Or just hang out in the Bay Area and check out some of these National Park sites near SF. This one has some quirky art installations, an extra large crater and key spots for sunrises and sunsets. Or you can just focus on the southern parks and do a routing between Joshua Tree and Death Valley. One option on that trip is to go through Yosemite over Tioga pass and then explore Highway 395 before getting to Death Valley. If you want to get to Death Valley from SF, this guide gives you three different routing options, each with unique historic and natural sites. This trip has key stops within the park, but also suggests some cool spots outside of the park, like wine tasting and gold country history. This trip offers kooky roadside attractions and key stops at 11(!) redwood groves. One itinerary will take you from SF to the North Coast Redwoods.

If you starting in San Francisco, we have a ton of great road trip resources for you. 5 Road Trip Itineraries that Feature National Parks in California Check out our guide for when to visit California for advice on which locations are best for which season. Different parks are busier or have more on offer in different seasons.So, just assume that you’ll have rotten mobile service in most of the parks. Some of the parks are located in/near urban areas, but many are in the boondocks.The same goes for any kind of lodging in Yosemite, Kings Canyon/Sequoia and Death Valley National Parks.

Book your campgrounds early, because they fill up fast.

We also have a useful resource for determining whether a CA park pass is right for you.

If you’re planning to visit three or more of the major California parks, you’ll save money by getting an annual $80 America the Beautiful Pass.

Tips for Visiting California National Parks

Map of southern california