Nature reserves with swimming areas in California

Welcome to Fall Creek Unit | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, a breathtaking natural escape nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains at 1561 Felton Empire Road, Felton, California. This park is renowned for its majestic 40-acre grove of old-growth redwood trees, offering an awe-inspiring experience for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Explore the diverse landscapes of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, which spans over 4,650 acres of pristine forested and open land. Discover the towering redwoods, some reaching up to 277 feet tall and over 1,500 years old, alongside diverse habitats including grasslands, river/riparian zones, and unique sandhills. The park is also home to a rich variety of wildlife, from banana slugs and black-tailed deer to coyotes and steelhead trout.

Welcome to Los Angeles County Fire Department Station 127, a cornerstone of safety and service in Carson, California. Located at 2049 East 223rd Street, our station is part of the esteemed Los Angeles County Fire Department, known worldwide for its exceptional firefighting and lifesaving capabilities. Our firefighters are celebrated for their skill and dedication, and we invite those interested in joining our ranks to learn more about the pathway to becoming a Los Angeles County firefighter. Our department is also home to one of the premier ocean lifeguarding agencies globally. Aspiring lifeguards can discover the steps to join this elite team and help continue our tradition of excellence in water safety.

Welcome to Camp Pendleton Beach, a serene coastal park located in the heart of Oceanside, California. Nestled within the picturesque landscape of Camp Pendleton, our beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and recreation. Visitors can enjoy a pristine stretch of sandy shoreline, where the gentle waves of the Pacific Ocean create a soothing backdrop for sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing. Whether you're looking to unwind with a good book, build sandcastles with the family, or take a refreshing swim, Camp Pendleton Beach provides the perfect setting for all your favorite seaside activities.

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.

Carmel Valley Community Park is a picturesque park located at 25 Ford Road in Carmel Valley, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with its lush green spaces, walking trails, and beautiful scenery. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely picnic, take a stroll through the gardens, or simply relax and unwind in this peaceful oasis. With its convenient location and serene ambiance, Carmel Valley Community Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and families looking to spend quality time together outdoors.

Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, located in Crescent City, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature lovers. Established in 1927, this park boasts approximately 50% old growth coast redwood trees and eight miles of unspoiled coastline. The diverse understory includes tanoak, madrone, red alder, big leaf maple, and California bay, creating a lush and vibrant environment. Visitors can explore the park's steep topography, with elevations ranging from sea level to 1277', offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy a leisurely stroll along Wilson Beach or False Klamath Cove, where they can admire tidepools at low tide. Please note that swimming is not recommended due to the steep beach slope and rocky conditions. For those interested in learning more about the geological wonders of the area, the park is part of the Redwood National and State Parks, which make up 45 percent of the remaining old-growth redwood forest in California.

Luffenholtz Beach is a stunning tourist attraction located at 1639 Trinidad Scenic Drive in Trinidad, California. This institution is dedicated to providing public access to the beautiful Trinidad coast while also protecting its natural beauty. From Little River to Big Lagoon, Luffenholtz Beach is committed to preserving the character of the Humboldt County Coast. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque views and serene atmosphere while also appreciating the conservation efforts in place to protect this coastal gem.

Pomo Bluffs Park is a stunning coastal park located in Fort Bragg, California. Offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, this park is a popular tourist attraction for visitors looking to enjoy the beauty of the California coastline. With walking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching, Pomo Bluffs Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to relax and take in the scenic views or explore the diverse wildlife in the area, Pomo Bluffs Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Fort Bragg area.

