited to 60 students. Schools must make advance reservations by calling the park at 562-695-1217 x102.

Special events, such as 'Coming Home to Pio Pico” the first Saturday in May and 'A Walk Through Early California” in September are opportunities for visitors to join State Parks and the Friends of Pio Pico in lively and fun filled days that highlight the historical significance of the park. Living History Days and special service learning projects also continue throughout the year. For information, please call the park at 562-695-1217 x102 or visit the Friends of Pio Pico website at http://www.piopico.org/.

Become part of our Volunteers in Parks program to help protect and preserve your heritage! We are seeking volunteers to assist with interpretive programs, special events and other special projects. We invite you to share your special talents, passion and enthusiasm. Being a volunteer, you work with State Parks Rangers and Park Staff, participate in outstanding learning opportunities, and volunteer experience helps you when applying for all types of employment. Contact the Park Interpreter at 310-558-4566 x102 or email lastateparkvolunteers@yahoo.com.

If you would like to perform commercial or student filming or photography at the park, you need to contact the State Park film permit coordinator at 818-880-0358.

If you would like to hold an event at the park, please contact the special event coordinator at 310-574-2488 or email laspecialevents@parks.ca.gov for permitting requirements and fees.

Pismo SB

Pismo State Beach offers all kinds of attractions: hiking, swimming, surf fishing, and digging for the famous Pismo clam. There are tree-lined dunes and the beach is popular with bird watchers. The park has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the U.S.

- Ocean Lagoon has a wheelchair-accessible fishing overhang.
- Four restaurants are within 2 blocks of the campground.
- ATV rentals are available within 2 blocks of the park.
- A trolly service provides access to the surrounding community.

Location - Directions
The beach is located in the town of Oceano off Highway 1.

Seasons - Climate - Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Placerita Canyon SP

Plumas-Eureka SP

Plumas-Eureka State Park was established in 1959, and provides visitors with a glimpse into a fascinating period of California history, as well as opportunities for quiet recreation in a beautiful high Sierra mountain setting.

The focal point of the park is the museum building and historic area surrounding it. Originally constructed as the miner's bunkhouse, the museum now serves as a visitor center. Inside, displays depict the natural and cultural history of the park. Outside and across the street from the museum is the historic mining area, where the Mohawk Stamp Mill, Bushman five-stamp mill, stable, mine office, Moriarity House (historic miner's residence) and the blacksmith shop depict life in gold rush-era California.

During the summer, tours of the buildings and blacksmithing demonstrations are conducted by docents and park staff. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, nature study and hiking within the park.

Location/Directions
The park is five miles west of Blairsden on County Road A-14.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
Summer temperatures range from about 75 degrees during the day to the low 40s at night, and winter temperatures average from a high of 40 to a low of 20 degrees.

Facilities - Activities

Fishing
Fishing opportunities in the Plumas-Eureka area include
numerous alpine lakes and streams within a short drive or hike out of the campground. Jamison Creek flows through the campground and can yield the occasional trout.

Hiking
Plumas-Eureka and the surrounding area is a hiker's paradise. Campers can hike out of their campsite, and Day User's can park nearby to access a network of trails that navigates through the Lakes Basin Recreation Area, including the Pacific Crest Trail.

Food Storage Locker Information

Metal bear-resistant food lockers are provided in each campsite. All food, beverages, and toiletries are required by law to be stored in provided food lockers. The inside dimensions of the food lockers are 33" deep, 48" wide, and 21" high. Violators will be cited. About the park

Gold Discovery
The event that resulted in the establishment of several communities and later became the key reason for establishing the park was the discovery of gold on the east side of Eureka Peak, (then known as Gold Mountain) by a group of 9 miners on May 23, 1851. What started out as an individual discovery eventually led to over 30 miles of mine shafts with several individual operators and companies.

British mining experts perfected the method of removing the rich ore from within the mountain. At one point, three stamp mills were in operation at various locations on the mountainside, but in time, the ore-crushing operation was concentrated at one mill, the Mohawk. Built in 1876 at a cost of approximately $50,000 the Mohawk contained 60 stamps, each weighing from 600 to 950 pounds with a drop of 8 1/2 inches - 80 times per minute. Each stamp could crush 2 1/2 tons of ore (a small dump truckload) every 24 hours.

Ore was brought from shafts higher up on the mountain by the means of two gravity-powered tramways. Returning ore buckets sometimes carried miners up the mountain and in the winter possibly served as the first ski lift in California. When mining in the area ceased for good in the 1940's, over 8 million dollars worth of gold had been removed from Gold Mountain!

Natural History
Today, Plumas-Eureka's 'gold” is the great variety of plants and animals that exist within park boundaries. Black bear, deer, weasel, mink, marten, mountain lion, bobcat, fox, and a host of other mammals are seen through the summer months. Mountain meadows and forested glades are often dotted with an assortment of Sierra wildflowers.

Point Cabrillo Light Station SHP

Point Dume SB

Point Dume State Preserve features headlands, cliffs, rocky coves and vast beach access. The beach is presently operated by Los Angeles County, which also operates Zuma County Beach. These facilities are noted for swimming, surfing, scuba diving and fishing. Point Dume is a perfect place to watch for California gray whales during the December - March migration period.

At the end of Westward Beach Road, access to Point Dume State Preserve begins from the cul-de-sac. A gradual ascending trail leads to an ancient coastal bluff sand dune. Visitors are asked to stay on the trail in an effort to help reserve this unique sand accumulation. An incredible view encompassing the entire Santa Monica Bay, north Malibu Coast, inland Santa Monica Mountains and distant Catalina Island may be enjoyed from the top on a clear day. A boardwalk, just below the summit, leads to a viewing platform - it tends to be more sheltered on a windy day. A stairway from the east side of the bluff-top preserve allows access to a more isolated beach and fine tide- pooling opportunities.

Some disabled parking is available along Cliffside Drive, adjacent the bluff-top park area. For viewing platform access, negotiating a slight grade will be necessary.

From the 101-Freeway, exit at Kanan Road, follow it south 12-miles to Pacific Coast Highway, then turn right. Westward Beach Road is over the rise, at the foot of the hill.

Point Lobos Ranch

Point Lobos SNR

Point Montara Light Station

Point Mugu SP

Point Sal SB

Notice: As of May 2008, pedestrians may access Point Sal State Beach for day use via Brown Road and Point Sal Road. Motor vehicle and bicycle access and camping are not permitted. Access is from sunrise to sunset for recreational purposes only. Visitors should allow sufficient time to return to the trailhead on Brown Road by sunset. Vandenberg Air Force Base officials may close or limit access to Point Sal State Beach and clear the area during missile launches or for public safety or base security reasons at any time. To determine the current status of the access road to Point Sal State Beach or to view the Memorandum of Agreement between Vandenberg Air Force Base and the County of Santa Barbara regarding pedestrian traffic to Point Sal State Beach, please use the link on the left.

Point Sal State Beach (SB) is located in the northwestern part of Santa Barbara County, near the city of Guadalupe. The park consists of approximately 80 acres and includes just over 1 1/2 miles of ocean frontage. Lands above the beach and rocky shoreline have extremely steep slopes, and numerous landslides are evident. Prime examples of coastal sage and chaparral communities occur on these slopes. Giant coreopsis is abundant in the area and dominates wildflower displays in the spring.

Views of the coastline, beach and rugged mountain slopes are exceptional. Lion Rock, located offshore, is an important bird-roosting site and is also used by sea lions and other marine mammals.

Recreational activities at Point Sal SB include fishing, beach combing, hiking, nature study, photography, picnicking and sunbathing. Because of extremely dangerous rip currents, occasional shark sightings, and the absence of Lifeguard service, swimming is not recommended. Persons found camping in the park are subject to citation, arrest, or eviction by Park Rangers. Because of security concerns at adjacent Vandenberg Air Force Base, Air Police also strictly enforce the no camping rule at Point Sal SB. The park has no picnic tables, toilets or other recreational facilities.


ACCESS HISTORY

Prior to 1998, roadway access to Point Sal SB was from State Highway 1 to Brown Road, then to Pt. Sal Road, which wound over Pt. Sal Ridge to a dirt parking area, a distance of about 7 miles. Pt. Sal Road passed through Vandenberg AFB, and the Air Force would temporarily close the road during missile launching activities.

In 1998, heavy rains destroyed Pt. Sal Road in several places and the road was closed until May 2008, when Air Force and County officials announced they had reached an interim agreement to provide access. They are cooperating to place informational signs, fix fences and repair washed-out sections of the County road. Efforts to develop a long-term access plan to Point Sal SB are continuing.

As a result of this interim agreement, Point Sal SB, a wild and scenic part of the California coast, is once more accessible to the public.

Point Sur SHP

The Point Sur Lightstation sits 361 feet above the surf on a large volcanic rock. Point Sur is the only complete turn-of-the century Lightstation open to the public in California, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. First lit on August 1, 1889, the lighthouse has remained in continuous operation. Lighthouse keepers and their families lived at the site from 1889 to 1974 when the lighthouse was automated. Today the Lightstation buildings are being restored through the efforts of park staff, State Park volunteers and the non-profit Central Coast Lighthouse Keepers. The Lightstation is open to the public only through docent-led tours.

Established in 1957, the former Point Sur Naval Facility (NAVFAC) was once part of a worldwide network of defensive listening stations that tracked the movement of Soviet submarines. The Point Sur NAVFAC is one of the remaining Sound Surveillance System (SOSUS) facilities, and the only one remaining on the West Coast. For the most part, other SOSUS facilities were parts of larger military complexes, while Point Sur was established as a stand-alone, self-sufficient base.

Except for one building retained by the U. S. Navy, the former Pt. Sur NAVFAC was transferred to State Parks in 2000. The only buildings currently being used by State Parks are some of the facility's housing buildings. The facility is not open to the public.

Location-Directions
The park is located 19 miles south of Carmel along Highway 1.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
The weather can be changeable. Layered clothing is advised.

Facilities - Activities
Three hour walking tours of the facilities are available on weekends year-round, and seasonally on Wednesdays. To attend a tour, meet along the west side of Highway 1 at the locked gate 19 miles south of Rio Road in Carmel and 1/4 mile north of Point Sur Naval facility. Space is limited -- arrive 30 minutes early. Call the park for tour information.

Pomponio SB

Portola Redwoods SP

Due to budget reductions, the Portola Redwoods'' Campgrounds will remain closed until April 30, 2010 and the public restrooms in the day use areas will be closed during the weekdays until March 31, 2010.

Portola Redwoods has a rugged, natural basin forested with Coast Redwoods, Douglas Firs and Live Oaks. There are eighteen miles of trails, a 53 site campground, four group campsites and two beautiful creeks, the Pescadero and Peter''s Creek, that run throughout the park.

The Sequoia Nature Trail, which leads to the Pescadero Creek, introduces visitors to the natural history of the area.

Camping/Directions
From Highway 35, turn west onto Alpine Road, go 3 miles, and turn onto Portola State Park Road. The road dead ends in the park. Use low gear as both these roads are steep and winding.

Due to mountain roads, expect a 1 1/2 to 2 hour drive from most Bay Area locations. There is no gasoline available at or near the park. There is no store in or near the park.

Seasons - Climate - Recommended clothing
Summer: Highs in the 70s to 80s, lows in the 50s.
Winter: Highs in the 40s to 50s, lows in the 30s.

Visitors should come prepared for any type of weather. The park receives between 40 and 60 inches of rain per year and the summer months can be foggy and cool. Layered clothing is recommended at any time of the year.

Prairie Creek Redwoods SP

Prarie City SVRA

Providence Mountains SRA

Railtown 1897 SHP

Located in Jamestown, in the heart of California's Gold Country about 100 miles southeast of Sacramento, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is home to the Historic Jamestown Shops and Roundhouse—an intact and still-functioning steam locomotive repair and maintenance facility, portions of which date back to 1897. This one-of-a-kind attraction combines industrial heritage and railroad history with the lore of Hollywood's film industry. The Railtown 1897 Interpretive Center, the authentic roundhouse and shops, and the Depot Store (a railroad specialty gift shop) are among the Park's unique year-round offerings. Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is open Tuesday through Sunday, closed Monday (April-October, from 9:30 to 4:30 p.m.; November-March, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.), except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.

Steam Powered Train Rides
Climb aboard a vintage steam-powered excursion train every weekend at Railtown from April to October. Trains operate every Saturday and Sunday, departing from the Railtown Depot on-the-hour 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Special 'themed” excursions operate other times throughout the year. Enjoy a six-mile, 40-minute roundtrip ride through the scenic Sierra foothills, in vintage passenger coaches pulled by an authentic steam locomotive. Regular excursion train tickets are $13 adults, $6 youths ages 6-17, ages 5 and under ride free. Specially themed excursion train prices vary; please inquire for details.

The Movie Railroad
Known as 'The Movie Railroad,” Railtown's survival has been aided by the film industry. The first known filming was in 1919, for a silent serial called 'The Red Glove.” Railtown 1897 and its historic locomotives and railroad cars have appeared in more than 200 films, television productions, and commercials.

Still a popular Hollywood location site today, Railtown 1897's most famous locomotive, 'Movie Star” No. 3, has been called 'perhaps the most widely seen locomotive in the world.” The Virginian (first sound motion picture filmed outside a sound studio), the western classic High Noon, and Clint Eastwood's Unforgiven were all filmed here. Movie crews also produced the railroad sequences in Back to the Future Part III at Railtown. TV credits include 'Death Valley Days” (with Ronald Reagan) and 'Petticoat Junction."

• We welcome photography for personal use.
• Handheld flash is allowed; however tripods and free standing flash are not permitted for safety reasons.
• Commercial photography is allowed on a case by case basis by advance arrangement. Visit www.film.ca.gov for more information.

Red Rock Canyon SP

Due to department budget cuts and service reductions, Red Rock Canyon SP Visitor Centers' hours of operation are from 7:00 to Sunset until June 30th 2010. There are no other reductions.

The public can assist us by hauling their own trash and leaving the facilities clean for the next park visitor to reduce workload on remaining staff.


Red Rock Canyon State Park features scenic desert cliffs, buttes and spectacular rock formations. The park is located where the southernmost tip of the Sierra Nevada converge with the El Paso Range. Each tributary canyon is unique, with dramatic shapes and vivid colors.

Historically, the area was once home to the Kawaiisu Indians, who left petroglyphs in the El Paso mountains and other evidence of their inhabitation. The spectacular gash situated at the western edge of the El Paso mountain range was on the Native American trade route for thousands of years. During the early 1870s, the colorful rock formations in the park served as landmarks for 20-mule team freight wagons that stopped for water. About 1850, it was used by the footsore survivors of the famous Death Valley trek including members of the Arcane and Bennett families along with some of the Illinois Jayhawkers. The park now protects significant paleontology sites and the remains of 1890s-era mining operations, and has been the site for a number of movies.

After wet winters, the park's floral displays are stunning. This winter was very dry so the wildflowers should be sparse this year, but the beauty of the desert, combined with the geologic features make this park a camper's favorite destination. Wildlife you may encounter includes roadrunners, hawks, lizards, mice and squirrels.

