The 30 Best California outdoor attractions in Mountain View, California

Hillcrest Suites & Cabins offers cozy and comfortable accommodations in the picturesque town of Big Bear Lake, California. Nestled among the towering trees and stunning mountain views, our lodging options provide a peaceful retreat for guests looking to relax and unwind. Whether you choose a spacious suite or a charming cabin, you'll enjoy modern amenities and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Conveniently located on Big Bear Boulevard, our institution is just a short drive away from the lake, ski resorts, and other popular attractions. Experience the beauty of the great outdoors while enjoying the comforts of home at Hillcrest Suites & Cabins.

Timberline Lodge is a charming and cozy accommodation nestled in the heart of Big Bear, California. This lodge offers comfortable lodging options for visitors looking to explore the beautiful surroundings of Big Bear Lake. Additionally, Timberline Lodge also serves as a real estate agency, helping visitors find their dream vacation home in this picturesque area. The lodge also operates as a travel agency, providing guests with information and guidance on the best attractions and activities in Big Bear. Whether you're looking for a place to stay, a new home, or travel advice, Timberline Lodge is the perfect destination for your Big Bear getaway.

Golden Bear Cottages is a charming lodging institution located in Big Bear Lake, California, United States. Situated at 39367 Big Bear Boulevard, this cozy retreat offers guests a peaceful and tranquil escape in the heart of the beautiful San Bernardino Mountains. The cottages are tastefully decorated and fully equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy the serene surroundings, take in the fresh mountain air, and explore the nearby attractions such as Big Bear Lake and the ski resorts. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, Golden Bear Cottages is the perfect destination for a memorable stay in Big Bear Lake.

Biebrach Park is a charming green space located at 520 West Virginia Street in San Jose, California. This beautiful park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush grassy areas, shady trees, and well-maintained walking paths. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply relax and take in the natural surroundings. Biebrach Park is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature in the heart of San Jose.

Glen Helen Regional Park, located at 2555 Glen Helen Parkway in San Bernardino, California, is a diverse recreational facility offering a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. From fishing in the two stocked lakes to enjoying the swim complex with water slides and splash pad, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this park. The park also features large group shelter picnic areas, playgrounds, disc golf course, and beautiful trails for hiking. Additionally, the park is home to the Glen Helen Amphitheater, which hosts concerts and events throughout the year. With its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ample amenities, Glen Helen Regional Park is the perfect destination for a family outing, company picnic, or group event. Visit the park's website for more information on upcoming events and activities.

Alston Park is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 2037 Dry Creek Road in Napa, California, United States. This sprawling park offers visitors a serene escape with its lush greenery, winding trails, and stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains. Perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, Alston Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to unwind and relax in the heart of California's wine country.

McNee Ranch State Park, located in Montara, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its coastal mountain habitat and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy hiking on winding trails, exploring the beach, and taking in the natural beauty of the area. The park offers a variety of activities, including sunbathing, surfing, and nature study. Although camping is not available at McNee Ranch State Park, visitors can explore nearby state park campgrounds such as Half Moon Bay State Beach and Butano State Park. Dogs are permitted on a leash, but beach fires and collecting natural items are prohibited. Additionally, drones are not allowed in the park to protect wildlife and cultural resources.

Lighthouse Field State Beach, located in Santa Cruz, California, is a popular park and tourist attraction. This area, also known as Point Santa Cruz, offers stunning views of Monterey Bay and is one of the last open headlands in any California urban area. Visitors can enjoy surfing, bird watching, and even spot sea lions on the offshore rocks. The park is also home to the rare Black Swift and wintering Monarch butterflies. One unique feature of Lighthouse Field State Beach is the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, located in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse on West Cliff Drive. This museum showcases over 100 years of surfing history in Santa Cruz with photographs, surfboards, and other interesting items.

Garden of Eden - Henry Cowell Redwood State Park is a stunning tourist attraction located at California 9, Felton, California, United States. The park is open from sunrise to sunset, with the Visitor Center open daily from 10am to 4pm and the Mountain Parks Foundation Nature Store open from 11am to 5pm. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance and enjoy activities such as hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, swimming, and camping on over 4,650 acres of forested and open land. The park is most famous for its 40-acre grove of towering old-growth redwood trees, some of which are over 1,500 years old. The park also features diverse habitats including grasslands, river/riparian areas, sandhills, and redwoods. Visitors may spot wildlife such as banana slugs, black-tailed deer, coyotes, and more. The park also offers guided hikes and public programs, as well as naturalist-led backpacking trips through the Santa Cruz Mountains. Additionally, visitors can pay parking fees using the Yodel app on their smartphones. The park is a Crumb Clean environment, protecting the endangered marbled murrelet bird that nests in the area. Visitors can learn about the history and ecology of the park on the Redwoods Experience trail, a flat loop trail through the old-growth redwood grove. The park also offers camping facilities, and nearby Roaring Camp Railroad provides historic train rides through the redwoods.

