California State Parks Near San Jose

Martial Cottle Park SRA features expansive fields, multi-use paved trails, and interpretive displays highlighting Santa Clara Valley’s farming history. It’s a family-friendly destination for recreation and learning.

Castle Rock State Park is renowned for its dramatic sandstone formations, dense forests, and extensive trail network. Visitors enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Big Basin Redwoods State Park features majestic old-growth redwoods, cascading waterfalls, and over 80 miles of hiking trails. The park is a haven for nature lovers, offering camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing in a serene forest setting.

New Brighton State Beach features a beautiful stretch of sandy shoreline, blufftop campsites, and sweeping views of Monterey Bay. The park is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse coastal activities.

Santa Cruz Mission SHP features the last surviving building of the original Mission Santa Cruz, restored adobe rooms, and interpretive displays. The park provides insight into the region’s Spanish colonial past and Native Californian heritage.

Lighthouse Field State Beach features the historic Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, panoramic ocean views, and is a prime location for surfing and wildlife watching. Its open grassy fields and easy beach access make it ideal for picnics and relaxation.

Natural Bridges State Beach features a striking natural rock arch, tide pools, and a seasonal monarch butterfly grove. It’s ideal for beachcombing, wildlife viewing, and picnicking.

Twin Lakes State Beach features a mile-long stretch of sand, calm waters, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Its proximity to the harbor and local amenities makes it a favorite for families and beachgoers.

Wilder Ranch State Park features historic ranch buildings, dramatic ocean views, and extensive trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Its coastal habitats and cultural history make it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts and families.

Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park features towering redwoods, scenic creeks, and miles of multi-use trails. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Portola Redwoods State Park is known for its majestic redwoods, peaceful creeks, and miles of hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, and exploring the lush forest landscape.

Seacliff State Beach boasts a picturesque stretch of sand, the unique SS Palo Alto concrete ship, and excellent spots for picnicking and fishing. Its gentle surf and accessible facilities make it ideal for visitors of all ages.

Lake Del Valle SRA boasts a large reservoir surrounded by rolling hills, providing opportunities for water recreation, hiking, and camping. Its proximity to the Bay Area makes it a convenient getaway for nature lovers.

Burleigh H. Murray Ranch Property features a preserved 19th-century ranch, a rare English-style stone barn, and a scenic hiking trail along Mills Creek. The park offers a peaceful setting for wildlife viewing and exploring local history.

Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Butano State Park features miles of trails through majestic redwoods and shaded canyons. The park is ideal for hiking, camping, and escaping into nature.

Pescadero State Beach offers visitors dramatic coastal views, sandy beaches, and access to the rich habitats of Pescadero Marsh. It's a favorite spot for picnics, tide pooling, and observing local wildlife.

San Gregorio State Beach offers visitors sweeping ocean views, sandy shores, and striking coastal bluffs. The park is ideal for picnics, beach walks, and observing local wildlife.

Pacifica State Beach features a crescent-shaped shoreline ideal for surfing, picnicking, and beachcombing. Its proximity to San Francisco makes it a convenient getaway for outdoor enthusiasts.

Pomponio State Beach features expansive sandy shores, rugged coastal bluffs, and scenic picnic spots. It's ideal for relaxing, fishing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Northern California coastline.

Bean Hollow State Beach offers dramatic ocean views, fascinating tide pools, and unique pebble beaches. It's an ideal spot for picnicking, fishing, and exploring the rugged California coastline.

San Bruno Mountain State Park features over 2,400 acres of open space with hiking trails, picnic areas, and spectacular vistas of San Francisco and the Bay. The park is renowned for its unique plant communities and endangered butterflies.

Pigeon Point Light Station SHP offers a historic lighthouse, scenic coastal vistas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The park is a popular destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

San Juan Bautista SHP features restored adobe buildings, a historic plaza, and the renowned Mission San Juan Bautista. Visitors can explore museums, gardens, and period furnishings that bring California’s early history to life.

Año Nuevo State Park offers visitors the rare chance to observe elephant seals in their natural habitat along a rugged stretch of California’s coast. The park also features hiking trails, picnic areas, and rich wildlife viewing opportunities.

Thornton State Beach offers visitors a serene coastal experience with sweeping ocean vistas, sandy shores, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The park is ideal for picnicking, beachcombing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the California coastline.

Manresa State Beach features wide sandy beaches, coastal dunes, and excellent opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. Its peaceful setting attracts visitors looking for a classic California beach experience.

Bethany Reservoir SRA is known for its calm waters, making it a favorite for anglers and boaters. The park provides scenic views, picnic spots, and easy access from Interstate 580.

McLaughlin Eastshore State Park SS features over eight miles of shoreline, restored wetlands, and recreational paths for walking, cycling, and birdwatching. Its proximity to urban centers makes it a unique natural retreat.

Sunset State Beach offers expansive sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and coastal bluffs perfect for relaxation and recreation. The park is known for its family-friendly campsites and stunning sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.

Mount Diablo State Park offers breathtaking vistas from its summit, extensive hiking and biking trails, and opportunities for wildlife observation. The park is renowned for its wildflower displays and geological significance.

Rancho San Andrés Castro Adobe Property is a historic park featuring a beautifully restored 19th-century adobe home and interpretive displays. Visitors can explore the grounds, learn about early California history, and enjoy guided tours.

Pacheco State Park offers expansive grasslands, oak woodlands, and sweeping views of the Central Valley. It’s a haven for hikers, cyclists, and equestrians seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Carnegie SVRA is known for its extensive off-highway vehicle trails, rugged landscapes, and family-friendly amenities. It’s a favorite spot for OHV riders seeking adventure in Northern California.

San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area features a massive reservoir, campgrounds, and day-use areas ideal for water sports and outdoor recreation. The park is a key stopover for migratory birds and offers panoramic views of the Diablo Range.

Salinas River State Beach is renowned for its pristine dunes, diverse wildlife, and excellent fishing opportunities. The park provides a peaceful retreat for birdwatchers and beachgoers alike.

Zmudowski State Beach features sandy dunes, rich wildlife habitats, and prime fishing spots. Its remote setting makes it ideal for nature lovers seeking a quiet coastal experience.

Moss Landing State Beach features sandy dunes, excellent birdwatching, and access to the Elkhorn Slough. Visitors enjoy fishing, surfing, and scenic views along the Monterey Bay coastline.

Marina State Beach features expansive sandy dunes and panoramic Pacific Ocean vistas. The park is popular for hang gliding, kite flying, and beach walks.

Monterey State Historic Park features a unique collection of historic adobes, museums, and gardens in the heart of Monterey. The park offers guided tours, educational exhibits, and special events celebrating California’s heritage.

Carmel River State Beach boasts a beautiful lagoon, sandy shores, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. The park is ideal for kayaking, wildlife observation, and enjoying coastal views.