Camping
Camping in developed sites only in Ricardo Campground. The campground is tucked up against the base of dramatic desert cliffs, with 50 primitive campsites, potable water, pit toilets, fire rings, and tables. Bring your own firewood, or purchase it from a ranger or at the visitor center. There are no RV hook-ups or showers. A maximum of 8 people is allowed per site (there are no group sites).

Camping is first-come, first served; there is no reservation system. The campground can fill up on weekends in the spring and fall, especially if the weather is nice or on holiday weekends, so arriving on a Thursday evening or Friday morning is recommended.

The dump station will be closed until further notice.
Camping is $25 per night per site, which includes parking for one vehicle per site, or $23 per night with seniors (62 years old or older). Additional vehicles are $6 each. There is a 30 foot maximum on RVs. Self-registration/payment is required before setting up camp or parking. Vehicles (including OHV) must be parked within the rock lined areas provided at each campsite. No horses or livestock allowed in the campground. Quiet hours are 10 pm to 6 am; generators must be off from 8 pm to 10 am.

The day-use parking area, open sunrise to sunset, is $6 per vehicle per day. Overnight parking in the day-use lot is not permitted.

Day Use
Miles of trails meander through the dramatic landscape of the park, and hiking is an intimate way to experience the desert. Use desert safety precautions- bring twice as much water as you think you need, and layered clothing for sudden fluctuations in temperature.

Equestrian Use
Horses are allowed on all trails in the park, with the exception of seasonally closed areas (see side bar). Horses are not allowed in the campground, however horse camping is available by arrangement at Donely Horse Camp. Call the Mojave Desert Information Center to make arrangements.

Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation
All licensed vehicles (street legal and OHV with green stickers) may travel on the primitive (dirt) road system within the park. All drivers of vehicles (street legal and OHVs) within the park must be licensed, with the exception of Cantil Wash and the frontage road south of Cantil Wash, which are open to unlicensed operators of OHV green sticker vehicles when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Please watch for Closed Route signs and check maps for open routes (please do not create new routes). Drinking and driving laws apply both on the paved and primitive dirt roads.

Location/Directions
The park is 25 miles northeast of Mojave on Highway 14, near Cantil. Go west 1/4 mile on Abbott Drive. Signage indicating the turnoff is clearly visible on Highway 14.

The park is 120 miles north of Los Angeles, via Interstate 5 and Highway 14.

Refugio SB

Reynolds

Richardson Grove SP

Rio de Los Angeles SP

In the 1960's, a 247-acre freight switching facility called Taylor Yard began to slow down it's operations during a time when Los Angeles was growing and expanding rapidly. By 1985 it was closed and only used for maintenance and storage. These parcels of land remained undeveloped along the channelized Los Angeles River. Portions of the river near this park are still soft bottomed, or partially un-cemented, allowing for an opportunity to reestablish natural processes within the emerging Los Angeles River Greenway. It is one of the last remaining undeveloped portions of land along the river to be used by communities as a park.

The history of the park reaches back to when Los Angeles was emerging as an industrial superpower. In 1923, due to congestion at the River Station (currently Los Angeles State Historic Park), the service and maintenance functions for the Union Pacific Railroad company were moved to Taylor Yard. Taylor Yard had been named after J. Hartley Taylor who was a grain merchant and owned a milling company in the area. Throughout the 1920's and 1930's the property was a rail yard and an industrial site used primarily as a freight-switching facility, storage space and maintenance and repair facility for rail cars and locomotive engines. Several utility shops were on the property, which provided electrical, plumbing and mechanical support services. Shortly after World War I, the Southern Pacific Railroad outgrew its Midway Yard facility and moved to what is now Rio de Los Angeles State Park. Operations at the railroad complex slowed in the 1960's when rail facilities opened elsewhere.

The park is located at 1900 San Fernando Road in Los Angeles. The I-5, SR 2 and the 110 Pasadena Freeway are within 2 miles of the park. Buses service the area from downtown Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley and the San Gabriel Valley. A bus stop is located at the intersection of San Fernando Rd. and Fletcher Ave. forming the hub of a number of routes connecting downtown Los Angeles, Glendale, Sylmar and El Monte. The Metro Gold Line also provides light rail service, and the nearest station is located at Avenue 26 about 1.3 miles south of the park and at French Avenue, just off of Figueroa Street (French Station) approximately 1.3 miles southeast.

The Park's trails and restrooms are fully accessible.

The park is operated by the City of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation. For information on the facilities or programs their staff has scheduled call 323-276-3015. In addition, free guided interpretive programs are offered by California State Parks staff. Call 310-558-4566 x102 for information on California State Park programs.

Become part of our Volunteers in Parks program to help protect and preserve your heritage! We are seeking volunteers to assist with interpretive programs, special events and other special projects. We invite you to share your special talents, passion and enthusiasm. Being a volunteer, you work with State Parks Rangers and Park Staff, participate in outstanding learning opportunities, and volunteer experience helps you when applying for all types of employment. Contact the Park Interpreter at 310-558-4566 x102 or email lastateparkvolunteers@yahoo.com.

If you would like to perform commercial or student filming or photography at the park, you need to contact the State Park film permit coordinator at 818-880-0358.

If you would like to hold an event at the park, please contact the special event coordinator at 310-574-2488 or email laspecialevents@parks.ca.gov for permitting requirements and fees.

Robert H. Meyer Memorial SB

Robert Louis Stevenson SP

Robert W. Crown Memorial SB

Russian Gulch SP

Saddleback Butte SP

Salinas River SB

Salt Point SP

Due to service reductions, Fisk Mill Day use Area will be closed Nov. 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010.

Rocky promontories, panoramic views, kelp-dotted coves, and the dramatic sounds of pounding surf; open grasslands, forested hills, pristine prairies, and pygmy forests- you can experience all of these coastal wonders within the Salt Point State Park. With 20 miles of hiking trails, over six miles of rugged coastline, and an underwater park, you can enjoy a variety of picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, skin and SCUBA diving, and camping. The weather can be changeable along the rugged Northern California Coast. Even summertime can be cool as fog hugs the coastline and ocean winds chill the air. We recommend layered clothing for your visit.

Sandstone and Tafoni
Ever wonder where the streets of San Francisco came from? Sandstone from Salt Point was used in the construction of San Francisco's streets and buildings during the mid 1800's. If you look closely at the rocks at Gerstle Cove, you can still see eyebolts where the ships anchored while sandstone slabs were loaded onboard. Quarried rocks can still be seen scattered along the marine terrace north of Gerstle Cove. Look for the drill holes along the edges of the rocks that were used to separate the large rocks into smaller slabs.

Tafoni is the Italian word for cavern. It is a natural phenomenon that is common along the sandstone near the ocean's edge at Gerstle Cove and Fisk Mill. Look for a honeycomb type network carved into the rocks forming pits, knobs, ribs, and ridges. For more information on the geology of Salt Point click on link to the left.
FACILITIES and ACTIVITIES

When utilizing the facilities at Salt Point State Park we ask that you remain on developed trails at all time in order to preserve the park's unspoiled qualities and to avoid contact with ticks and poison oak. Mountain bikes must stay on paved or fire roads, however, fire roads are closed to bicycles from October 31 to April 30. Bikes are not allowed on single-track trails as they cause a great deal of damage to the trail surfaces. Dogs must be kept on leash at all times and are not permitted on the trails or on the beaches. They must be kept in a tent or vehicle at night. For additional State Park regulations please click on link to the left.

Picnicking:
Fisk Mill Cove is a day use area that provides picnickers with paved parking, picnic tables, small upright barbeques, restrooms, and drinking water. Additionally, the bishop pines in this area provide protection from the spring and summer winds. You can take a short walk from the north lot for a dramatic view of the Pacific Ocean from Sentinel Rock's wooden deck.

Stump Beach is another picnic area that offers one of the few sandy beaches north of Jenner. There are a few picnic tables near the parking lot and a primitive toilet with no running water. A 1/4 mile trail leads down to the beach.

South Gerstle Cove also has picnic tables, a primitive toilet, and a beautiful, exposed view of the ocean.

Hiking and Horseback Riding:
There are over 20 miles of hiking and equestrian trails to explore in Salt Point State Park. Trail maps are available at the entrance station.

Underwater Park:
The park includes one of the first underwater parks in California, Gerstle Cove Marine Reserve, where marine life is completely protected. The cove affords shelter for the hand launching of small boats and divers come to the cove to explore the wonders of the undersea world.

Marine life can be experienced on land during low tide in the rocky intertidal zone through tide pool exploration. When exploring these areas remember that many of these organisms can be damaged or destroyed by even the simple act of turning over a rock and exposing the animals to the sun.

Fishing:
Fishing is permitted throughout the area with a valid fishing license, with the exception of Gerstle Cove Marine Reserve. The rocky coastline at Salt Point provides many excellent ocean fishing opportunities. Using bait of squid, shrimp, mussels, or smelt you can catch lingcod, cabezon, rockfish, and greenlings while fishing from the rocks. Be careful to stay back from the waves reach, since the rocks can be slippery and the ocean is rough.

Camping:
All campsites, with the exception of our overflow camping, are equipped with a fire-ring, picnic table, and food locker. The campgrounds have drinking water and restrooms but no showers. A dump station is not available.

The family sites and group campground are on our reservation system from March 15 to October 31 by calling 1-800-444-PARK (7275). November 1- March 14 they are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The walk-in sites, hiker/biker sites, and overflow camping are on a first-come, first-served basis year round- no reservations are available for these sites. Campgrounds consistently fill on weekends from April 1 to the end of September. Reservations are strongly recommended. For campground maps please see link to the left, but keep in mind that specific sites cannot be reserved.

FAMILY SITES
Two main campgrounds are available at Salt Point State Park. Gerstle Cove campground is situated atop the coastal bluffs on the ocean side of Highway One and offers 30 family campsites. Woodside Campground, with 79 sites, is located on the east side of Highway One.

WALK-IN SITES
The walk-in campground is located in the Woodside Campground and offers 20 sites which are located 1/3 to 1/2 mile from the parking area. Dogs are prohibited in these sites.

HIKER/BIKER SITES
Ten sites are available for campers on foot or bicycles. These sites are located behind the ranger office near Woodside Campground.

GROUP CAMPING
This camp is located on the ocean side of Highway One and accommodates a maximum of 40 people and ten cars. Dogs are prohibited.

OVERFLOW CAMPING
A day use parking lot located below Gerstle Campground is available for self-contained vehicles only. No tent camping or open fires are allowed. No restroom facilities or drinking water are available.

Salton Sea SRA

Due to budget constraints, Mecca Beach, Corvina Beach and Bombay Beach will be CLOSED until further notice.

Camping at Headquarters Campground, New Camp Area, and Salt Creek will remain open.

One of the world's largest inland seas and lowest spots on earth at -227 below sea level, Salton Sea was re-created in 1905 when high spring flooding on the Colorado River crashed the canal gates leading into the developing Imperial Valley. For the next 18 months the entire volume of the Colorado River rushed downward into the Salton Trough. By the time engineers were finally able to stop the breaching water in 1907, the Salton Sea had been born at 45 miles long and 20 miles wide – equaling about 130 miles of shoreline. Salton Sea State Recreation Area covers 14 miles of the northeastern shore and has long been a popular site for campers, boaters and anglers. Increasing salinity in the Salton Sea basin has limited the number of types of fish that can be found there, and most fish currently caught are Tilapia. Varner Harbor within the SRA provides easy access to the sea for boating and water skiing. Kayakers, campers, birdwatchers, photographers and hikers can enjoy the site's many recreation opportunities.

Location-Directions
30 miles south of Indio on Highway 111. Located on the north shore of the Salton Sea, it is about a three hour drive from the Los Angeles or San Diego areas. From Los Angeles, take Interstate 10 east to Indio, take 86S exit then turn left at Avenue 66, then right onto Highway 111. Go south about 12 miles to the Salton Sea SRA Headquarters entrance. From San Diego take Highway 78 east, then left (north) on Highway 86 . Turn right at Avenue 66 and then right onto Highway 111. Go south about 12 miles to the Salton Sea SRA Headquarters entrance.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
Seasonal climates can be extreme: layered clothing is always advised.

Samuel P. Taylor SP

Samuel P. Taylor State Park has wooded countryside in the steep rolling hills of Marin County north of San Francisco. The park features a unique contrast of coast redwoods groves and open grassland.

The park features a variety of flowers and trees, including oak, tanoak, madrone, live oak, laurel and Douglas fir. California native wildflowers include buttercups, milkmaids, and Indian paintbrush.

The most common animal in the park is the black-tailed deer. There are also raccoons, striped skunks and gray foxes. Silver salmon and steelhead trout migrate up Papermill Creek to spawn.

Location-Directions
The park is 15 miles west of San Rafael on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard.

Address
P.O. Box 251
Lagunitas, CA 94938

Facilities and Activities
The park offers a network of hiking trails and fire roads, making it easy to hike to the top of Mount Barnabe. Or, for a less strenuous visit, many visitors consider Devil's Gulch the best place in the park for a picnic or a place to relax.

A paved bike trail runs about three miles through the park, beginning near the entrance of the park. The trail is nearly level and follows the old Northwest Pacific Railroad right-of-way.

Because of natural disasters and destruction of habitat by humans, fishing is not permitted in Papermill Creek. Fishing is permitted in nearby lakes on Marin Municipal Water District land. A state fishing license is required.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
summer and spring are warm, fall and winter can be cool. Layered clothing is best.

Some Park History
The park is named after Samuel Penfield Taylor, who came to California from Boston in 1849 to try his luck in the gold rush. He actually found gold, cashed in, and entered the lumber business.

Purchasing 100 acres of timberland along Papermill Creek, Taylor built a paper mill and established a paper-making process. Using scrap paper and rags from San Francisco the mill produced newsprint and well as square-bottomed paper bags -- a novelty at the time.

Taylor built a resort hotel and Camp Taylor, one of the first sites in the US to offer camping as a recreational pursuit. The area was one of California's most popular and well-known weekend recreation destinations in the 1870s-80s.

San Bruno Mountain SP

The area is at the northern reaches of the Santa Cruz range. The park provides Bay Area visitors with day-use facilities, hiking trails, and beautiful views of the city and the bay. The park is home to a wide variety of birds and animals as well as several endangered plant and butterfly species.

The Mountain's ridge line runs in an east-west configuration, with considerable slopes and elevations ranging from 250 feet to 1,314 feet at the summit. The landscape offer excellent hiking opportunities and outstanding views of San Francisco and Central Bay Area.

Location/Directions

From Highway 101, take the Bayshore Boulavard/Brisbane exit. Continue on Bayshore Boulavard to Guadalupe Canyon Parkway. Turn west on Guadalupe Canyon Parkway toward the Mountain and go to the park entrance.

From Highway 280, take the Mission Street exit. Go north on Mission Street to Market Street. Turn right on Market street and proceed northeast. At Guadalupe Canyon Parkway, turn right and go eastbound to the park entrance.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Activities - Facilities
Hiking is the most popular activity in the park. The main starting points are from the park's entrance or from radio road at the mountain's summit. Various neighborhood access points including Crocker Road and Charter Street also provide good starting points.

