The 30 Best Nature reserves with swimming areas in California

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China Camp Point Picnic Area is a beautiful park located in San Rafael, California, along the shore of the San Pablo Bay. Visitors can enjoy stunning waterfront views, meadows, oak habitats, and a variety of wildlife such as deer, squirrels, coyotes, and numerous birds. The park also features an extensive intertidal salt marsh, where endangered species like the California clapper rail and salt marsh harvest mouse can be found. The park has a rich history, with a Chinese shrimp-fishing village thriving on the site in the 1880s. The museum at China Camp Village tells the story of these hardy shrimp fishermen. Visitors can also explore the beach, swim, picnic, and enjoy activities like wildlife-watching, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, swimming, boating, and windsurfing.

Temescal Regional Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 6500 Broadway in Oakland, California, United States. The park is open between 5am and 10pm, with gate hours from 8am to 10pm. Park curfew is from 10pm to 5am. Swim hours and fees vary depending on the day. Parking is available for $5 per vehicle, with additional fees for buses and dogs. The park offers various amenities such as accessible drinking fountains, barbeques, and wheelchair accessible trails. The historic Beach House facility is available for events and weddings, offering a panoramic view of Lake Temescal. Fishing and picnicking are popular activities at the park, with designated areas for swimming. The park has a rich history, originally constructed as a storage lake for drinking water in 1936. Visit Temescal Regional Recreation Area for a relaxing day in nature.

Tilden Nature Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 600 Canon Drive in Berkeley, California, United States. Open daily from 5am to 10pm, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming at Lake Anza, riding the carousel, visiting the Botanic Garden, and hiking through the park's 2,079 acres of natural beauty. Named after Charles Lee Tilden, the park offers wheelchair accessible facilities including the Steam Train, Merry-Go-Round, Little Farm, and the Environmental Education Center. Picnic areas with barbecues are available for reservation, as well as venues for weddings and events such as Lakeview, Laurel, and the Brazil Building. With stunning views of Tilden Park and a range of activities for all ages, Tilden Nature Area is a must-visit destination in the East Bay area.

Hayward Area Recreation & Park District is a premier recreational institution located at 22325 North 3rd Street in Castro Valley, California, United States. This district offers a wide range of recreational activities and programs for people of all ages, including sports leagues, fitness classes, swimming pools, and playgrounds. With beautiful parks and facilities, the district provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for community members to enjoy outdoor activities and stay active. Whether you're looking to play a game of basketball, take a yoga class, or simply relax in nature, Hayward Area Recreation & Park District has something for everyone. Come visit us and experience all that our district has to offer!

Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 2500 Stanley Blvd in Pleasanton, California, United States. The park offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy, including swimming, fishing, boating, picnicking, and hiking. The park is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. Visitors can swim at the designated hours when lifeguards are on duty, or at their own risk outside of those times. Parking fees apply, and there are additional fees for boating, fishing permits, and bringing dogs into the park. Shadow Cliffs was originally a gravel quarry donated to the Park District in 1971, and has since been developed into a 266-acre park with an 80-acre lake. The park features facilities for persons with disabilities, accessible parking, trails, and restrooms. Beach wheelchairs are available for free to assist wheelchair users in navigating the sandy beach area. The park also has a wheelchair accessible fishing pier and interpretive pavilion.

Admiral Baker Recreation Area is a private park located in San Diego, California. Situated at 2400 Admiral Baker Road, this institution offers a range of recreational activities for its members. From golfing on the beautifully manicured courses to swimming in the pool, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Admiral Baker. With stunning views and a serene atmosphere, this park is the perfect place to relax and unwind in nature. Join us at Admiral Baker Recreation Area for a day of fun and leisure in the heart of San Diego.

the rugged Mendocino Coast of California lies the Jug Handle State Natural Reserve, a park and tourist attraction that offers stunning ocean views, serene forests, and a journey through half a million years of ecological history. The 2.5-mile Ecological Staircase Trail explores three wave-cut terraces created by glaciers, rising seas, and tectonic plates, showcasing the evolution of geology, soils, and plants over time. Located halfway between Fort Bragg and Mendocino, the reserve stretches from the Pacific Ocean into Jackson Demonstration State Forest, offering a diverse landscape for visitors to explore. The park features a mild Mediterranean climate with winter rainfall and spring fog, making it an ideal destination year-round.

