Photos and story by Veronica Silva-Miranda
At Parks California, it’s no surprise that we love our California State Parks. During 2024, the team took up the challenge to use the app OuterSpatial and visit as many state parks as they could schedule. Some planned their entire weekends around traveling to multiple parks. Over the year, the staff visited 209 unique parks and made 551 visits. One staff member, Veronica Silva Miranda, led the pack in unique park visits. Typically, she would visit up to 15 state parks with her husband and son each year. This new challenge gave her an opportunity to see even more of our great state. During her 103 visits, she returned to old favorites like Prairie Creek Redwoods in Humboldt County, she also traveled across California to explore new ones like Refugio in Goleta and Eureka’s Trinidad State Beaches.
Before this staff challenge, how many state parks did you visit on average per year? Do you have a favorite?
I often visit up to 15 California State Parks a year. Prairie Creek Redwoods is definitely my favorite. Jedidiah Smith, Sue Meg and MacKerricher trail a few steps behind. There is something so unique about all of them —coastal redwoods, banana slugs, mushrooms and the way the sun peeks in through the trees in the morning or at sunset. These magical places are so special to my family and me.
What activity do you most enjoy when visiting a state park?
Many things! If it’s a coastal park, I’m usually BBQing with family and friends, spending time on the beach or fishing when allowed. I camp and hike a lot with my family in the redwood parks and go fishing or swimming at parks that are inland. Most importantly, I always have to find the visitor center and get a patch if there is one. Not all parks have visitor centers or patches, but stickers will do.
How do you plan a trip when visiting state parks that are new to you?
I check out the park’s website to see the map and what facilities are available. If fishing is allowed, I’m definitely bringing a fishing pole. If there is unique wildlife roaming the park, I’ll bring my camera or binoculars. I download a copy of the park map just in case printed maps aren’t available at the park. I always bring water in case there is no potable water. I also bring a garbage bag and pack out anything that cannot be disposed of at the park.
Your son has spent a lot of time visiting state parks with you. Could you recommend a family-friendly park that is great for a day trip?
My favorite state park, Prairie Creek Redwoods, is a perfect place to explore with young children. The park has lots of flat trails, making them very accessible to families and those who need stroller access. The trails are clearly marked and families can spend the whole day adventuring among beautiful redwoods and lush fern-covered grounds. There are also lots of wildlife viewing, Roosevelt elk roam the park and can often be seen grazing near the visitor center. The park also offers plenty of birding opportunities and a stunning trail near Gold Bluffs Beach.
What is one thing you want others to know about visiting California State Parks?
If you’re visiting a park for the first time, I suggest doing a little research about the park before your visit. Learn about the “Leave No Trace” and “Know Before You Go,” and more guidelines from California State Parks’ safety tips page. Some parks require a fee and may not have digital payment options, so you may need to have cash handy. If it’s a park that is several hours away, check to make sure the roads are open. I’ve accidentally tried to visit a park when construction was happening on the highway and I had to make other plans. You should have a backup destination, so you don’t spoil your day. I highly suggest visiting the park website and checking the park map to see what activities are available. Check for alerts such as prescribed burns or no potable water in the park. Planning ahead can help you have a more fun and memorable visit.
How did your year of visiting new parks change your impression of California’s natural resources?
I loved seeing all the various types of state parks California has to offer. We have some amazing coastal beaches, redwood parks, historic and state reserves and more. I always practice “Leave No Trace” principles when I visit parks. It’s important to leave any natural area the same or better than you found it and to respect any signs that are posted in the park. I often find so much plastic along trails or near picnic areas that it’s made me more cautious of what I purchase and bring to parks. It’s very easy for a wrapper or container to fly away and fall into a lake, ocean or more park habitats that many birds call home. Choosing what items I bring into parks will make it easier to preserve the natural space for others to enjoy.
Which parks are on your list to visit next?
I have my eye on Anza-Borrego and the Salton Sea. I do not spend much time in Southern California and I’m hoping to make a trip in the fall.
Which parks do you plan to return to? Why?
Some of my local favorite parks are Samuel P. Taylor and Tomales Bay. They are less than an hour away from my home and I visit them at least four or five times a year. I love Samuel P. Taylor for picnicking, camping, and day hikes. Tomales Bay has amazing views of the bay at Heart’s Desire Beach, and I love fishing and birding there.
After your visits, do you have a new favorite state park?
Prairie Creek Redwoods is still my favorite, but I was excited to visit Refugio and Trinidad State Beach. Refugio has easy access to the beach and offers camping. I look forward to camping there in the coming years. Trinidad had amazing rocks near the shore and I was able to see lots of ochre sea stars super up-close.
Feeling inspired? Plan your next state park visit with the OuterSpatial app. This interactive app helps you get started in planning your visit and see real-time photos and check-ins from the community.
