As the name suggests, this state park in the Sierra Nevada range protects gargantuan giant sequoia trees, some of which are believed to be up to 2,000 years old. While the trees are among the park's biggest draws, it's also an amazing spot for hiking, with a variety of trails ranging from quick-and-easy jaunts to more strenuous treks. Other popular activities include birdwatching, fishing for rainbow trout, and—of course—camping. The park features 120 campsites spread across two campgrounds, both of which can accommodate tents and RVs up to 30 feet in length, along with four two-bedroom cabins with kitchens and private bathrooms.

• Best for RV camping: North Grove Campground offers easy access to the park’s dump station, making it the prime choice for RV campers.
• Best for quiet-seekers: Oak Hollow Campground is the quieter of the park’s two campgrounds, and more than half of its sites are tent-only.

1. You can reserve a campsite or cabin at the park through the online ReserveCalifornia system or by calling California State Parks.
2. Campsites become available to reserve at 8am, six months in advance. Book early if you’re planning to visit in the summer or over a weekend.
3. If you are unable to secure a site in Calaveras Big Trees State Park, fear not: There are tons of alternatives in the area, including Hipcamps and public campgrounds in the surrounding Stanislaus National Forest.

If you like warm weather, July and August are the best months to visit the park, when temperatures are at their highest and rainfall is rare. September is a close contender, with slightly cooler weather and generally fewer crowds. While the park is open throughout the year, camping is only available from March through November. Most winter visitors come on skis or snowshoes, as much of Highway 4—which connects the park to Sacramento—is closed due to snow.

• Gas, groceries, and supplies are available in the town of Arnold, less than 10 minutes away by car.
• The park's visitor center and many of its trails and picnic areas are wheelchair-accessible. There's also one accessible cabin and 11 accessible campsites, most in North Grove Campground.
• Dogs are allowed in campgrounds and on fire roads, but not on trails or in the visitor center.
• Fishing in the Stanislaus River and Beaver Creek is allowed, but anyone over 16 requires a fishing license.
• All campers are required to store food, cookware, and toiletries in the provided bear-resistant lockers.