Rancho Seco Recreational Area is a 400-acre park located at 14960 Twin Cities Road, Herald, California, United States. This beautiful park offers a wide range of recreational activities including camping, boating, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The 160-acre lake is fed by the Folsom South Canal and provides a great year-round getaway just 25 miles from downtown Sacramento. The park has made significant infrastructure improvements over the years to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors. These improvements include new shade structures, restrooms, shower facilities, laundry facilities, and more. The Beach Store is open Thursday through Monday, offering a variety of amenities for visitors.

UC Davis - Stebbins Cold Canyon Natural Reserve is a park and tourist attraction located at 24875 California 128, Winters, California, United States. Situated in the California Inner Coast Range, this reserve is part of the Devil’s Gate Wildlands recreation area and borders the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument. The reserve offers stunning views of the Inner Coast Range and boasts a diverse mix of habitats with high species diversity. In 2015 and 2020, wildfires ravaged the area, prompting University of California researchers to study the recovery process. Staff and volunteers are actively restoring and improving trails within the reserve. Managed by the University of California for teaching and research purposes, this site is a popular destination for hikers, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year. It is important to adhere to trail rules to protect the ecological integrity of the area.

Brannan Island State Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 17645 California 160, Rio Vista, California, United States. The park is open from sunrise to one hour after sunset, with a new gate closing one hour after sunset and reopening at sunrise. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and under human control at all times. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance, with bookings based on availability and the park's maximum stay rules. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, and fishing for species such as striped bass, sturgeon, catfish, and more. Birdwatchers will also enjoy the 76 species of birds that call the park home.

George J. Hatfield State Recreation Area is a beautiful park located at 4394 North Kelly Road in Hilmar, California, United States. Visitors to this park can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The park is situated in the San Joaquin valley and is surrounded by the Merced River, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Those looking to stay overnight can reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance, with bookings available from the arrival date to the desired departure date. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, particularly birds, making it a great spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Lake Piru Recreation Area is a beautiful campground, park, and store located at 4780 Piru Canyon Road in Piru, California. Although the swimming season has come to a close, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy, such as water skiing, tubing, and boating with a Coast Guard approved flotation device. The institution is currently undergoing a drawdown of the reservoir level to help with flood mitigation and groundwater recharge in the surrounding areas. This will not affect activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating during the summer months. With 238 sites for RVs, campers, trailers, and tents, as well as amenities like restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities, Lake Piru is the perfect place to escape city life and enjoy the great outdoors. Visitors can also take advantage of the marina store, boat rentals, shoreline fishing, water sports, picnicking, playgrounds, disc golf, and more. The institution has recently made improvements to the area and offers an online reservation system for added convenience. For a fun and relaxing getaway less than an hour's drive from Los Angeles, Lake Piru Recreation Area is the perfect destination.

Putah Creek State Wildlife Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 22074 California 128 in Winters, California, United States. This expansive wildlife area offers visitors the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the region, with stunning views of Putah Creek and the surrounding landscape. The park is home to a variety of wildlife species, making it a popular destination for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, picnicking, and fishing in this peaceful and serene setting. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or explore the great outdoors, Putah Creek State Wildlife Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, is often referred to as the crown jewel of the California State Park System. This park, a popular tourist attraction, offers breathtaking views of the meeting of land and water, making it a favorite spot for landscape painters and photographers alike. The reserve is home to rare plant communities, unique geological formations, and a diverse array of flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy activities such as sightseeing, photography, painting, nature study, picnicking, SCUBA diving, and jogging. The offshore area, part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, is known for its rich underwater habitats popular with divers. Point Lobos has undergone an incredible ecological recovery after years of heavy resource extraction, now classified as a State Natural Reserve. Visitors are encouraged to support the preservation of this unique place by following rules and regulations to protect the plants and animals that live in the Reserve. For more information about activities available during your visit or how you can support the preservation efforts, visit the Point Lobos Foundation website. Please note that reservations are required for certain activities such as diving and snorkeling, and special event permits are needed for tours and buses. Dogs, bikes, collecting, skateboarding, smoking, fires, and alcohol are not allowed within the reserve to help protect and conserve this beautiful place for future generations. With its stunning landscapes and rich marine life, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve offers a truly unforgettable experience for visitors from around the world.

