TOP 30 Picnic areas for nature lovers in California

Stevens Creek Shoreline Nature Study Area Preserve is a peaceful and scenic park located in Mountain View, California, United States. This beautiful nature preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore the diverse ecosystem of the Stevens Creek shoreline, including wetlands, marshes, and grasslands. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking while taking in stunning views of the surrounding landscape. With its tranquil atmosphere and abundant wildlife, Stevens Creek Shoreline Nature Study Area Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The Patrick Hannah Grove Picnic Area is a charming park located at 1035 Castle Rock Road in Walnut Creek, California. This peaceful and picturesque spot offers a perfect setting for picnics, gatherings, and relaxation amidst nature. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, visitors can enjoy a serene atmosphere and beautiful views. Whether you're looking for a place to unwind with family and friends or simply take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, the Patrick Hannah Grove Picnic Area is the ideal destination. Pack a picnic basket, grab a blanket, and come enjoy a day of tranquility in this lovely park.

Area 2 Irvine Park is a charming institution located on Irvine Park Lane in Orange, California. This picturesque location offers a serene and peaceful setting for visitors to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and events. Surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful gardens, Area 2 Irvine Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, go for a leisurely stroll, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, this institution provides a welcoming and tranquil atmosphere for all who visit. With its convenient location in Orange, California, Area 2 Irvine Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Hidden Valley Nature Center is a serene and picturesque park located at 11401 Arlington Avenue in Riverside, California. This hidden gem is a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and peaceful atmosphere, visitors can enjoy a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or just soak in the beauty of nature, Hidden Valley Nature Center is the perfect destination for a day of exploration and rejuvenation.

Corydon Staging Area is a picturesque park located at 3152-3224 Corydon Avenue in Norco, California. This serene and spacious area serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. With its well-maintained trails and beautiful natural surroundings, Corydon Staging Area provides the perfect setting for a day of relaxation and outdoor fun. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors or simply unwind in a peaceful environment, this park is the ideal destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Nature Retreat Park is a serene oasis located in Chino, California, where visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Situated on Rincon Meadows Avenue, this park offers a peaceful environment for individuals and families to relax, unwind, and connect with the great outdoors. With lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and tranquil picnic areas, Nature Retreat Park provides the perfect setting for a day of rejuvenation and exploration. Whether you're looking to commune with nature, enjoy a leisurely stroll, or simply bask in the beauty of the surroundings, this park offers something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Nature Retreat Park today.

Hidden Valley Wildlife Area is a serene and beautiful park located in Riverside, California. This hidden gem offers visitors the opportunity to explore nature and observe a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center with educational exhibits. It is a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are looking to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings or learn more about the local flora and fauna, Hidden Valley Wildlife Area is the perfect destination for a day of exploration and adventure.

Sunset Whitney Recreation Area, located at 4201 Midas Avenue in Rocklin, California, is a sprawling 184-acre park that was formerly the Rocklin Golf Club. Purchased by the City in 2018, the area is now being developed into a vibrant community space with a variety of amenities and activities for residents to enjoy. The master plan for the Sunset Whitney Recreation Area was approved by the City Council and includes features such as walking and biking trails, a central activity hub, and new park spaces. The community has shown great enthusiasm for the project, with over 175 people attending a recent meeting to share their feedback and ideas. Grant funding has been secured for trail expansions, and volunteer events have helped beautify the area by planting trees and painting facilities. The Sunset Whitney Recreation Area is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with events such as the annual Sunset Run 5K fundraiser drawing in residents from across the city. From public forums to volunteer days, the development of the Sunset Whitney Recreation Area has been a collaborative effort between the City and its residents, creating a space that is both beautiful and inviting for all to enjoy.

Redwood Picnic Area is a charming outdoor facility located at 200 John F Shelley Drive in San Francisco, California. Surrounded by majestic redwood trees, this picturesque picnic area offers a tranquil and serene setting for visitors to enjoy a meal or gather with friends and family. With plenty of picnic tables, BBQ pits, and scenic views, Redwood Picnic Area is the perfect spot for a relaxing day out in nature. Whether you're looking to have a peaceful solo picnic or host a lively gathering, this institution provides the ideal backdrop for a memorable outdoor experience in the heart of San Francisco.

Hope Nature Preserve is a serene and picturesque park located in Thousand Oaks, California, United States. This stunning natural oasis offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and diverse wildlife, Hope Nature Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere, this park is sure to provide a rejuvenating and memorable experience. Don't miss out on visiting this hidden gem in Thousand Oaks!

Monte Vista Nature Park is a picturesque oasis nestled in the heart of Moorpark, California. This stunning park covers 200 acres of pristine natural beauty, offering visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and diverse wildlife, Monte Vista Nature Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Located at 4201 Spring Road, this park is easily accessible and welcomes visitors of all ages. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, enjoy a picnic with family and friends, or simply soak in the serenity of nature, Monte Vista Nature Park has something for everyone. Birdwatchers will delight in the variety of bird species that call the park home, while hikers can explore the park's scenic trails and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Camp 20 Recreation Area is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located on Fort Bragg - Willits Road in Fort Bragg, California, United States. Nestled in the stunning natural surroundings of Northern California, this institution offers visitors a chance to relax and unwind in a serene setting. With plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities, Camp 20 Recreation Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to spend a day exploring the great outdoors or planning a weekend getaway, this institution is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit.

he same trail. This trail is mostly flat and offers a peaceful walk through the towering redwoods. Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking solace in the beauty of the natural world. With ancient redwood trees, serene walking trails, and a picturesque picnic area, this park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you're looking to admire the tallest tree in the grove, the Parson Jones Tree, or marvel at the oldest tree, the Colonel Armstrong Tree, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this majestic park.

