TOP 30 Best Guided nature trips in California

Located at 700 Dover Drive in Newport Beach, California, Castaways Park is a popular tourist attraction that offers stunning views of Newport Back Bay and Harbor. This park is perfect for taking a leisurely walk along its flat paths and is home to the 1/1 memorial. With amenities such as benches, parking lot, bay view, and ocean view, Castaways Park is the ideal spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of Newport Beach. In addition to exploring the park, visitors can also check out the Visit Newport Beach blog for the latest news, trends, and hot spots in the area. Whether you're looking for a place to stay, dine, or simply unwind, Newport Beach has a variety of options to choose from.

Enchanted Hills Park is a beautiful park located in Perris, California, United States. This enchanting park offers a serene and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and picnic areas, Enchanted Hills Park is the perfect place for families and nature lovers to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply take in the natural beauty of the surroundings, Enchanted Hills Park has something for everyone. Come and experience the magic of Enchanted Hills Park today!

Aviara Community Park is a beautiful and expansive park located at 6435 Ambrosia Lane in Carlsbad, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a wide range of amenities and activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. From playgrounds and sports fields to walking trails and picnic areas, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Aviara Community Park. Whether you're looking to relax in the sunshine or get active and play a game of basketball or soccer, this park has it all. With its lush greenery and serene atmosphere, Aviara Community Park is the perfect place to spend a day outdoors with family and friends.

La Costa Canyon Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 3018 Pueblo Street in Carlsbad, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the surrounding canyon and is the perfect spot for picnics, hiking, and enjoying the great outdoors. With its well-maintained trails and peaceful atmosphere, La Costa Canyon Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or a challenging hike, this park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Glorietta Bay Park is a picturesque waterfront park located at 1975 Strand Way in San Diego, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the bay and Coronado Bridge, making it the perfect spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and outdoor recreation. The park features lush green spaces, a playground for children, and a beach area for sunbathing and swimming. Visitors can also enjoy biking and rollerblading along the scenic paths, as well as boating and kayaking in the bay. With its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, Glorietta Bay Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

San Carlo Park is a beautiful green space located at 15 San Carlo in Irvine, California. This serene park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush trees, manicured lawns, and walking paths for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to relax with a book, have a picnic with friends, or take a leisurely stroll, San Carlo Park provides the perfect setting. With its convenient location in Irvine, this park is a popular spot for residents and visitors alike to unwind and connect with nature.

Westport-Union Landing State Beach is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 25000 Hillshore Drive in Westport, California, United States. The park offers over 3 miles of rugged coastline, with 86 campsites available in three campgrounds overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The stunning views, sunsets, and tree-covered mountains provide a beautiful backdrop for visitors and photographers alike. The park is named after the early communities of Westport and Union Landing, known for supplying lumber and railroad ties to schooners offshore. The park offers fishing opportunities, with smelt and rock fish available to catch. The weather can be changeable, so layered clothing is recommended.

Shell Beach is a picturesque tourist attraction located at 39200 California 1 in Sea Ranch, California. This stunning beach is known for its abundance of unique shells that wash up on the shore, making it a popular destination for shell collectors and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can take leisurely strolls along the sandy shoreline, soaking in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and exploring the diverse marine life that inhabits the area. With its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty, Shell Beach is the perfect spot for a relaxing day by the sea.

Lake Sonoma Recreation Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Geyserville, California. Nestled along the picturesque Stewarts Point-Skaggs Springs Road, this institution offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area. With its crystal clear lake, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails, Lake Sonoma Recreation Area is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, go fishing, or take a leisurely stroll through the park, this institution has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and serenity of Lake Sonoma Recreation Area today.

Bear Gulch Day Use Area is a park and tourist attraction located in Paicines, California, United States. Visitors can enjoy various hiking trails with different levels of difficulty, from easy to strenuous. The area offers stunning views of rock formations, talus caves, and wildlife. Highlights include the Balconies Cave, Condor Gulch Trail, and Chalone Peak Trail. The institution also features accessible trails for visitors in wheelchairs. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Bear Gulch Day Use Area has something for everyone to enjoy in the great outdoors.

Carrizo Plain National Monument, located in Santa Margarita, California, is a hidden gem offering visitors a chance to experience untouched nature. This vast grassland is home to diverse wildlife and plant species, some of which are endangered. The monument features unique geological formations, including the San Andreas Fault, and stunning natural features like Soda Lake. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours and witness breathtaking wildflower displays when conditions are right. It is important to follow rules and guidelines while visiting, including respecting the Painted Rock Exclusion Zone and observing pet regulations. Nearby gateway communities provide essential services for visitors. Plan your trip accordingly and immerse yourself in the beauty of Carrizo Plain National Monument.

Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 15 Laurel Avenue in Yuba City, California, United States. This sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, offering a peaceful and serene environment to observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. The sanctuary is meticulously maintained and features well-marked trails, informative signage, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you are a seasoned birder or just looking for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary is the perfect destination for a day of exploration and relaxation.

Butano State Park, located at 1500 Cloverdale Road in Pescadero, California, is a beautiful tourist attraction and park that offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Dogs are allowed in campgrounds, paved areas, and on fire roads, making it a great destination for pet owners. Online reservations can be made 24/7, allowing visitors to plan their trip in advance. The park is currently undergoing a forest health project in collaboration with CAL FIRE and California State Parks to promote biodiversity, improve forest health, and reduce the risk of high-intensity fires. With over 4,000 acres of canyons and uplands, the park features 40 miles of hiking trails that wind through diverse ecosystems including oak woodland, wet riparian, and chaparral.

Portola Redwoods State Park is a tranquil oasis nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, just a short drive from Silicon Valley. Visitors can explore 2,800 acres of lush redwood forest, meandering creeks, and stunning waterfalls. The park offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, and picnicking. With 55 family campsites, 4 group campsites, and a trail camp for backpackers, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Dogs are welcome in designated areas, but please note that there is no cell reception in the park. For those looking to volunteer or participate in guided backpacking trips, there are opportunities available through the Wilderness Patrol program and California State Parks Backpacking Adventures. Whether you're seeking a peaceful getaway in nature or a chance to give back to the community, Portola Redwoods State Park has something for everyone.

San Bernardino National Forest is a stunning natural oasis nestled in the mountains of Big Bear, California, United States. This expansive park is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from near and far to explore its lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and breathtaking mountain vistas. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a wide range of activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. With its diverse ecosystems and abundant recreational opportunities, San Bernardino National Forest offers a peaceful escape into the beauty of nature.

Fort Baker, located in Sausalito, California, is a historic tourist attraction with a rich history dating back to its days as a U.S. Army post in 1905. This 335-acre site, the 9th and final "Post-to-Park" conversion in the Golden Gate National Parks, features over 25 historic army buildings, a sheltered harbor, gun emplacements, and scenic trails that climb gently up from San Francisco Bay. Visitors can explore the historical significance of Horseshoe Cove through a history walk, identify elements on the buildings at Fort Baker, and visit the indoor/outdoor children's museum. The U.S. Coast Guard is also stationed at Fort Baker, protecting the public, environment, and national security.

Anthony Chabot Regional Park is a beautiful 3,304-acre park located at 9999 Redwood Road in Castro Valley, California. This park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, and horseback riding. With a public campground, 70 miles of trails, and access to Lake Chabot, Anthony Chabot Regional Park is a popular destination for nature lovers. Please note that there is a park curfew from 10pm to 5am, and gate hours for the campground and group camps are from 8am to 10pm, April through October. Parking is free, as is entry for dogs and guide/service dogs. The park can be accessed via Redwood Road from Skyline Blvd due to winter storm damage.

Parsons Landing is a secluded beach campground located in Avalon, California, United States. It is situated seven miles west of the village of Two Harbors and offers eight primitive sites that can accommodate up to eight people each. Accessible by a strenuous hike on the Silver Peak Trail or a walk on the West End Road, Parsons Landing is a popular destination for campers and hikers alike. Kayaking is also an option, with kayaks available for rent from the Two Harbors Dive Shop. Parsons Landing is part of the Trans-Catalina Trail, a challenging 38.5 mile hike across the island's interior. Lockers pre-stocked with firewood, a fire starter, and water are available for purchase, and reservations are required for individual camping. Campers must check in at the Two Harbors Visitor Services before beginning their hike, and there is a 10-day maximum stay at all campgrounds.

Cayucos State Beach, located at 99 5th Street in Cayucos, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its beautiful beaches, historical buildings, and charming beach town atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy activities such as surfing, swimming, tidepooling, windsurfing, jogging, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. The beach is equipped with picnic tables, play equipment, restrooms, and outside showers. Dogs are allowed on leash in permitted areas. The town of Cayucos offers a variety of shops, restaurants, antique stores, and specialty items for visitors to explore. The fishing pier is a popular spot for night fishing, and a fishing license is not required while fishing on the pier. Lifeguards are on duty during peak summer months, and junior lifeguard training is available through the County Parks of San Luis Obispo.

Black Star Canyon Indian Village Historic Site is a fascinating tourist attraction located in Silverado, California. This historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Native American tribes that once inhabited the area. Explore the ancient ruins and artifacts that tell the story of the indigenous people who called Black Star Canyon home. Take a guided tour to learn about the traditions, customs, and daily life of these early inhabitants. Immerse yourself in the history and beauty of this unique site, located at 10499-10967 Black Star Canyon Road.