Morro Strand State Beach Day Use Area, located at 21 24th Street in Cayucos, California, is a natural feature that offers a three-mile stretch of beach for visitors to enjoy. The beach connects the town of Morro Bay to Cayucos State Beach and provides a variety of recreational opportunities such as windsurfing, fishing, jogging, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging at the Morro Strand Campground up to six months in advance, with options for tent camping and RV hookups available. The campground also offers amenities such as fire rings, picnic tables, water spigots, flush toilets, and token-operated shower facilities. Additionally, there is an RV sanitation station and water-fill station on site.

North Point Natural Area is a stunning tourist attraction located in Morro Bay, California, United States. This beautiful natural area offers breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding landscape, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking along scenic trails, birdwatching, and taking in the peaceful ambiance of this coastal gem. With its diverse wildlife and pristine environment, North Point Natural Area is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the California coast.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, located at 12600 North Torrey Pines Road in California, is a stunning park and tourist attraction known for its unique natural beauty. The reserve is home to the rare Pinus torreyana pine tree, found only in this area and on Santa Rosa Island. Visitors can explore trails through wind-sculpted pines, high cliffs, and deep ravines overlooking the ocean. The reserve also boasts one of the last salt marshes and waterfowl refuges in Southern California. The picturesque visitor center, housed in a pueblo-style building, offers interpretive displays for guests to learn more about the park's rich plant community and wildlife. Picnicking and camping are not allowed in the reserve, but visitors can enjoy the nearby Torrey Pines State Beach accessible by trail. The park's popularity means that parking can be a challenge, especially during peak hours, so it is recommended to plan visits accordingly. Admission fees range from $12-$25 per vehicle, and camping is not permitted. Gates open at 7:15 am and close at sunset, with the visitor center opening daily at 9:00 am. With its breathtaking scenery and diverse plant and animal life, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

San Vicente Water Recreation Area is a picturesque park located in Lakeside, California, United States. This beautiful park offers a wide range of water-based activities for visitors to enjoy, including swimming, boating, fishing, and paddleboarding. With stunning views of the surrounding landscape and plenty of amenities such as picnic areas and hiking trails, San Vicente Water Recreation Area is the perfect destination for a day of outdoor fun and relaxation. Whether you're looking to cool off in the water or simply soak up the sun, this park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Casini Ranch Family Campground is a picturesque retreat nestled along the Russian River in Duncans Mills, California. This family-friendly campground offers a range of amenities including spacious RV sites, cozy cabins, and tent camping options. Guests can enjoy activities such as fishing, swimming, kayaking, and hiking in the surrounding park area. The campground also features a store where visitors can pick up essential supplies and snacks. With its scenic location and abundance of outdoor activities, Casini Ranch Family Campground is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway in the heart of nature.

Located at 888 Country Club Drive in Avalon, California, Catalina Canyon Inn is a charming lodging option for those looking to escape to the beauty of Catalina Island. Just minutes away from downtown Avalon, this peaceful and romantic hotel offers a unique experience that is a step above the rest. Surrounded by untouched flora and fauna, guests can immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying modern conveniences. The hotel features a heated outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant, The Cove Bar & Grill. Guests can also take advantage of the complimentary local area shuttle service. The newly-renovated guest rooms offer comfort and style, providing the perfect escape for a relaxing getaway.

The Minnie & Lovie Ward Recreational Center is a vibrant park located at 650 Capitol Avenue in San Francisco, California. This institution offers a wide range of recreational activities for people of all ages, including sports facilities, playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking paths. The center is a popular destination for families, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers looking to enjoy the outdoors in a beautiful urban setting. With its convenient location and diverse amenities, the Minnie & Lovie Ward Recreational Center is a beloved community hub for leisure and relaxation.

Tilden Regional Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 2501 Grizzly Peak Boulevard in Orinda, California, United States. The park is open daily from 5am to 10pm, offering a range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. From picnicking and swimming at Lake Anza to exploring the Botanic Garden and riding the carousel at the Merry-Go-Round, Tilden Park has something for everyone. The park spans over 2,000 acres and provides plenty of opportunities to experience nature and wildlife. Named after Charles Lee Tilden, the park features various facilities such as the Environmental Education Center, Little Farm, and the Steam Trains. The park is easily accessible from different entrances off Wildcat Canyon Road and Grizzly Peak Boulevard in Berkeley. Visitors can also enjoy wheelchair-accessible attractions such as the Steam Train, Merry-Go-Round, and the Botanic Garden.

