Redwood National and State Parks is a fascinating natural destination. Gaze up at tall centuries-old redwood trees, explore rugged Pacific Coast beaches, camp beneath the stars and spot myriad wildlife. The parks cover 133,000 acres (53,800 hectares) and stretch for 40 miles (64 kilometers) along California’s picturesque northern coast.

The parks include Redwood National Park and three state parks: Jedediah Smith, Del Norte Coast and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Parks. Navigate through the parks via car or bike. Take short or long walks on Fern Canyon Trail, Lady Bird Johnson Grove Loop or Boy Scout Tree Trail. See ferns clinging to grottos on the sides of canyons. Don’t be surprised to feel like you have shrunk in size as you stroll amid the soaring redwoods.

Drive along or hike the Coastal Drive for views of the Pacific Ocean and Klamath River. Howland Hill Road winds through one of the parks’ most picturesque old-growth redwood forests. Visit the parks’ Pacific coastline beaches and isolated coves. Paddle in tidal pools at Enderts Beach, watch surfers at Crescent Beach and enjoy quiet walks on Gold Bluffs Beach. For more of a challenge, explore the parks’ on kayaks along the Klamath River Estuary.

The parks are delightful natural attractions. Stay alert for herds of Roosevelt elk in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. See endangered birds such as the bald eagle and northern spotted owl. Spot migrating whales from the Crescent Beach Overlook.

The parks are about a 5-hour drive from either San Francisco or Portland, Oregon. Find information centers at five entrances to the parks. Most supply free maps, advice and permits.

Redwood National and State Parks are open year-round. Warm summer months attract large crowds while winter rains frequently drench the parks. Visit in spring or fall when flocks of migratory birds arrive and the flowers and trees burst to life with color.