Looking to hit the road and embrace all the beauty that SoCal has to offer? Then you’ll want to check out this road trip in Southern California that offers a little of everything for everyone — mountain scenery, serene lakes, and stunning ocean views. Load up the car and hit the road — you’re going to love this summer road trip in Southern California that will lead you to the most epic state parks.
Summer is the perfect time for a road trip. Load up the car and hit the road and let's explore some of SoCal's favorite state parks. Just click here and you can follow along on the route.
There are six parks on this road trip so it's best to break this into a weekend visit and stop at three parks per day. You can select a campground along the way or grab a nearby cabin for an overnighter so you can spend ample time at each park during your visit.
Located in Orange County, this 2,400 acre state state park offers a variety of hiking, biking and walking trails with stunning ocean views and rugged bluffs and cliffs. You can find Crystal Cove State Park at 8471 N Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, CA 92651.
Formerly the private estate of famed actor Will Rogers, this sprawling 187-acre state park located in Pacific Palisades is now a state park that the whole public can enjoy. You'll find picturesque trails for hiking, walking, and horseback riding in addition to some pretty epic views of the sea and the mountains. Will Rogers State Park is located at 1501 Will Rogers State Park Rd., Pacific Palisades, CA 90272.
A former movie ranch and popular setting for many TV shows and movies, this state park is now a beloved destination for recreational activities, including mountain biking, walking, hiking, and even swimming. Malibu Creek State Park is located at 1925 Las Virgenes Rd., Calabasas, CA 91302.
Just one visit to the California Citrus State Historic Park in Riverside County and the refreshing smell of citrus will completely awaken your senses. You'll find an abundant citrus grove with plenty of citrus to be picked and sampled right off the tree during your visit. You can find the California Citrus State Historic Park at 9400 Dufferin Ave., Riverside, CA 92503.
Nestled inside the Santa Ana Mountains, this picturesque park is a tranquil getaway where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Take long walks along the lush green trails and enjoy the endless views of the mountains and countryside that seem to go on forever. Chino Hills State Park is located at 4721 Sapphire Rd, Chino Hills, CA 91709.
As the summer temps heat up in SoCal, heading to Palomar Mountain State Park will help cool you off as there are plenty of trees and shady paths where you can hide from the sun. Whether you're here to enjoy the natural scenery or you want to take some time exploring one of the woodsy trails, this is one place in SoCal where you can escape from the heat and wander through the woods.
What do you think of our road trip to SoCal’s most epic state parks? Which one are you heading to first?
Looking for more summer fun this season? How about taking a day trip to SoCal’s longest pier? It’s definitely one thing every local should check out.
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