Diablo Foothills Regional Park is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1700 Castle Rock Road in Walnut Creek, California. The park is open from 5am-10pm, with parking lot hours varying throughout the year. The park is a gateway to the beautiful parklands of Mount Diablo State Park and Walnut Creek Open Space, offering sweeping panoramas of the San Francisco Bay Region and rural grasslands. The park features diverse habitats supporting a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, bobcats, coyotes, and a range of bird species. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, bicycling, and nature study in the park's 1,060 acres. The Castle Rock Recreation Area within the park offers reservable group picnic areas and a swimming pool complex that is fully accessible to individuals with disabilities.

Contra Loma Regional Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 1200 Frederickson Lane in Antioch, California, United States. The park offers a variety of activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy, including an 80-acre reservoir for year-round fishing, a swim lagoon with lifeguards during the summer, hiking and biking trails, and nature study opportunities. The park is open throughout the year with varying hours of operation, and there is a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. Boating, kayaking, and sailing are also allowed at the park, with fees for these activities. Contra Loma has wheelchair accessible facilities, including restrooms, drinking fountains, and parking. The park also has reservable group picnic areas and a sandy beach with restrooms and a concession stand at the swim lagoon. Swimming is only permitted in the lagoon during the summer when lifeguards are on duty, and there is a beach access fee. Visitors can also launch their own boats at the park, with fees for boat launch.

Hall Memorial Park is a charming and peaceful green space located at 285 East Chestnut Street in Dixon, California. This park is not only a popular tourist attraction but also a beloved spot for locals to relax and enjoy the outdoors. With its well-maintained grounds, beautiful landscaping, and various amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking paths, Hall Memorial Park offers something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking to have a leisurely afternoon stroll, host a family picnic, or simply soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings, this park is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.

Del Valle Campground Amphitheater is located at 7000 Del Valle Road in Livermore, California, United States. The park is surrounded by oak-covered hills and offers a variety of water-oriented recreation activities on its five-mile long lake, including swimming, windsurfing, and boating. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and nature study on the 4,395 acres of beautiful land surrounding the lake. Del Valle is the eastern gateway to the Ohlone Wilderness Trail, a 28-mile scenic back-country trail. The park has a visitor center that is open seasonally, offering exhibits and information about the natural history of Del Valle and the surrounding wilderness. There are two swimming beaches with lifeguards on duty during posted periods, as well as landscaped picnic grounds that can be reserved for large groups. The family campground has 150 sites, some with water and sewage, and electrical hook-ups. There are also group campsites and equestrian camps available for reservation.

San Carlos Beach Park is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 100 Reeside Avenue in Monterey, California, United States. This beautiful park offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a great place to relax, swim, snorkel, or simply enjoy the sunshine. The park features a sandy beach, picnic areas, and convenient amenities such as restrooms and showers. Visitors can also explore the nearby tide pools and watch the local wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and families alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to unwind or an exciting place to explore the outdoors, San Carlos Beach Park has something for everyone.

College Park is a beautiful and serene institution located in Lompoc, California, United States. As a park institution, it offers a peaceful and green environment for visitors to relax and enjoy nature. With lush greenery, walking paths, and recreational facilities, College Park is the perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, go for a leisurely stroll, or simply soak in the natural beauty, College Park is the ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Come visit College Park and experience a tranquil oasis in the heart of Lompoc.

Chumash Park is a beautiful outdoor destination located at 750 South Petit Avenue in Ventura, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, scenic walking paths, and recreational facilities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, go for a leisurely stroll, or simply relax in nature, Chumash Park provides the perfect setting. Come and immerse yourself in the tranquility and natural beauty of this wonderful park in Ventura.

Colonia Park is a beautiful park located at 170 North Juanita Avenue in Oxnard, California. This peaceful and well-maintained park offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including playgrounds, picnic areas, walking paths, and sports facilities. With its lush greenery and serene atmosphere, Colonia Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the heart of Oxnard. Whether you're looking to spend a day outdoors with family and friends or simply take a leisurely stroll, Colonia Park has something for everyone to enjoy.