7 EPIC National Parks Near Anaheim You'll Love (Photos + Guide) (2024)

Article Summary: National Parks Near Anaheim

National Parks near Anaheim. It’s a small world after all, but there’s more to Anaheim than Disneyland.

In this article, we’ll familiarize you with the incredible national parks that are within a day’s drive of downtown Anaheim.

I’ve been to so many of these amazing places since retiring from teaching in 2018. Did I mention that I taught history? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind these momentous sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the stories of these incredible places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!

Anaheim is the second-largest city in Orange County in terms of land area, and is known for being the home of the Disneyland Resort, the Anaheim Convention Center, and two major sports teams: the Los Angeles Angels baseball team and the Anaheim Ducks ice hockey club.

It’s also home to some amazing national parks that are a day’s drive (or less) from the city.

So, What Is A National Park?

We get asked that question a lot because there’s a difference between a “national park” and a “national park site.” To help you understand that difference you might want to check out our article titled: What Is A National Park Really?

If you’re planning a trip to Anaheim then one book that I highly recommend is: Fodor’s Los Angeles: with Disneyland & Orange County (Full-color Travel Guide).

Now let’s go ahead and share those 7 reasons why you’ll want to make that day’s drive from Anaheim to one of these amazing places.

Best National Parks Near Anaheim

1. Channel Islands National Park

Distance from Anaheim: 2 hours

Resources: Where to Stay

Channel Islands National Park is located off the coast of California, encompassing five of the eight Channel Islands.

The park was established in 1980 to protect the unique natural and cultural resources of the islands, which are home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including many that are found nowhere else in the world.

The Chumash people, who have lived on the Channel Islands for thousands of years, have a rich cultural history that is tied to the land and sea. They used the resources of the islands to sustain themselves and developed a complex society with unique traditions, arts, and beliefs.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Channel Islands were used for agriculture, ranching, and military purposes, and many of the native species and ecosystems were impacted by human activity. In the mid-20th century, concerns about the preservation of the islands led to the creation of a national park to protect their unique resources.

Channel Islands Today

Today, Channel Islands National Park encompasses over 249,000 acres of land and sea, including a variety of habitats, from rocky cliffs and sandy beaches to deep-sea canyons and kelp forests.

The park is home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including the island fox, the spotted skunk, and the bald eagle, as well as many rare and endangered species.

The park also provides opportunities for visitors to experience the rich cultural and natural history of the Channel Islands, including hiking, camping, kayaking, and wildlife watching.

About this National Park Near Anaheim

The Channel Islands National Park is a collection of five islands off the coast of Southern California. It includes Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara islands.

The park is known for its unique and diverse ecosystems, including beaches, cliffs, kelp forests, and maritime caves. It’s also home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including endemic species found nowhere else on Earth.

Visitors to Channel Islands National Park can engage in a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including:

1. Hiking: There are several trails for visitors to explore, offering scenic views and opportunities to see wildlife.
2. Camping: The park has several designated camping areas for visitors to spend the night and experience the natural beauty of the islands.
3. Kayaking: The protected waters around the islands are perfect for kayaking, allowing visitors to explore the coastline and observe marine life.
4. Snorkeling: The clear waters around the islands provide an excellent opportunity for snorkeling, with a rich variety of marine life to observe.
5. Wildlife viewing: The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including seals, sea lions, and several species of whales and birds.
6. Boating: Visitors can also take boat tours around the islands to see the unique landscapes and wildlife from the water.
7. History & Culture: The islands have a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 10,000 years. Visitors can learn about the Chumash people and the history of the islands at the park’s museum.

RELATED: 13 Surprising Channel Islands National Park Facts

2. Death Valley National Park

Distance from Anaheim: 4 hours 11 minutes via US-395 N.

Take US-10 towards San Bernardino. Then turn on US-15 and before you know it, you’re there.

Resources: Guide / Map / Guidebook / Things to Do / Facts / Camping / Where to Stay

Death Valley National Park is located in the Mojave Desert in California and Nevada and was established as a national park in 1994.

The park is known for its extreme and diverse landscape, including the lowest point in North America (Badwater Basin, which lies 282 feet below sea level), towering mountain ranges, and vast sand dunes.

The history of Death Valley is rich and varied. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited by the Timbisha Shoshone people for thousands of years.

The area was later explored by Spanish missionaries and soldiers in the 18th and 19th centuries, and in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it became a popular destination for miners and settlers who were seeking their fortunes during the California Gold Rush.