Sightseeing is also popular. Radio Road, leading up from near the main entrance, affords visitors the opportunity to drive to the summit of the Mountain and enjoy breathtaking views north to Mt. Tamilpias, south of Mt. Diablo, east to the Oakland foothills, and west to the Farallon Islands.

At the summit, visitors can see the remains of an old Nike Missile early warning radar site. This radar, with others around the bay area, was used to detect approaching enemy aircraft and direct the missiles to their target.

The park has family picnic sites near the park entrance. Tables, barbecue pits, drinking water and a restroom are also available. The nearby meadow is a can be used for volleyball and frisbee. All facilities are accessible to people of all abilities.

San Mateo County operates San Bruno Mountain SP -- please visit their website for additional information.
San Mateo Parks and Recreation will have detailed information about this park.

San Buenaventura SB

Please Note: For the current status of this park, please call (805) 968-1033.
This beach features swimming, surfing and picnicking. The beach has two miles of sandy beach, sand dunes, picnic sites, a parking lot, a snack bar and a beach-equipment rental shop. Bike trails connect other nearby beaches. The beach is the site for a number of special events, such as the Pirate Festival, triathlon, and volleyball tournaments. A 1,700-foot pier has a snack bar, restaurant and bait shop.

Location-Directions
The beach is in the city of Ventura. The entrance is on San Pedro Street off Highway 101.

San Clemente SB

Welcome to San Clemente State Beach. Since 1937 San Clemente has been one of the most popular beaches in California. A dramatic setting and invigorating air satisfy its many visitors, whatever their interest, energy level or state of mind. The mile long beach stretches between the curling ocean surf and the foot of a steep bluff. Midway between Los Angeles and San Diego, the park attracts water sports enthusiasts and those seeking respite from the inland heat or an escape from nearby metropolitan areas.

Location-Directions
San Clemente State Beach is located on the south end of the city of San Clemente in Orange County.

Interstate 5 South
Exit Ave. Calafia
Proceed straight onto Ave. Calafia
San Clemente State Beach entrance will be on your left side in ¼ mile

Interstate 5 North
Exit Cristianitos Road
Turn left and proceed over the freeway
Turn right onto Ave. del Presidente
Turn left onto Ave. Calafia
San Clemente State Beach entrance will be on your left side in ¼ mile

San Elijo SB

Located on the San Diego Coast, San Elijo State Beach offers swimming, surfing, showers and picnicking. The narrow, bluff-backed stretch of sand has a nearby reef popular with snorklers and divers.

Service Reductions
California State Parks is implementing service reductions in order to meet Department budget cuts this fiscal year. Service reductions implemented Fall 2009 through Summer 2010 include one 'loop” of the campground closed October 2009 - February 2010, day-use parking by automatic pay machine only, facilities maintenance reduced 50%, including trash cleanup, and reduced lifeguard service. Visitors are encouraged to 'Pack it in, Pack it out', so the beach remains free of trash. These service reductions are designed to ensure that California State Parks achieve cost savings, minimize disruption to visitors as much as possible, and maintain revenue at the highest level possible.

Location-Directions
San Elijo State Beach extends along Coast Highway 101, 3/4 mile north from San Elijo Lagoon's entrance channel, near the community of Cardiff-by-the-Sea.
Exit Interstate 5 at Encinitas Blvd., head WEST.
Turn LEFT on So. Coast Hwy. Follow the Coast Hwy. south, about 2 miles.

San Gregorio SB

The area includes a protected, driftwood-strewn estuary at the back of a wide, sandy beach - with grassy bluffs along the coast. The estuary is home to many birds and small animals. California Historical Landmark 26 commerates the passage of Spanish Explorer Captain Gaspar de Portolá through this area in October 1769.

Location/Directions
The beach is located 10.5 miles south of Half Moon Bay on Highway 1.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Facilities/Activities
Dogs are prohibited on the beach at all times.
Where Can I Take My Dog.pdf

Please, NO beach fires are allowed.

Please refrain from removing shells, driftwood, and other natural beach features. Fireworks are prohibited.

San Juan Bautista SHP

The park is part of a nationally recognized historic landmark adjacent to the extant portion of California's 15^th Spanish era mission. The park and its Plaza represent what was once the 'town square” of the largest town in central California and a vital crossroad for travel between northern and southern California. In the park, visitors can gain an appreciation of California peoples, from Native Americans through the Spanish and Mexican cultural influences, right up to the American period in the late 19th century.

The park includes several structures built in the 1800s. The four main historic museums are the Plaza Hotel, the Zanetta House/Plaza Hall, the Plaza Stables, and the newly reopened Castro-Breen Adobe. Many of the interiors are arranged as furnished vignettes or with colorful and informative exhibits that help create a unique learning environment for people of all ages. The park also features a blacksmith shop, the historic jail, and an early American settler's cabin.

Tours
The park is open Tuesday through Sunday for self guided visits and also offers guided walking tours by advanced reservation. The park is closed on Mondays. Call 831-623-2753 for information.

Location-Directions
The Park is located on Second Street, between Washington and Mariposa Streets In the city of San Juan Bautista, 3 miles east of Highway 101; 7 miles west of Hollister. From 101, go east on highway 156; take a left at the light onto The Alameda; from Hollister or Pacheco Pass on 156 westbound, take a right at the same intersection. Landmarks: the Windmill Shopping Center.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
The weather can be changeable. Layered clothing is advised.

San Luis Reservoir SRA

The Basalt Campground will be closed from September 10th , 2009 until May 30th, 2010 due to a major water and sewer plant upgrade project. Campers will be able to utilize the nearby San Luis Creek Campground and the Medeiros Area Campground during this time period. The Basalt launch ramp will remain open. The Department apologizes for any Inconvenience that this closure may cause to our visitors.
Nestled in the grassy hills of the western San Joaquin Valley near historic Pacheco Pass, San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area is noted for boating, board sailing, camping, and picnicking. But it's anglers who find the unit's three lakes most inviting.

The area around San Luis Reservoir and O'Neill Forebay is often very windy, and winds can come up quite suddenly. Watch the wind warning lights at the Basalt entrance station, Quien Sabe Point, and Romero Visitor Center. On the forebay, wind warning lights are located at the Medeiros boat ramp and above the South Beach picnic area at San Luis Creek.

Climate/recommended clothing: Summer temperatures here average in the mid-90s and occasionally exceed 100° but evenings are usually cool and pleasant. Rainfall averages eight to nine inches a year, mostly between November and April. In winter, temperatures seldom go below freezing, and tule fogs are frequent. In the spring, the golden-brown hills are coated with a fleeting green, highlighted by bursts of wildflowers colors.

Location/Directions

On Highway 152, 7 miles West of I-5, or 33 miles East of Highway 101 from Gilroy.

Address for Park Headquarters
31426 Gonzaga Road
Gustine, CA 95322

Hours are Monday-Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm Closed Saturday, Sunday and Holidays

Operating hours/seasons
All year. Day use hours sunrise to 10 PM. Boating sunrise to sunset. Camping, check-in 2 PM., check-out noon.

Summer Hours: Day use hours sunrise to 10 PM. Boating sunrise to sunset. Camping, check-in 2 PM., check-out noon.

Winter Hours: Day use hours sunrise to 10 PM. Boating sunrise to sunset. Camping, check-in 2 PM., check-out noon.

About the Park
San Luis Reservoir was constructed as a storage reservoir for the federal Central Valley Project and the California State Water Project. It stores runoff water from the Delta that would otherwise flow into the ocean. The water arrives through the California Aqueduct and the Delta-Mendota Canal, and is pumped from the O'Neil Forebay into the main reservoir during the winter and spring. The Los Banos Creek Reservoir was built to prevent storm runoff from flooding the canals.

A visitor center at the Romero Overlook provides full information on the reservoirs and water projects through audio-visual and printed materials. Telescopes are also available for viewing the area. The Romero Visitor Center is administered by the CA Dept. of Water Resources.

Long before the dams and canals were built, this land was the home of the Northern Valley Yokuts, native Americans who harvested seeds, acorns, and the roots of the tules that grew in the marshes of the sluggish San Joaquin River. There were also fish, geese, and ducks for food, as well as huge herds of pronghorn antelope and tule elk on the plains. With the coming of the Spanish, though, this way of life disappeared. Many of the valley people were taken to missions around 1805, and an epidemic, possibly of malaria, decimated the human population of this area in 1833. In the 1850s, the survivors were killed or driven off by Euroamerican settlers.

Pacheco pass was named for Don Juan Pacheco, who settled here in the 1840s. The pass was used by Native Americans, Spanish soldiers and missionaries, Mexican ranchers, and gold miners, as well as more recent travelers. In 1856, Andrew Firebaugh improved the pass and made it a toll road, with a toll house two miles west of the summit. He had hardly finished when the Butterfieid-Overland stages began using the road as part of their route from San Francisco to Missouri.

The first water works in the area were constructed in 1871, when farmers built a canal from Mendota Dam to Los Banos Creek to irrigate their wheat crops. Many canals were added over the years, until they totaled 180 miles in length. Ground was broken in 1962 for the San Luis Project, which created the current reservoirs. Today, Los Banos area farmers cultivate alfalfa, grapes, tomatoes, melons, corn, cotton, beans, sugar beets, fruits, nuts, and raise dairy and beef cattle.

Camping
San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area has four campgrounds: Basalt, San Luis Creek, Medeiros, and Los Banos Creek. All campgrounds are open year round.

Basalt Campground The Basalt Campground will be closed from September 10^th , 2009 until May 30^th, 2010 due to a major water and sewer plant upgrade project.
Alternate camping nearby with improved accessible features is available at the San Luis Creek Area located approximately 7 miles away and accessed via the San Luis Creek area entrance from HWY 152.

The only campground located near San Luis Reservoir, Basalt has 79 developed family campsites in a shaded, wind-protected valley. Some sites will accommodate trailers and motor homes up to about 40 feet. Each site has a fire ring and table with water faucets nearby. New restroom facilities offer hot pay showers and flushable toiletes. A dump station is available to registered campers. Reservations can be made year round.

San Luis Creek Campground
One of two campgrounds on the O'Neill Forebay, San Luis Creek has 53 sites that offer water and electric hook-ups. Some of the sites border the shoreline. The campground has very little shade and is in an open area susceptible to wind. No flush toilets or showers are available. Each site has a level pad, fire ring, and a table. Some sites will accommodate trailers and motor homes up to about 38 feet. A new 5 mile accessible walking trail follows the O'Neill Forebay shoreline and connects the campground to the North Beach day-use area. A dump station is available for registered campers. All boats must be removed from the water by sunset. Reservations can be made year round.

Medeiros Campground
Due to State Park Service Reductions, the western section of the Medeiros Campground is closed. The eastern section of the campground provides primitive camping with accessible features.

The Medeiros primitive campsites are located along the southern shoreline of O'Neill Forebay. A limited number of fire rings, shade ramadas, and tables are available. Drinking water is available in 3 locations. There are no flush toilets or showers, however chemical toilets are available. All boats must be removed from the water by sunset. Medeiros campground is available on a first - come first - serve basis.

Los Banos Creek Campground
Due to Service Reductions, Los Banos Creek Reservoir is closed to camping from December 1st, 2009 to March 31st, 2010. Camping is available with improved accessible features at two nearby locations.

The Medeiros campground provides primitive camping and is located approximately 13 miles N/W of the Los Banos Creek unit and is accessed from SR 33 ¼ mile north of HWY 152.

The San Luis Creek developed campground is located approx. 18 miles N/W of the Los Banos Creek unit and is accessed from the San Luis Creek Area entrance off HWY 152 approx. 2.8 miles west of SR 33.”

Twenty primitive camping/day-use sites are located along the shore of Los Banos Creek Reservoir. Each site has a shade ramada, fire ring, and table. Drinking water and chemical toilets are available. Most sites cannot accommodate trailers or motor homes because of limited turn around space. Limited parking exists and the park may close once the sites are occupied. Boaters are allowed to beach their boat. Boating is prohibited after sunset. Los Banos Creek campground is available on a first-come first – serve basis. Los Banos Creek is subject to winter and/or road closures because of water release from the reservoir.

Group Camping
Two group campgrounds are available at the San Luis Creek Area along the shoreline of O'Neill Forebay. Both sites offer shade ramadas, tables, fire rings, flushable toilets, and hot pay showers. Group Camp A can accommodate 60 people and 15 vehicles. Group Camp B can accommodate 30 people and 10 vehicles. Boats must be removed from the water by sunset. These group campsites are available only by reservation.
Day – Use

Group Picnic Sites
Five group picnic sites are scattered along the O'Neill Forebay shoreline throughout the North Beach and South Beach day-use areas at San Luis Creek. Both day-use areas have plenty of shade and grass. Each site has a large shade ramada, a large BBQ grill, and several cement tables. Group picnic sites 1 through 4 are located on North Beach. North Beach has a designated swim area. Dogs are prohibited on North Beach. Boats are not allowed to beach. Group picnic area 5 is located on South Beach, where boats can be beached. Dogs must remain on a leash and under immediate control of its owner at all times. Flushable toilets and drinking water are available on both beaches. Each site is available by reservation and costs $30.00. Reservations can be made by calling the park office Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

San Luis Creek Day Use Area
North and South Beach day-use areas have about 200 picnic sites with shade ramadas, tables, and BBQ grills. Both day-use areas have plenty of shade and grass. North Beach is the only designated swim area within San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area. Lifeguards are not on duty.

Boating Safety
San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area consists of three lakes: San Luis Reservoir, O'Neill Forebay, and Los Banos Creek Reservoir. Each lake is susceptible to sudden changes in wind and weather conditions. Wind warning lights are used on San Luis Reservoir and O'Neill Forebay to alert boaters of the current wind conditions. On San Luis Reservoir, watch for the 3 wind warning lights near the Basalt entrance station, Quien Sabe Point, and Romero Visitor Center. On the O'Neill Forebay, wind warning lights are located near the old Medeiros boat ramp and above the South Beach area.

Wind Velocity Condition Light Color
Below 15 mph Okay All lights off
15 to 29 mph Use caution Amber
Over 30 mph Closed to boating Red

Current wind conditions can be retrieved by calling 1-800-805-4805.

Boaters should also be aware of the lake hazards during water drawdown on O'Neill Forebay and San Luis Reservoir.

Boating hours are from sunrise until sunset. All boats must be off the lake and out of the closed day-use areas by sunset.

All boating regulations and laws are fully enforced. Vessel inspections can occur at any time for compliance with all applicable laws, rules, and/or regulations (authority CCR 4662). If you would like a free vessel inspection to ensure you have the required safety equipment, please ask a State Park Ranger for an inspection before you launch.

Please visit the website for Cal Boating at www.dbw.ca.gov for more information regarding California boating laws.

O'Neill Forebay
The only boat ramp on the O'Neill Forebay is at the San Luis Creek area. All boat traffic on the O'Neill Forebay shall move in a counterclockwise direction around the special marker buoys in the center of the lake. Extreme shallow areas exist along the entire southern shoreline, the Catfish Flats area, and the Mud Flats area. Boats are prohibited at North Beach. Certain areas of O'Neill Forebay have speed restrictions.

