California is home to more than 280 incredible state parks, and thanks to thousands of park lovers, the 2026 Best of California’s State Parks poll celebrated some of the very best of them. From iconic coastlines and redwood forests to hidden gems and family-friendly escapes, your nominations and votes helped spotlight the parks that inspire adventure, protect natural beauty, and create lasting memories.
2026 Best of California’s State Parks Winners
• Best California State Park for Camping
Winner: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Honorable Mentions: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Calaveras Big Trees State Park
• Best California State Park for Spectacular Views
Winner: Mount Tamalpais State Park
Honorable Mentions: Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and Crystal Cove State Park
• Best California State Park for Hiking
Winner: Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Honorable Mentions: Jack London State Historic Park and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
• Best California State Park for Birdwatching
Winner: Morro Bay State Park
Honorable Mentions: Humboldt Lagoons State Park and Año Nuevo State Park
• Best California State Park for Wildflowers
Winner: Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve State Natural Reserve
Honorable Mentions: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
• Best California State Park for Family-Friendly Experiences
Winner: Angel Island State Park
Honorable Mentions: Railtown 1897 State Historic Park and Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park
• Best California State Park for Day Trips
Winner: Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Honorable Mentions: Jack London State Historic Park and Angel Island State Park
• Best California State Beach
Winner: Half Moon Bay State Beach
Honorable Mentions: Asilomar State Beach and Crystal Cove State Park
• Best California State Park for Learning About History
Winner: Bodie State Historic Park
Honorable Mentions: Jack London State Historic Park and Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park
• Best California State Park for Dog-Friendly Adventures
Winner: Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
Honorable Mentions:
Leo Carrillo State Park
Candlestick Point State Recreation Area
• Best California State Park for Water Activities
Winner: Emerald Bay State Park
Honorable Mentions: Folsom Lake State Recreation Area and Clear Lake State Park
• Best California State Park for a Hidden Gem Experience
Winner: Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
Honorable Mentions: Bodie State Historic Park and China Camp State Park.