The Sports Center at Santa Lucia Preserve is a hidden gem located at 81 Rancho San Carlos Road in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Nestled on 20,000 acres of pristine land, this private community offers a tranquil escape just 10 minutes away from the bustling city. The Preserve is home to a conservation land trust that protects 18,000 acres of land in perpetuity, ensuring the preservation of its natural beauty for generations to come. The centerpiece of this exclusive community is the Ranch Club, which boasts world-class amenities such as a state-of-the-art Sports Center, a renowned Equestrian Center, three dining venues, and a historic Hacienda for lodging. Residents and non-residents alike can enjoy a variety of activities including golf, glamping, water sports at Moore's Lake, and classes in a wide range of disciplines.

Sandspit Beach, located in San Luis Obispo, California, is a park within Montaña de Oro State Park. With over 8000 acres of land and seven miles of shoreline, it is one of the largest state parks in California. Visitors can enjoy stunning views, fresh breezes, and the sound of the ocean at this beautiful beach. Dogs are allowed in the campground, roadways, and Spooner’s Cove Beach, but must be kept on a leash. Campsites and lodging can be reserved up to six months in advance, allowing visitors to plan their stay accordingly.

Malibu Creek State Park, located at 1925 Las Virgenes Road in Calabasas, California, is a popular tourist attraction offering a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, bird watching, mountain biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. Visitors can make same-day reservations for campsites and lodging, subject to availability and maximum stay rules. The park features 15 miles of streamside trails through oak and sycamore woodlands, offering stunning views of Malibu Creek, volcanic rock gorges, and the Las Virgenes Valley. The area has historical significance as the center of Chumash Native American life and was used extensively for filming movies and TV shows, including Planet of the Apes and M*A*S*H. The park also includes the Sepulveda Adobe and Mott Adobe ruins. Dogs are allowed in designated areas only, and there are token-operated showers available. Firewood burning is allowed in fire rings on designated days, and visitors can check the fire level at the campground entrance. The park offers educational programs, special events, and wedding venues. For more information, visitors can contact the park directly or visit their website.

Inspiration Point Trailhead is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located on Spyglass Ridge Road in Santa Barbara, California, United States. This stunning trailhead offers breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty, making it the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. With its convenient location and stunning vistas, Inspiration Point Trailhead is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Santa Barbara.

Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 58075 Jefferson Street in La Quinta, California. This park is not only a popular tourist attraction, but also a peaceful and tranquil retreat for veterans and their families. With stunning views of Lake Cahuilla and the surrounding mountains, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, picnicking, and camping. The park also features a playground for children, BBQ areas for gatherings, and plenty of open space for relaxation. Whether you are looking for a fun day out with the family or a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park is the perfect destination.

Malibu Creek Rock Pools is a popular tourist attraction located in Agoura Hills, California, United States. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, bird watching, mountain biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding in the beautiful Malibu Creek State Park. The park features 15 miles of streamside trails through oak and sycamore woodlands, offering stunning views of volcanic rock gorges, scenic pools, and the surrounding valleys. The area has a rich cultural history, being the center of Chumash Native American life for centuries. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Sepulveda Adobe and the Mott Adobe ruins, which have been featured in various movies and TV shows. The park also offers camping facilities with token-operated showers and firewood policies. Dogs are allowed only in designated areas such as the campground and day-use picnic areas. Visitors can make same-day reservations for campsites and lodging, and are encouraged to check the park's website for any special events or educational programs.

Tenaja Falls Trailhead is a picturesque park located in Murrieta, California, United States. This scenic spot is the starting point for the Tenaja Falls Trail, a popular hiking route that leads to a stunning waterfall. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk through the lush forest, taking in the sights and sounds of nature along the way. The trailhead offers ample parking and restroom facilities for hikers' convenience. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape from the city, Tenaja Falls Trailhead is the perfect destination for a day of exploration and relaxation.

