California’s Best State Parks for Overlanding
Introduction: The Call of the Wild
There’s something magical about waking up to the crisp mountain air, with the golden hues of a California sunrise filtering through the trees. The allure of overlanding—packing up your 4×4 and venturing into the wild—is deeply rooted in that sense of freedom. Whether you’re winding through technical trails or setting up camp beneath starlit skies, California’s diverse landscapes offer some of the best state park experiences for overlanders. But with so many options, where should you go?
Having spent years exploring and guiding overland adventures across the Golden State, I’ve learned that some state parks rise above the rest when it comes to combining terrain, accessibility, and unforgettable scenery. Let’s hit the trail and explore some of California’s best state parks for overlanding.
1. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park – A Desert Dream
Picture this: You’re kicking up a trail of fine dust as your tires carve through the arid landscape, navigating between towering ocotillos and scattered boulders. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is California’s largest state park and an overlander’s paradise.
What Makes It Special?
- More than 500 miles of dirt roads and technical routes.
- Expansive, remote landscapes perfect for solitude seekers.
- Diverse terrain, from sandy washes to rocky hill climbs.
Must-Do Trails
- Font’s Point Trail: A relatively easy 4×4 route leading to a breathtaking overlook of the Borrego Badlands.
- Goat Canyon Trestle Trail: A strikingly scenic but more technical route toward an old railroad trestle.
- Ocotillo Wells OHV Area: Adjacent to the park, this area offers dune-style driving and challenging obstacles.
If you’re after an experience that truly feels like an escape, Anza-Borrego offers some of the best dispersed camping California has to offer. Just be sure to top off your fuel beforehand—out here, cell service is spotty, and the adventure is real.
2. Humboldt Redwoods State Park – Driving Among Giants
If the desert is where silence speaks, the towering redwoods of Northern California are where whispers of time echo. Humboldt Redwoods State Park is home to some of the tallest trees in the world, forming a cathedral-like canopy that has humbled many overlanders, myself included.
Why It’s Perfect for Overlanders
- Deep, maze-like forest trails perfect for slow, immersive exploration.
- Majestic campsites nestled beneath towering trees.
- Historic backroads, including remnants of the old logging routes.
Trails Not to Miss
- Mattole Road: A rugged, winding path that puts you deep into the Lost Coast’s beauty.
- Avenue of the Giants: While not a technical trail, this legendary road is a must-drive for the scenery alone.
- Usal Road: Leading to Usal Beach, this road can be challenging, particularly after it rains, but rewards drivers with stellar ocean views.
Overlanding here is about more than just the drive—it’s about feeling a connection to something ancient. And when that morning fog rolls through the valleys of these gigantic trees, you’ll understand exactly what I mean.
3. Mendocino National Forest – Backcountry Bliss
For those who crave true off-grid experiences, Mendocino National Forest offers vast, rugged backcountry tailor-made for overlanding. It’s one of the few national forests in the state without paved roads, making it a dream destination for those looking to test their rigs and skills.
Why Overlanders Love It
- Hundreds of miles of backcountry trails suitable for all skill levels.
- Remote camping spots where you won’t see another soul for miles.
- Breathtaking views stretching from forests to mountains.
Recommended Routes
- Snow Mountain Wilderness: Offers moderate to technical trails with rewarding summit views.
- Pillsbury Ridge Trail: A high-altitude route with deep forest scenery.
- M1 Route: Cuts through the heart of the forest, with rolling hills and river crossings.
Exploring Mendocino on my first solo overlanding trip was like stepping into a different world. The quiet nights, broken only by the occasional rustle of wildlife, made it an unforgettable journey. Just be sure to stock up on supplies—this is pure wilderness.
4. Death Valley National Park – A Test of Endurance
No overlanding list is complete without mentioning Death Valley. Though technically a national park and not a state park, it’s simply too iconic to skip for those who love a raw, challenging experience.
What Makes It Stand Out?
- Extreme, ever-changing landscapes from salt flats to high peaks.
- Notorious for some of the toughest trails in the state.
- Epic campsites with unparalleled stargazing opportunities.
Trails to Conquer
- Titus Canyon Road: A legendary route featuring narrow canyons and historic ghost towns.
- Racetrack Playa: A remote, dry lakebed famous for its mysterious “moving” rocks.
- Steel Pass: Not for the faint of heart—deep sand, steep climbs, and technical driving required.
Death Valley is an overlander’s proving ground, where respect for the terrain is as important as preparation. Running low on water or pushing an overheating engine here isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a serious risk. But if you’re up for the challenge, it’s an adventure you’ll never forget.
Conclusion: Your Next Overland Adventure Awaits
California’s state (and national) parks offer some of the most diverse and rewarding overlanding experiences in the country. Whether it’s the desolate beauty of Anza-Borrego, the towering giants of Humboldt, the rugged backcountry of Mendocino, or the harsh extremes of Death Valley, each destination tells its own story. And the best part? That story becomes uniquely yours as soon as you hit the trail.
So, which route will you take first? If you’ve explored any of these parks, share your experiences in the comments—we’d love to hear your overlanding tales.
