Discover the Majestic Calaveras Big Trees State Park
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Calaveras Big Trees State Park, home to towering sequoias and stunning landscapes perfect for outdoor adventures.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park is an extraordinary destination nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, renowned for its magnificent giant sequoias, some of the largest and oldest living trees on the planet. Visitors to the park are greeted with awe-inspiring views of towering trees that have stood for thousands of years, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The park covers over 6,000 acres and offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, picnicking, and wildlife observation. Scenic trails wind through lush meadows and dense forests, providing opportunities for both leisurely strolls and challenging hikes. The Giant Sequoia Grove is a must-see, where you can walk among these colossal giants and feel their immense presence up close. In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Calaveras Big Trees State Park is rich in history and ecology. Educational programs and ranger-led tours are available, offering insights into the unique ecosystem and the conservation efforts in place to protect these ancient trees. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including deer, black bears, and various bird species, making it an ideal location for nature enthusiasts and photographers. With well-maintained campgrounds and picnic areas, visitors can easily spend a full day or even a weekend immersed in the tranquility of the park. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, Calaveras Big Trees State Park promises an unforgettable experience in one of California's most stunning natural landscapes.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light for photography.
- Bring layers of clothing; temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day.
- Be sure to bring water and snacks, as amenities are limited within the park.
- Check for park alerts and trail conditions before your visit to ensure a safe experience.
- Take advantage of guided tours to learn more about the unique ecology and history of the park.
A brief summary to Calaveras Big Trees State Park
- 1170 CA-4, Arnold, California, 95223, US
- +1209-795-2334
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
- Thursday 6 am-6 pm
- Friday 6 am-6 pm
- Saturday 6 am-6 pm
- Sunday 6 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start by getting onto CA-99 N from your current location. Continue on CA-99 N until you reach the exit for CA-4 E towards Stockton/Angels Camp. Follow CA-4 E for approximately 35 miles. After passing through Angels Camp, continue on CA-4 for another 10 miles. You will see signs for Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Turn left onto CA-4 and continue for about 2 miles until you reach the park entrance at 1170 CA-4, Arnold, CA 95223.
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Public Transportation
For public transportation, take a Greyhound or Amtrak bus to the nearest major city, which is Stockton. From Stockton, you can catch a local bus or arrange for a rideshare service to get to Angels Camp. In Angels Camp, look for the local transit options or rideshare services to take you to Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Note that public transportation may have limited schedules, so check the timetables in advance.
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Rideshare
If you are near a city with rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, you can request a ride directly to Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Simply enter the park's address (1170 CA-4, Arnold, CA 95223) into the app. This option is convenient if you are already in the vicinity of the park or have arrived in a nearby town.
Attractions Nearby to Calaveras Big Trees State Park
- California Cavern State Historic Landmark
- Moaning Caverns Adventure Park
- Columbia State Historic Park
- Angels Camp Museum
- Gold Rush Originals
- Black Chasm Cavern National Natural Landmark
- Mark Twain Cabin
- California Gold Panning
- Kennedy Gold Mine Tours
- Miners' Bend Park
- Campo Seco (California Historical Landmark No. 257)
- Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum
- Sly Park Recreation Area
- Traffic circle
- Apple Hill
Landmarks nearby to Calaveras Big Trees State Park
- Sierra Nevada Logging Museum
- California Historical Landmark 465: Site of Brownsville
- Mercer Caverns
- Murphys (California Historical Landmark No. 275)
- The Peter L. Traver Building (California Historical Landmark No. 466)
- California Historical Landmark 253: Sandy Gulch
- California Historical Landmark 268: West Point
- Vallecito State Historic Landmark
- Vallecito Bell Monument (California Historical Landmark No. 370)
- California Historical Landmark 123: Columbia
- California Historical Landmark 424: Sawmill Flat
- California Historical Landmark 284: Jesus Maria
- Springfield (California Historical Landmark #432)
- California Historical Landmark 288: Altaville
- California Historical Landmark 734: Angels Hotel