13 Best West Coast National Parks – California, Oregon, Washington

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13 West Coast National Parks 

The Western United States is home to some of the most stunning national parks in the entire country.

You will find endless sand dunes in the desert of Southern California, sheer granite walls in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range in Eastern California, the world’s tallest trees in Northern California, the deepest lake in Southern Oregon, temperate rainforests in Western Washington, and glaciers in Northern Washington.

There are even villages so remote they are only accessible by boat or plane – and you don’t have to go to Alaska. (Hint, it’s in North Cascades National Park), Plus, islands so remote no one lives there (look to the central California coast)

With these endless opportunities for exploration, there is surely something for everyone.

Take a look at the 13 West Coast National Parks in California, Oregon, and Washington are ready for you and your adventure.

Yosemite National Park

Location:  Central California

Entrances:  5

Highlights:  Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, El Capitan, Glacier Point, Tuolumne Meadows

Lodging inside park:  Yes

Campgrounds in park:  Yes, 10+

Yosemite National Park is hands down one of the best national parks in the west.

You will see towering granite walls, lush meadows, meandering creaks, raging waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, and leave with a memory book to last a lifetime.

Depending on your road trip itinerary, you will be entering the park from 1 of the 5 entrances. Each region has its own highlights, but all give you a scenic drive regardless of your route.

The southern region, near Wawona and Mariposa Grove, gives you close access to the world-famous giant sequoia trees. And be sure you do not miss Glacier Point – one of the most magnificent viewpoints in the Yosemite.

Yosemite Valley is filled with jaw dropping views, and endless trails to explore. It is here you will have access to Bridalveil Falls, Vernal Falls, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls.

On your way out of the valley, while still on the main road, you will pass the granite monolith that is El Capitan. This popular destination has world-class rock climbing. Bring your binoculars to El Capitan Meadows, as there will surely be climbers to spot on the towering  3,000-foot granite wall!

Tuolomne Meadows will put you high above the valley floor, at an altitude of 8600 ft. The meadows are often teeming with grazing Mule Deer, and if you keep an eye out, you will spot black bears.  The most patient explorers may even spot a bighorn sheep.

The Hetch Hetchy reservoir region is the quietest of all areas, and will give you solitude from the summer months crowds. For history buffs, be sure to read up on the history of the reservoir dam and its relationship with San Francisco.

If you are looking for the best West Coast National Parks, Yosemite could be your answer.

Do not miss this extraordinary park! It just might be one of the most beautiful places in North America.

Lastly, be sure to check Yosemite Current Conditions before you go.

Kings Canyon National Park

Location:  Central California

Entrances:  1

Highlights:  Grant Grove, General Grant Tree, Cedar Grove, Roaring River Falls, Zumwalt Meadow

Lodging inside park:  Yes

Campgrounds in park: Yes, 5+

Kings Canyon National Park and Sequoia National Park (next on the list) are managed by the same administration within the national park service, yet are their own separate and unique parks – hence being listed separately for easier understanding.

Located in California’s southern Sierra Nevada mountains, the only entrance into this park is from the west side.

Kings Canyon is the home to the famous General Grant Tree, the 2nd largest tree in the world and estimated to be over 1600 years old. The Grant Grove Trail is an easy trail and full of sequoias and historical sites.

To move further into the park, the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway will take you to Cedar Grove Visitor Center and Village. From here you will be rewarded with views of the Kings River, beautiful rock formations, and some stunning scenery.

Be sure you don’t miss Roaring River Falls and the 1.5-mile Zumwalt Meadow hike. You won’t be disappointed!

For a unique experience, take a tour of Boyden Cavern along the Scenic Byway. The tour is about an hour long and features plenty of stalactites, stalagmites, and more.

Kings Canyon National Park is a hidden gem in California – not visited nearly as often as some other parks, yet it is chock-full of California beauty.

To see more of the park, you may want to plan a multi day backpacking trip, as there is plenty of backcountry to discover.

Always check the current park conditions prior to arriving.