San Luis Reservoir
Boaters can launch at Dinosaur Point and the Basalt boat ramps. Extreme shallow areas and other hazards exist, especially during water drawdown. Certain areas of San Luis Reservoir have speed restrictions. All boats must remain at least 500 feet from the dam and intake structure.

Los Banos Creek Reservoir
A 5 mph speed limit is in effect on the entire Los Banos Creek Reservoir year round. Boats can be beached overnight, although boating is prohibited after sunset. Boaters should be aware of shallow areas and other lake hazards. Boaters should also be aware of swimmers near the boat ramp and the campground areas. Los Banos Creek is subject to winter/road closures because of water release from the reservoir. *Please see website link for closure information.

San Onofre SB

San Onofre State Beach is a rare 3,000-acre scenic coastal-canyon park with high
environmental values and recreation use. The park includes three distinct areas: San Onofre Bluffs, San Onofre Surf Beach, and San Mateo Campground.

San Onofre Bluffs offers camping and day-use parking along Old Highway 101 adjacent to the sandstone bluffs. The beach below is popular with swimmers and surfers with six rugged dirt access trails cut into the bluff above. All campsites include a fire pit and picnic table. The campground offers cold outdoor showers and chemical toilets. No hookups are available however there is a dump-station.

San Onofre Surf Beach offers a world renowned and historical surf break. The beach is strictly available for day-use with no camping. Chemical toilets and a limited number of fire pits are available. ALCOHOL IS NO LONGER PERMITTED.

San Onofre – San Mateo Campground lies a short distance inland from the 3.5-miles of sandy beaches within San Onofre State Beach. A 1.5-mile Nature Trail connects the campground to Trestles Beach, a world class surfing site. San Mateo Creek flows just east of the campground outward towards the ocean creating key riparian and wetland habitats which host some rare and even endangered species. All campsites include a fire pit and picnic table. Hookup sites are available with electricity and water. Other amenities includes a dump-station, hot indoor showers, and flush toilets. Camping is available year-round.

Located between San Onofre SB and San Onofre Surf Beach is San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS) provides nearly 20-percent of the power to more than 15-million people in Southern California.

SurfLine provides an internet source of beach weather and surf reports, including live streaming video feeds.

Location-Directions
San Onofre Bluffs and San Onofre Surf Beach are located south of San Clemente on I-5 (Exit Basilone Road)
San Onofre - San Mateo Campground is located on the outer edge of San Clemente 1 mile inland from I-5 (Exit Cristianitos)

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San Pasqual Battlefield SHP

San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park, east of Escondido, honors the soldiers who fought in the battle between the U.S. and Californio forces on December 6, 1846 in the midst of the Mexican-American War. Generals Stephen Kearny and Andres Pico both claimed victory. The battle was only one of the military encounters in California in the war, but it proved to be the bloodiest and most controversial as to the outcome. The park has been set aside, not as a monument to war, but as a reminder of the human ideals, actions and passions that can drive nations to bloodshed.
Location-Directions
The park is located just east of the San Diego Wild Animal Park, at San Pasqual Valley Road, 8 miles east of Escondido on Highway 78.

Escondido, CA Latitude / Longitude: 33.1191 / -117.0201 Service Reductions
California State Parks is implementing service reductions in order to meet Department budget cuts this fiscal year. Service reductions implemented Fall 2009 through Spring 2010 include less ongoing facility maintenance, and the museum only open on weekends. Service reductions do not pertain to the San Diego Archaeological Center nor educational programs offered by volunteers.Living History Activities and Special Events

State Park volunteers conduct tours of the facility and provide living history programs. Reservations for group programs must be made at least three weeks in advance.

San Timoteo Canyon

This property is new and may not be available for public use, pending necessary planning, facility development and staffing.

Santa Cruz Mission SHP

Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park is the site of a complex of buildings erected around the original Santa Cruz Mission. Part of the cluster, the Neary-Rodriguez Adobe was built in 1791 and is the last of the mission's many buildings to survive. The lovely, single-story adobe has been restored to its original appearance. Misión la Exaltacion de la Santa Cruz was the 12th mission built in California. It was completed during the 1790s. Damaged by several earthquakes, much of it collapsed in 1857.

Location - Directions
The historic park is in downtown Santa Cruz; take Mission Street to Mission Plaza. The adobe is located one block off the plaza on School Street.

Seasons - Climate - Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Santa Monica SB

This beach is two miles long, has a picnic area, shops and pier. Visitor activities include volleyball, basketball and a running strip along the beach.

Location/Directions
The beach is located along Pacific Coast Highway in Santa Monica.
Facilities/Activities
The City of Santa Monica operates Santa Monica SB -- please visit their website for additional information.

Santa Susana Pass SHP

This historic park, located in Los Angeles County where the Simi Hills meet the Santa Susana Mountains, is rich in natural, historical and cultural significance. Here in the western part of the Transverse Ranges, the land is dominated by high, narrow ridges and deep canyons covered with an abundant variety of plant life. The park offers panoramic views of the rugged natural landscape as a striking contrast to the developed communities nearby.

Location/Directions
The best access to the park is via Chatsworth Park South (Los Angeles City Community Park). Take the 118 Freeway to the Topanga Canyon Boulevard exit. Proceed south on Topanga Boulevard approximately one mile. Turn right (west) on Devonshire, proceed half a mile, and enter Chatsworth Park South, where there is free parking. The hills surrounding the community park are the parklands for Santa Susana Pass State Park, which is a day-use area.

Hiking Tips
Until trails are established and marked by California State Parks, please help us preserve the unique natural and cultural features of Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park and observe the following:

Hike only on safe pathways. Veering onto untrodden areas destroys the natural environment and increases your chances of coming into contact with poison oak, rattlesnakes and ticks.

Everything, from the barest twig to the rustiest horseshoe, is now a part of this California State Park. If you see anything suspicious, including the removal or disturbance of our precious resources, please report it immediately.

Know your physical limits. Summer temperatures can reach 100 degrees and the terrain is rugged. Always carry plenty of water.

Don't hike alone. Use the "buddy" system. Tell a friend or family member of your plans. Let them know when you plan to return.

Schooner Gulch SB

Service Reduction Information
Trash Reduction – Removal of trash can. 'Pack it in, Pack it out” signs posted.

Restrooms - Lower vault toilet is closed. Upper vault toilet near the parking area is open. Toilet is cleaned less often and pumped as needed.


The beach and headlands preserve a scenic spot along the Mendocino Coast and offers a stunning perch for watching sunsets, or merely sitting in the grass as the afternoon sun glistens on the waters below. Fishing, picnicking, and surfing are popular activities here.

A small parking area with two trailheads is on the west side of the highway. The southern trail leads to Schooner Gulch Beach. The northern trail to Bowling Ball Beach is closed due erosion.
Location/Directions
The state beach is located three miles south of Point Arena, where Schooner Gulch Road intersects State Highway 1.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Facilities - Activities
Historically, Schooner Gulch is within the territory of the coastal branch of the Central Pomo Indians which extends from the mouth of the Navarro River to the mouth of the Gualala River.

This area was frequented by Russians and native Alaskans hunters as early as 1812, and by Mexican land owners in the 1840's.

John Galloway was the first recorded occupant of the area. John was born in Scotland and occupied an area of Schooner Gulch between 1866 and 1868, which was largely used as a milling operation for timber. Logging continued at Schooner Gulch until the late 1800's, through various other milling operations.

Another interesting part of the history of Schooner Gulch is the Galloway School. The school land was donated by John and Margaret Galloway. Galloway School operated for 62 years, from 1874 to 1936 with never more than 40 students. In 1940 the school lot was sold, and land around the lot was farmed by the Nobles family until 1986 at which time the land was sold to the State of California.

Legend has it that Schooner Gulch got its name from a story in which a schooner was sited, one evening, stranded on the beach in the mouth of the gulch, yet in the morning showed no evidence of being there.

Seacliff SB

This beach is known for its fishing pier and concrete freighter, The Palo Alto. Unfortunately, the ship is unsafe and closed to the public. Only the pier is open for fishing. The beach is also a popular swimming spot. There is a long stretch of sand backed by bluffs. There is a covered picnic facility. The park also has an interpretive center.

Location - Directions
Take the State Park Drive exit from Highway One in the neighborhood of Aptos.

Seasons - Climate - Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Why is there a ship at the end of the pier?
Was it built there -- or did it sink there?

In 1910 a Norwegian civil engineer named Fougner thought of using concrete to build ships. It wasn't until 1917, when wartime steel shortages required the use of cement for construction that Fougner's idea was used. Three concrete ships were built. Two, the Peralta and the Palo Alto, were built at the U.S. Naval Shipyard in Oakland, California while the third, the Faith, was built in a shipyard in Redwood City, California. The Peralta and the Palo Alto were built for wartime use as tankers, however World War One ended before ship construction was finished -- so they were never used.

The Palo Alto remained docked in Oakland until 1929, when the Cal-Nevada Company bought the ship with the idea of making her into an amusement and fishing ship. Her maiden voyage was made under tow to Seacliff State Beach. Once positioned at the beach, the sea cocks were opened and the Palo Alto settled to the ocean bottom. By the summer of 1930 a pier had been built leading to the ship, the ship was remodeled. A dance floor on the main deck was added, also a cafe in the superstructure was built, as was a fifty-four foot heated swimming pool, and a series of carnival type concessions were placed on the afterdeck. The Cal-Nevada Company went broke after two seasons -- then the Palo Alto was stripped, leaving the ship and the pier to be used only for fishing.

Shasta SHP

Six miles west of Redding a row of old, half-ruined, brick buildings remind passing motorists that Shasta City, the lusty "Queen City" of California's northern mining district, once stood on this site. These ruins and some of the nearby roads, cottages, and cemeteries are all silent but eloquent vestiges of the intense activity that was centered here during the California gold rush.

Iron shutters still swing on massive, old, iron hinges before the doors and windows of grass-filled, roofless buildings that once were crowded with merchandise, and alive with the human sounds of business, trade, and social endeavor.

The County Courthouse is restored to its 1861 appearance, the year when it was converted from commercial uses to become the Shasta County Courthouse. Today the building is filled with historical exhibits, and an unparalleled collection of historic California Artwork that make it the central figure of Shasta State Historic Park.

Location-Directions
The park is six miles west of downtown Redding. Highway 299 passes through the town's main street.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
Summer and spring are warm; fall and winter can be cool. Layered clothing is advised.

Silver Strand SB

Silver Strand State Beach features extensive beaches on both the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay. Combined with the area's mild climate, the beaches make Silver Strand one of the area's finest recreation destinations. Camping, swimming, surfing, boating, water-skiing, volleyball, and picnicking are popular activities. Anglers can fish for perch, corbina, grunion and yellow-fin croaker.

Park facilities include four large parking lots, which can accommodate up to 1,000 vehicles. Restroom and cold showers are available on each side of the park. Beach restrooms are for Day-Use visitors. Per Coastal Commission regulations, campers must be in fully self-contained vehicles. Fire rings for cookouts are available on the beach during summer. It is always a good idea to call ahead regarding operating hours, fees, and conditions, which can change.

The bay side of the park offers views of San Diego Bay. Three pedestrian tunnels lead from the parking lots under the highway to the bay side of the park. (The bay side of the park is restricted to pedestrian traffic only. No vehicles are allowed in the tunnels or on the bay side.) The water in the bay area is usually warmer and calmer, perfecting for swimming and sailing. Ramadas, tables, barbecue pits, and fire rings are available in the area. South of the developed area, there are one and a half miles of ocean and natural preserve. Strolling along the beach, visitors may see moon snail shells, cockle shells, and an occasional sand dollar in the sand.

~ Dogs are not allowed on the beach, in the tunnels, or on the bay side.
~ Dogs are allowed only in the day use and camping area parking lots.
~ All dogs must remain on a leash no longer than six feet in length.

Service Reductions
California State Parks is implementing service reductions in order to meet Department budget cuts this fiscal year. Service reductions implemented Fall 2009 through Spring 2010 include closing all bayside restrooms except the fully accessible restroom at the Aquatic Center and 1/2 of the beach-side restrooms on weekdays. All beach-side restrooms are open during weekends. Please be aware that some areas of the beach are posted "No Lifeguard on Duty"; swim where lifeguards are present. Service reductions do not pertain to park concessions.
Location - Directions
The beach is located 4.5 miles south of the city of Coronado on Highway 75. The park is located on the sand-spit that forms the outer edge of San Diego Bay between Coronado and Imperial Beach. The park has 2 ½ miles of ocean beach and ½ mile on the bay. The entrance to the park is from Highway 75, which serves as a divider between the ocean side of the park and the bay side.

Address
5000 Highway 75
Coronado, CA 92118

Silverwood Lake SRA

Beginning April 1, all boats, personal watercraft, kayaks, canoes, sailboards, inflatables, and float tubes must undergo a mandatory inspection. This inspection is to prevent the spread of Quagga and Zebra Mussels. This invasive species threatens the recreational opportunities of the general public, the water delivery infrastructure of California, and the aquatic habitat of Silverwood Lake. These inspections are required to ensure the continued health and wellbeing of Silverwood Lake. Failure to allow inspection of any watercraft will result in the refusal to launch.

All boats must be clean, drained, and dry!
Boats that fail inspection will will be quarantined from launching for 7 days.

Silverwood Lake was formed by the 249-foot Cedar Springs Dam. At 3,350 feet, it is the highest reservoir in the State Water Project. The park features hiking trails, swimming beaches and designated areas for boating, water-skiing and fishing. The lake has trout, large mouth bass, catfish and bluegill. There is a marina with a launching ramp, boat and equipment rentals, and a store. The park has picnic areas, including three that can only be reached by boat. The lake attracts waterfowl, raptors and songbirds. Canada Geese and an occasional bald eagle can be seen in the area.

Pacific Crest Trail
The Pacific Crest Trail is the jewel in the crown of America's scenic trails, spanning 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada through three western states. The trail passes through five California State Parks: Castle Crags and McArthur-Burney Falls in Northern California; and Silverwood Lake, Anza Borrego Desert and Mt. San Jacinto in Southern California.

Location-Directions
The park is located via Highway 138, 11 miles east of I-15; or 20 miles north of San Bernardino via Highways 18 & 138.
Silverwood Lake, CA, Latitude/Longitude: 34.3047 / -117.3125

Sinkyone Wilderness SP

The rugged wilderness that once characterized the entire Mendocino Coast can still be explored and enjoyed in the Sinkyone Wilderness State Park. Since there are no main highways near the coast in this vicinity, the area has come to be called the "Lost Coast."

Sinkyone Wilderness State Park is located within "Bear Country". State Park regulations require that visitors store all food and scented items properly at all times.

Location / Directions
North end of wilderness - (Needle Rock): 36 miles southwest of Garberville/Redway on Briceland Road. Take Briceland Road west from Redway. Briceland Road becomes Mendocino County Road 435. The last 3.5 miles are unpaved, steep, & narrow.

