You have enjoyed the San Diego sun, ridden the waves, and paddled the waters of Mission Bay. Balboa Park's museums and the rooftop bars and restaurants of downtown are now also regular hangouts. A road trip to one of the many state and national parks in the San Diego area might be just what you need to see the city's famous mountains, deserts, and beaches.
These national and state parks are less than 3.5 hours away from San Diego, and they include incredible opportunities to see animals up close, as well as breathtaking scenery and thrilling outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.
The National Park of Joshua Tree
About a three-hour trip will get you to Joshua Tree National Park from San Diego, which is located about 160 miles to the northeast. Beautiful rock formations, unique animals, cactus, and the ubiquitous Joshua trees combine to make the desert a sight to see. It would take at least a day to phrazle explore the park's many roads, find amazing picture spots atop the park's many rocks, and hunt for wildflowers and cactus.
Staying the night at one of the park's many campsites is the ideal way to see the park's most impressive feature, the starry sky. Some of Southern California's darkest nights may be found in Joshua Tree, which is why it was designated as an International Dark Sky Park. The sky is filled with stars, planets, and the Milky Way, and if you're fortunate, you may even catch sight of a shooting star or two.
The National Park of the Channel Islands
The five islands that make up Channel Islands National Park are located about 200 miles north of San Diego, off the coast of Southern California near Ventura. One of the park's visitor centers is located in the seaside town of Ventura, which is reached after a spectacular 3.5-hour journey north along the coast via Orange County and Los Angeles. Travelers interested in day trips, overnight camping, or just exploring the region may hire the park's boat concessionaire, Island Packers Cruises, to transport them out to the islands.
A lot of people visit Anacapa to swim, kayak, and snorkel, and to check out the animals. Meanwhile, Santa Cruz Island is where the warmest temperatures and most attractions can be found. The islands are best experienced with preparation and advance booking, as recommended by the park's website.
Conservation Area of Cuyamaca Rancho
Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is located in the mountains of Julian, less than an hour's drive northeast of San Diego, and features more than 100 miles of hiking trails, creeks, meadows, and a lake. There are places to pitch a tent, and you can take your dog with you on the paved paths and picnic areas. Day use area with wading pools and picnic tables included.
Visit Julian, a town that has been around since the California gold rush era, if you have the time. There are many apple and pear orchards in the area, and during harvest time, visitors can pick their own fresh fruit and enjoy it with cider or Julian's world-famous apple pie. This is Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.
