Fun Things to Do in Red Rock Canyon State Park, California

California is a destination with so many attractions. One attraction that I hold dearest to me is Red Rock Canyon State Park, simply because it is so beautiful. If you drive up the highway from Cantil, don’t miss Red Rock Canyon State Park. The stunning towering columns will make you feel small. In this article, I will show you all of the best adventures you can enjoy in this beautiful park.

Overview of Red Rock Canyon State Park, California

In the early 1870s, a 20-mule train team used the park’s colorful rock formations as water landmarks. Today, California’s Red Rock National Park protects an important paleontological site. It also protects Mining operations in the 1890s In addition, many movies have filmed some scenes here.

The park is known for its mini Joshua trees, some rock pillars, a few cacti, beautiful desert cliffs, and refreshing rock formations. You’ll find it in Cantil, California. The nearest city is Bakersfield, a 70-minute drive west. If you’re a Los Angeles resident, this park is perfect for a day trip, as it’s less than 2 hours southwest of Red Rocks, California.

If you plan to visit the park, it’s best to go in late fall, winter, and early spring. It’s a bad idea to visit in the summer because of the higher temperatures. When I went to the park, I spent about five hours there. However, I spent most of the time taking pictures.

You can easily visit the entire park in three to four hours. Make sure you bring enough food and water with you when you visit. Also, bring sunscreen, facial lotion, closed-toe shoes, and appropriate clothing so you can protect yourself from the strong sun and not get dirty from the sand.

Here are some fun activities you can explore at Red Rock Canyon State Park!

1) Camping

When you visit Red Rock Canyon State Park, head to Camping RicardoYou’ll love it! With 50 period-authentic campsites, fire rings, drinking water, tables and pit toilets, you’ll get the ultimate camping experience.

One thing I wish they would improve on is including RV hookups and showers. But I still had a blast! When we visited this place with my family, we didn’t make any reservations; it was first come, first served.

There are a few things you should know when camping at Ricardo Campground. You should turn off your generator between 8pm and 10am. