Article Summary: National Parks Near Oakland
National Parks near Oakland. There’s so much more to this beautiful state than Oracle Arena. In this article, we’ll familiarize you with the incredible national park sites that are within a six hour drive of Oakland.
There are 6 national park sites for you to see on your next visit to the Golden State.
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!
Did you know that Oakland is the only city in the world with a natural saltwater lake? It’s Lake Merritt. In addition, this lake is a beautiful area for outdoor recreation, gathering and dining.
It’s also home to some amazing national parks which are within a day’s drive (or less) of 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 Oakland then one book that I highly recommend is: A Walking Tour of Oakland, California by Doug Gelbert.
Now let’s go ahead with 6 reasons why you’ll want to make a drive of six hours (or less) from Oakland to one of these amazing places.
Table Of Contents: National Parks Near Oakland
Best National Park Sites Near Oakland
1. John Muir National Historic Site
Distance From Oakland: 26 minutes via CA-24 E.
The John Muir National Historic Site is dedicated to preserving the legacy of naturalist and conservationist John Muir.
Muir is considered one of the most influential figures in the early conservation movement and is known for his advocacy for the preservation of wilderness areas and wildlife.
Muir lived in Martinez from 1890 until his death in 1914, and it was during this time that he wrote many of his influential works, including “My First Summer in the Sierra” and “The Yosemite.” The house in Martinez, which he shared with his wife and daughters, served as a center of hospitality and a gathering place for the conservation community.
John Muir National Historic Site Today
The property was first designated a National Historic Site in 1964, and in 1976 it was transferred to the National Park Service for administration.
Today, the John Muir National Historic Site is open to the public and offers a glimpse into Muir’s life and work, including guided tours of the house, exhibits on his environmental activism, and a variety of educational programs and events.
The site serves as a symbol of Muir’s enduring legacy and the ongoing struggle to protect and preserve the natural world for future generations. It is a testament to his belief that nature has the power to transform lives and inspire action, and continues to inspire visitors and encourage them to take action to protect the planet’s natural heritage.
To learn more about John Muir check out 10+ GREAT John Muir Facts.
2. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Distance From Oakland: Three hours & 38 minutes via I-5 N.
Lassen Volcanic National Park encompasses over 106,000 acres of scenic wilderness, including several active volcanic features, such as geysers, mud pots, and steam vents.
The park was established in 1916 and is home to several notable geological features, including Lassen Peak, which is the largest plug dome volcano in the world and last erupted in 1915. The park also contains several other volcanic peaks, including Brokeoff Mountain, Chaos Crags, and Prospect Peak, as well as numerous thermal areas with boiling mud pots and steam vents.
A Popular Destination For Outdoor Enthusiasts
Lassen Volcanic National Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of recreational activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and backpacking.
There are over 150 miles of trails within the park, ranging from easy walks to strenuous backcountry adventures, offering opportunities to explore the diverse landscapes of the park, from lush forests and alpine meadows to rugged volcanic peaks.
In addition to its geological wonders, the park is also home to a rich diversity of plant and animal life, including black bears, mountain lions, and the threatened Sierra Nevada red fox. The park also provides critical habitat for many species of birds and is a popular destination for birdwatching.
Lassen Volcanic National Park is an incredible destination for anyone interested in the natural world and the processes that shape our planet.
Its unique geological features and breathtaking landscapes offer a window into the volatile and dynamic forces of the earth, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in geology, natural history, or outdoor adventure.
RELATED: All 9 EPIC California National Parks Ranked
3. Muir Woods National Monument
Distance From Oakland: 42 minutes via I-580 W.
Muir Woods National Monument is a protected area located in Marin County, California, just north of San Francisco.
The park is named after naturalist and conservationist John Muir and is best known for its old-growth coast redwood forest, which is one of the few remaining stands of ancient redwoods in the world.
The park was established in 1908 and covers approximately 554 acres. It is home to towering coast redwoods, which can grow up to 379 feet tall and live for over 2,200 years. The forest provides a unique and awe-inspiring experience, as visitors can stroll through the towering trees and marvel at their size and beauty.
In addition to its magnificent redwoods, Muir Woods National Monument is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the threatened marbled murrelet, a seabird that nests in the redwoods, as well as black-tailed deer, raccoons, and bobcats.
The park offers several hiking trails, ranging from easy, accessible walks to more strenuous hikes, as well as picnic areas and educational exhibits. Visitors can also learn about the history and ecology of the redwood forest and the important role it plays in mitigating climate change.
“In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.”
-John Muir
More National Parks Near Oakland
4. Point Reyes National Seashore
Distance From Oakland: One hour via I-580 W & Sir Francis Drake Blvd.
Point Reyes National Seashore is a protected area located on the Point Reyes Peninsula in Marin County, California. The park covers over 71,000 acres and is one of the largest and most diverse national seashores in the United States, offering a stunning mix of rugged coastal landscapes, rolling hills, and verdant valleys.
Point Reyes is known for its stunning scenery, which includes rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and rolling hills dotted with dairy farms and ranches. The park is also a wildlife haven, with over 375 species of birds, including several species of threatened seabirds, as well as gray whales, harbor seals, and sea lions.