South end of wilderness - (Usal Beach): Approximately one hour north of Ft Bragg on PCH or 15 miles west of Leggett on PCH from Highway 101. Look for mile marker 90.88 on PCH. Turn north for approximately 6 miles onto unpaved, steep, narrow road.

ROADS MAY BE IMPASSABLE IN WET WEATHER. RV'S & TRAILERS NOT RECOMMENDED.

Latitude/Longitude: 39.9231 / -123.9422

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
Summer 45-75 degrees. Morning and evening fog is common.
Winter 35-55 degrees. Rainfall up to 80 inches per year, mostly occurring between November and May.

About the park
For thousands of years before the first Europeans arrived, the Sinkyone Indians lived in this part of the coast. They occupied permanent villages alongside streams and rivers, and moved out in family groups to hunt and forage in the hills during the summer. They spent time along the coast fishing, gathering seaweed and shellfish, and hunting seals and sea lions, and harvesting the occasional dead whale that had washed on shore. Fish were an important source of food during the winter. All kinds of fish were caught, but the seasonal salmon run was especially important.

Most park visitors today assume that human beings have had little impact on this area. But every trail, road, or flat spot has been modified by human activity. Game trails were turned into pathways for pack mules loaded with tanbark for the tanneries of San Francisco. Roads were carved and graded for lumbering operations. Open areas and marine terraces were farmed and used to pasture sheep and cattle. Occasionally, what appears to be a wagon road or a modern jeep trail is actually an abandoned railroad right-of-way.

Logging operations continued until well into the 20th century and wood products of various kinds were shipped to market from Usal, Needle Rock, Anderson's Landing, Northport and Bear Harbor/Morgan's Rock. Northport was not much of a port, but lumber schooners were able to take on their cargoes by means of a "wire chute," - a cable and block system that could run wood from the bluff to waiting schooners. Built in 1875, the Northport "chute" was one of the first of its kind on the coast.

Smithe Redwoods SP

Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve contains the beautiful Frank and Bess Smithe Grove of redwoods. The site was formerly a private resort. The park features a 60-foot waterfall, picnic area, and fishing and swimming in the south fork of the Eel River.

Location/ Directions
The reserve is four miles north of Leggett on Highway 101.
Latitude/Longitude: 39.9000 / -123.7442

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Sonoma Coast SP

Due to service reductions, Willow Creek and Pomo Environmental Campsites will be closed Nov. 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010. The following day use areas will also be closed during this time: Bodega Head East, Campbell Cove, Bodega Dunes, South Salmon, South Goat Rock/Blind Beach, Russian Gulch and Vista Point.
Long sandy beaches below rugged headlands, a craggy coastline with natural arches and secluded coves are features that make Sonoma Coast State Park one of California's most scenic attractions.

The Beach, actually a series of beaches separated by rock bluffs and headlands, extends 17 miles from Bodega Head to Vista Trail located 4 miles north of Jenner. Beachcombers, fishermen, sunbathers and picnickers can access the beach from more than a dozen points along coast Highway 1.

While the north coast weather can be foggy in the summer, it usually burns off by midday and the cool ocean breezes make the Sonoma Coast a haven for visitors seeking to escape the inland heat.

Location/Directions
The beach is located between Jenner and Bodega Bay on Highway One. The Rangers' Station is at the north side of Salmon Creek, off Highway 1.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

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Facilities - Activities

Bodega Head is the rocky headland that forms the entrance into Bodega Harbor. The harbor side provides a popular crabbing area along the jetty, and the many hiking trails on the ocean side allow access to small, sandy coves and spectacular scenic blufftop views. The high cliffs offer excellent vantage points for observing migrating gray whales.

Aerial photos of Bodega Head

Goat Rock, near the mouth of the Russian River, is known for its scenic shoreline and easily accessible sandy beach. Picnic tables and restroom facilities are also available. Goat Rock beach is home to a colony of harbor seals which are fun to watch, but please stay 50 yards from the seals, especially during pupping season (March - August.) Due to the protected status of the seals, NO DOGS are allowed on Goat Rock Beach.

Aerial photos of Goat Rock

Shell Beach is a favorite location for beachcombing and tidepooling. It is used by schools as an outdoor classroom for the study of tidal pool marine life and enjoys a reputation as a prime fishing spot.

Duncan's Landing is famous for two things: as an early-day landing for loading small coastal ships with lumber and food products and for being the most dangerous point along the Sonoma Coast due to large and unpredictable surf. Heed the signs and stay off the rocks, the waves have come up to the parking lot and people have been swept off the rocks. In the spring the wildflower displays are spectacular.

Aerial photos of Duncan's Landing

Portuguese Beach & Schoolhouse Beach are beautiful sandy beaches surrounded by rocky headlands. Rock fishing and surf fishing are popular in these locations.

Aerial photos of Portuguese Beach
Aerial photos of Schoolhouse Beach

Salmon Creek Beach, where a lagoon forms as sand closes the mouth of Salmon Creek, is a popular summer destination. Nearly two miles of unbroken, scenic, sandy beach make this an excellent place for surf fishing, beachcombing, and picnicking. The surfers are here when the waves are good. NO DOGS and NO FIRES are allowed on Salmon Creek Beach due to the protection of the snowy plovers. The western snowy plover is listed under the Federal Endangered Species Act as a threatened species because of loss of nesting habitat due to human development, invasion of European beach grass and predation by ravens, foxes, domestic dogs and cats.

Aerial photos of Salmon Creek Beach

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Take care when visiting the beach

Like most north coast beaches, Sonoma Coast is NOT FOR SWIMMING. Strong rip currents, heavy surf and sudden ground swells make even surf play dangerous. A small staff of well-trained lifeguards are usually on duty during the peak season, but with so much coastline to cover they may not be available.

It is especially important to keep children back from the highest water-line and never turn your back to the ocean. Many rescues are made each year. Also be careful of the bluffs and rocks. The shale formations are unstable and unsafe for climbing, so stay on the trails and heed warning signs.
Camping

Wright's Beach
There are 27 developed campsites located adjacent to the beach. There are no showers, but campers may use the hot showers at nearby Bodega Dunes Campground. Maximum trailer length is 27', no hook-ups are available. Each site has picnic tables, fire rings and paved parking spurs. Running water and flush toilets are nearby. When the campground is filled, the overflow area in the Wright's Beach Picnic Area may be used for self-contained vehicles. This area is along the roadway adjacent to the kiosk. Reservations are recommended, especially on the weekends and during the peak season.

Aerial photos of Wright's Beach & Campground

Bodega Dunes
There are 98 campsites with hot showers, flush toilets, and a trailer sanitation dump station. Maximum trailer length is 31', no hook-ups are available. Campfire and Junior Ranger programs are held in the summer months. The day use area includes a disabled accessible boardwalk out to a classic sandy beach. No DOGS and NO FIRES are allowed on the beach as a measure to protect the snowy plovers. The western snowy plover is listed under the Federal Endangered Species Act as a threatened species because of loss of nesting habitat due to human development, invasion of European beach grass and predation by ravens, foxes, domestic dogs and cats.

Willow Creek Environmental Camp
11 primitive campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, and pit toilets. Campsites are within 1/4 mile from the parking lot and there is no running water. The only State Park campground on the Russian River, sites are shaded by willows but close to a large beach for swimming and fishing. Blue heron, egrets, osprey, and occasionally river otters can be seen by the river. To protect the wildlife, no dogs are allowed. These sites are not on the reservation system.

Pomo Canyon Environmental Camp
20 campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, pit toilets and running water nearby. Campsites are within 1/4 mile from the parking lot, one is disabled accessible. Camps are set in a beautiful redwood grove among the ferns. A three mile trail to Shell Beach takes off from the campground, crossing seasonal streams and rising up into the grassland with marvelous views of the river and finally the ocean. To protect the wildlife, no dogs are allowed. This campground is not on the reservation system.

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Sonoma SHP

The historic, picturesque town of Sonoma is located in the heart of the beautiful Wine Country between Napa and Santa Rosa off Highway 12. Situated around a central plaza (the largest of its kind in California) filled with charming shops and restaurants, the city is home to Sonoma State Historic Park—site of the northernmost Franciscan Mission in California and birthplace of the California State Bear Flag.

Unlike most parks with a single plot of land and a continuous boundary, Sonoma State Historic Park is a scattering of historical attractions consisting of six midtown locations near Sonoma's Plaza. They are: Mission San Francisco Solano, the Blue Wing Inn, Sonoma Barracks, the Toscano Hotel, the Servants Quarters (the remains of La Casa Grande) and Vallejo's Home. Vallejo's Home is also called Lachryma Montis, and is less than a mile west of the Plaza. It was the estate of General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, Military Commander and Director of Colonization of the Northern Frontier.

Location/Directions
The park's business office is at
363 3^rd Street West
Sonoma, California 95476-5632

Facilities-Activities

There are exhibits in the Mission, as well as a museum and gift shop in the Barracks. The Vallejo Home has furnishings of the Vallejo family and there is a Visitor Center and museum in the adjacent "Chalet". Visitors to the park can stroll through the streets surrounding the town's historic central plaza. The plaza has restaurants, shops and a Visitor Center.

Dogs are not allowed in historic buildings. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the bikepath between the Mission and the Vallejo Home.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Volunteer information
For volunteering in the above parks please contact Guide Jennifer Hanson at the Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park at 707-762-4871.

South Carlsbad SB

This San Diego beach features swimming, surfing, skin diving, fishing and picnicking. The large bluff-top campground is very popular, especially in summer. Stairs lead to the beach.

Campground showers---TOKEN operated
Token machines at ranger station and campfire center
Tokens available upon check-in

Service Reductions
California State Parks is implementing service reductions in order to meet Department budget cuts this fiscal year. Service reductions implemented Fall 2009 through Summer 2010 include one 'loop” of the campground closed October 2009 - February 2010, day-use parking at South Ponto by automatic pay machine only, facilities maintenance reduced 50%, including trash cleanup, and reduced lifeguard service. Visitors are encouraged to 'Pack it in, Pack it out', so the beach remains free of trash. These service reductions are designed to ensure that California State Parks achieve cost savings, minimize disruption to visitors as much as possible, and maintain revenue at the highest level possible.


Location-Directions
The beach is located 3 miles south of Carlsbad on CARLSBAD BLVD.
Take INTERSTATE 5, exit PALOMAR AIRPORT ROAD.
Go west to CARLSBAD BLVD - SOUTH.
Turn SLIGHT RIGHT onto ramp CARLSBAD BLVD. – SOUTH.
Merge onto CARLSBAD BLVD. – SOUTH, continue 1.6 miles to campground entrance.

Campground Address
7201 Carlsbad Blvd.
Carlsbad, CA 92008
The campground entrance is not accessible from Poinsettia Ave.

South Yuba River SP

This 20-mile portion of the South Yuba River canyon stretches from Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park to Bridgeport covered bridge. The area includes the longest single-span covered bridge in the world, the steep rugged canyon of the South Yuba River, and the Independence Trail — the first identified wheelchair-accessible wilderness trail in the country.

South Yuba River State Park offers many scenic vistas. Visitors can view fast water pouring over massive granite ledges in the spring and warm, slow moving emerald swimming holes during the late summer. Adventuresome hikers have a choice of trails ranging in difficulty from the easiest (Independence Trail), to other more strenuous trails throughout the park.

Become a docent at a very special place!
Training for new docents takes place March 17 - 19, 2010. Call the park for details. Location-Directions
South Yuba River State Park headquarters located at Bridgeport, 17660 Pleasant Valley Rd can be accessed from Highway 20 west of Grass Valley or from Higway 49 north of Nevada City. Remote portions of the park are accessible from Edwards Crossing, Purdon Crossing, and Highway 49.

Independence Trail
A historic water ditch has been adapted to carry wheelchairs and hikers across the Independence Trail. The trail features waterfalls, scenic vistas, and a gentle switchback descent to a mountain stream on a wooden flume accesible by wheelchair. Outhouses with full wheelchair access are located at several points along the trail.

Caution:
Winter and Spring weather conditions can cause the trail to become muddy and impassable for wheelchairs. Call the park for trail condition information before you go.

Standish-Hickey SRA

The Hickey and Rock Creek Campgrounds will be open for reservations from 5/25/2010 to 9/6/2010 but Due to budget reductions, the Redwood Campground will remain closed until July of 2011.
At the "gateway to the tall trees country," the area offers camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing, and swimming on the South Fork of the Eel River which winds through the park for almost two miles. One of the few virgin redwood stands remaining in this area can be seen on the Grove Trail.

Standish-Hickey began as a campground acquired by the Save-the-Redwoods League in 1922. In the late 1950's, the Standish family donated over five hundred acres, and additional acquisitions through the years has increased the park's total acreage The park was named to honor Edward Ritter Hickey, son of a local lumberman who died of influenza while caring for the victims of the epidemic of 1918.
Location/ Directions
1.5 miles north of Leggett, CA on Highway 101.
Leggett, CA Latitude/Longitude: 39.8653 / -123.7843

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
Inland river canyon.
Summer 70-90 degrees.
Winter 30-55 degrees.
Dress for rain.

State Indian Museum

The California State Indian Museum displays exhibits illustrating the cultures of the state's first inhabitants. California's prehistoric population, one of the largest and most diverse in the Western hemisphere, was made up of over 150 distinct tribal groups who spoke at least sixty-four different languages. California Indian population estimates, before the arrival of the first Europeans, were at least 500,000 people.

California Indian cultural items in the museum include basketry, beadwork, clothing and exhibits about the ongoing traditions of various California Indian tribes. Descendents of the first Californians, tens of thousands of them, still live in California and still cherish and carry on their unique cultural heritage. Indigenous people have donated many photographs of family, friends and memorable times for use in the museum. A section of the museum features a hands-on area, where visitors can try their hand at using Indian tools, such as the pump drill, used for making holes in shell beads and other materials; the mortar and pestle and soap root brush, made from the soap root plant, all used for grinding acorns.

Visit Our Museum Store
Please visit our store, located inside the museum, for Native-made jewelery, gourds, hand-crafted dolls, baskets, soapstone carvings, and the area's largest selection of California Indian books.

A sample of items you can purchase at the museum store.

Location and Parking:
The California State Indian Museum is located in the downtown area of Sacramento at 26th and K Streets.

Traveling on I-80, from San Francisco, take Business 80/Hwy 50 east. Take the Business 80 exit (north towards Reno) to the N Street exit. Travel straight on 30th Street, then turn left under the freeway at L Street and travel on L Street to 26th Street. Bus parking is available on L Street by Sutter's Fort. Metered automobile parking is available on 26th and K Streets.
Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
Summer and spring are warm; fall and winter can be cool. Layered clothing is advised.

Photography

Photography in general is prohibited at the museum.

Commercial photography is allowed on a case by case basis by advance arrangement. Visit www.film.ca.gov for more information.

Stone Lake

The purpose of the Stone Lake property, in Sacramento County, is to preserve and protect two rare natural Central Valley lakes and their surrounding riparian habitat and grassland areas. The property lies within the Pacific Flyway and provides wintering grounds for a variety of waterfowl and other migratory birds, as well as habitat for indigenous species such as the listed Swainsons hawk, the giant garter snake and the longhorn elderberry beetle. The property contains a number of Native American occupancy sites. Located on the southern edge of the Sacramento metropolitan area, the property serves as valuable urban open space.
Facilities/Activities
The County of Sacramento operates Stone Lake (Park Property) -- please visit their website for additional information.

