Muir Woods National Monument is famous for coast redwoods, Joshua Tree National Park for spiky desert trees.
But these national parks are not the only place to experience soaring forests with ancient trees and desert environments.
Fall is perfect time to explore fabulous state parks throughout the United States.
Find state parks convenient to where you live, and plan a weekend.
State parks are open and fully staffed, campgrounds available for overnight visits.
For example, in California here’s eight redwoods state parks and two desert state parks to visit right now.
Coast Redwoods
Muir Woods National Monument is closed, but there are 8 California state parks with spectacular old growth redwoods.
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Jack London State Historic Park
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Read our blog post about each state park: California Coast Redwoods.
Deserts
Fall is a usually a great time to visit California deserts, but right now is not good time to visit Joshua Tree or Death Valley national parks.
Two state parks are a good alternative – Red Rock Canyon and Anza Borrego.
Looking to see Joshua trees, they’re here in Red Canyon, along with fabulous formations, easy hikes and a campground.
Hagen Canyon Natural Preserve – 1.2 mile loop trail at bottom of sandy canyon, looking up at sandstone formations. Level trail, well marked, perfect for little ones.
Red Cliffs Natural Preserve -Take the Red Cliffs Nature Trail to see dramatic sandstone formations and Joshua trees.
Two campgrounds, stop in Anza Borrego Visitor Center for information and tips about the desert.
Borrego Palm Canyon Nature Trail – Hike to palm trees, seasonal creek and waterfalls, 3 mile loop.
Slot Canyon Trail – On Buttes Pass Road, drive to the parking lot, then hike in The Slot, steep sandstone canyon walls on either side. Go as far as kids like, then return the way you came. (Photo below)
Desert hiking tips
Always check the weather before going out! Do not hike the Slot Canyon if rain is predicted. Also don’t hike in extreme heat.
Carry water and snacks with you, even for a short hike.
Wear closed toed shoes, no flip-flips for hikes.
Wear sunscreen, weather is dry have lip balm and hand lotion.
No cell phone service may be available, have offline or paper maps.