The Hiouchi Visitor Center is a travel agency located at 1600 U.S. 199 in Crescent City, California. This center serves as a hub for tourists and travelers looking to explore the beautiful and diverse attractions of the area. From providing information on local landmarks and activities to offering guidance on accommodations and transportation options, the Hiouchi Visitor Center is dedicated to ensuring visitors have a memorable and enjoyable experience during their stay in Crescent City. Whether you're interested in hiking through the redwoods, exploring the nearby beaches, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of the region, the friendly and knowledgeable staff at the Hiouchi Visitor Center are here to help you make the most of your trip.

The Arcata Marsh Interpretive Center is a unique destination located at 569 South G Street in Arcata, California, United States. As a park and travel agency, this institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore the beautiful marshlands and learn about the diverse wildlife and ecosystems that call this area home. With knowledgeable staff and interactive exhibits, the center provides an educational and immersive experience for nature enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you're interested in birdwatching, hiking, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area, the Arcata Marsh Interpretive Center is the perfect place to visit.

The Tehama Country Visitor Center is a travel agency located at 250 Antelope Boulevard in Red Bluff, California. As a hub for all things tourism in Tehama County, this center offers a wealth of information on local attractions, events, accommodations, and activities. Whether you're a visitor looking to explore the area or a local seeking new adventures, the friendly and knowledgeable staff at the Tehama Country Visitor Center are here to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful region of Northern California.

The Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center is a welcoming and informative travel agency located at 1 Drake Beach Road in Inverness, California, United States. Our knowledgeable staff is dedicated to helping visitors make the most of their time in the beautiful Inverness area. From providing maps and brochures to offering personalized recommendations and booking services, we are here to assist travelers in creating unforgettable experiences. Whether you're looking to explore the stunning landscapes of Point Reyes National Seashore or discover the charming local attractions, the Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center is your go-to resource for all things travel-related.

Five Brooks Ranch is a charming travel agency located in the picturesque town of Olema, California, United States. Nestled in the heart of the stunning Point Reyes National Seashore, this institution offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the beauty of the surrounding landscape through horseback riding adventures. With a team of experienced guides and well-trained horses, Five Brooks Ranch provides unforgettable excursions that cater to all levels of riders. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or a first-time rider, Five Brooks Ranch is the perfect destination for a memorable and immersive outdoor experience in the breathtaking California countryside.

Grizzly Waters Kayaking is a travel agency located in Suisun City, California. Situated in the picturesque Suisun City Waterfront District, we offer a range of exciting activities including rentals, basic lessons, tours, SUP yoga, and team building experiences with kayaks and stand up paddle boards. Our location provides easy access to the stunning Suisun Marsh, part of the Bay Area Water Trail and the Pacific Flyway, a popular spot for migrating birds. Conveniently located between San Francisco and Sacramento, we are just a short drive away from the nearest wineries and Napa Valley. To make a reservation or inquire about our services, please contact us via phone or email. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the beauty of the Bay Area from the water with Grizzly Waters Kayaking!

Monterey Bay Kayaks is a clothing store, store, and travel agency located at 2390 California 1 in Moss Landing, California, United States. As certified Wildlife Stewards and an award-winning Eco-Tourism Business, our two locations offer unparalleled wildlife and paddling experiences. Explore the stunning beauty of Monterey Bay with us and discover the wonders of nature in a sustainable and responsible way.

Condor Express Whale Watching, located in Santa Barbara, California, offers a unique and exciting experience for those looking to witness these majestic creatures up close. As a travel agency specializing in whale watching tours, we provide an unforgettable adventure for all ages. Our institution stands out from the rest with our private whale watch options, perfect for those seeking a more personalized experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to have a party cruise with friends and family, we have you covered.

Channel Islands Whale Watching is a premier travel agency located at 4151 Victoria Avenue in Oxnard, California. With a prime location near the Channel Islands National Park, this institution offers unforgettable whale watching experiences for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Embark on a thrilling adventure to witness majestic whales in their natural habitat, guided by experienced and knowledgeable staff members. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean and create lasting memories with Channel Islands Whale Watching.

Newport Landing Whale Watching is a renowned travel agency located in Newport Beach, California. Situated at 309 Palm Street, this institution offers thrilling whale watching tours for visitors looking to witness these majestic creatures up close. With experienced guides and state-of-the-art equipment, guests are guaranteed an unforgettable experience as they venture out into the vast Pacific Ocean to catch a glimpse of whales in their natural habitat. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a unique adventure, Newport Landing Whale Watching is the perfect destination for an exciting and educational excursion.