The Park Offers A Wide Range Of Recreational Opportunities
The park offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. There are over 150 miles of trails, ranging from easy, accessible walks to strenuous backcountry adventures, offering opportunities to explore the diverse landscapes of the park, from windswept beaches and rocky cliffs to lush forests and rolling grasslands.
In addition to its natural beauty, Point Reyes National Seashore is also rich in cultural history, with a long history of human habitation and use, from the Miwok and Coast Miwok peoples, who lived in the area for thousands of years, to the European settlers who established dairy farms and ranches in the 19th century.
Visitors can explore historic sites, such as the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse and the historic village of Stinson Beach, and learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Point Reyes National Seashore is a true gem of the National Park system and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature, history, or simply seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Its breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife offer a window into the beauty and complexity of the natural world, making it a truly special and unforgettable place.
RELATED: 7 EPIC National Parks Near Los Angeles You’ll Love
5. Redwood National Park
Distance From Oakland: Five hours & eighteen minutes via US-101 N.
Redwood National and State Parks is a complex of protected areas located along the coast of northern California. The parks were created to preserve the ancient coast redwood forest, one of the tallest and most iconic tree species in the world, as well as to protect the diverse array of wildlife that depends on this unique ecosystem.
The history of Redwood National Park begins in the 19th century, when California’s coast redwoods were being heavily logged for their valuable timber.
By the early 20th century, only a small fraction of the original redwood forest remained, and conservationists and environmentalists began advocating for the creation of a national park to protect the remaining redwoods.
In 1968, the state of California established Redwood National Park, and in 1978, Congress designated the park as a National Park. At the same time, several state parks were established to protect redwoods in the surrounding area, and these parks were later combined with Redwood National Park to form Redwood National and State Parks.
Redwood National & State Parks Today
Today, Redwood National and State Parks encompass over 133,000 acres, protecting not only the magnificent coast redwoods, but also a diverse array of other habitats, including prairies, oak woodlands, and riparian areas.
The parks are also home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including threatened species such as the northern spotted owl and the marbled murrelet.
Redwood National and State Parks are a testament to the power of conservation and the importance of protecting our natural heritage.
The parks offer visitors the chance to explore one of the world’s most magnificent forests, to learn about the biology and ecology of these ancient trees, and to appreciate the rich diversity of life that depends on them.
Watch Our Redwood Video
MTJP | Redwood is the culmination of several weeks spent exploring Redwood National and State Parks. Redwood National and State Parks in Northern California are home to the tallest trees in the world, the mighty Redwood, which can reach staggering heights of over 360ft and weigh more than 500 tons.
These parks feature magical forests, miles of spectacular beaches, stunning overlooks, and the largest herd of Roosevelt elk on the planet.
This film was shot entirely in 4K. Redwood National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and for good reason.
A trip to this magical place is a must for every human on the planet. Redwood National Park features the tallest trees on the planet (not to be confused with the largest in Sequoia National Park).
If you’re visiting the park be sure to check out our full Guide!
6. Rosie The Riveter National Historical Park
Distance From Oakland: 18 minutes via I-580W/I-80 E & I-580 W.
As a retired history teacher, I love being able to pack up and go off in search of America’s past. The Rosie The Riveter National Historical Park honor the efforts and sacrifices of American civilians on the World War II home front.
At the Visitor Education Center there are a variety of educational and interactive exhibits. It’s a wonderful place to learn about how the contributions of men and women on the home front helped America to win World War Two. This National Park was established in 2000.
While you’re there, places that you should see include the Ford Assembly Plant, Rosie The Riveter Memorial, Shipyard #3, the SS Red Oak Victory Ship and the Richmond Museum of History.
It was none other than Winston Churchill who said, “Give us the tools and we will finish the job.” Visitors can learn the stories and see the places where the tools which helped to win the war were actually made.
RELATED: 6 AMAZING National Parks Near San Diego You’ll Love
National Parks Near Oakland FAQ
There are six national parks around San Francisco, dotted across northern California.
Oakland is known for beautiful locations such as Lake Merrit, Morcom Rose Garden, and Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Park. The city has a vibrant art and music scene with numerous murals, Art Murmur walks, and Brooklyn Basin events. Oakland is famous for being home to the Oakland A’s and the Black Panthers.
Why Trust Us About National Parks Near Oakland?
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
Map Of National Parks Near Oakland
List Of National Parks Near Oakland
- John Muir National Historic Site
- Lassen Volcanic National Park
- Muir Woods National Monument
- Point Reyes National Sea Shore
- Redwood National Park
- Rosie The Riveter National Historical Park
Further Reading
- 9 EPIC CALIFORNIA NATIONAL PARKS (Beautiful Photos + Video)
- 15 (STUNNING) Things to Do in Redwood National Park
- An Expert Guide to REDWOOD NATIONAL PARK (Epic Video + Photos)
- 10 [EPIC] Things to Do at Pinnacles National Park (Expert Guide)
- JOSHUA TREE National Park: A (Very) Helpful Guide with Photos + Video
- 20 (BEST) West Coast National Parks – Ranked by Experts
- Why DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK is Worth the Trip (Photos + Video)
- 15 EPIC HIKES in JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK (+ Photos)
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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