Thurman Flats Picnic Area is a charming park and popular tourist attraction located at 9025 California 38 in Mentone, California, United States. Nestled in the beautiful San Bernardino National Forest, this picturesque picnic area offers a serene setting for families and friends to gather and enjoy a leisurely day outdoors. With ample picnic tables, BBQ pits, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, Thurman Flats is the perfect spot for a relaxing day trip or weekend getaway. Whether you're looking to have a peaceful picnic, go for a scenic hike, or simply unwind in nature, Thurman Flats Picnic Area is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Overlook is a popular tourist attraction located in Klamath, California, United States. Situated in a stunning natural setting, Overlook offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including lush forests, rolling hills, and the majestic Klamath River. This picturesque spot is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to experience the beauty of Northern California. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape or simply want to admire the scenic vistas, Overlook is a must-visit destination for your next adventure.

Klamath National Forest, located in Yreka, California, is a stunning natural park and popular tourist attraction in the United States. Spanning over 1.7 million acres, this forest is home to diverse wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and endless outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing in this pristine wilderness. With its towering trees, crystal-clear lakes, and majestic mountain peaks, Klamath National Forest is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Lucerne Harbor Park, located in Lucerne, California, is a picturesque park nestled along the shores of Clear Lake in Lake County. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the water and surrounding mountains, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, have a picnic in the park, or even launch a boat from the harbor. With its serene atmosphere and natural beauty, Lucerne Harbor Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors in Northern California.

Lakeside Park in Lake County Parks is a picturesque destination located at 1985 Park Drive in Kelseyville, California. This park offers stunning views of the surrounding lakes and mountains, making it a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, picnicking, and bird watching. With its serene atmosphere and beautiful landscapes, Lakeside Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the heart of nature.

Lucerne Alpine Park, part of Lake County Parks, is a stunning natural oasis located in Lucerne, California. Situated along California Highway 20, this park offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Alpine region. With its lush greenery, serene atmosphere, and picturesque views of the surrounding mountains, Lucerne Alpine Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to hike, picnic, or simply relax by the lake, this park provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Plan your visit to Lucerne Alpine Park today and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden gem in Lake County.

Mount Konocti County Park is a stunning park and popular tourist attraction located at 5413-5553 Konocti Road in Kelseyville, California, United States. This beautiful park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and is a great place for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the great outdoors. With its diverse flora and fauna, Mount Konocti County Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting adventure, this park has something for everyone.

Alvarado Park, located at 5755 McBryde Avenue in Richmond, California, is a popular tourist attraction and park in the United States. The park offers a range of amenities, including picnic areas, a children's playground, and access to Wildcat Creek. The park is part of the larger Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, which spans 2,789 acres and offers a variety of trails for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Visitors to Alvarado Park can enjoy the historic stonework, lush greenery, and peaceful setting just steps away from the bustling city of Richmond. The park is open during various hours depending on the season, with different closing times from November to February, March to May, June to August, and September to October.

The Mount Tamalpais Watershed is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 49 Sky Oaks Road in Fairfax, California, United States. This beautiful natural area is home to diverse flora and fauna, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities while exploring the pristine wilderness of the watershed. With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery, the Mount Tamalpais Watershed is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Mariposa Park is a charming tourist attraction located at 305 Mariposa Avenue in Mountain View, California, United States. This beautiful park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, colorful flowers, and serene walking paths. Visitors can enjoy picnics, leisurely strolls, and outdoor activities in this idyllic setting. Mariposa Park is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature in the heart of Silicon Valley.

The Redwood Picnic Area at Huddart Park is a picturesque tourist attraction located in Redwood City, California, United States. Surrounded by towering redwood trees, this peaceful spot offers the perfect setting for a relaxing picnic with family and friends. Visitors can enjoy the fresh mountain air, scenic views, and the opportunity to connect with nature in this serene outdoor space. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a fun day out in the sun, the Redwood Picnic Area at Huddart Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Shoreline Lake Boathouse is a charming tourist attraction located at 3160 North Shoreline Boulevard in Mountain View, California. Situated on the picturesque shoreline of the lake, this boathouse offers a variety of water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding nature while exploring the calm waters of the lake. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the water or an adventurous outing with friends and family, Shoreline Lake Boathouse is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Tarwater Trailhead Parking is a convenient parking facility located at the Tarwater Trail in La Honda, California. This popular tourist attraction serves as the starting point for numerous hiking and biking trails, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the beautiful natural surroundings of the area. With ample parking spaces and easy access to the trailhead, Tarwater Trailhead Parking is the perfect place to begin your outdoor adventure in the stunning California landscape.

Highlands Park is a charming tourist attraction located at 1336 Pennsylvania Boulevard in Concord, California, United States. This beautiful park offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll, a picnic with friends and family, or simply a place to unwind and connect with nature, Highlands Park is the perfect destination. With its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque setting, this park is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.