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There sure are a lot of amazing, next-level parks to discover here in Northern California. It can almost be overwhelming when it comes to deciding which one you’d like to visit next. We’ll make it easy for you by suggesting one of the best state parks that simply doesn’t get enough attention: Russian Gulch State Park. This breathtaking park has a little bit of everything for everyone, no matter what your adventure style is. Whether you’re searching for campsites near me, beaches near me, hiking near me, or waterfalls near me, you’ll want to discover this NorCal park that seemingly has it all!

Hiding out just two miles north of Mendocino, Russian Gulch State Park is an oasis of beautiful scenery, wildlife, and endless recreation. Every inch of it is begging to be explored, and it's simply a must for any Northern Californian.
mksfca/Flickr
The first thing you'll notice about this stunning state park is the variety of landscapes it contains. Boasting a leafy canyon surrounded by a rocky coastline, endless beaches, and windswept headlands, the natural beauty here is definitely abundant!
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One of the park's most notable features, and one you'll definitely want to seek out, is the 36-foot waterfall tucked away in the forest. It's majestic cascade of water plunges into a lush landscape of redwoods, mosses, and ferns.
Steven Bratman/Flickr
Another of the park's most iconic sights is the Panhorst Bridge (also known as the Russian Gulch Bridge.) Constructed in 1939, the bridge is considered one of the most beautiful in all of California and it's truly a photographer's dream.
hharryus/Flickr

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Russian Gulch is a treasure trove of all types of adventure. Visitors travel from all over the state for hiking, camping, fishing, kayaking, cycling, and so much more. Simply put, there's never a dull moment to be had in this breathtaking destination.
SageTraveler/TripAdvisor
In fact, there's so much to this park that you'll definitely need several days to truly take it all in. Plan an overnight adventure at one of their 26 standard campsites or single group site. All sites are first-come, first-served from Labor Day through late March, but are reservation only the rest of the year.
Chef_Lebowski/TripAdvisor
When it comes to hiking, you'll find that there are a plethora of trails to be enjoyed across all skill levels. The Headlands Trail is considered an easy trail with minimal elevation change and takes you along the park's craggy shoreline before arriving at an overlook of a giant sinkhole called Devil's Punchbowl.
RevfromCA/TripAdvisor
Any time spent in Russian Gulch State Park is time well-spent. Although it's just one of Northern California's many beautiful parks, it certainly stands out. See it for yourself and spend the day in one of the best state parks soon!
Allie_Caulfield/Flickr
For more information about Russian Gulch State Park, check out the California Parks website and start planning your next adventure! Address: CA-1, Mendocino, CA, 95460

Have you paid a visit to this incredible Russian Gulch State Park recently? In your opinion, what’s the best state park in California? What parks do you visit when you’re searching for waterfalls near me in NorCal? Let us know in the comments below!

And if you’re up for more outdoor adventures in our part of the Golden State, check out our list of 7 lesser-known and underrated state parks in Northern California. Prepare to be impressed!

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Russian Gulch State Park

Sarah M. | July 26, 2022

What are some of the best waterfalls in NorCal?

Some of the best waterfalls in Northern California include:

  • Burney Falls
  • Faery Falls
  • Feather Falls
  • Mossbrae Falls
  • Bassi Falls

 

When you think about Northern California, do you think about waterfalls? You should! The Pacific Ocean borders our coastline and takes our breath away with each rocky peak and sandy shore. But there’s a lot more to water in our part of the country than sandy beaches and rocky crags. Waterfalls, for example. In fact, there is an abundance of hidden waterfalls in Northern California; wondrous falls that will absolutely take your breath away. If Horsetail Fall is flowing in February and the weather conditions are just right, the setting sun illuminates the waterfall, making it glow orange and red. Pretty awesome! It may be a hard hike, but the views from the top will blow you away. Of course, we can't mention Yosemite without a nod to the titular falls: the highest waterfall in Yosemite National Park, it plunges a total of 2,425 feet! Yosemite has a ton of amazing waterfalls, but Yosemite Falls will truly take your breath away.

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Russian Gulch State Park, California 95460, USA