RELATED: Death Valley National Park

Death Valley Has A Fascinating History Of Human Settlement, Mining & Transportation

Death Valley also has a fascinating history of human settlement, mining, and transportation. In the late 19th century, the area was a hub of mining activity, and several boomtowns, including Furnace Creek and Rhyolite, emerged.

The area was also an important stop along the 20-Mule Team Borax route, which was used to transport borax from the mines in Death Valley to the railhead at Mojave.

Today, Death Valley National Park encompasses over 3 million acres of land and includes a diverse range of habitats, from lush oases and canyons to barren salt flats and sand dunes.

The park is home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including the iconic desert bighorn sheep, and provides visitors with opportunities to experience the rugged beauty of the Mojave Desert, including hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

Things To Do In Death Valley

Here are some of the top things to do in the park:

1. Explore Badwater Basin: Visit the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin, and walk on the salt flats that cover much of the basin.
2. Take a scenic drive: Drive along scenic routes like the Artist’s Drive and Artist’s Palette, which offer stunning views of the park’s colorful landscapes.
3. Visit the Furnace Creek Visitor Center: Learn about the history and geology of Death Valley at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center, which has exhibits, maps, and information about the park.
4. Hike in the park: Death Valley has many trails that range from easy to strenuous, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the park’s diverse landscapes.
5. Star gaze: Death Valley has some of the clearest skies in the world, making it an ideal place for stargazing. Visitors can attend ranger-led programs or visit one of the park’s designated stargazing areas.
6. Visit historic sites: Explore the history of Death Valley by visiting historic sites like the Harmony Borax Works, Rhyolite Ghost Town, and Scotty’s Castle.
7. Enjoy outdoor recreation: Death Valley has many opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, horseback riding, and wildlife watching.
8. Visit the park in spring: Death Valley is at its most beautiful in the spring, when the wildflowers are in bloom and the landscape is dotted with vibrant colors.

Check Out Our Death Valley Video

In the remote far reaches of the Mojave Desert lies the largest national park in the continental United States. Hidden here in the hottest place on earth is another world full of diverse life and colorful landscapes. Join us as we take life to the extreme and explore Death Valley.

Filmed primarily in 8K. To make this film we spent weeks in California’s (& Nevada’s) Death Valley National Park, mostly in February and March when the temperatures are more manageable. We traversed hundreds of miles hiking most of the parks trails to capture the park like never before.

As the largest park in the contiguous United States, Death Valley is massive – over 3 million acres! We visited destinations like: Eureka Dunes, The Racetrack Playa, Mesquite Dunes, Zabriskie Point, Charcoal Kilns, Aguereberry Point, Badwater Basin, Darwin Falls, and more.

If you’re visiting the park be sure to check out our full Death Valley National Park Guide!

3. Joshua Tree National Park

Distance from Anaheim: 2 hours& 18 minutes via CA-91 E.

Resources: Guide / Hikes / Map / Guidebook / Where to Stay

Joshua Tree National Park is located in southeastern California and was established as a national monument in 1936 and as a national park in 1994.

The park is named after the iconic Joshua trees, which are found in the park’s unique and diverse landscape.

The history of Joshua Tree National Park goes back thousands of years, when the Pinto Culture, Serrano, and Cahuilla people lived in the area and used the resources of the land to sustain themselves. The park’s unique landscape, including its towering rock formations, was formed by millions of years of geological activity and erosion.

The Park Is Characterized By A Unique Desert Landscape

he park covers an area of over 790,000 acres and is characterized by a unique desert landscape featuring rugged rock formations, Joshua trees, and other desert flora and fauna.

The park is located at the intersection of two distinct desert ecosystems: the Mojave Desert to the north and the Colorado Desert to the south. This unique geography has created a diverse and fascinating landscape with a range of habitats for plants and animals.

One of the most notable features of the park is its rock formations, which include massive boulder piles, rock spires, and cliffs. These formations were formed over millions of years by erosion and tectonic activity and provide a popular destination for rock climbers and hikers.

In addition to the rock formations and Joshua trees, the park is home to a variety of other desert plants and animals, including several species of cactus, rattlesnakes, bighorn sheep, and coyotes.

If you’re visiting the park be sure to check out our full Joshua Tree National Park Guide.

