Giant trees, wild mushroom, snow cover paths, and wild stuff animals - it was an adventure. -been wanted to check out the "GIANTS" and they didn't disappoint. I guess January is the most awesome time to visit. Whether was nice and warm, with snow play still available in the parking lot and on the trails. Perfect day to be outdoor. -Park is very well kept and accessible for all. The North Cove Trail was a walk in the pak with stunning display of different trees. Look carefully, wild mushroom has been inoculated and is ready for their debuted. -Visitor center and ranger were very informative. -Pro tip: if your family is the outdoorsy type, buy a California State Park Pass - include entrance to this place and you can skip the line when visiting on a busy weekend.... read more

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Beautiful state park with giant sequoias, easy trail which is beginner friendly. Points of interest include a large tree stump which is large enough to be a little stage, fallen ancient giants, humongous exposed roots, hollowed out tree stumps which kids can walk through etc. Apparently the people who took care of the park previously cut out a hollow in one of the trees as a point of attraction for cars and people to walk through to compete with other such parks. The tree finally gave away and fell during a heavy rain a few years ago. We took the north grove trail, with kids and toddlers it took us about an hour with several photo stops. There is no elevation so it was an easy stroll. There is no signal in the park. But since it's a single loop, there is no possibility of getting lost. read more

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Decided to come check out the fall foliage here and I was blown away. Wow, just wow! I couldn't stop saying wow!! The fall colors here are a masterpiece. Thanks to all the dogwood, maple, oak, etc! The dogwood tree leaves are what gives the wide range of colors like red, orange, pink, yellow, and green. The north grove trail was beautiful and I loved reading the trail guide and learning so much about this place. I also did the south grove trail, and it was always incredible. There's so many other trails I want to check out next time so I can't wait to come back. This has become one of my top favorite hikes of all time. read more

Such a beautiful and peaceful place no matter the time of year. It was a bit muddy due to the recent storm, but we were prepared for the cooler, wetter weather with boots. The paths are always wonderful. At only $10 a visit, it's something everyone can afford. The Visitor Center, nature museum, and gift store. We enjoy our picnic lunch afterwards and enjoy all of the busy wildlife... foraging. The sound, the fresh smells of the forest, the peacefulness of it all. read more

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This was the first time my kids and brother have seen Giant Sequoias and the whole family loved the North Grove Trail, an easy 1.7 mile hike with subtle numbered placards along the way to explore the 20+ sites along the trail. The entire park has been a tourist attraction since 1852 and is considered the oldest still operating tourist attraction in California. You get a sign of how careless people are when you see the stump of a huge tree that was purposefully cut down in the 1800s. It was 1,400+ years old and the stump was so large it was once used as a dancefloor. We hiked as early as possible and no one else was on the trail, the air is clean and the trees are so grand you'll have to use 0.5x zoom if you are trying to take a picture of the whole thing. The only dangerous thing that happened was a pine cone dropped a couple feet from where we were walking with a pretty hard impact from falling from so high. read more

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My family and I did a road trip to Arnold. We were curious to check out this state park. I am so glad we did. It was about a 9-minute drive from our Airbnb to the entrance. A beautiful state park full of ancient sequoias! The entrance fee was $6, very affordable. There are many trails that you can experience. Parking by the visitor center is limited. We walked the north grove trail, it's family-friendly, but no dogs are allowed. I did see a couple of people turn back with their dogs. Multiple guided tour groups were walking around, very interesting. My son loved it! He was so amazed by the trees and the surroundings. This state park is underrated, but it's a must if you're in town. read more

Calaveras Big Trees State Park - Parks Near Me - Arnold, California

We frequent Angels Camp as we have a family cabin in the area and Calaveras Big Trees State Park is one of our favorite places to visit! It is quite magical - the air is fresh and cell service is limited so it's a nature lover's paradise. As you hike around the park, you are surrounded by beautiful, magnificent, giant sequoias every which way you look. This is the perfect place to get lost in nature, and disconnect for a while. Our favorite time to visit is Spring and Fall as the weather is perfect. If you are looking for a lovely, enchanted forest to explore and connect with nature, Calaveras Big Trees State Park is the place to be! Highly recommend! read more