Sequoia National Park

Location:  Central California

Entrances:  3

Highlights:  General Sherman, Crystal Cave, Moro Rock, Tunnel Log, Generals Highway, Mineral King

Lodging inside park:  Yes

Campgrounds in park:  Yes, 5+

If you are looking for massive trees – this is the place to be!

Sequoia National Park is home to the largest tree in the world – General Sherman Tree. This giant sequoia is 275 feet tall, 36 feet in diameter, and estimated to be 2200 years old! The trail is quite easy, and those with a disability parking placard are able to park very close for a short walk to the tree.

Please remember – when around the giant sequoias, always stay within the fence perimeter, as the root system of these trees are quite shallow. Hard to believe, but that is indeed the case!

For early risers, Moro Rock is the perfect place to catch the sunrise. It’s about 350 steps to get to the 360 degree view – worthy of climbing out of bed early!

Similar to Boyden Cavern in Kings Canyon, Crystal Cave is another marble-filled cavern tour and popular attraction. Advanced tickets are required, so be sure to plan accordingly.

For some added fun – Tunnel Log (along Crescent Meadow Road) and Tunnel Rock (along Generals Highway) are popular activities while traveling through the park. You are able to drive through Tunnel Log, but only pedestrians are able to go through Tunnel Rock. Both provide a good reason for some quick fun photos.

The southern section of the park is home to Mineral King. This glacial valley sits about 10,000 ft. in elevation and is absolutely stunning. The cascading lakes, wildflowers, and snow-capped mountains are an explorer’s dream. A long drive, but oh so worth it!

Check current conditions before you go.

Joshua Tree National Park

Location:  Southern California

Entrances:  3

Highlights:  Cholla Cactus Garden, Skull Rock, Cottonwood Spring Oasis, Keys View, Hidden Valley Nature Trail

Lodging inside park:  No, but nearby outside of Park

Campgrounds in park:  Yes, 5+

Joshua Tree National Park is about 3 hours from San Diego, 2 hours from Los Angeles, and only a short drive – 50 minutes – from Palm Springs.

The desert topography make it a unique, yet quite popular spot on this list.

The park is home to, you guessed it, Joshua Trees – a type of Yucca – that stand out in the horizon. The trees grow to about 15 to 40 feet in height, and live for about 500 years.

Cholla Cacti abound in the Cholla Cactus Garden. The .75-mile loop has a concentration of the cacti, also known as the ‘teddy bear cactus’ – but don’t try to hug it! Stay on the trail.

Cottonwood Springs Oasis provides even more interesting vegetation topography. Due to earthquake activity over the years, there is now a spring in this area. The water from this spring creates water-rich soil that allows Fan Palms to grow, and yep, Cottonwood trees! Bonus tip – go in early fall to see the color of cottonwood leaves contrast with the fan palms.

While taking in the desert vegetation, there are some other sights you won’t want to miss. A popular attraction, and only 1.7-miles with very little elevation gain, is Skull Rock. And again, you guessed it – it looks like a massive skull. Who came up with all these creative names?

Hidden Valley is a favorite among climbers, as well as campers and hikers, thanks to the numerous boulders. Be sure to check out the Hidden Valley Nature Trail if you are looking for a quick 1-mile loop.

Another popular spot, Keys View, is easily accessible and you can drive right to the bottom of the viewpoint.  Just a short walk up, and you are there. On a clear day, you will be able to see for miles!

Lastly – the stars! The desert sky is an ideal location for stargazing.

Always check current conditions before arriving.

Channel Islands National Park

Location:  Southern California

Islands:  5

Highlights:  remote hiking, wildlife, peace and solitude

Lodging inside park:  No, only on mainland near Oxnard or Ventura

Campgrounds in park:  Yes, 5, very primitive

Channel Islands National Park is a band of 5 islands, located off the coast of Ventura and Santa Barbara. The islands are primitive and no resources or services are available. Of all the national parks on the list, this is the one you need to be most prepared for!