Salt Point State Park, located in Jenner, California, offers a unique coastal experience with rocky promontories, panoramic views, and kelp-dotted coves. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, skin and SCUBA diving, and camping. The park features 20 miles of hiking trails, six miles of rugged coastline, and an underwater park. Dogs are allowed on-leash in certain areas of the park. The park also offers campgrounds with fire-rings, picnic tables, and food lockers. Reservations are recommended for camping, as the campgrounds fill up quickly on weekends. The park is known for its sandstone and Tafoni formations, as well as its diverse marine life. Visitors can explore tide pools, go fishing, or launch small boats in the marine reserve. Hazardous tree conditions are present in the park due to pitch pine canker, so visitors are advised to be cautious of standing dead trees. Admission to the park is $8.00 per vehicle, with camping fees ranging from $5.00 to $35.00 per night. Located approximately 90 miles north of San Francisco, Salt Point State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Sonoma Coast State Park, located in Bodega Bay, California, is a stunning park and tourist attraction known for its long sandy beaches, rugged coastline, natural arches, and secluded coves. Visitors can enjoy activities such as beachcombing, fishing, picnicking, and tide pooling at various beaches within the park. The park spans 17 miles from Bodega Head to Vista Trail and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Dogs are allowed on specified beaches within the park, while equestrian riders can access the Bodega Dunes trail system through designated areas. Campsites and lodging can be reserved up to six months in advance, and day use areas are open to the public. Facilities such as bathrooms and picnic tables are available at most locations.

Año Nuevo State Park, located at 1 New Years Creek Road in Pescadero, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its elephant seal viewing opportunities. From April to November, visitors can enjoy a self-guided walk along the Año Point Trail to observe up to 10,000 elephant seals as they breed, give birth, and molt their skin on the scenic dunes and beaches. The park also features the Marine Education Center, housed in a historic dairy ranch, offering natural history exhibits and a bookstore. The park's diverse natural and cultural resources attract visitors from around the world, with opportunities for birdwatching, hiking along ocean bluffs, and exploring the remains of a 19th-century lighthouse on Año Nuevo Island. The park's terrain includes coastal prairie, wetland marshes, and dune fields, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, including the endangered San Francisco Garter Snake and California Red-legged Frog.

Navarro River Redwoods State Park is a stunning natural attraction located in Elk, California, United States. This park is a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the beauty of a redwood forest along the Navarro River. The park offers activities such as picnicking, swimming, camping, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Visitors can explore second growth redwood groves that stretch throughout the park, providing a habitat for wildlife such as raccoons, black-tail deer, and river-oriented birds. The park is also home to the Paul M. Dimmick Campground and Navarro Beach Campground, offering different camping experiences for visitors.

Torrey Pines State Beach, located at 12600 North Torrey Pines Road in California, is a popular park and tourist attraction offering a wide sandy beach, perfect for swimming, surfing, and fishing. The beach stretches for 4 1/2 miles from Del Mar to Torrey Pines Mesa, with red-hued bluffs and wet sand making it ideal for strolling at low tide. Visitors can enjoy picnicking in the designated area near the entrance on North Torrey Pines Road, or access the beach via a trail from the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. To ensure safety, visitors are advised to time their beach visit for low tide when more sand is available between the cliffs and the waves. Rockslides and cliff collapses can occur without warning, so it's important to keep a minimum distance of 10 feet from the bluffs. Dogs are prohibited within the reserve and beach boundaries.

Trinidad State Beach is a natural feature located at 576 Pacific Ave in Trinidad, California, United States. This beautiful beach is a short hike through the woods, across open bluffs, and past seasonal wildflowers. It is best visited during low tide and offers a peaceful retreat from the nearby highway. Visitor facilities include restrooms, parking, and a small picnic area with tables and stoves. Dogs are not allowed on the trails, except for service animals. Online reservations are not available for this park. Stay updated on events by visiting the North Coast Redwoods Facebook and Instagram pages. To reach Trinidad State Beach, drive 19 miles north of Eureka, CA on Highway 101 and follow the signs to the park located at 4150 Patrick's Point Drive in Trinidad, CA.