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My sister recommended this park after going with her daughter's girlscout troop. We decided to get a nearby rental and spend a couple of days in the forest. The park was beautiful, lots of history and also options to hike a lot - or just see some cool nearby attractions. The kids had fun, and there really were some big trees at this place. Nice spot to enjoy nature. read more

Calaveras Big Trees State Park - Cool tree - Parks Near Me - Arnold, California

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We took a little trip up to Calaveras Big Trees State Park to show my brother around while he was here for the holiday weekend. The park was BUSY but what did we expect its the last weekend of summer. We chose Big Trees because of their accessible trails as my grandma is 86 and has a hard time walking far, this was somewhere we could take her out on nature and still use her wheelchair. The North Grove trail is the most ADA accessible it is a roughly 2 mile loop, however it is partially under construction at this time. The loop consists of 26 stops that have information on the park map about the area. Stops 17-end are currently closed for repairs and ADA upgrades. We hiked the trail from the big stump to stop 14 and then back and up to the visitor center. There are a few spots that the path way leans so the wheel chair wanted to go right or left and there is some loose gravel on the path from the stump to the visitor center but this trail was very doable with grandma in her wheel chair. It was a fairly fast trail with alit of scenery. It would be suitable for young children, families, and those with loved ones in wheel chairs or with mobility issues. We will be taking her back when the other half of the trail is open again and we can take her for some other sights. read more

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Totally awesome park not to be missed. Just gazing up at these giants, who have lived a thousand or two years is simply awe-inspiring. And to imagine the people who first saw them decided to chop them off just so they could send it on a money-making exhibit really makes me sad. Thankfully, there was enough public indignation that this park has been preserved so we and hopefully our decedents can continue to admire these beautiful trees. This park is pretty easy to get to, not far from Sacramento, with small towns nearby. Entrance fee is only $10 per vehicle, not per person, and there's free guided tour. The park has a north grove and south grove trail. We took the north grove, where the trees are not as big but more easily accessible and family friendly, with most of the trail paved and even, with little elevation. Also, the north grove has daily tour which fit easier with our travel schedule. Such a lovely place, definitely worth a visit. read more

Cool family friendly experience. They have so many trails I'm not sure they have camping. They also have a place for you to grab hot food. They have a visitor center where you can collect souvenirs and also gain knowledge about the park. They have lots of parking some closer to the trails. They have parking for both buses and passenger vans, it's slightly more if you are in a van or bus. It's definitely a cool place to spend time to get away from the city, which means no reception when you're in the park. There's some areas that have Wi-Fi so keep in mind you will be disconnected from technology. Also please please bring bug spray of some sort because there are lots of mosquitoes, I was unprepared so I would want others to be prepared for this being that mosquitoes can bring diseases. I saw some people with dogs so I guess it's dog friendly. read more

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What a place!, worth the drive - which is beautiful too! Go early in the morning, bring a picnic lunch if you can... nice place to spend time here. Talks and activities in the summer. This State Park is a lovely, not to miss gem. Loads of history and of course, Enormous Trees. Many trails. Several benches to look at the beautiful park, so glad it is protected! You can learn more about the trees, timber - and the early exploration, how it became a state park and more! Lots of parking, but crowded in the summer. Bring water on your trail hike and comfy shoes, flat trail with several benches. read more

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First discovered this park in October of 2017, when wildfire smoke engulfed the SF Bay Area. Air quality became so terrible that my toddler couldn't breathe well. After I heard sniffles for an evening that didn't seem to improve, I ensured bags were quickly packed the next day and organized the household to get to cleaner air. Health & safety, first! This park was not only a clean-air refuge spot, I got to trail run with my son. So fun! Cute gift shop onsite, too. During my first trip, I rented us a beautiful cabin on AirBNB. Reflecting, I'd say that was the best choice! You may enjoy a local hotel experience more, but given all the spacious rentals, I'd say check out a home rental first. read more

Calaveras Big Trees State Park - Parks Near Me - Arnold, California

16/9/25-12:30-I've never seen Sequoia's before. I was impressed! Parking is $10 unless you have a free pass from the Calif. State Library available from your local library. I kept taking pic after pic. This place felt magical and spiritual, like the Druids and Celtics must of felt. I was astounded by their sheer size and beauty. Don't miss this State Park. Incredible place! read more

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Nice, peaceful campsite in the trees! We went in October 2024 over Indigenous People's Day weekend and there weren't many mosquitoes at all. The weather was mild, and we were able to drive down the road ~30 minutes to Lake Alpine. There was barely anyone at Lake Alpine that Sunday afternoon, although the lodge was open. There were some folks fishing and it was nice enough to hang out on the beach, enjoy the sun, and have the kids wade in. Notes on the campsites (note every site has its own water spigot which was so useful, but it did mean the kids were playing with the water ALL WEEKEND LONG): 44 - We stayed there, at end of loop so didnt feel surrounded by other campers. Slanted, room for 2 big tents. 49 - Very big, but not level. Shaded. Right across from bathrooms. Private because only site on that side of the road. 58 + 59 - Nice & flat, shade, right by marsh. 60 - Not for us, too small. 61 + 62 - Good to book together. Flat, right by marsh. 62 not very shaded. 64 - Not very flat ground. 65 - Very flat. 66 - Ok but small. 67 - Good site, big, shaded, flat. 68 + 71 - Big, shaded, kind of flat. read more

I used a California State Parks Library Pass and borrowed a hiking backpack from my local library--and I'm still in awe. The park is absolutely breathtaking. Towering sequoias, peaceful trails, and that clean, healing forest air. What made this trip so special was knowing my own family stood in front of these very trees over a hundred years ago. Being in the same space, breathing the same air, was powerful and grounding. It felt like time folded in on itself. To anyone who has something negative to say about this park: maybe try visiting a state that doesn't have any state parks. Be humble, not hateful. Nature doesn't owe us perfection--but it offers peace if you let it. Thank you to the state park system and our libraries for making this healing experience more accessible. This was more than a hike--it was a full-circle moment. read more

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Beautiful place to explore nature . Parking lot near visitor center is small, you have to get there early . Trails are family friendly , but do not allow dogs. read more

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Great day trip drive up from south Sacramento County. Nice drive, great roads, personable staff at the park gate, $10 fee, access to visitor center, road ways both paved and rough/gravel, wooden foot paths, trails. Super clean rest rooms at visitor center. Dogs on leashes have limited access to non trail areas. Signs clearly posted when dogs aren't allowed into specific areas. Very clean grounds. Don't litter, pack out your trash. Lots of big trees, some amazing photo opportunities and incredible big trees. Handicap accessible, great for all ages. Such a beautiful place. read more

If you love nature (even if you just like nature) and are anywhere near this park, GO! The trails, visitors center and scenery are all A+. Giant sequoias, ponderosa/sugar pines, fir and cedar trees surround you with the clean crisp air. We walked the North Grove Trail and took our time, taking lots of pictures and I was birdwatching. Lots of great western birds to be seen and heard on this trail that's under 2 miles and loops, with nearly no elevation gain. We attempted to explore the Beaver Creek Trail but it was a bit confusing if where to go and we were short on time, so didn't walk much of it. I highly recommend this state park. It was an easy day away while staying in South Lake Tahoe in June. Lots of fun goodies and a video to see at the visitors center as well. read more

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Oh, what a magical place. I was staying in Murphys just a short drive away and my friends said "Sequoias" and I answered yes without hesitation. I hadn't seen the Sequoias since I was a kid and nothing was going to stop me from going full on Fern Gully. We arrived to find a parking lot, bathroom facilities, a creek, and several trails to wander down. We didn't have a lot of time so we decided on the North Grove trail because it was only about a mile and a half long. We had a good time following the self-guided tour. It was cool that they offered a sort of map with corresponding numbers that pointed out fun facts, many of them historical. I geek out over this stuff and trees are my thing, I even have a tattoo of one. For the most part you'll see two types of trees, the most exciting ones being the enormous Sequoias. It's really crazy to stand next to one and dream of everything it's experienced in its 1,000+ years time. Sequoias are the third longest-lived tree species and it was pretty rad to see, touch, and smell them. The photos really speak for themselves and I've attached a few and for comparison. I'm just over 5 feet tall. I have no doubt that I'll visit this wise, old forest of the "Big Trees" again and if you ever find yourself close by, do it! read more

