CALIFORNIA

Above : Yosemite National Park


YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

    Certainly one of the most iconic United State's National Parks is Yosemite.  Beautiful meadows beneath uniquely sculpted walls of granite, mirroring lakes and unbelievable waterfalls make this a crown jewel of the High Sierra.  Tent camping is available at multiple campgrounds in the park but I personally prefer Camp 4 because of its historic significance to rock climbing and its location in the valley.  Camp 4 is a TENT ONLY campground.  Tent camping at Camp 4 is first come first serve for $6.00 per person, per night.

    Important :  If you are planning on camping without a reservation arrive early! Around 6am is a safe bet. Camp 4 fills up very quickly so be there early making sure to have a good spot in line for a high chance of obtaining a site.  All party members must be present and in line together, with ID's and cash for payment.

 

Recommended Trails:

1.)  Top of half dome (Difficult : 15.6 miles.  Permit required.)

2.)  Mist Trail  (7 miles)

3.)  Panorama Trail  (9 miles)

 

 

Big Basin Redwoods state park

    Located in the Santa Cruz Mountains is California's oldest state park, Big Basin Redwoods.  Hiking trails within Big Basin offer towering coastal redwoods and beautiful waterfalls with a lush forest floor.  While hiking be sure to keep your eyes open for banana slugs, newts and salamanders located in damp areas of the forest.  Camping costs $35.00 a night per tent site and there are well maintained bathrooms with showers available for a couple dollars in quarters.

 

Recommended Trails:

1.) Berry creek falls loop  (9.5 miles)

2.)  Skyline to the sea trail (27 miles)

3.) Creeping forest trail  (2 miles)

 

Mendocino

    On California's northern pacific coastline is the city of Mendocino.  Multiple State Parks are located along Highway 1 from Little River to Fort Bragg providing  many places for beach camping and recreation.  Abalone diving is a very popular activity here and these coastal towns provide great places to enjoy restaurants, coffee houses, and shopping for travelers .   First come first serve tent camping is available for $35.00 per night.  

 

Recommended Trails:

1.)  Fern Canyon Trail in Van Damme Beach State Park (8 miles)

2.)  Point Cabrillo Lighthouse 

3.)  Mendocino Headlands Trail  (4 miles)

 

Del Norte Coast redwoods state park

Located on California’s Pacific coastline and home to the tallest trees in the world, Del Norte Coast State Park is a true Cali gem. This state park is just south of Crescent City providing easy access for food, lodging, gas, and other necessities while traveling. Mill Creek Campground offers well maintained bathrooms and beautiful first come first serve campsites at a cost of $35.00 each night.

RECOMMENDED TRails:

1.) Saddler Skyline Trail (1.5 miles)

2.) Hobbs Wall Trail (3.4 miles)

3.) Battery Point Lighthouse in Crecent City (1 mile)