State Parks and National Parks

The Earl and Tolowa lakes region, which skirts the northern California coast just south of the Oregon border, is home to a 5,000-acre state park divided by a 5,000-acre fish and game preserve.

Lakes, wetlands, wooded hillsides, grassy meadows, sand dunes and ocean beaches provide habitat for a wide assortment of plants and animals. This area's diversity makes it a favorite among nature lovers and wildlife photographers.

Hundreds of bird species, including the rare Canada Aleutian goose and peregrine falcon, are seen in the forests and wetlands.

Deer, coyote and raccoons are sometimes seen from the 20 miles of trails that traverse the park.

Marine mammals, including sea lions and harbor seals, can be spotted along the coast, as can migrating gray whales en route between Alaska and Baja California.

During spring and early summer, there are great displays of wildflowers.

Anglers fish the Smith River for salmon and steelhead. Cutthroat trout and Starry flounder are found in Earl and Tolowa lakes, two connected lakes situated in the wildlife area bisecting the park. Bass and crappie are sought in the park's Dead Lake.

Waterfowl hunting is permitted on Earl and Tolowa and in the northern end of the state park.

Trails are open to hikers, equestrians and mountain bicyclists, but they are sandy so bicycling can be difficult.

Primitive walk-in campsites are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Pit toilets are nearby. No water is available.

An equestrian camp, also open to backpackers, is reached by a one-mile ride. The camp has corrals, picnic tables, pit toilets, fire pits and a hand pump for non-potable water. Maximum horse capacity is about 30.

All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The lake is named for the Tolowa people, who were the most recent Native Americans to occupy the area.

Park rangers offer guided walks and slide presentations during summer and on request during the rest of the year.

The climate here is mild, ranging from 60 to 70 degrees F in summer from 40 to 60 degrees F in winter.

The park's rainy season is from November to May.