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A wonderful experience definitely coming back! My husband and I had so much fun and people were so friendly. read more

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The family and I came up with some other family members and rented an Airbnb for Memorial Day Weekend. Our airbnb was only a 7 minute drive to this park. The plan was we were going to spend most of our Sunday at the park. We had breakfast and headed over about 10AM and so glad we did. By the time we arrived there was already a line of cars waiting to get in. The line went by fast. It is $12 to enter per car. They take cash and card. We decided to drive past the first parking lot and proceed deeper into the park. We even drove over a bridge that had substantial amount of water rushing underneath it. We saw people park and headed down to be closer to the water so it seems you can do that. We proceeded into the park some more. I'd say we drove about 10 minutes inward from the entrance. We came to a parking lot that was empty and had a few picnic benches and a bathroom that was close to both. When we all got out of our cars we could hear water off into the distance. So we walked towards the sound of the water and found it 2 minutes past the initial picnic tables and the parking lot. To our surprise we found 3 picnic benches and we scored one the closest to the waters edge. Which was nice because we had kids that love water, so it's nice to be that close. So we set up our things on the table and all but 4 of us took off on a hike. When I tell you it felt like we were in some secret forest removed from the rest of the world, that is what I felt. All you heard were the chirping of birds and buzzing of bugs. The air was so clean and it felt as if the sequoias were protecting it all including me as the visitor. When we came up to the water there were some fly fishers in the water but soon left as they said they weren't having any success as they thought the water was too cold. So they were going to move up the stream some to test their waters there. As the day went on people came and went. Those of us who went on the hike were back in about 2 hours and it was determined they clocked in 19,000 miles. Not too shabby. They said the hike wasn't grueling. They could have went further into the woods but they had a toddler in a hiking backpack and a 8 yr old in tow. We left the park around 3PM. By that time not only was our parking lot now full so were the ones we past on the way out. Bathrooms are as expected for a State park. It's a deep hold in a concrete structure so I'll let your imagination take you where it will..lol! We will be back. There is so much to enjoy at this park. read more

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So far this year, we've visited Calaveras Big Trees SP six times. The first time was the day after the last snow, and the most recent was yesterday (July 23). For literally decades, I took this park for granted. In elementary school, we took field trips to this park, so as I got older, it didn't seem very special. Sort of like, "Hey, look, there's a big tree. There's another one. And another one. There's a lot of big trees here. Big trees? Big whoop." It wasn't until one time we visited and met a couple vacationing from Boston, and they were marveling at how big the trees are, and the forest in general. Seeing the park through their eyes made me realize once again how special Big Trees SP is, and what a wonderful resource, too. Fresh air, a burbling river and creeks, and mostly peace and quiet. And less than a 2 hour drive from home, too. We have hiked most of the trails in the park (not counting the fire roads), and they all have something different to offer. The Lava Bluffs trail comes alive with wildflowers in the spring, but you have to hit it at the right time of season, and if you're going in late spring or any time during the summer (the wildflowers will be gone by then), take a LOT of water, because the trail gets a lot of sun and you can dehydrate quite easily. Trails in the South Grove area are less crowded because they require a longer drive from the Visitor's Center, but they're well worth the effort. I've fished in both the Stanislaus river and Beaver Creek in the park but have never caught anything. I know there's fish, because I can see them. I'm just a lousy fisherman. I wouldn't say that I didn't have any luck, though, because I consider myself lucky to be able to spend some time by a beautiful stream with a line in the water no matter what happens. Anyway, that's why it's called 'fishing' and not 'catching'. We have also taken our bikes (regular bikes, not e-bikes) to ride at CBTSP. Let me tell you, the ride down to the river was fun, fun, fun! OTOH, the ride back up was very much less fun. Got a great feeling of accomplishment from riding back up that long, steep grade, but not something we're planning to do very soon! This is not unique to CBTSP, but the rangers and docents put on a lot of programs during peak times. You can take a birding walk, see wildflowers, or explore the night sky (I think that's actually the program for tonight, July 24 - I wish we were there!), or a ton of other fun and interesting things. Also, as others have mentioned, many local libraries have State Parks Passes to check out and use for free. Our local library lends the passes for three weeks. read more

