State Parks and National Parks

The jagged granite peaks of Castle Crags, rising vertically from the Upper Sacramento Valley, have been a northern California landmark for centuries.

Although the spires themselves are not within Castle Crags State Park, which abuts the base of the crags, they dominate the scenery throughout the 4,350-acre park. Rock climbing is available just outside the park.

This wild, heavily forested park has 28 miles of hiking trails, including eight miles of the Pacific Crest Trail. The mixed-forest trails lead to breathtaking vistas of nearby Mount Shasta and Castle Dome.

Horses are allowed on the Pacific Crest Trail only within the park.

The park also encompasses two miles of the Sacramento River, which offers excellent trout fishing.

One of the park's two campgrounds is situated along the river. Together, the campgrounds offer 76 fully developed campsites. Six environmental campsites, situated along hiking trails, are available by permit.

An unusual feature at Castle Crags State Park is a bubbling, mineral spring.

Wild orchids grow in the park, and spring is a time of excellent wildflower displays.