21 Northern California Parks That Are Beautiful to Visit in the Fall
Fall in Northern California is a time when the landscapes transform into a stunning display of color, making it the ideal season to explore the region’s diverse parks. As the temperatures cool and the summer crowds dwindle, the trails, lakes, and forests come alive with vibrant foliage, creating a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures.
Whether you’re looking to hike through towering redwoods, relax by serene lakes, or explore historic landmarks, Northern California offers a variety of parks that showcase the beauty of the season. From the hidden treasures of Sinkyone Wilderness State Park to the iconic groves of Calaveras Big Trees, each park offers a unique experience, especially in autumn.
So, pack your gear, hit the trails, and discover the natural beauty that makes Northern California’s parks such remarkable destinations in the fall.
1. Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park | Shasta County
This remote park is one of Northern California’s hidden gems, accessible only by boat. In fall, the crisp air and quiet surroundings make it a perfect spot for paddling. The park’s unique landscape, created by lava flows, offers stunning views, and visitors can enjoy a serene experience exploring the lava springs.
2. Annadel State Park | Sonoma County
Annadel transforms into a fall wonderland with its oak woodlands turning shades of yellow and gold. The park’s trails are ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, and its quiet lakes offer a peaceful retreat for anglers and picnickers alike.
3. Auburn State Recreation Area | Placer and El Dorado Counties
Known for its challenging trails and beautiful river canyons, Auburn State Recreation Area offers fall colors along the American River. Hike through oak-studded hillsides or enjoy activities like fishing, whitewater rafting, and mountain biking.
4. Bodie State Historic Park | Mono County
Fall is a great time to explore this ghost town, once a booming gold-mining settlement. The cooler temperatures make walking around the historic buildings comfortable, and the clear autumn skies create an eerie and photogenic atmosphere.
5. Bothe-Napa Valley State Park | Napa and Sonoma Counties
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park is a must-visit in the fall, with vibrant red, yellow, and orange foliage lighting up its forests. Enjoy hiking through oak and redwood groves, or relax with a picnic among the changing leaves.
6. Calaveras Big Trees State Park | Calaveras and Tuolumne Counties
Famous for its giant sequoias, Calaveras Big Trees offers a spectacular fall experience. The park’s hiking trails are great for exploring the massive trees, while dogwoods and maples provide colorful contrast among the towering redwoods.
7. Castle Crags State Park | Shasta and Siskiyou Counties
The dramatic granite spires of Castle Crags are stunning in the fall, especially against a backdrop of fall foliage. The park offers excellent hiking trails, including a challenging trek to the base of the crags for adventurous visitors.
8. Castle Rock State Park | Santa Cruz and Santa Clara Counties
For those seeking fall adventures closer to the coast, Castle Rock’s sandstone formations and lush forests are stunning this time of year. The park is popular with rock climbers, and the forested trails provide a peaceful escape with views of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
9. Clear Lake State Park | Lake County
With its oak woodlands and lakeside views, Clear Lake State Park is a picturesque autumn destination. Explore the trails, go fishing, or enjoy a peaceful paddle on California’s largest natural freshwater lake.
10. Ed Z’berg – Sugar Pine Point State Park | El Dorado County
Situated along the west shore of Lake Tahoe, this park offers stunning fall views of the lake and surrounding pine forests. The cooler weather is perfect for hiking, and the park’s historic Hellman-Ehrman Mansion is open for tours.
11. Grover Hot Springs State Park | Alpine County
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Grover Hot Springs is the perfect spot to soak in a hot spring surrounded by crisp fall air. The park’s meadows turn golden in autumn, making it a fantastic place to relax and enjoy nature.
12. Henry W. Coe State Park | Santa Clara and Stanislaus Counties
As the largest state park in Northern California, Henry W. Coe offers expansive wilderness with rolling hills, rugged canyons, and autumn foliage. It’s ideal for hiking, backpacking, and mountain biking.
13. Humboldt Redwoods State Park | Humboldt County
Home to the Avenue of the Giants, Humboldt Redwoods State Park is an iconic fall destination. The towering redwoods and patches of colorful maples make it an enchanting place to explore on foot or by car.
14. Lake Oroville State Recreation Area | Butte County
Lake Oroville’s expansive waters and surrounding hills are especially beautiful in the fall. Enjoy fishing, boating, or hiking along the many trails that offer panoramic views of the lake and changing foliage.
15. McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park | Shasta County
Burney Falls is a sight to behold year-round, but it takes on a special magic in the fall. The waterfall, surrounded by golden foliage, creates a breathtaking scene, and the park’s trails are great for exploring this natural wonder.
16. Plumas-Eureka State Park | Plumas County
This historic mining park is nestled in the Sierra Nevada, and its fall colors are spectacular. Explore the remnants of an old mining town, hike through forests, or fish in the crystal-clear lakes.
17. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park | Humboldt and Del Norte Counties
Known for its majestic redwoods, this park is even more magical in the fall when sunlight filters through the canopy, casting an amber glow. Don’t miss Fern Canyon, a unique, lush area with towering fern walls.
18. Sinkyone Wilderness State Park | Humboldt and Mendocino Counties
If you’re looking for rugged coastal beauty, Sinkyone is the place to be. The Lost Coast Trail offers stunning views of cliffs, forests, and the Pacific Ocean, and the fall weather makes it ideal for exploring.
19. South Yuba River State Park | Nevada County
The South Yuba River State Park is a fall favorite, with vibrant foliage lining the riverbanks. There are plenty of trails to explore, including one that leads to an impressive covered bridge.
20. William B. Ide Adobe State Historic Park | Tehama County
This small park offers a step back in time to California’s Gold Rush era. In the fall, the surrounding trees burst with color, creating a beautiful backdrop for exploring the adobe house, blacksmith shop, and gardens.
21. Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area | Tehama County
Located along the Sacramento River, this park is a great spot for fall foliage and birdwatching. The cottonwood and sycamore trees turn brilliant shades of yellow, making it a serene place for hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying nature.
