TOP 30 Best Mountain picnic areas in California

Mount San Miguel Park is a picturesque park located at 2335 Paseo Veracruz in Chula Vista, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a great spot for picnics, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors. With its well-maintained trails and lush greenery, Mount San Miguel Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Come and explore this beautiful park in the heart of Chula Vista, United States.

Toro Canyon Park is a picturesque and serene park located at 576 Toro Canyon Park in Santa Barbara, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including lush greenery and rolling hills. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful natural scenery. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous outing, Toro Canyon Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of California's Central Coast.

Mammoth Highlands Park is a stunning tourist attraction located at 7000 Elk Run Loop in Moorpark, California. This park offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the natural world with its towering trees, lush greenery, and breathtaking views. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply relax and take in the peaceful surroundings, Mammoth Highlands Park is the perfect destination. Come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of California's scenic landscape.

Ed R. Levin County Park is a stunning natural oasis located in Milpitas, California. Covering over 1,500 acres, this park offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. From hiking and mountain biking on the scenic trails to picnicking by the peaceful lake, there is something for everyone to appreciate at this beautiful park. With its lush greenery, stunning views, and abundant wildlife, Ed R. Levin County Park is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous day out, this park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Otay Lakes County Park is a picturesque park located in Chula Vista, California. Situated at 2270 Wueste Road, this park is a popular tourist attraction for both locals and visitors alike. The park offers stunning views of the surrounding lakes and mountains, making it the perfect spot for picnics, hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. With its tranquil atmosphere and abundant wildlife, Otay Lakes County Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

O'Melveny Park is a sprawling natural oasis located at 17300 Sesnon Boulevard in Los Angeles, California. As the second largest park in the city, it offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. The park's scenic trails wind through lush greenery and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. With its peaceful atmosphere and abundant wildlife, O'Melveny Park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you're seeking a quiet retreat or an outdoor adventure, this park is sure to delight nature lovers of all ages.

Whitney Canyon Park is a picturesque outdoor retreat located at 20303 Newhall Avenue in Santa Clarita, California. This stunning park offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area, with scenic hiking trails, lush greenery, and breathtaking views. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or an adventure-filled day out, Whitney Canyon Park has something for everyone. Come explore this hidden gem and experience the tranquility and serenity of nature in the heart of Santa Clarita.

Idyllwild Regional Park is a picturesque campground and lodging facility located in the beautiful town of Idyllwild-Pine Cove in California, United States. Situated at 54000 Riverside County Playground Road, this park offers a serene and tranquil setting for visitors to relax and enjoy nature. With its stunning natural surroundings and well-maintained amenities, Idyllwild Regional Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park features a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking, making it an ideal spot for families and friends to spend quality time together.

Twin Lakes Campground is a picturesque camping facility located in the stunning eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains near Mammoth Lakes, California. Situated at an elevation of 8,600 feet, this campground offers lakeside camping with breathtaking views and a wide range of outdoor activities. The campground is split into two sections on either side of Twin Lakes, with campsites featuring picnic tables, campfire rings, flush toilets, and drinking water. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, and waterfall viewing right from their campsite. The area is teeming with wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, and various bird species. The nearby Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort offers year-round recreation, and the John Muir Wilderness provides ample opportunities for hiking and horseback riding.

Paradise Shores RV Camp is a picturesque campground located in Bridgeport, California, United States. Situated at 2399 California 182, this charming park offers a tranquil and scenic setting for RV enthusiasts and campers alike. With spacious RV sites, cozy lodging options, and a range of amenities including fire pits, picnic areas, and a playground, Paradise Shores RV Camp is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway in nature. Whether you're looking to explore the nearby hiking trails, go fishing in the nearby lakes, or simply unwind by the campfire, this beautiful park has something for everyone. Experience the beauty of the Eastern Sierra at Paradise Shores RV Camp.

Indian Pools Trailhead is a picturesque park located in Shaver Lake, California, United States. This beautiful trailhead offers visitors the opportunity to explore the stunning natural surroundings and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and picnicking. The park is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains. With well-maintained trails and breathtaking views, Indian Pools Trailhead is the perfect spot for a day of adventure and relaxation in the great outdoors.