Sugarloaf Ridge SP

Sugarloaf Ridge State Park contains the headwaters of Sonoma Creek. It runs through gorge and canyon, across the meadow floor, beneath scenic rock outcroppings, and is surrounded at times by redwoods and ferns.

A 25-foot waterfall flows after the winter rains. There is a self-guided nature trail along Sonoma Creek that starts near the picnic area. Dogs must be on a leash under your control at all times. Dogs are not allowed on trails. Dogs must be in a tent, camper or enclosed vehicle during the night.

With the oak woodland and chaparral, the park has 25 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding. A Horseback Riding concession is available during the spring, summer, and fall. Reservations for horseback rides can be made through Triple Creek Horse Outfit by calling (707) 887-8700.

Deer, gray foxes, the occasional bobcat and coyote can be seen in the park. In spring, wildflowers provide a colorful palette across the green hills.

On a clear day, visitors can see views of the Sierra Nevada and the Golden Gate bridge from the 2729-foot summit of Bald Mountain.

The non-profit Valley of the Moon Observatory Association provides year-round astronomy education and interpretation programs at the Robert Ferguson Observatory within Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. Program fees vary, some are free with the payment of the park's Day Use Fee. There are three telescopes and the New Generation 40-inch Telescope Project at the Ferguson Observatory which will be one of the largest telescopes dedicated for public viewing.

Location/Directions
The park is about one hour away from San Francisco and seven miles east of Santa Rosa.

Address
2605 Adobe Canyon Road
Kenwood, CA 95452

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Sunset SB

The beach features pine trees, mountainous sand dunes, and ocean side picnic spots. Bordered by large agricultural fields west of the city of Watsonville, the beach is a year-round destination for thousands of visitors.

Location - Directions
The beach is 16 miles south of Santa Cruz via Highway One and San Andreas Road.

Seasons - Climate - Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Sutter Buttes

PLEASE NOTE:
There is currently no public access point to enter this park.
This park has not been officially named.

Park Classification
In 2003, California State Parks acquired property on the north side of the Sutter Buttes, which represents a unique resource within the State Park System. The first step in guiding the management of visitor activities and protection of park resources is determining the appropriate unit classification.

The CaIifornia Public Resources Code, Section 5002.1, requires that an inventory of scenic, natural and cultural features be provided to the California State Parks and Recreation Commission when classifying a unit of the State Park System. This Resource Summary is intended to provide the Commission with the necessary information for classification as specified in Article 1.7 of the Public Resources Code.

This Summary establishes resource values and provides an overview of the project area. Information contained in this document has been compiled from various reports and field investigations. This information will also be useful to assist in developing resource policies, resource management programs and as background information for land use planning, maintenance, interpretation, and operation. Additional and more detailed resource inventory information will be developed during the preparation of a future General Plan and specific management plans for the park.

CALIFORNIA STATE PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION

On April 8, 2005, the State Park and Recreation Commission classified the Sutter Buttes project at its regular hearing in Sacramento, CA. The newest unit in the California State Park System was classified a 'State Park,” recognizing its significant natural, cultural, geologic, scenic, and recreational resource values. The name of the park was not determined, until more information could be obtained on the various names and historical events associated with the site.

Sutters Fort SHP

Stronghold of Pioneer Memories
Exploring some of the unique artifacts from Sutter's Fort State Historic Park is just a click away! Our online exhibit highlights the reconstruction of Sutter's Fort in the 1890s and explains how the Fort's collection of pioneer and early California artifacts was formed. Scrolling through the exhibit you will see artifacts once belonging to John Sutter, James Marshall and the Donner Party.

In 1839 a Swiss immigrant named John Sutter received a land grant in the Sacramento Valley from the Mexican government. He used the land to create a flourishing agricultural empire and named it New Helvetia (New Switzerland.) This empire established Sacramento's earliest settlement and the first non-Indian settlement in California's Central Valley.

In 1847 Sutter sent aid to the Donner Party, a group of immigrants trapped in a winter storm in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Word spread and Sutter became known for his hospitality and for providing temporary refuge to travelers. This reputation made New Helvetia the destination for early immigrants to California.

Less than a decade after they were established, Sutter's properties were overrun by gold seekers and the fort is all that remains of New Helvetia. It has been restored to its former state based on an 1847 map published in Darmstadt, Germany and is open daily for tours.

Location-Directions
The park is located in midtown Sacramento between K and L Streets and 26th and 28th Streets.

Traveling on I-80, from San Francisco, take Business 80/Hwy 50 east. Take the Business 80 exit (north towards Reno) to the N Street turn off. Travel straight on 30th Street then turn left under the freeway at L Street to the Fort which will be located on your right.

Monday - Saturday, bring quarters for the parking meters. Parking is free on Sundays.

Facilities - Opportunities
The Fort is available for private parties and gatherings for a fee.
Call for availability and information: (916) 445-4422.

A self-guided audio tour is available.

Special events are scheduled throughout the year.

Sutter's Fort Trade Store provides a large variety of authentic gifts and publications relating to California history including the Overland Trail and Gold Rush. The store is non-profit and operated by the Friends of Sutter's Fort Association in cooperation with the California State Parks.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
Summer and spring are warm; fall and winter can be cool. Layered clothing is advised.

Photography
• We welcome photography for personal use.
• Handheld flash is allowed; however tripods and free standing flash are not permitted for safety reasons.
• Commercial photography is allowed on a case by case basis by advance arrangement.

Tahoe SRA

Food Storage Locker Information
Metal bear-resistant food lockers are provided in each campsite. All food, beverages, and tolietries are required by law to be stored in provided food lockers. The inside dimensions of the food lockedrs 36" deep, 43" wide, and 22" high. Violators will be cited.

The SRA is in Tahoe City, near shopping malls and restaurants. Views of Ponderosa and Jefferey pine groves from park.

Lakeside campgrounds are in this park.

Ed Z'berg - Sugar Pine Point State Park is 11 miles south on State Highway 89, is suggested if more secluded campsites are desired.

Location-Directions
0.25 miles east of Tahoe City on Highway 28.

The Forest of Nisene Marks SP

The park offers rugged semi-wilderness, rising from sea level to steep coastal mountains of more than 2,600 feet. Once the site of logging operations until the 1920s, visitors can still find evidence of logging operations, mill sites and trestles in the park. The land was donated to the state by the Marks family in 1963.

With over 30 miles of trails, hiking, jogging and biking are some of the activities to be enjoyed here. Picnic tables and barbecue pits are available. A trail camp is located six miles from the nearest parking lot.

Dogs are allowed only along the entrance road and in the picnic areas and must be on a leash no longer than six feet at all times.
Location - Directions
The park is four miles north of Aptos on Aptos Creek Road.
Seasons - Climate - Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.
About the park
This park is on land that was clear-cut during a forty-year logging frenzy (1883-1923). When the loggers left the Aptos Canyon, the forest began to heal itself and now the scars grow fainter with each passing year. The Forest of Nisene marks is a monument to forest regeneration and the future - it is a forest in the state of becoming.

Thornton

This beach is not available to the general public at this time.Location and Directions
In Daly City, at the end of Thornton Beach Road. Follow John Daly Boulevard west from Interstate 280 across Skyline Boulevard into Thornton State Beach. From Skyline Boulevard, turn west at the intersection with John Daly Boulevard into Thornton State Beach. From the parking area or the stables, proceed to the dunes on old Thornton Beach Road. The Bay Area Ridge Trail begins where the road meets the dunes.
Weather & Climate
The climate is Mediterranean, so it tends to be windy and cold throughout much of the park. During the summer months, fog is common along the coastlines. Dress in layers is recommended. Hiking boots are appropriate in some areas. Comfortable shoes are also recommended within the San Francisco area, which are most comprised of asphalt or concrete.

Tijuana Estuary NP

Tijuana Estuary is a small intertidal coastal estuary on the international border between California and Mexico. The estuary is primarily a shallow water habitat, though it is often termed an "intermittent estuary," as it is subjected to extreme changes in streamflow at different times of the year. Extended periods of drought leave parts of the estuary dry during some periods, while flooding inundates the same areas during others. For this reason, Tijuana Estuary is considered to be a very unique part of the National Estuarine Research Reserve System.

The Tijuana River Estuary is one of the few salt marshes remaining in Southern California, where over 90% of wetland habitat has been lost to development. The site is an essential breeding, feeding and nesting ground and key stopover point on the Pacific Flyway for over 370 species of migratory and native birds, including six endangered species.

The Reserve offers four miles of walking trails, taking visitors into prime bird watching areas and down to the river mouth where the Tijuana River meets the Pacific Ocean. Visitors may explore the park on their own or join one of the free guided nature and bird walks on weekends. The park has BBQ rings, restrooms, and beach access

A marker on the bluff, first placed there in 1851 just after the treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, delineates the western beginning of the International Border.

Border Field State Park is located in the southwestern corner of the Reserve, on a bluff overlooking the ocean, the estuary, and the bull ring that lies just south of the U.S./Mexico border.

For more information about the Tijuana Estuary and Border Field State Park please visit www.tijuanaestuary.org. Location - Directions

From the north:
Take Interstate 5 south to exit 4, Coronado Avenue, in Imperial Beach (not the Coronado Bridge exit). Turn right onto Coronado Ave. and head west for approx. three miles (it becomes Imperial Beach Blvd.). Turn left onto Third Ave. at the four-way stop (you'll see the Reserve's concrete sign). Follow the road around the corner and the Visitor Center will be on the right.

From the south:
Take Interstate 5 north and turn left on Coronado Ave., then follow the directions above.

Imperial Beach, CA Latitude/Longitude: 32.5839 / -117.1122 Interpretation and Education Programs
Educational activities provided by the Reserve include after school Jr. Ranger Program (ages 7-12); bilingual site visits for elementary, middle and high school students; nature walks/bird walks; several lecture series; bilingual site-based training for teachers and off-site teacher training workshops. The Reserve provides bilingual (English and Spanish) curriculum for various grades. For more information about the Reserve's education programs visit http://www.tijuanaestuary.org/ Managing Agencies
The Reserve is managed jointly by a multiple-agency management authority. Primary managing agencies are the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California State Parks. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is responsible primarily for management of the Reserve's resources; in particular the Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge component of the Reserve. The California Department of Parks and Recreation operates the Visitor Center, maintains Border Field State Park, and coordinates the Reserve's educational and interpretive programs.

Tolowa Dunes SP

This park takes in some of the finest wetlands habitat on California's northern coast. An ancient sand dune complex that has evolved into several distinct ecological communities, Tolowa Dunes encompasses ocean beach, river, open and vegetated sand dunes, wooded ridges, and wetlands. A diverse assortment of birds, animals and plant life thrive here, and the area serves as an important stopover on the Pacific flyway for thousands of migrating ducks, geese and swans. The Smith River is a good place for salmon and steelhead fishing, and cutthroat trout can be taken at Lake Earl. The basic amenities are provided for campers at two primitive campgrounds, including a ride-in horse camp and six walk-in sites.
Location/ Directions
2 miles north of Crescent City.
From Crescent City CA take Northcrest Dr. north off of HWY. 101. Access roads are Old Mill Rd. off Northcrest Dr. and further along Northcrest Dr. (which becomes Lake Earl Dr.) turn left on Lower Lake Rd. to Kellogg or Pala Roads.
Lake Earl, CA Latitude/Longitude: 41.8258 / -124.1875

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
Summer days range from the 60's to 70's (degrees fahrenheit). Nights are in the 40's.
Winter days range from the 40's to 60s (degrees fahrenheig). Nights are in the 30's.
Rainfall average is about 60" to 80" per year, falling mostly between November and May.
About the park
The Lake Earl area offers an array of opportunities for the nature enthusiast. Hundreds of species of birds including the rare Canada Aleutian goose and the Peregrine falcon can be seen in the forests and wetlands. Deer, coyote and raccoons may be spotted along the many miles of trails that traverse the park.

Great displays of wildflowers can bee seen in the spring and early summer. Marine mammals such as sea lions and harbor seals can be spotted along the coast; gray whales migrate from Alaska to Baja California. Salmon and steelhead are seasonal in the Smith River, cutthroat trout and Starry flounder are in Lakes Earl and Tolowa, and bass and crappie are in Dead Lake.

The Tolowa people were the most recent Native Americans to occupy the area. The natural resources of the area were very important aspect of the Tolowa's economic and political way of life.

Tomales Bay SP

The Coast Miwok people were the first to inhabit the coastal area of sheltered coves, beaches, tidal marshes, and forest of Bishop pines now known as Tomales Bay State Park, forty miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Sir Francis Drake was the first explorer to land in this area in 1579, followed by the Spanish in 1595. Russian and German scientists explored the area in the early 1800s.

In the 1940s real estate developers began to purchase large areas of beachfront land, prompting local residents and conservation groups to save this area as a park. In 1952, Tomales Bay State Park was formally dedicated and opened to the public.

Facilities and Activities
The day-use park features four gently sloping, surf-free beaches, protected from winds by Inverness Ridge, the backbone of the Point Reyes Peninsula.

The park has hiking trails and is a popular place for picnicking, swimming, clamming and boating.

The park includes forests, beaches, field, hills, meadows and marshes - each with its own plant life, including varieties of trees, shrubs and wildflowers.

One of the finest remaining virgin groves of Bishop pine in California is in the park's Jepson Memorial Grove, reached by way of a one mile long trail.

Wildlife in the area includes foxes, raccoons, badgers, weasels, chipmunks, squirrels, rabbits, deer, bobcats, skunks, wood rats, field mice, moles and other animals.

There are also land and sea birds, including the spotted owl, quail, goldfinches, puffins, great blue heron, pelicans, ruddy ducks, woodpeckers, meadowlarks - and more.

Gopher snakes, garter snakes, lizards, and monarch butterflies make the park their home. In the beach areas, several variety of clams live, as do many other kinds of fish.

Climate/Recommended Clothing
Weather can change quickly. Visitors should be prepared by dressing in layers.

Nearby Attractions
The community of Inverness and the Point Reyes National Seashore are near the park.

Tomo-Kahni SHP

The Tomo-Kahni State Historic Park: Kawaiisu Native American Village was created as a unit of California State Parks in 1993 to protect and preserve the integrity of the location. Nestled atop a ridge in the Tehachapi Mountains, overlooking Sand Canyon to the east and the Tehachapi valley to the west, Tomo-Kahni, or "Winter Village," was the site of a Kawaiisu (Nuooah) Village. The location was likely chosen for its moderate temperature and plentiful resources. The Kawaiisu migrated from the Great Basin and made the Tehachapi their home for two to three thousand years. The Kawaiisu are noted for their finely woven baskets of intricate and colorful design.

Tour Information (Advance reservations are required)
Due to the extremely sensitive nature of the site, Tomo-Kahni is available to the public by tour only. These tours are led by trained State Park Volunteers on weekends during the spring and fall months.