This state park is well maintained, with different varieties of trails to suit most interests. Today we explored the North Grove Trail, which is a 1,7 mile loop within the grove of redwoods. The biggest one in this grove was chopped many years ago but you can walk along its trunk stump which is massive. I suggest if you have time and interest to grab a pamphlet which describes the different trees and history; you can pick that up at the start of the trail in a stand along the trail, and there is a requested 50 cent donation for that if you have it to offer. The scenery is phenomenal and the walk really easy. Plenty of parking available there at the trail head. $10 entry fee to the park per vehicle. read more

Calaveras Big Trees State Park - Parks Near Me - Arnold, California

Wow! What a beautiful park. We weren't prepared for the amount of snow we encountered during our mid-April visit. We ended up hiking the trails that we could but many were heavily covered in deep snow or washed out from water. What to expect? -tidy, bare bones bathrooms (aka no soap) -small visitors center with a few gift shop items and educational displays -boardwalk trails through a marsh (highly recommend- behind the visitors center) -large sequoia trees -decent sized parking lot -less than a 30 minute drive from Angels Camp read more

Beautiful state park! The drive was easy into the park. Had everything we needed at our campsite, water, restroom was relatively clean, etc. Stars were beautiful at night. read more

Calaveras Big Trees State Park - Parks Near Me - Arnold, California

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I was hoping to see some snow there, as last year during Thanksgiving we had seen some snow. And although I don't know if it snowed Thanksgiving of this year at the park, it was too warm for any snow this time. In any case, it was still an enjoyable time at the park. Last year, we walked around the "paved" trail close to the entrance of the park that showcased a lot of the big trees. This year, we went to the scenic overlook trail and indeed did reach a very beautiful scenic overlook area, with mountains and trees and some fog resting among the trees. That trail was pretty short - 1.6 miles round trip. On our way back to the parking lot, as it was getting dark, some fog started descending quickly into the park so it gave a nice, haunting atmosphere to take photos of. We initially were not prepared for how cold it was going to be - that is, I had a really warm jacket with a nice hood but would have preferred to wear a beanie instead. The gift shop has beanies but a very small selection, so I ended up just wearing my hood hiking. In any case, I warmed up real quickly while hiking the scenic overlook trail. I would love to try to catch some snow again for any future visits ! read more

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this beautiful park I visit lots here camp or hike. and visit center. Open 6am to 6pm read more

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I've been keeping a birthday tradition of doing something outdoors-y (gotta burn a few Yelp calories somehow) and this year I decided to go here! Not too bad of a drive to reach the park entrance from the Sac metro area. I suppose the last 15 minutes of the drive has a little bit of road-winding-ness but nothing too terrifying (no sharp hairpin turns). Was planning to do both the North and South Grove Trails but only did the South one as the North one was closed due to forest maintenance. I'll go into depth about the South Grove Trail but before I do that I'll say that overall this park is a fantastic one to visit (makes a nice day trip from Sac). Strongly recommend arriving here at sunrise because the whole forest becomes flooded with sun rays filtering through the trees! Truly magical. Warning though: *zero* cellphone service throughout the whole park (but there are well-marked signs so it's hard to get lost)! $10 admission per vehicle. --------------- South Grove Trail: - Have to drive 8 miles further into the park from the park entrance. This particular drive is a bit sketchy as some areas has the road being *just* wide enough for two cars (one in each direction) and there's a bridge under construction in that there's only one thru lane available for both directions; at the time the traffic light here wasn't working and there was no way of knowing if there was an incoming car (hopefully it's fixed now!) - Trail is beginner-hiker friendly: gentle inclines/declines. Some huffing and puffing but didn't feel my calves being on fire (for reference, I don't hike really often and cardio is the bane of my existence lol) - Trail took me about a little over 2 hours to complete (from and to parking lot) - On the trail you'll eventually hit a trail loop (you'll know when you reach this via a sign); two different ways to reach the same end. Keep left if you want the easier path as the path on the right narrows a little and is more rolling-hill-y (still nothing really steep though). Wouldn't say that the right path is a dealbreaker for beginner hikers especially for those who want a tad bit of challenge. Personally I preferred the right path as it felt less monotonous haha. - The last third of the trail (out-and-back section that ends at the Agassiz Tree) is hands-down my favorite part of the whole hike; this is where you start seeing amazing colossal, skyscraper-esque sequoias! read more