Be sure you bring all the water you will need (and then some!), as well as food, sunscreen, and a first aid kit – you do not want to be empty-handed should you need it.

When you arrive, you will be walking from the boat, so wear the correct clothing and shoes. I repeat, you will be walking to your destination.

There are campgrounds, although limited, that you are able to reserve online. Pack accordingly, since you will be carrying whatever you bring.

To get to the islands, there are a few ferries that leave from either Santa Barbara or Ventura. Book this portion before you book your campground, to ensure youhave a ride there!

Special highlight:  endemic foxes live here – the Island Fox! Please keep in mind – while yes, they are cute, they are wild animals and always treat them as such. This is their home, and we are visitors to their land.

Due to the limited resources, ensure you review the current conditions prior to arriving.

Death Valley National Park

Location:  Southern California

Entrances:  2

Highlights:  The Racetrack, Zabriskie Point, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Artist’s Palette, Lee Flat Joshua Tree Forest

Lodging inside park:  Yes

Campgrounds in park:  Yes, 5+

Death Valley National Park breaks a lot of records!

The park is the lowest point, hottest location, and driest place in North America, as well as the largest national park in the lower 48 states (5270 square miles)!

Even though the name is a tad off-putting, there are some real highlights! Plus, it’s only about 2.25 hours from Las Vegas.

The famous Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are seemingly endless. The best time to visit is at sunrise, and in the winter – not as hot, fewer people, and the colors are not washed out from the midday sun. If you go later in the day, be sure to layer up, as the sun is intense!

Zabriskie Point has some serious, impressive views from all directions. Another excellent choice for a sunrise.  If you can’t make it that early, opt for the sunset – the colors are spectacular.

For a geological wonder, check out Artist’s Palette. The colors would make any painter envious. Be aware, the road is a one-way 9 miles loop, so plan accordingly.

If you haven’t been to Joshua Tree National Park, you can still see the infamous trees at Lee Flat Joshua Tree Forest. It is in a remote location, but if you have the right vehicle and the desire to explore deeper into the park, this is a great option!

The well-known and mysterious Racetrack Playa can boggle your mind. The rocks seemed to have magically moved across the desert floor, leaving a trail behind. There are studies that have suggested it is from ice, water, and wind coinciding at just the right times. To get there, you will need a high clearance, and be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen!

NOTE:  do NOT drive on the Racetrack Playa!! The damage leaves lasting scars.

Due to intense weather, ALWAYS check the current conditions and be prepared.

Pinnacles National Park

Location:  Central Northern California

Entrances:  2 (not connected)

Highlights:  Bear Gulch Cave, Balconies Cave, California Condors

Lodging inside park:  No, (there are tent cabins at campground)

Campgrounds in park:  Yes, 1 – only accessible from East entrance

Pinnacles National Park is the smallest national park in California, and also the newest.  It had been one of California’s national monuments since 1908, but became a national park in 2013.

When planning your visit, keep in mind the 2 entrances do not have a connected road.

The west side entrance has day amenities, such as picnic tables, restrooms, and parking.

The east side entrance has a visitor center, general store, and campground (with a pool!).

Both sides have plenty of trailheads for exploring! There are 30-miles of hiking trails, with a variety of difficulties, as well as 30-miles of fencing to keep out wild pigs.

The park is known for it’s talus caves (formed between fallen boulders) that are home to Townsend big-eared bats.

Note: The caves are closed during bat breeding season (late spring, early summer), so check the park website before arriving.

The majestic California Condors, an amazing conservation success, also live here. At one point there were only 25 left, and thankfully you can now see these impressive birds in the wild. Their 9.5-foot wing span certainly is not a sight to miss!

Tip:  Hike the Condor Gulch Trail in the early morning for your best chance at spotting one.

Please note, it can get VERY hot here in the summer – prepare accordingly.