North Tahoe Regional Park is a picturesque park located at 6600 Donner Road in Tahoe Vista, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. From hiking and biking trails to picnic areas and playgrounds, there is something for everyone to experience at this beautiful park. With stunning views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains, North Tahoe Regional Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Come explore all that this scenic park has to offer!

Shady Rest Park is a serene and picturesque park located at Sawmill Cutoff in Mammoth Lakes, California, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature, with lush greenery, towering trees, and a tranquil atmosphere. Perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, and enjoying the fresh mountain air, Shady Rest Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in the sun or a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, Shady Rest Park is the ideal spot to unwind and reconnect with the beauty of the natural world.

Welcome to Samuel P. Taylor State Park, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Lagunitas-Forest Knolls, California. Located on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, our park offers a serene escape into nature, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Immerse yourself in the beauty of towering redwoods, lush greenery, and the tranquil sounds of Lagunitas Creek. Whether you're here for hiking, picnicking, camping, or simply to enjoy the scenic vistas, Samuel P. Taylor State Park provides a rejuvenating experience for all ages. Discover miles of trails, abundant wildlife, and the rich history of this beloved California gem. Visit us today and embark on an unforgettable adventure in the heart of nature.

Welcome to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Parking, conveniently located at 101N North Big Trees Park Road, Scotts Valley, California. Our parking facilities serve as the gateway to the breathtaking Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, renowned for its majestic 40-acre grove of ancient redwood trees and diverse natural habitats. Parking Options: - Day-Use Area: From Hwy 17, take the Mt. Hermon Rd. exit, follow Mt. Hermon Rd. to Graham Hill Rd., turn right, then left onto Hwy 9. The entrance is approximately 2 miles down on the left. Parking fee: $10 for regular-sized autos, $9 for seniors (62 ), $50 for buses (10-24 passengers), and $100 for larger buses (25 passengers).

Welcome to Point Mugu State Park - Mugu Beach Parking, your gateway to one of California’s most picturesque coastal destinations. Conveniently located along the Pacific Coast Highway at the Naval Air Station Point Mugu, our parking facility provides easy access to the stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Mugu Beach has to offer. Whether you're planning a day of sunbathing, surfing, hiking, or simply enjoying a peaceful picnic with breathtaking ocean views, our parking area is the perfect starting point for your adventure. We offer ample parking spaces to accommodate both small and large vehicles, ensuring a hassle-free experience as you explore the scenic surroundings of Point Mugu State Park.

Welcome to Backbone Trail Access at Encinal Canyon, your gateway to adventure in the stunning Santa Monica Mountains! Located on Encinal Canyon Road in Malibu, California, this park offers a unique opportunity to explore the 67-mile-long Backbone Trail, a designated National Recreation Trail. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful escape from city life, our trail promises an unforgettable experience. Join us each week for a video series hosted by longtime volunteer Ralph Waycott, as we take you through the trail's eight segments and introduce you to LA’s premier hiking experience. Don't hesitate to share your questions, trail experiences, tips, or thoughts with us by emailing samo_interpretation@nps.gov.

Welcome to San Onofre Trail 6, a serene and picturesque park located in Camp Pendleton North, California. Nestled along the stunning coastline, our park offers a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Whether you're looking to hike, bike, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll, San Onofre Trail 6 provides a refreshing retreat with breathtaking ocean views and diverse wildlife. Our well-maintained trails wind through a variety of landscapes, from sandy beaches to rugged cliffs, offering something for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, you'll find your ideal spot here. The park is also a great destination for picnicking, birdwatching, and photography, with ample opportunities to capture the beauty of Southern California's natural environment.

Shenandoah Park is a picturesque tourist attraction located at 100 Sonoma Creek Way in American Canyon, California, United States. This beautiful park offers visitors a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and stunning views of Sonoma Creek, Shenandoah Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely picnic, go for a refreshing hike, or simply take in the natural beauty, Shenandoah Park has something for everyone. Come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of California's wine country.

Deer Park Villa is a charming event venue located at 367 Bolinas Road in Fairfax, California. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering redwoods, this idyllic setting offers a serene and picturesque backdrop for weddings, parties, and other special occasions. The venue features a beautiful outdoor garden area, perfect for ceremonies and receptions, as well as a cozy indoor space for dining and dancing. With its peaceful ambiance and stunning natural surroundings, Deer Park Villa is the ideal choice for those seeking a truly magical and unforgettable event experience.