Calaveras Big Trees State Park - Sunrise rays :) - Parks Near Me - Arnold, California

Great national park! I would definitely recommend coming here with kids. Mine were 2 and 5 years old. We also took a stroller. They have a great information center where you can get a map of the location for free. They have a great trail with a lot to see. It took us about 2 hours with the kids. Many big Sequoia trees to see. Overall a great place to bring your kids. read more

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To Tree or Not to Tree Founded in 1938 as a state park, Calaveras Big Trees has been awing visitors with its two groves of massive Giant Sequoias as far back as 1852. The Good: *The Sequoias really are spectacular. Hell, even when they fall, they're just as spectacular looking at their amazing, gnarly root systems. *Because of the location of this park, it's not as popular as Yosemite or Big Basin can get. Even during a summer weekend we hardly saw anyone during our short stay. It averages a miniscule 200k visitors per year vs. Yosemite's +3 million. *Trails are all well-maintained and in decent shape. *Newish Visitor's Center (VC) is top-notch and one of the best we've encountered. *Decent cell phone signal around the VC, but once you get further away, you'll def lose it. *The drive-in is gorgeous and not too harrowing, as many state park roads can be. The Meh: *$10 to visit (free with state park pass), but def #worthit *Some of the trails were closed during our visit due to prescribed burns. *VC doesn't open until 10 a.m. *I really hate the name of this place; it's like it was named by a 5-year-old with a limited vocabulary. The Ugly: *Mosquitos!! Sooooo....mannnnyyyyy....fraggin' MOSQUITOES!!! I normally don't have issues--and Carissa had almost none--but this was like hiking in a tropical area. I can't help that I'm delicious. :'( TLDR: Fabulous low-key park to visit--but bring insect repellant! read more

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Gorgeous walk through the redwoods. We did the north loop and followed the signs with the little paper guides. Super informative. Highly recommend this place. read more

Absolutely loved loved this national park just a short 3 hour drive from Reno. The drive alone is beyond beautiful and very breathtaking. The sequoia trees are massive as one can feel so insignificant beside them, our favorite trail we went on was called North Grove trail. Definitely worth the drive and visit, there are places to have a lovely picnic. read more

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If you want to see Giant Sequoias you don't have to wait until you can find the time to drive all the way to Sequoia National Park. Calaveras Big Trees State Park is much closer and lets you wander among the Giants. On a Gold Country vacation in late March we were hoping to visit. But just our luck, in a drought year, a big storm had swept through a couple days earlier and left snow at some of the higher elevations (our sedan is not exactly a snow vehicle!). What was the snow situation at Calaveras? That morning I called the park, not knowing if anyone would even pick up, but a friendly ranger answered with what I wanted to hear: no snow! Thumbs up for Calaveras rangers! When we got there, we found out the South Grove was still seasonally inaccessible, but the scenic North Grove Trail was open. It's a beautiful 1.5 mile hike, a big loop, so no need to retrace your steps. The trail is quite accessible, although dirt it's flat with little elevation change - you can leave your Apple Watch Ultra at home! The giant sequoias along this North Grove Trail are breathtaking, we took our time and strained our necks trying to take it all in! Photos can be misleading, understating how immense these trees actually are. Although the trail was flat, it was fairly chili that day and I was glad to purchase a warm hat at the gift shop before hand. The gift shop is large and well stocked, well above average as State Park gift shops go. A nice museum is also here and worth a look. Giant Sequoias have to be seen to be believed - a visit is memorable! read more