Check current conditions before you go.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Location:  Northern California

Entrances:  2

Highlights:  Bumpass Hell, Lassen Peak, Devil’s Kitchen, Boiling Springs Lake, Manzanita Lake

Lodging inside park:  Yes

Campgrounds in park:  Yes, 5+

Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to one largest volcanic domes on earth – Lassen Peak. It is in a dormant state, of course, and has not erupted since 1915.

If you can’t get to Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, Lassen will give you a little taste of the geothermal features Yellowstone is known for.

Heading through the park, you pass hydrothermal areas, thick forests, and spacious meadows.

Bumpass Hell, one of the most popular hikes, gives you an up close look at the barren landscape. The steaming earth provides a ‘wonderful’ aromatic smell of sulfur.

More geothermal features are along the 4.4-mile Devil’s Kitchen trail – yet another appealing trail name.

For a trifecta of enticing names, Boiling Springs Lake Trail is a 3-mile trail featuring another hydrothermal lake.

And when you’ve had enough of boiling water, you can make your way to Manzanita Lake for a swim, kayak, or fishing.

Always check current conditions in the park.

Redwood National Park

Location:  Northern California

Entrances:  no main entrance stations or gates, free, a compilation of state parks

Highlights:  Ladybird Johnson Grove, Trillium Falls, Fern Canyon, Tall Trees Grove, Elk Meadow

Lodging inside park:  No, but nearby outside of park

Campgrounds in park:  Yes, 4

Redwood National Park is a compilation of state parks and the national park to create what is called ‘Redwood National Park’.  A bit confusing, but 100% worth the drive to this Northern California coastal park.

The park is home to the tallest trees in the world, the coast redwoods, with the king of trees being the 600-year-old, 379-foot tall Hyperion Tree.

For an easy hike, try the Ladybird Johnson Grove. This short and scenic 1.4-mile trail meanders through a grove of ancient old-growth Redwood trees and is one you won’t want to miss.

Another popular hike, accessible in Elk Meadow, is the Trillium Falls Trail. There are moss covered boulders surrounding the fern encased falls, and you only need to walk 0.3-miles to get to this luscious spot.

The area is a true testament to this Pacific Northwest temperate rainforest zone, thanks to the proximity of the Pacific Ocean and rugged coastline.

For more ferns, be sure to check out the Fern Canyon Trail near Orick. It’s more of a walk than a hike, but another great place to explore and experience the vegetation growing from the rich soil.

If you plan in advance, you are able to get a permit to visit Tall Trees Grove. There is a bit of mystique behind this area, as it’s difficult to get to and limited visitors are allowed.  If you have extra time, add it to your list.

Check the current conditions before you arrive.

Crater Lake National Park

Location:  Southern Oregon

Entrances:  3

Highlights:  Rim Drive, Boat to Wizard Island, Garfield Peak, Plaikni Falls, Discovery Point Trail sunrise

Lodging inside park:  Yes

Campgrounds in park:   Yes, 2

Crater Lake National Park is Oregon’s only national park, and a must-see.

Hard to imagine, but this lake sits inside a volcano!

The park is home to the deepest lake in the United States, yes even deeper than Lake Tahoe, and has a maximum depth of 1,949 feet.  For reference, Tahoe has a maximum depth of 1,645 feet.

The 33-mile Rim Drive is the best way to see the lake, and will give you a vantage point around the entire volcanic caldera.  It is recommended to drive clockwise, as most of the viewpoints are on the right-hand side of the road going this direction, and make for easier navigation.

Right inside this lake is Wizard Island – another volcano! A popular activity is taking a boat tour over (cannot go on your own) and spending up to 3 hours exploring.

While considered difficult, one of the best hikes in the park is Garfield Peak.  This steep 3.5-mile hike will reward you with the best views and some awe-inspiring memories.

Another noteworthy stop is Plaikni Falls – about a 2-mile hike.  As always, early risers who catch the sunrise, at the peak of Discovery Point Trail, are in for a spectacular moment. It’s only 1-mile in, and certainly should go on your checklist of areas to visit.

Be sure to check current conditions before you go.