Lake Evans, Buena Vista Aquatic Recreation Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 13601 Ironbark Road in Taft, California, United States. This beautiful destination offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. The serene lake provides a peaceful setting for nature lovers to relax and unwind. With its picturesque surroundings and tranquil atmosphere, Lake Evans is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with the great outdoors.

Laguna Seca Recreation Area Campgrounds is a picturesque destination nestled in the heart of Salinas, California. Situated at 1021 Monterey Salinas Highway, this campground offers a perfect blend of nature and comfort for visitors looking to relax and unwind. With a variety of lodging options available, including tent and RV sites, cabins, and yurts, guests can choose the accommodation that best suits their needs. The campground also features modern amenities such as bathrooms, showers, and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.

The Golden Gate National Recreation Area - Lands End is a breathtaking tourist attraction located in San Francisco, California, United States. This stunning natural reserve offers visitors a chance to explore rugged cliffs, scenic coastal views, and historic landmarks. With miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife watching, this institution is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the California coastline at the Golden Gate National Recreation Area - Lands End.

The Old LA Zoo Picnic Area is a charming park and tourist attraction located in Los Angeles, California, United States. This historic site offers a unique opportunity to explore the remnants of the city's former zoo, with old animal enclosures and structures still standing to this day. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely picnic in the picturesque surroundings or take a stroll through the peaceful grounds. The Old LA Zoo Picnic Area is a popular spot for families, history buffs, and nature lovers alike, providing a glimpse into the city's past while offering a relaxing escape from the bustling urban environment.

Bond Area is a charming park located on Los Feliz Blvd in Los Angeles, California. This peaceful retreat offers a serene environment for visitors to relax and unwind amidst lush greenery and beautiful scenery. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply enjoy some time outdoors, Bond Area is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its convenient location and tranquil atmosphere, this park is a hidden gem in the heart of Los Angeles.

The Golden Gate National Recreation Area in California, United States, is a park and tourist attraction that boasts 19 distinct ecosystems and over 2,000 plant and animal species. Visitors can hike, enjoy breathtaking vistas, have a picnic, and learn about the rich history of the area, including California's indigenous cultures, Spanish colonialism, Mexican Republic, US military expansion, and the growth of San Francisco. The park offers a diverse range of terrestrial, coastal, and marine environments, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. With accessibility resources available, visitors can easily explore and enjoy all that the park has to offer. Download the National Parks app to access information about Golden Gate and other parks. Visit the Golden Gate National Recreation Area Building in San Francisco for more information, or contact the United States Park Police in case of emergency. Experience the history and culture of Golden Gate National Recreation Area, where adventure awaits.

The Napa County Regional Park District - Lake Hennessey City Recreation Area is a stunning park located in St. Helena, California, United States. This park is not only a popular tourist attraction, but also serves as a vital institution dedicated to protecting and preserving watersheds, natural areas, and wildlife habitats. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor recreational activities in this beautiful setting, including hiking, picnicking, and fishing. The park also offers outdoor science and conservation education programs, making it an ideal destination for those looking to learn more about the environment and wildlife. With its commitment to improving Napa County's public parks, trails, and recreational facilities, the Napa County Regional Park District - Lake Hennessey City Recreation Area is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Natural Bridges State Beach, located at 2531 West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California, is a beautiful park and beach that offers stunning views of shore birds, migrating whales, seals, and otters. The park features public access tide pools where visitors can see sea stars, shore crabs, and other colorful ocean life during low tides. The park also includes a Monarch Grove where thousands of Monarch Butterflies overwinter, creating a "city in the trees" from late fall to winter. In addition to the natural beauty of the park, visitors can participate in guided hikes, backpacking adventures, and other public programs offered by California State Parks. The park also has a picnic area with tables, barbecues, and restroom facilities for day-use visitors. Please note that there is a $10 vehicle day-use fee to enter the park.

Lovers Point Beach is a picturesque and romantic destination located in Pacific Grove, California, United States. This iconic beach offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, a wide stretch of sandy shoreline, and unique rock formations that make it a favorite spot for couples and nature lovers alike. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the beach, picnics on the grassy area overlooking the water, and water activities such as swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Lovers Point Beach is also a popular spot for weddings and other special events, thanks to its breathtaking scenery and serene atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a romantic getaway, Lovers Point Beach is the perfect place to relax and unwind by the sea.

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.

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.

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.

Hiouchi Point Water Management Area is a picturesque park located in Crescent City, California, United States. This institution is dedicated to the preservation and management of water resources in the area. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape, as well as learn about the importance of water conservation and sustainability. The park offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and picnicking. Come explore Hiouchi Point Water Management Area and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.

The Black Butte Lake Recreation Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Orland, California, United States. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and picnicking in this beautiful natural setting. The park offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscape, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled day of adventure, the Black Butte Lake Recreation Area is sure to impress.

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.

Willow Creek Picnic Area and Beach is a charming park and tourist attraction located in Big Sur, California, United States. Nestled along the stunning coastline, this scenic spot offers visitors a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking ocean views. Perfect for a relaxing picnic or a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, Willow Creek Picnic Area and Beach is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, enjoy a meal with loved ones, or simply unwind in a serene setting, this idyllic spot is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit.

The Park Recreation Area in Carlsbad, California is a beautiful outdoor space where visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities. Located in the United States, this park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, the Park Recreation Area is the perfect place for families, friends, and nature lovers to come together and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or get active and explore, this park has something for everyone. Come visit the Park Recreation Area in Carlsbad and experience the beauty and tranquility of this natural oasis.