From Yosemite to Joshua Tree, California is full of internationally renowned, can’t-miss wild places.

It’s a huge state, so be sure to map out your wilderness destinations and match your outdoor activities with places you choose.

California’s gold – the travel favorites

Many California outdoor destinations draw international visitors because they are truly jaw-droppingly beautiful and unique.

Favorites include:

• Yosemite National Park
• Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park
• Death Valley National Park
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Big Sur coastline

Be sure to check the California national park website for closures and fees.

From Yosemite to Joshua Tree, California is full of internationally renowned, can’t-miss wild places.

California wild lands – scenic and less crowded

For travelers who prefer quieter destinations, California offers 18 national forests and millions of acres of other federal public lands to experience the outdoors, including:

• Sierra Nevada forests
• Bodie Hills
• Berryessa Snow Mountain
• Mojave National Preserve

Many state parks are also on beautiful wild lands. 

See also:

California: When to go

Experience the California Desert

Helpful links

• National Parks in California:

http://www.nps.gov/state/ca/index.htm?program=parks

• Visit California:

http://www.visitcalifornia.com/

• California Bureau of Land Management:

http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en.html

• Sierra Nevada GeoTourism:

http://www.sierranevadageotourism.org/