Spooner's Cove is a natural feature located at 3550 Pecho Valley Road in California, United States. Dogs are allowed in the campground, roadways, and Spooner’s Cove Beach on leash. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging six months in advance. Montaña de Oro State Park, where Spooner's Cove is located, offers over 8000 acres of stunning landscapes including cliffs, beaches, streams, and hills. Wildlife such as deer, bobcats, and quail can be spotted in the park. The Islay Creek Campground offers primitive campsites for tent camping and RVs. The Hazard Canyon Horse Camp is designed for horse camping. Environmental Camps are also available for those looking for a more rustic camping experience. The Spooner Ranch House serves as a visitor center with historical information and a nature store. Nearby attractions include Los Osos Oaks State Natural Reserve and Point Buchon Trail. Visitors can also enjoy educational programs and activities for kids at the Campfire Center. RV rentals and delivery services are available in the area.

Moonstone Beach County Park is a picturesque park located in Trinidad, California, United States. This stunning coastal destination is a popular tourist attraction known for its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and its abundance of moonstones scattered along the shoreline. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the sandy beach, explore tide pools, and watch the sunset over the ocean. The park is a perfect spot for picnics, beachcombing, and relaxation amidst the natural beauty of the California coast. Whether you're looking to unwind and soak in the serene atmosphere or simply take in the stunning scenery, Moonstone Beach County Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Goat Rock State Beach is located within the Sonoma Coast State Park in Jenner, California, United States. This park features long sandy beaches, rugged headlands, natural arches, and secluded coves, making it one of California's most scenic attractions. Visitors can enjoy activities such as beachcombing, fishing, sunbathing, and picnicking. Dogs are allowed on specified beaches within the park, including Marshall Gulch, Carmet Beach, Schoolhouse Beach, Portuguese Beach, and more. However, dogs are not allowed in certain campgrounds and areas within the park. Equestrian riders can access the Bodega Dunes trail system through the back side of the campground.

Salmon Creek State Beach is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located along California 1 in Bodega Bay, California, United States. This stunning beach offers visitors a serene escape with its sandy shores, rolling waves, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The park is perfect for picnicking, sunbathing, beachcombing, and even surfing. With its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Salmon Creek State Beach is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Bolinas Park is a serene and picturesque park located at 80 Brighton Avenue in Bolinas, California. This beautiful park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with lush greenery, winding walking paths, and stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and take in the tranquil atmosphere. Bolinas Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Carmel River State Beach, located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, is a picturesque mile-long beach on Carmel Bay. The beach features a bird sanctuary in a lagoon where visitors can observe a wide variety of waterfowl and song birds. The beach also offers panoramic views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Monastery Beach, also known as San Jose Creek Beach, is popular with scuba divers. However, swimming, wading, or walking near the sanctuary can be dangerous. Please remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times while visiting the beach. As of September 16, 2014, beach fires are banned at Carmel River State Beach and other state beaches in the Monterey District to minimize fire dangers. State Park officials will issue warnings to first-time offenders and citations to repeat offenders. For cooking purposes, a raised and self-contained gas camp stove may be used.

Harmony Headlands State Park is a stunning 784-acre coastal park located along Highway 1 in Cayucos, California. Just 3 miles south of the charming town of Harmony, the park offers a peaceful and secluded setting for visitors to enjoy. The park is a popular tourist attraction and offers recreational activities such as hiking, picnicking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can take a leisurely 1.5-mile trail from the parking lot to a coastal marine terrace grassland with breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The park is rich in history, with evidence of human occupation dating back at least 10,000 years. The native people, ancestors of the Salinan or Chumash tribes, lived along the coastal bluffs and utilized the natural resources for survival.

Estero Bluffs State Park is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 750 Hearst Castle Road in San Simeon, California, United States. Dogs are allowed on leash in permitted areas south of San Geronimo Road. The park aims to preserve and protect the diverse and scenic area of the California Central Coast, including sea stacks, wetlands, bluffs, terraces, streams, and a pocket cove with a beach. The property is home to endangered species like the snowy plover and contains sensitive Native American sites. Residents of Cayucos and surrounding communities worked together in the 1980s to stop coastal development and preserve the open space, leading to the Trust for Public Lands purchasing the property in 2000 and deeding it to the State in 2002. The park offers recreational activities such as sea kayaking, fishing, hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing.