Tours begin with an orientation at the Tomo-Kahni Resource Center at 112 East F Street, Suite B, Tehachapi. After an orientation, participants must caravan or carpool approximately 12 miles to the park (high clearance vehicles are recommended).

The moderately strenuous walking tour takes between two to three hours to complete. The overall tour, including orientation and return to the Resource Center, takes about 4 to 5 hours. The Errea House is no longer used for the tour meeting or return location.

Location - Directions
The Resource Center is located in Tehachapi on East F Street, just east of Green Street.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
As Tomo-Kahni is at an elevation of over 4,000 feet, the weather is variable, so layered clothing is recommended. Water, good walking shoes and sun protection are also necessary.

About the Park - Area
The Kawaiisu were of Shoshonean lineage who spoke the Southern Numic subgroup of the Uto-Aztecan language. Migrating from the Great Basin, they had made the Tehachapi area their home for two to three thousand years. They were a peaceful, gentle people with a great respect for their surroundings, living and working in small family units. Being hunter-gatherers, the Kawaiisu roamed their territory in search of food. They traveled from the valley into the mountains and even the desert to gather supplies for everyday use and to prepare stores for the winter. Young girls learned to gather and prepare food early in life, and the young boys started hunting for the family at about 9 years of age. The very young would play games to sharpen their hunting skills. Dolls were made from clay or small rodent skins with the head attached and stuffed with grass. A game of hide and seek was also very popular.

The Kawaiisu are noted for their very finely woven baskets of intricate and colorful design. Girls would learn the complex task of gathering and preparing materials for the beautiful baskets they would make. Boys learned the art of making cordage and creating rabbit skin blankets.

Spring was a time for the young men and women of other tribes or families to meet and marry. Birth and death were also times to gather, with feasting and dancing lasting several days.

During the winter months the Kawaiisu made the Sand Canyon area their home. Women would work on baskets, and prepare the food. Men would knap arrow points and knife blades from chert and obsidian, straighten arrow shafts from willow branches and prepare the foreshafts for the arrows. Dice games were played by adults. Stories were told usually by an elder in the family and the children would receive very important lessons to be used throughout their lives. They were taught respect for each other, for the land, the plants and for the animals that lived there.

Topanga SP

Located in the cliffs and canyons of the Santa Monica Mountains, Topanga State Park features 36 miles of trails through open grassland, live oaks and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.

The park is located entirely within the Los Angeles city limits and is considered the world's largest wildland within the boundaries of a major city. Excellent recreational opportunities for hikers as well as mountain bikers (restricted to fire roads) and equestrians.

The park is bound on the south by Pacific Palisades and Brentwood, on the west by Topanga Canyon, and on the east by Rustic Canyon. Numerous geologic formations can be found in the park, including earthquake faults, marine fossils, volcanic intrusions, and a wide variety of sedimentary formations.

Location/Directions
A good place to start a visit to Topanga State Park is Trippet Ranch, once a "gentleman's ranch" for a weekend getaway from the city.

From Pacific Coast Highway, travel north on Topanga Canyon Boulevard, pass the post office at the center of "town," then turn right on Entrada Road.

Keep to the left at every opportunity until you reach the park's main parking lot (about one mile). From the Ventura Freeway (101), exit at Topanga Canyon Boulevard, drive south over the crest of the mountains and proceed three miles to Entrada Road and turn left.

Park Trails
Many of the park's trails can be accessed from Trippet Ranch. The Musch Trail leads north to Musch Trail Camp by winding in and out of the sun and shade where plant assemblages change with every subtle difference in light and moisture.

Two miles from Trippet is Eagle Junction, where hikers encounter the Eagle Spring loop trail. Eagle Rock, one of the many boulder outcrops on the trail, looms over the terrain and provides panoramic views of the park. At the eastern end of the Eagle Spring loop, hikers will come to the Hub Junction and the Temescal Fire Road.

Going north, hikers travel through chaparral to unpaved Mulholland Drive, which traverses the park. South on Temescal Fire Road takes hikers high above the wild canyons with sycamore and oak riparian forests below. At Rogers Junction, hikers can opt for the Backbone Trail, a trail that winds through the Santa Monica Mountains from Will Rogers State Historic park in the east to Point Mugu State Park in the west. Rustic Canyon can be seen from the Backbone Trail.

Another option from Trippet Ranch is to walk east to the Topanga Fire Road and then north for a short distance to the Santa Inez Trail. Descending into the Santa Inez Canyon, hikers can see crumbly sandstone formations containing pockets where moisture can collect, supporting numerous small plants that form tiny cliff gardens. Close to the bottom of the trail is a side trail leading to a lovely waterfall.

Torrey Pines SB

State beaches are areas with frontage on the ocean, or bays designed to provide swimming, boating, fishing, and other beach-oriented recreational activities. This wide, sandy beach stretches 4 1/2 miles from Del Mar past Los Peñasquitos Lagoon to the base of sandstone cliffs at Torrey Pines Mesa. Swimming, surfing and fishing are popular. Red-hued bluffs and wet sand make strolling on the beach popular at low tide. A picnic area and parking lot are near the entrance on North Torrey Pines Road.

The beach can also be reached by trail from the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.

Torrey Pines prohibits dogs anywhere within the reserve and beach boundaries (even within a vehicle).

Service Reductions
California State Parks is implementing service reductions in order to meet Department budget cuts this fiscal year. Service reductions implemented Fall 2009 through Summer 2010 include one-half of the restrooms at the beach will be closed through March 2010, trash cans removed from the beach and replaced with a central dumpster near the restroom, overall facility maintenance reduced 50%, day-use parking by automatic pay machine only (no staff at entrance stations), and reduced lifeguard service from October 2009 through March 2010. Visitors are encouraged to 'Pack it in, Pack it out', so the beach remains free of trash. These service reductions are designed to ensure that California State Parks achieve cost savings, minimize disruption to visitors as much as possible, and maintain revenue at the highest level possible.


Location-Directions
The Beach is located one mile south of Del Mar on North Torrey Pines Road.

Torrey Pines SR

State Natural Reserves have outstanding or unusual natural or scenic values. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a wilderness island in an urban sea. This fragile environment is the home of our nation's rarest pine tree - Pinus torreyana. Once this tree covered a larger area. It now grows only here and on Santa Rosa Island off the coast near Santa Barbara. The park preserves not only the trees, but also the last salt marshes and waterfowl refuges in Southern California. The reserve features high broken cliffs and deep ravines on headlands overlooking the ocean. Hikers can follow trails through stands of wind-sculpted pines. A picturesque, pueblo-style structure that served as a restaurant when it was built in 1923 houses the visitor center, featuring interpretive displays. Picnicking and camping are prohibited in the reserve. The reserve's rich plant community features wildflowers in the spring and visitors can see the California quail gathered in coveys in the early mornings of fall and winter.

Torrey Pines State Beach can also be reached by trail from the Reserve.

Torrey Pines prohibits dogs anywhere within the reserve and beach boundaries (even within a vehicle).

Service Reductions
California State Parks is implementing service reductions in order to meet Department budget cuts this fiscal year. Service reductions implemented Fall 2009 through Summer 2010 include day-use parking by automatic pay machine only (no staff in entrance station), overall facility maintenance reduced 50%, including trash cleanup, and reduced lifeguard service. Visitors are encouraged to 'Pack it in, Pack it out', so the park remains free of trash. Park Visitor Center and educational tours operated by volunteers only. These service reductions are designed to ensure that California State Parks achieve cost savings, minimize disruption to visitors as much as possible, and maintain revenue at the highest level possible.

Location-Directions
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is located between La Jolla and Del Mar, California, north of San Diego. From Hwy 5, exit on Carmel Valley Road and drive west for about 1.5 miles till you reach the Coast Highway 101. Turn left and proceed along the beach for about a mile. The park entrance is on your right just before the highway begins to climb the Torrey Pines grade.

Trinidad SB

It is a short hike through the woods, across open bluffs, and past seasonal wildflowers down to the beach. Low tide is the best time to visit.

On the high bluffs above the beach there is an open meadow with scattered stands of alders.

Visitor facilities include restrooms, parking, and a small picnic area with, tables and stoves.

Location/ Directions
19 miles north of Eureka, CA just off Highway 101. Tucked in a secluded cove near the town of Trinidad, this small sandy beach is a pleasant retreat from the traffic of the nearby highway.
Latitude/Longitude: 41.0594 / -124.1420
For more information about this area
Visit the Trinidad Chamber of Commerce

Tule Elk SNR

Tule Elk State Natural Reserve protects a herd of tule elk, once in danger of extinction. In the 1880s, vast herds of tule elk were greatly reduced in number by hunting and loss of habitat.

Cattleman Henry Miller began a 50-year effort to save them in 1874. At that time, few elk remained. In 1932, the herd was given permanent protection on the park property, now known as Tule Elk State Natural Reserve.

Elk from the reserve have been successfully transplanted to other areas in California where free-roaming herds of tule elk can be found today.

The elk are most active from late summer through early autumn. Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars for better viewing.

The park has picnic areas and interpretive exhibits.

Location/Directions
The reserve is north of Gorman, south of Buttonwillow, west of I-5 via Stockdale Highway.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Turlock Lake SRA

Nestled in the rolling foothills of eastern Stanislaus County, Turlock Lake State Recreation Area is an ideal place for day- or week-long outings.

Open all year and featuring camping, picnicking, fishing, swimming, boating, water skiing, and clean country air, the area offers visitors an opportunity to see the wonderful variety of native plant life that once flourished alongside the rivers of the San Joaquin Valley.

Location/Directions
About 25 miles east of Modesto on the south side of the Tuolumne River. From Modesto take Highway 132 East 14 miles to Waterford; in Waterford turn right on Hickman Road (county road J-9) and drive 1 mile to Lake Road. Turn left on Lake Road and drive 10 miles to Turlock Lake SRA.

Address
22600 Lake Road
La Grange CA 95329

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
At elevation 250 feet, the recreation area boasts typical San Joaquin Valley weather, with warm summers and mild winters.

During the summer months nighttime temperatures usually drop to the high sixties and are comfortable for sleeping.

Facilities - Activities
Bounded on the north by the Tuolumne River and on the south by Turlock Lake, the recreation area provides an ideal setting for water-oriented outdoor activities. The recreation area features the lake with its 26 miles of shoreline and the foothill country leased from the Turlock Irrigation District in 1950. Picnicking, day-use, and boat launch ramps are offered at the lake. Overnight visitors are welcome at the 66 site campground located on the shady south bank of the Tuolumne River about 1 mile from the lake.

From several lookout point, visitors can view the surrounding savannas and some of the cattle ranches and orchards nearby. And from Lake Road which separates the campground from the day use area, an excellent perspective is shown of the campground, the river and sloughs, and miles of dredger tailing piles-the by product of a half century of gold mining.

Heaviest use period is Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. After Labor Day and through October are perhaps the most ideal times to camp with warm and golden days, cool and comfortable nights, and uncrowded campgrounds.

Twin Lakes SB

The beach has a mile of sandy shoreline, popular for swimming and picnicking. The park's adjacent Schwan's lake is a good location for bird watching.

Location - Directions
The small craft harbor in downtown Santa Cruz is approximately in the middle of Twin Lakes State Beach, which extends for a distance parallel to East Cliff Drive and Portola Drive.

Seasons - Climate - Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Van Damme SP

Service Reduction Information
Trash Reduction - Removal of trash cans – 'Pack it in, Pack it out” signs installed in day use area. Reduction in the number of dumpsters and pick ups.

Restrooms - Closure of one of the chemical toilets in day use area. Reduction in cleaning and pump as needed.

Seasonal closures:

• Campsites 21 – 74 November 1, 2009 – March 26, 2010.
• Campsites 31 – 74 weekends only March 26, 2010 – April 29, 2010

Visitor Center closed November 1, 2009 – May 24, 2010.

Camp Host sites closed – November 1, 2009 – March 24, 2010.


Van Damme State Park consists of beach and upland on the Mendocino Coast. Of all park system units along the Mendocino coast, Van Damme is perhaps the richest in terms of historical resources connected with the redwood lumber industry. Its story is a prime example of the struggles and eventual failures of a small, independent lumber operation.

Location/Directions
The park is located three miles south of the town of Mendocino on Highway 1. The highway runs through the park separating the campground and the Fern Canyon trail head to the east and the beach and parking lot to the west.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

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Facilities - Activities

The park features the lush Fern Canyon scenic trail system; the Pygmy Forest where mature, cone-bearing cypress and pine trees stand six inches to eight feet tall; and the bog, or Cabbage Patch, where skunk cabbage grows in abundance. The park's ten miles of trail go along the fern-carpeted canyon of Little River. A paved road is used by joggers and bicyclists. The beach is popular with abalone divers.

Kayak Tours
Visitors can get a unique perspective of the coast line by taking the kayak tours, available through a concession agreement, at the Van Damme beach parking lot.

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About the Park

Van Damme State Park was named for Charles Van Damme who was born at Little River in 1881, son of John and Louise Van Damme, early settlers of the region. John Van Damme and his wife were a Flemish couple. The patriarch of the family was born in Ostend, Belgium on May 22, 1832. "Following the sea" for some years, Van Damme, upon his arrival in Mendocino County, later worked in the lumber mill at Little River. In this settlement all of his children were born, including Charles, whose love for the area prompted his acquiring, after some years as a successful operator of the Richmond-San Rafael ferry line, a plot of ground along the redwood coast. Upon his demise this area became a part of the State Park System in 1934.

In those early days lumbering was a major economic factor in the development of the northern coastline. Little River was built as a mill town in 1864 by Ruel Stickney, Silas Coombs and Tapping Reeves after the property, formally called Kents Cove, was purchased from W. H. Kent in 1862. Before long it had attained fame, not only as a lumber port, but as a shipyard; but a stand of timber, if logged, does not last forever and by the end of the century, even though logging was periodically moved back into the headwaters of Little River, the mill was forced to close (1893).

What there was left of Little River soon deteriorated; the shipyard, the wharf, the town, several chutes for loading lumber and the lumber mill itself. Activity at the port, which once hummed with activity, declined. Little River's school, once attended by close to 100 students, closed; its weekly steamship service ended, and a shipyard where, in 1874, Captain Thomas Peterson turned out full-size lumber schooners for the coast wide trade, phased out. Only the schooner Little River returned, to be wrecked on the very beach from which it originally departed.

Plagued by a lack of sufficient timber reserves, fires, loss of substantial business, deterioration of wharf's and chutes, the end of coast wide shipping and the attendant decline in population, Little River reverted to a natural state. Its acquisition by the State Park System in 1934, and the subsequent addition of peripheral lands has preserved some of California's most interesting natural resources.

Verdugo Mountains

The purpose of the Verdugo Mountains property, in Los Angeles County, is to preserve and protect as urban open space a remnant of natural lands located near the city of Glendale in the north portion of the heavily urbanized Los Angeles basin. The property, a geologically detached piece of the San Gabriel Mountains, offers vistas towards the main range and contains only a moderate level of its original biological diversity.