Things To Do In Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree National Park offers a range of outdoor recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some popular things to do in the park:

1. Rock Climbing: Joshua Tree is known for its climbing opportunities, with thousands of routes for climbers of all skill levels.
2. Hiking: There are several hiking trails that offer a variety of experiences, from easy walks to challenging backcountry treks.
3. Stargazing: The park is one of the best places in Southern California for stargazing, due to its clear, dark skies.
4. Wildlife Watching: Joshua Tree is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, and roadrunners.
5. Scenic Drives: Take a scenic drive through the park to enjoy its unique landscapes, including Joshua tree forests, desert plains, and rock formations.
6. Photography: With its dramatic landscapes and unique rock formations, Joshua Tree is a popular destination for photographers.
7. Camping: Joshua Tree offers several campgrounds for those who want to spend the night in the park.
8. Ranger-led Programs: The park offers a variety of ranger-led programs, including walks, talks, and campfire programs, to help visitors learn about the park’s history and natural resources.
9. Visiting the Oasis Visitor Center: The Oasis Visitor Center is a great place to learn about the park and its resources, with interactive exhibits and a gift shop.

Check Out Our Joshua Tree Video

More National Parks Near Anaheim

4. Pinnacles National Park

Distance from Anaheim: 5 hours & 30 minutes via I-5 N.

Resources: Things to Do

Pinnacles National Park is known for its unique geology and diverse array of wildlife, as well as its extensive hiking and rock climbing opportunities.

The park is located in the Gabilan Range of the California Coast Ranges and is home to a series of towering rock formations known as the Pinnacles. These towering formations are the result of volcanic activity that occurred over 23 million years ago, followed by millions of years of erosion that carved the rock into its current shape.

Visitors to the park can explore a variety of trails that wind through the rugged landscape, offering views of the towering rock formations, scenic vistas, and diverse wildlife. Some of the most popular hikes in the park include the High Peaks Trail, which takes visitors to the top of the tallest peaks in the park, and the Balconies Cave Trail, which takes visitors through a series of caves and crevices in the rocks.

In addition to its stunning geology, Pinnacles National Park is also home to a rich array of wildlife, including California condors, black-tailed deer, and several species of bats. The park is also a popular destination for rock climbing and offers a range of climbing routes for climbers of all abilities.

RELATED: 10 [EPIC] Things To Do At Pinnacles National Park

5. & 6. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Distance from Anaheim: 5 hours & 14 minutes via I-5 N.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks had 1.2 million visitors in 2020.

Sequoia National Park was established on September 25, 1890, making it our country’s second oldest national park.

Kings Canyon was established fifty years later on March 4, 1940.

Together, these two parks offer a truly unique experience for travelers looking to experience some of America’s most amazing natural wonders.

The Tallest Trees In The World

Of course, you’re going to want to be sure to visit the two stars of these two parks.

The General Sherman Tree is the world’s largest tree, measured by volume. It stands 275 feet (83 m) tall, and is over 36 feet (11 m) in diameter at the base. It’s located in Sequoia National Park.

The General Grant Tree is located in Grant Grove in Kings Canyon National Park. It’s the second-largest tree in the world, standing267 feet tall, and nearly 29 feet wide at the base.

RELATED: General Grant Tree: Everything You Need To Know About The World’s Second Tallest Tree

Of course, these two iconic two trees are named after the two victorious Civil War Generals Ulysses S. Grant and William T. Sherman.

RELATED: General Sherman Tree: Everything You Need To Know About The World’s Largest Tree

7. Yosemite National Park

Distance from Anaheim: 5 hours & 33 minutes via I-5 N & CA-99 N.

Resources: Map / Guidebook / Facts / Where to Stay

Yosemite National Park has a rich history dating back thousands of years.

The land was originally home to indigenous tribes such as the Miwok and Paiute, who lived in harmony with the natural environment and revered the iconic features of the park, such as Half Dome and El Capitan.

In 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant, which protected the area as a public trust and marked the beginning of the national park system.

This was the first time in history that a government set aside land for preservation and public use.

Over the years, Yosemite National Park became a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. In the early 20th century, the park’s infrastructure was developed, including roads, lodges, and campgrounds, to accommodate the growing number of tourists.

RELATED: 8 BEST NATIONAL PARKS NEAR SAN FRANCISCO

Things To See

Yosemite is best known for its waterfalls, but within its 1200 square miles you’ll also find deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, a vast wilderness area, and much more.

The magnificent valley is a 7 mile wide canyon with incredible rock formations, including El Capitan, the world’s tallest granite monolith and one of the world’s top rock climbing destinations.

