Big Basin Redwoods Is The Oldest State Park In California

Did you know that California is home to 280 state parks? We have one of the biggest and most diverse state park systems in the world, and that’s a fact that we don’t take for granted! You’ve (hopefully) visited plenty of California’s wonderful state parks, but you haven’t lived until you’ve stepped foot into the oldest state park in California. Big Basin Redwoods is the place to go when you feel like immersing yourself in the massive beauty of the redwoods.

Author’s Note: After much of the park was damaged in a wildfire, California State Parks announced that Big Basin Redwoods will partially reopen Memorial Day Weekend. Open regions include the western coastal region of the park and Rancho del Oso Nature and History Center. For more information about what in the park is specifically open, visit the park’s website.

Established way back in 1902, Big Basin Redwoods is California's oldest state park! Nestled away in the Santa Cruz Mountains, this state park is *big* on natural beauty - literally.

First off, Big Basin Redwoods is home to the largest continuous stand of ancient coast redwoods south of San Francisco. As you walk through the park, you'll be treated to the sight of old-growth and second-growth redwoods mixed in with conifer, oak, chaparral, and riparian habitats.

Preserving more than 18,000 acres, there's always something to explore at this incredible park. The park contains more than 80 miles of trails ranging from short and quick loop trails to long, half-day hikes.

There's truly no end to the natural wonders you'll discover at the park. Big Basin Redwoods is home to a number of waterfalls that you'll want to seek out, like the breathtaking Sempervirens Falls.

After spending some time in the park, you may just find that you don't want to leave. Not to worry! Big Basin boasts several camping options including standard campsites, group camps, tent cabins, and backcountry trail camps. There's something for every type of adventurer.

Of course, it's the towering redwood trees that are the highlight of this historic park. Some of the park's redwoods are more than 50 feet around and as tall as the Statue of Liberty! Some of them are believed to be up to 1,800 years old, which means they've been around even before the Roman Empire.

There's always an adventure to be had at California's oldest state park, so start planning your trip to Big Basin Redwoods soon. This place has only gotten better with age. For more information, visit the California State Parks website.

Have you been to California’s oldest state park? Feel free to share your experiences and photos with us in the comments below!

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Big Basin Redwoods State Park, 21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA 95006, USA

The Oldest State Park In California, Big Basin Redwoods, Should Be On Every Northern Californian's Bucket List

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