Ward Creek

The purpose of the Ward Creek property, in Placer County, is to preserve and protect an area of undeveloped upland forest and meadowland south of Ward Creek, located on the west side of the Lake Tahoe Basin. The property includes frontage on Ward Creek and provides regional open space which offers connections to other public forest and recreation ands.

Washoe Meadows SP

Washoe Meadows State Park consists of meadows and woodlands in the valley at the base of the escarpment leading to Echo Summit. The park was named for the Native Americans who inhabited the area for thousands of years.
The park lands have not been developed
Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing Summer temperatures range from about 75 degrees during the day to the low 40s at night, and winter temperatures average from a high of 40 to a low of 20 degrees.

Wassama Round House SHP

This site is used by local Native Americans as a ceremonial meeting place. The park features special events and tours. Gathering Day, held the third Saturday of October, includes demonstrations of dancing, crafts and basket weaving.
Location - Directions
The park is five miles northwest of Oakhurst off Highway 49.
Latitude/Longitude Ahwahnee, CA 37.3656 / -119.7253

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Watts Towers of Simon Rodia SHP

The Watts Towers are a complex set of 17 separate sculptural pieces built on a residential lot in the community of Watts. Two of the towers rise to a height of nearly 100 feet. The sculptures are constructed from steel pipes and rods, wrapped with wire mesh, coated with mortar, and embedded with pieces of porcelain, tile and glass. Using simple hand tools and cast off materials (broken glass, sea shells, generic pottery and ceramic tile) Italian immigrant, Simon Rodia spent 30 years (1921 to 1955) building a tribute to his adopted country and a monument to the spirit of individuals who make their dreams tangible.

The Watts Towers are one of only nine works of folk art listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The site is one of only four US National Historic Landmarks in the city of Los Angeles. The site is now a unit of California State Parks and managed by the Los Angeles City Cultural Affairs Department.

The Los Angeles City Cultural Affairs Department, through the Watts Towers Arts Center, provides diverse cultural enrichment programming through tours, lectures, changing exhibits and studio workshops for both teachers and school children. Each year, thousands of people are attracted to the Towers' site for the Simon Rodia Watts Towers Jazz Festival and the Watt Towers Day of the Drum Festival.
Location/Directions
The towers are located at 1765 East 107th Street, Los Angeles, CA
Latitude/Longitude: 33.9406 / -118.2419

Facilities/Activities
The City of Los Angeles operates Watts Towers of Simon Rodia SHP -- please visit its website for additional information.

Weaverville Joss House SHP

The Temple of the Forest Beneath the Clouds
The temple is the oldest continuously used Chinese temple in California. On display are art objects, pictures, mining tools, and weapons used in the 1854 Tong War. This Taoist temple is still a place of worship and a fascinating look into the role played by Chinese immigrants in early California history. The temple was built in 1874 as a replacement for another that had burned.

In an effort to preserve this important part of California's Chinese tradition, the temple became a part of the California State Park System in 1956. Many of the historical objects have been restored and the structure itself stabilized. In addition to the temple equipment, park visitors will see Chinese art objects, pictures, mining tools, and wrought iron weapons used in the 1854 Tong War.
Location-Directions
The Temple is located in the heart of Weaverville, a small community near the Trinity Alps on Highway 299 about fifty miles west of Redding and about 105 miles east of Eureka. Weaver Creek runs nearby and locust trees complete the rural setting.
Weaverville Latitude/Longitude: 40.7311 / -122.9408 Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
Climate in the Shasta-Cascade Region varies greatly with elevation. Higher elevations tend to have much cooler temperatures and higher precipitation. Summer weather is usually hot and dry with lower elevation temperatures ranging from 85° - 100°+F and lows from 60° - 70°. Fall days are usually mild and warm, with cool nights. Winter is when most of the precipitation falls, averaging over 55 inches per year, much of it in the form of snow in the high elevations. Highs range from 40° - 60° and lows from 30° - 40° in the lower elevations. Spring weather is variable with many pleasant days.

Westport-Union Landing SB

Westport Union-Landing State Beach covers over 3 miles of rugged and scenic coastline, with 46 campsites on the bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The magnificent vistas, sunsets and tree covered mountains in the background provide inspiring challenges to both amateur and professional photographers.

The park was named for two early day communities. Westport, a sawmill town, is still in existence and Union Landing now consists of only a few buildings. Both of these settlements were famous for supplying lumber and railroad ties, and Tan Oak bark to the schooners which anchored off shore. The schooners were loaded with forest products by means of intricate cable tramways and chutes from the bluffs.

Location/Directions
Located 19 miles north of Fort Bragg on Highway 1 and 2 miles north of Westport.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

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Facilities - Activities

Fishing
Several small sandy beaches and one large beach located at the mouth of Howard Creek provide some good sport for fishermen; the Surf Smelt (Hyomesus pretiosus) come in near shore to spawn in the surf during the day. Night Smelt (Spirinchus Starksi) come in to spawn at night. These smelt 6 to 10 inches in length, are called surf fish and night fish by the sportsmen who take them in nets as they approach the beach to spawn. Several kinds of rock fish and abalone are taken when tides and ocean conditions are right. Water temperatures of around 52 degrees and a surging bellowing surf discourages all but the hardy individual.

Wilder Ranch SP

The park has 34 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian rails winding through coastal terraces and valleys. Several restored buildings once belonging to the Wilder family are preserved. The park has tours and living history demonstrations to help visitors explore the history of early ranchers and farmers along the Central Coast. The site was originally the main rancho supplying Santa Cruz Mission. It later became a successful and innovative dairy ranch. Surrounding grounds include Victorian homes, gardens, and historic adobe.

Location - Directions
The park is north of Santa Cruz, immediately west of Highway One, just a mile or so past the Western Drive stoplight.

Seasons - Climate - Recommended clothing
The weather can be changeable; layered clothing is recommended.

Call (831) 426-0505 (the Wilder Ranch Interpretive Center) for information regarding tours and interpretive activities.

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Wilder Ranch Restoration Plan
Wilder Ranch State Park includes coastal habitat and recreational area with some in agriculture, some cattle grazing and a culture preserve. Approximately 110 acres were identified to be restored to historic habitat conditions and native vegetation. The area had great potential as a model for the restoration of coastal wetlands. It included Wilder Beach, saltmarsh, grassland, and riparian habitats, as well as three agricultural fields. From 1992 to 1994, the Benthic Lab group researched historical land use, and past and present physical and biological conditions of the Wilder Ranch restoration area. They proposed and designed restoration alternatives. The information was presented as a plan which the California Department of Parks and Recreation used to develop and implement the restoration of the park.

The restoration has been extremely successful. Since 1994, the agricultural fields have been returned to wetland and riparian habitats with their native tree, shrub and plant species. Wetland birds, and hawks nest in habitat that formerly was farmland. Red-legged frogs and other wetland animals have moved into the area. The riparian corridor along Wilder Creek has been widened to about 100 feet. Dogwood, alder, cottonwood and willows planted in 1994 have grown at a good rate, with some trees already over twenty feet tall. The adjacent upland restoration also has been successful. With continued monitoring to eradicate pest plant species such as hemlock and thistle, Wilder Ranch will become one of the showcase coastal wetland restoration sites.

Restoration Flyer (PDF)

Benthic Ecology Research Group - Moss Landing Marine Laboratories

Wildwood Canyon

This property is new and may not be available for public use, pending necessary planning, facility development and staffing.

Will Rogers SB

Will Rogers State Beach extends one and three-quarters mile along the shore. The beach features swimming and skin diving. Facilities include volleyball courts, playground and gymnastic equipment, as well as a bike path and walkway. A number of movies and TV shows have been filmed at this beach.

Location/Directions
The beach is located off the Pacific Coast Highway, near the intersection with Temescal Canyon Road.

Facilities/Activities
Los Angeles County Dept. of Beaches & Harbors operates Will Rogers SB -- please visit their website for additional information.

Will Rogers SHP

Will Rogers was the most popular and highest paid actor in Hollywood. From his start in vaudeville theater with a trick roping act, he rose to world-wide fame as a columnist, philosopher, radio personality, and movie star. During the 1920s, he bought land in Santa Monica, where he developed a ranch. Eventually, the Rogers' owned 186 acres overlooking the Pacific Ocean, in what is now known as Pacific Palisades.

The ranch became the place where Will Rogers could relax with his family and friends, pursuing his favorite pastimes of riding and roping. At his untimely death in a plane crash in 1935, Will Rogers' ranch consisted of a 31-room ranch house, a stable, corrals, riding ring, roping arena, polo field, golf course, and hiking trails. When his widow, Betty, died in 1944, the ranch became a state park.

Activities at the Park
The Park is undergoing a major historic renovation project that will restore the landscape to its appearance during Will Rogers' time. In the past two years, the Department has restored the ranch house and completed significant portions of the landscape restoration program. Over the next several years, the Department will be restoring the historic structures and relocating the maintenance facilities away from the historic zone.

Ranch House Tours
Park staff and docents offer tours of the Ranch House Thursdays and Fridays, at 11 am, 1 pm, and 2 pm. Ranch House tours on Saturday and Sunday are from 10 am to 4pm, on the top of the hour. School group tours and special group tours: Thursday and Fridays at 10 am. For more information call the Park Interpretive Staff at (310) 454-8212, ext. 103.

Equestrian Activities
The Will Rogers Polo Club plays polo every weekend from April to October. Equestrians are welcome to bring their horses to the park for day-use to enjoy the riding and roping arena, Sarah's Point, and the trail to Inspiration Point. Will Rogers SHP will offer horse rentals at the park this Fall, check back to this webpage for more information.

Hiking Trails
Hikers can enjoy a moderate 3-mile loop to Inspiration Point. Adventurous hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians can tackle the Backbone Trail into the Santa Monica Mountains, which can take you all the way to Point Mugu.

Ranch Tours
The Park Interpretive Staff offers tours of the ranch house and grounds. However, you and your family can enjoy many features of our Park on your own.

William B. Ide Adobe SHP

William B. Ide wrote the proclamation that established the short-lived California Bear Republic in 1846. It lasted 22 days. Ide recognized the opportunities available to him in the West and as a surveyor, miner, treasurer, district attorney, deputy clerk, and judge, provided support and leadership to this northern part of California. While the park memorializes Ide's role in early California history, recent research has shown he never owned the property.

Like William B. Ide, pioneer settlers at Adobe Ranch arrived in California envisioning opportunities. Facing hardships and challenges, they took advantage of the ranch's location on the river to transform the site. Contrary to the quiet, rural impression the park leaves today, the ranch's location near the California-Oregon Road and adjacent to the Sacramento River (important communication and transportation arteries) probably kept its residents well connected. During the Gold Rush and afterwards, a succession of pack-mule trains, travelers on foot, herds of cattle and sheep, freight wagons, stagecoaches and riverboats moved up and down the valley and along the river.

Depending upon the water's depth, steamboats would transport goods and passengers to the most northerly navigable point on the river. From there, they were off loaded. The property owners made the most of this location in the 1860s by establishing a ferry across the Sacramento River. Cross-country travelers depended upon ferries to make their river crossings safe and easy. Later bridges built in the area made them obsolete.

The park today reflects the hard work it took to maintain life away from California's urban centers in mid-19th century. Visitors touring the visitor center and ranch buildings will be able to learn about the special skills and work activities of California pioneers, comparing them to their own lives. Educational programs tied into school programs offer students hands-on learning experiences that emphasize the lifeways associated with the early settlers.

Facilities
Enjoy a picnic overlooking the Sacramento River. The park features the old adobe home, carriage shed, blacksmith shop and a visitor center.

Location-Directions
The park is located south of Redding, in Red Bluff on Adobe Road, one-half mile from Interstate 5.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
Summer and spring are warm; fall and winter can be cool. Layered clothing is advised.

Special Events
Come visit during Adobe Day, the 3rd Saturday in August, to enjoy the period music of the Ide Adobe Players and experience "hands-on" pioneer crafts and period activities at this historic ranch and ferry crossing.

Cheer the competition at the Ide's Ferry Champion Horseshoe Pitchers Contest on the Second Saturday in October. It represents a period-style 1850s contest, complete with authentic attire (provided). Only amateurs or backyarders may participate! The winner takes home a gold-filled pocket watch.

The Pioneer Christmas Party is celebrated the third Saturday in December and emphasizes early holiday traditions of the north valley.

Woodland Opera House SHP

The Woodland Opera House Theatre offers five Mainstage Productions from September to June. The theatre also has a Summer Melodrama Program, a Youth Theatre Camp in August of each year and a Young People's Theatre Program.

With our School Outreach Program, the Woodland Opera House and Yolo County schools bring local classes, grades K-12, to the theatre for professional and Young People's Theatre performances. Special events and guest artists' programs are held at the Woodland Opera House throughout the year. The theatre also has numerous rental events by local organizations for the public's entertainment.

Location-Directions
Located at the corner of Main and Second Street in historic downtown Woodland, the Opera House is two walking blocks from eight restaurants and has plenty of safe, off-street parking.

• From Sacramento take I-5 North to the Main Street exit. Turn left and continue one mile to downtown Woodland.
  
• From the Bay Area, Dixon-Vacaville area, take I-80 East to Highway 113 North (Woodland Exit). Continue 9 miles to the Main Street Exit. Turn left and continue one mile to the downtown area.
  

Woodson Bridge SRA

Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area is a beautiful oak woodland park nestled along the Sacramento River between Chico and Red Bluff. Mount Shasta, Mount Lassen, and the Trinity Alps loom in the distance.

A boat launch ramp located across the road in the county park makes for easy access to the river for those who enjoy water sports. A broad sand and gravel beach provides the opportunity to enjoy the sun and enjoy the Sacramento River.

Another special feature of Woodson Bridge is the preserve. This dense native riparian forest is a winter home to the Bald Eagle and a summer nest site for the Yellow Billed Cuckoo. This jungle like grove displays some of the last remaining riparian habitat to be found in California.

Over a hundred plant species have been identified throughout the park; the most prominent is the large valley oak. The California black walnut, Oregon ash, black cottonwood, sycamore, and willow are also plentiful. Beneath the oaks and cottonwoods along the river is a profusion of elderberry, wild grape, and wildflowers in season.

Location-Directions
The park is on South Avenue just three miles west of Highway 99 at Vina, or six miles east of interstate 5 at Corning.
Latitude/Longitude: 39.9175 / -122.0903

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
Spring and Fall are favored seasons at Woodson Bridge, but summer camping can also be delightful here. Summer daytime temperatures generally vary from 85 to just over 100 degrees, but cool nights are the rule.

Zmudowski SB

The beach is a popular fishing area, featuring perch, kingfish, sole, flounder, halibut, bocaccio (tomcod), jacksmelt, lingcod, cabezon, salmon, steelhead and occasional rockfish.

The beach features the Pajaro River estuary, where a natural preserve has been set aside.

The sandy beach is also popular with bird watchers and equestrians. Horses are only allowed near the waterline. Swimming and water sports are hazardous because of strong rip-currents.

Location-Directions
The beach is located 20 miles northwest of Monterey off Highway 1. Take Struve Road and turn to Giberson Road.

Seasons/Climate/Recommended Clothing
The weather can be changeable. Layered clothing is advised.