Morro Bay Water Access is a beautiful park located on Main Street in Morro Bay, California, United States. This institution provides a perfect spot for visitors to enjoy the stunning views of the bay and access the water for various recreational activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The park is well-maintained and offers picnic areas, walking paths, and benches for visitors to relax and take in the peaceful surroundings. Whether you're looking to spend a day on the water or simply enjoy the natural beauty of Morro Bay, this water access park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Ventura River Preserve - Riverview Trailhead is a beautiful park located on South Rice Road in Ojai, California, United States. This institution offers visitors the opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Ventura River Preserve through the Riverview Trailhead. The park is perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the river. With its picturesque views and tranquil atmosphere, Ventura River Preserve - Riverview Trailhead is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Los Angeles County Arboretum, located at 301 North Baldwin Avenue in Arcadia, California, is a beautiful park and parking facility. On Saturday, April 6, the Arboretum will host the Santa Anita Park Derby Day 5K Walk & Run, where participants will run through the stunning gardens. Street access to the garden will be blocked off on Baldwin Avenue from 7:45am to 9:30am, so plan your visit accordingly. The Arboretum features the work of clay artist and porcelain painter Susan Spohr. Admission prices are $15.00 for adults, $11.00 for students with ID and seniors (62 ), $5.00 for children ages 5-12, and free for children 4 and under and members with a card. Advance reservations are required for Free Day at the Arboretum on the third Tuesday of each month. The Arboretum is located south of the 210 Freeway, and visitors can exit south on Baldwin Avenue. Visiting hours are from 9am to 7pm, with last entry at 6:30pm, and early entry for members at 7:30am. Have a question about plants? The Arboretum's gardening experts are available to help. Don't hesitate to reach out to the Arboretum staff with any questions or feedback.

Cardiff Beach, located at 2500 South Coast Highway 101 in Encinitas, California, is a beautiful natural feature on the San Diego Coast. Known as the Riviera of the West, this beach offers a gently sloping sandy shore with warm waters, perfect for swimming, surfing, and beachcombing. Dogs are welcome at Cardiff Reef and Seaside areas, as long as they are kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Visitors can enjoy the convenience of beach wheelchairs, available for use at the San Elijo State Beach Campground entrance. A Mobi Mat is also placed at Lifeguard Tower 15 during the summer season to provide easier access to the beach. Lost and found services are located at the campground for any misplaced items.

Terranea Bluff Top Park is a stunning coastal park located in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This park offers breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding cliffs, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, and whale watching while taking in the natural beauty of the California coastline. With its picturesque scenery and serene atmosphere, Terranea Bluff Top Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Frank and Bess Smithe Grove is a stunning park located at U.S. 101 in Leggett, California, United States. This park, part of the Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve, is home to a beautiful grove of redwoods that were once part of a private resort. Visitors can enjoy a 60-foot waterfall, picnic areas, and fishing and swimming in the south fork of the Eel River. Please note that dogs are not allowed on the trails, with the exception of service animals. Online reservations are not available for this park. The weather in the area can be changeable, so it is recommended to wear layered clothing when visiting. Make sure to visit this picturesque park and experience the beauty of the redwoods in person.

Crab Cove, located at 1200 McKay Avenue in Alameda, California, is a park institution offering a variety of educational and recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. The institution features the Doug Siden Visitor Center, which celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2019 and offers interactive exhibits showcasing the marine and shoreline life of San Francisco Bay. Visitors can explore an 800-gallon aquarium system, participate in hands-on activities, and learn about the importance of preserving the marine environment. In addition to the Visitor Center, Crab Cove also offers a 2.5-mile Crown Memorial State Beach with sand dunes and a bicycle trail, perfect for swimming and cooling off during the summer months. The institution hosts naturalist-guided programs for school groups and other organized groups, as well as weekend programs for visitors to learn about Bay ecology and the local area.