Another place to visit it Yosemite Falls. It’s the largest waterfall in North America with breathtaking views. Peak visitation at the falls is in the spring as it is comprised entirely of melting snow. The park is also known for its Giant Sequoia trees, which are estimated to be over 3,000 years old. (Source: NPS)

If you want to learn more about this amazing park then check out 16 (AMAZING) Yosemite National Park Facts You Probably Didn’t Know

Of Course, If You’re Planning A Visit To Anaheim, There Is One Other Place You Should Visit

We’re More Than Just Parks which means that we’re more than just parks. So as long as you’re planning a trip to the Anaheim area (or even if you live there already) why not conclude your adventure by visiting the “happiest place on earth.”

Disneyland is a world-famous theme park located in Anaheim, California, which opened its gates to the public on July 17, 1955. It was created by Walt Disney, who had a vision of a park where families could go to have fun together, and which would bring his beloved characters and stories to life.

Walt Disney’s inspiration for Disneyland came from his experiences with amusem*nt parks in the 1930s, where he noticed that they were often dirty, chaotic, and not family-friendly. He envisioned a park where visitors could experience various attractions and entertainments, all within a clean and controlled environment.

To create Disneyland, Disney assembled a team of designers, artists, and engineers who worked together to develop innovative technologies and creative designs. The park was divided into different “lands”, each with its own theme and attractions, such as Main Street USA, Adventureland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and Frontierland.

It’s The Happiest Place On Earth

It’s billed as the “Happiest Place On Earth” and, once you get there, it’s easy to see why.

Some of the most popular rides and attractions at Disneyland include Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, It’s a Small World, and the Matterhorn Bobsleds.

The park is also home to several classic Disney characters, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Donald Duck, who can be seen throughout the park and in parades and shows.

Disneyland also features several restaurants, snack stands, and shops where visitors can buy souvenirs, food, and drinks. There are also several hotels on the property, including the Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which offer visitors a chance to stay in the heart of the Disney magic.

A Highly Anticipated Event

Disneyland’s opening day was highly anticipated, with thousands of people lining up outside the park gates to be among the first to experience the magic. However, the opening day was plagued with problems, including overcrowding, traffic jams, and malfunctioning attractions.

Despite the initial setbacks, Disneyland quickly became a massive success, drawing millions of visitors each year from around the world. Over the years, new attractions and lands were added to the park, including the iconic “It’s a Small World” ride and the “Pirates of the Caribbean” attraction.

Disneyland has also inspired numerous other theme parks and entertainment venues around the world, and has become an important cultural touchstone, representing not only a place of fun and fantasy, but also a symbol of innovation, creativity, and imagination.

Things To See & Do

Some of the things to see and do at Disneyland include:

1. Attractions: Disneyland offers a wide variety of attractions, including classic rides such as the “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “It’s a Small World,” and “Space Mountain.”
2. Shows and parades: Disneyland offers a variety of live shows and parades, including the “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks show and the “Paint the Night” parade.
3. Character meet-and-greets: Visitors can meet and take pictures with their favorite Disney characters throughout the park.
4. Dining: Disneyland offers a wide variety of dining options, including sit-down restaurants, quick-service locations, and snack stands.
5. Shopping: Disneyland offers a wide variety of shops, including souvenir shops, apparel shops, and specialty stores.
6. Entertainment: Disneyland offers a variety of entertainment options, including live music and street performers.
7. Seasonal events: Disneyland offers seasonal events throughout the year, including Halloween Time, Christmas Time and more.
8. Accommodation: The Disneyland resort offers several hotels, including Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel and Disney’s Hotel Disneyland.
9. Disney California Adventure Park: Disneyland resort also offers an second theme park called Disney California Adventure Park, which features attractions, shows, and parades based on popular Disney and Pixar films and stories.
10. Special events: Disneyland offers special events throughout the year, such as the famous “Disneyland After Dark” event.

National Parks Near Anaheim FAQ

Why Trust Us About National Parks Near Anaheim?

We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers (and sometimes the Parks Brothers) and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.

You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.

We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, and the U.S. Forest Service for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.

Meet The Parks Brothers

List Of National Parks Near Anaheim

1. Channel Islands National Park
2. Death Valley National Park
3. Joshua Tree National Park
4. Pinnacles National Park
5. Sequoia National Park
6. Kings Canyon National Park
7. Yosemite National Park

Map Of National Park Sites Near Anaheim

We Hope You’ll Follow Our Journey

Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.

We hope you’ll follow our journey through the parks and help us to keep them the incredible places that they are. If you’re interested in joining the adventure then please sign up below!

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