Plan Your Trips to National Parks in Northern California Now
There are a handful of iconic bucket list-worthy National Parks in Northern California, and the best time to start planning your adventures is during the slow season. Whether you’re planning a road trip down the California Coast or flying into a nearby city and renting a car, it’s essential to make reservations for camping spots, lodging at local Inns, or getting your park passes well in advance.
One of the lesser-known National Parks in Northern California is Lassen Volcanic National Park. While this natural area doesn’t have as much of a reputation as its southern big brother, Yosemite National Park, it has some spectacular features that you should see with your own eyes. In fact, Lassen is the only place on Earth where you can visit all four types of volcanoes, including cinder cones, shield volcanoes, composite volcanoes, and plug domes, all within a relatively small area.
St. Bernard Lodge is the perfect boutique hotel lodging near Lassen Volcanic National Park, offering a cozy and convenient retreat for travelers exploring the stunning National Parks in Northern California. Ideally located near Lassen National Forest, Lake Almanor, and the Pacific Crest Trail, this charming lodge provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere with rustic guest rooms featuring knotty pine interiors, plush amenities, and beautiful mountain views. Our Inn is the perfect spot along your way to warm up, relax, and enjoy the stunning countryside of Northern California. Book your room in advance today!
National Parks in Northern California: Plan Your Next Trip Today!
While there are many National Parks in Northern California that most people know by name, you should add a few underrated locations to your next adventure. We’ll profile both here, including Yosemite and the Redwoods National Forest, but we’ll also fill you in on a couple of hidden gems.
Northern California is home to five remarkable national parks, each offering unique landscapes and experiences:
- Yosemite National Park: Renowned for its majestic waterfalls, iconic granite formations like El Capitan and Half Dome, and diverse hiking trails, Yosemite is a must-visit destination. The best times to explore are late spring and early fall to avoid peak crowds and enjoy milder weather.
- Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks: These adjacent parks are celebrated for their towering giant sequoia trees, including the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on earth. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, and the impressive Kings Canyon. Late spring through early fall is ideal for visiting.
- Lassen Volcanic National Park: This park offers a volcanic landscape with geothermal features such as bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles. It’s less crowded than other parks, providing a unique experience. The best time to visit is during the summer and fall when all park areas are accessible. Lassen Volcanic National Park is often a great alternative to the more well-known national parks in Northern California, providing visitors with crystalline lakes, stunning mountains, steaming fumaroles, flower-filled meadows, and striking volcanoes.
- Redwood National and State Parks: Home to the world’s tallest trees, the coastal redwoods, these national and state parks offer lush forests, diverse ecosystems, and scenic coastal drives. The climate is mild year-round, but late spring to early fall provides the most pleasant conditions. Hiking through these impressive trees should be on everyone’s list!
Pinnacles National Park: Known for its unique rock formations and talus caves and as a habitat for the California condor, Pinnacles is a haven for hikers and rock climbers. Due to moderate temperatures, spring and fall are the best times to visit.
The Best Hotel Near Lassen Volcanic National Park
Tucked away on ten picturesque acres near Chester, California, St. Bernard Lodge is an ideal base for exploring Northern California’s renowned national parks. Its strategic location offers convenient access to Lassen Volcanic National Park, Lassen National Forest, Lake Almanor, and the Pacific Crest Trail, making it a perfect pit stop for travelers seeking a hot meal and a comfortable bed amidst their adventures.
The lodge boasts seven charming guest rooms, each exuding rustic charm with warm, knotty pine interiors. Thoughtfully appointed with plush robes, slippers, hair dryers, and complimentary Wi-Fi, these rooms provide a cozy retreat after a day of exploration. Central air conditioning ensures comfort during warmer months, and guests can enjoy serene views of the surrounding natural beauty from their windows.
Beyond comfortable accommodations, St. Bernard Lodge offers a range of amenities to enhance your stay. A hearty breakfast is included in the room rate and is served daily in the quaint dining room from 8:00 to 9:30 am. Dinner is also available with reservations, allowing guests to enjoy a delicious meal without leaving the premises. The on-site tavern, adjacent to the dining room, features a fully stocked bar where you can unwind with your favorite cocktails or a selection of their wines and beers. During the summer, outdoor dining on the patio offers breathtaking views of Carter Mountain, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation. Book your lodging today!
