When you’re craving fresh air and want to reconnect with Mother Nature, there’s no better place to be than Northern California. The area is home to an impressive collection of state parks and is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Stay with us at Sea Rock Inn and experience the best Northern California State Parks.
The 5 Best Northern California State Parks
1. Mendocino Headlands State Park
With over 347 acres of undeveloped seaside bluffs, the gorgeous landscape of Mendocino Headlands State Park is a dream come true for nature lovers. The park is popular among hikers and runners throughout the year and whale watchers during the winter. This park surrounds the town of Mendocino on three sides and is truly a magical place.
2. MacKerricher State Park
MacKerricher State Park features a plethora of habitats and terrains. From beaches to bluffs to headlands to forests to wetlands, this park has it all! Some of the most popular activities to enjoy at MacKerricher include horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching. Plus, no trip to this state park is complete without searching for mesmerizing sea glass at Glass Beach.
3. Russian Gulch State Park
One of the most popular places to visit among our inn guests is a Russian Gulch. Russian Gulch State Park offers top-notch hiking trails, and the trail system is easy to navigate. The Fern Canyon Trail is only a mile long and passes a breathtaking waterfall and some redwoods. If you take the Headlands Trail, you’ll find the Devil’s Punch Bowl; one of the park’s most famous attractions. This massive collapsed sea cave is constantly churning water straight from the sea!
4. Van Damme State Park
Hop onto Highway 1, head south of Mendocino, and treat yourself to an unforgettable day at Van Damme State Park. We recommend hitting the beach, trying your hands at windsurfing, and learning about the environment at the Visitor’s Center. Van Damme is also home to an impressive collection of pygmy trees that are over 100 years old!
5. Navarro River Redwoods State Park
Nothing compares to the first time you lay your eyes on a towering redwood tree. While you’re staying with us at Sea Rock Inn, take a drive to Navarro River Redwoods State Park. This unusual second-growth redwood park is a narrow corridor of redwood groves along Route 128. This area isn’t known for hiking, but its relaxing scenic drives.
Honorable Mention: Mendocino National Forest
Saying that Mendocino National Forest is vast is an understatement. The park stretches over 900,000 acres and features forests, canyons, and mountains. Our bed and breakfast is slightly shorter than a four-hour drive from the national forest. So, while it’s not ideal for a day trip from our inn, it’s the perfect spot to visit on your way to or from your stay with us!
Unwind After Your Park Adventures
With such amazing outdoor activities, like those at the nearby Northern California state parks, it’s easy to see why so many people call Sea Rock Inn in Mendocino their top vacation spot. Our guests can unwind in our beautiful accommodations while basking in the stunning views. Check our availability and book a trip to see us soon. The great outdoors in California await!