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We've been here a few times over the years and never disappointed. How can you not feel at peace and good with life when you're surrounded by majestic giant sequoias and clean, fresh air? I love decompressing here. The drive up here is nice, and the hike is easy. Highly recommend visiting this place and Arnold, a cute charming town. read more

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Such a gorgeous sight with river water!! Of course stay safe :) would Go again in a heart beat read more

My childhood best friend's Grandma (by all accounts I consider her my grandma as well) has been debating which of her timeshares to keep and which to get rid of, and in her decision-making has been inviting family to stay with her while she does the figuring. The bestie, her hubs, Grandma, me, and my love came through last month to stay nearby and visited the Big Trees while we were here. I'm so glad I finally got to see this place, and that it happened when the weather was nice (aka not a million degrees) so I could enjoy a nice easy two mile (we started it not where we were supposed to, by wandering into a campground, and that added some length on, but the trail we used is supposed to be 1.67 miles if done properly lol. It's been awhile since any of us frequented hiking trails sadly.) loop hike through the giant sequoias with my beloved found family. While on the trail my bestie told me many stories of coming here with her fam over the years, and it was really cool to listen to these stories then actually see the setting that appeared in them, and a setting I recognized from family photos in their home when we were kids. There are countless big trees to look at and in some cases climb into or on for photo ops. They are as big as advertised, so fear not. Anyone who is experienced in hiking will not need to worry but if you're not, looking at the map is helpful. I only say this because we did do a lot of absent-minded wandering. We were having fun and nobody cared, but I am at least attempting to be a helpful yelper. The visiting center is open and they do have staff on the trail in some places, which is cool if you want to learn things. Definitely bring water, layers, sunscreen, a hat, and a walking stick. If you are clumsy like me, watch for bits of wood and sticks about. It's a nicely maintained trail all the way through, but there are bits about. There are no medium, difficult, or long trails at this state park for the serious hikers, I'm told. There's also very limited cell service. read more

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This is sooo belated because my visit to this state park was in August of 2020 (lol!!) But hey, they say that it's better you do it (even if it's belated) than never, right? So here is my super belated but 'meaningful' review of this not-so-much-talked-about state park. First of all, I cannot believe that this is only a state park. In other words, I cannot believe that this place is not a national park. Because it's unbelievably vast! For those of you who's been there I'm pretty sure you'd agree with me that Calaveras definitely has the so-called national park vibes. According to some website, this place has been a major tourist attraction since 1852, when the existence of the trees was first widely reported. And it goes on to explain that it's also considered the longest continuously operated tourist facility in California. What? Really? As famous as it sounds in the webpage, I have to frankly admit that until my visit in August of 2020, I had never heard of this place. Well, it sure was a nice discovery and I had time to go check it out during my week long Lake Tahoe vacation. During my whole hike in the park, those tall trees gave me unexplainable calmness; it was almost like a little meditation retreat with some zen feeling. Wish I did yoga while I was there. I can also say that I felt like I was in the fantasy world created by J.R.R. Tolkien. I'm pretty sure on a very sunny August day in Sierra Nevada, there were quite many visitors enjoying the magnificent sequoia trees but for some reason, the park wasn't that crowded at the time of visit. It could be that it was the first summer after COVID hit earlier in that year so many may have been refraining from going out in public. It's been almost two years since. But the memories I created when I was there are still fresh in my mind. I'm dreaming of my next visit in my home in Denver, CO. read more

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North Grove campground... It is a beautiful park! However, this campground parallels hwy 4, and there was quite a bit of traffic. The bathrooms associated with the loop that site 50 was on were out of order. In the morning, one of the stalls had zero toilet paper in the bathroom we had to walk to. No soap in bathrooms, bring your own. read more

We recommend Big Trees State Park. Beautiful place to enjoy all of the large sequoias. We camped two nights and saw lots of bats each night. Also had a fox pass through our campsite while we were enjoying the views of the Milky Way through the trees at our campsite. We also encountered a doe while hiking through the North Grove. Staff are friendly, and bathrooms are clean. The only con would be our campsite which was literally right next to Hwy 4. We didn't sleep very well due to the constant amount of cars & trucks going by. Would recommend camping on the farthest side of campground if you are tent camping. We would stay here again as a good base camp. read more

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