Mount Rainier National Park

Location:  Central Washington

Entrances:  4

Highlights:  Skyline Trail, Grove of the Patriarchs, Carbon River, Myrtle Falls, Reflection Lake

Lodging inside park:  Yes

Campgrounds in park:  Yes, 3

Mount Rainier National Park, in Washington state, is the most glaciated peak in the lower 48 states, with 26 glaciers, and is an active volcano.

The Skyline Trail, in the Paradise area, is a 6.2-mile hike and has an elevation gain of 1,700 feet. You will get a close-up of the 14,410-foot mountain and will most likely see some climbers on their way up.

For a short walk, check out rocky gorge Myrtle Falls. The gorgeous view, one of the most photographed in the park, is a must!

About 10 minutes from Paradise is Reflection Lake.  This is a photo worthy spot and one not to miss. To capture the best colors, try to arrive early or late, as the midday sun will wash out some vibrancy.

If you are looking for a dense forest trail, with ancient trees, the 1.5-mile walk in the Grove of the Patriarchs is the place to go.  Here you will find Douglas Firs, Western Hemlocks, and Western Red Cedars.

One of the least visited section of the park is Carbon River.  This mild region, thanks to the lower elevation, has quiet trails and solitude – a perfect reset from the busier parts of the park.

Check the current conditions before arriving.

Olympic National Park

Location:  Northern Washington

Entrances:  2

Highlights:  Hoh Rainforest, Rialto Beach, Lake Crescent, Hurricane Ridge, Shi Shi Beach

Lodging inside park:  Yes

Campgrounds in park:  Yes, 10+

Olympic National Park, on the Olympic peninsula in Washington, is incredibly diverse.  You will find beaches, temperate rainforests, mountain peaks, waterfalls, wildlife, and more! Certainly a spot for your west coast national parks itinerary.

Rialto Beach has beautiful views of the rugged coastline, while Shi Shi Beach will give you access to tide pools for endless exploration. Keep in mind, Shi Shi Beach does require a reservation, so plan accordingly.

Hoh Rainforest, as its name implies, gets an immense amount of rain – about 14 FEET each year.  With this much moisture, you will feel transported to another time.  This is one of the largest, lushest temperate rainforests in the country. Do not skip this part of the park!

Lake Crescent is a glacially carved lake, much like other alpine lakes in the west, and will give you a classic mountain experience. Kayaking, fishing, sailing, or just relaxing on the beach are popular here

For more breathtaking views, make a day trip to Hurricane Ridge – the sights of ridges, lakes, and valleys are stunning, and the hike is quite mellow.

Check current conditions so you can plan accordingly.

North Cascades National Park

Location:  Northern Washington

Entrances:  2

Highlights:  Diablo Lake, Sterling Munro Trail, Rainy Lake, Washington Pass Overlook, Stehekin

Lodging inside park:  Yes

Campgrounds in park:  Yes, 5+

North Cascades National Park is filled with majestic views, rugged terrain, and is often called the ‘American Alps’ – and for good reason. If you are in Northern Washington, you will understand why.

There are over 400 miles of trails, 300 glaciers, numerous alpine lakes, and endless opportunities for exploration.

From the east side, you will head over Washington Pass.  The Washington Pass Overlook will provide a great view of photo worthy Liberty Bell Mountain.

As you continue towards the park, in Okanogan National Forest, lies Rainy Lake.  There is an easy trail, mostly shaded, and gets you up close to the crystal clear waters.

Diablo Lake is certainly a highlight in North Cascades National Park.  Thanks to the glaciers, the water is blue-green, almost turquoise, and pristine.

For a more rugged experience, take the Sterling Munro Trail to the Pickets overlook – the view provides an almost razor like horizon.

In the southern section of the park is Stehekin.  The only way to access this remote village is via a plane or boat (or a 19-mile hike). This adventurous trip will reward you with sheer beauty and solitude.  If you have the time, go explore this area!

Explore California, Oregon, and Washington – visit the West Coast National Parks.

We feel these are some of the best places in the west.  Plan your trip, get outside and go explore!