Chase Palm Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 323 East Cabrillo Boulevard in Santa Barbara, California, United States. This park is divided into two areas on either side of Cabrillo Boulevard. The Ocean Side features a narrow park next to East Beach with an open grassy area, a bike path/walkway from Stearns Wharf to East Beach, and hosts the Sunday Arts and Crafts show. The Mountain Side is a 10-acre area of the park that includes fountains, a lagoon, and the shipwreck playground designed for children ages two to twelve. The park's stage is home to Concerts in the Park, a free summer concert series organized by the city. Chase Palm Park offers both indoor and outdoor rental spaces that are popular for parties and weddings. It is a beautiful and versatile park that offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Oak Park is a beautiful park located in Santa Barbara, California, United States. It is part of Santa Barbara's Parks and Recreation system, which boasts over 1,800 acres of parkland, including developed parks, open space, beaches, trails, and sports facilities. Visitors to Oak Park can enjoy a peaceful retreat in nature, go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or engage in recreational activities. Whether you're looking to relax or stay active, Oak Park has something for everyone. Come and explore this wonderful green space in the heart of Santa Barbara.

Foothill Ranch Community Park is a beautiful and spacious park located in Lake Forest, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including playgrounds, picnic areas, sports fields, and walking trails. The park is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Whether you're looking to relax with a picnic, play a game of soccer, or go for a leisurely stroll, Foothill Ranch Community Park is the perfect destination for outdoor fun and relaxation.

Sunset View Park is a picturesque park located at 1390 South Greensview Drive in Chula Vista, California. This park is a popular tourist attraction known for its stunning views of the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds while taking in the breathtaking scenery. With its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, Sunset View Park is the perfect spot for a relaxing day outdoors.

Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Redwood City, California, United States. This preserve offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, with miles of hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife and plant species, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful hike or a scenic picnic spot, Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve has something for everyone to enjoy.

North Ranch Playfield is a 12-acre park located at 952 Rockfield Street in Thousand Oaks, California. Established in 1987, this park offers a variety of recreational activities and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The park features a newly renovated playground with a forest/treehouse theme, as well as ADA-accessible walkways and seating areas. Open daily from 7:00am to 9:00pm, North Ranch Playfield is a popular destination for families and visitors looking to enjoy the outdoors. For more information, contact 805-495-6471 or email [email protected] Don't forget to check the field conditions by calling 805-381-1236 before your visit. Don't forget to fill out the website feedback form to help us improve your experience at North Ranch Playfield!

Big Sky Park is a sprawling oasis of natural beauty located at 2251 Lost Canyons Drive in Simi Valley, California. This popular tourist attraction boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and bird-watching, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking scenery. With its wide open spaces and tranquil atmosphere, Big Sky Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Montclair Park is a beautiful and serene park located on Quince Street in San Diego, California. This hidden gem is a popular tourist attraction, offering lush greenery, walking paths, and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to relax with a book, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply take a leisurely stroll, Montclair Park is the perfect destination. With its scenic views and tranquil surroundings, it's no wonder why this park is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Come and experience the natural beauty of Montclair Park for yourself.

Point Sal State Beach is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Guadalupe, California. Spanning approximately 80 acres with over 1 1/2 miles of ocean frontage, this park offers breathtaking views of the coastline, beach, and rugged mountain slopes. Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, beach combing, hiking, nature study, photography, picnicking, and sunbathing. Although the park does not have picnic tables, toilets, or other recreational facilities, it is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the coastal sage and chaparral communities. Giant coreopsis dominates the wildflower displays in the spring, adding to the natural beauty of the area.

Fremont Peak State Park, located at 10700 San Juan Canyon Road in San Juan Bautista, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its breathtaking views of Monterey Bay and the surrounding valleys and mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails through the park's grasslands, pine and oak woodlands, and even take advantage of camping and picnic facilities. The park also features an astronomical observatory with a 30-inch telescope, offering public programs on selected evenings. For those interested in camping or lodging at the park, reservations can be made up to six months in advance, subject to availability and maximum stay rules. Wood and charcoal fires are allowed in designated fire rings, but visitors must bring their own wood as collecting materials from the park is prohibited. Fires must be monitored at all times, and citations will be issued for violations.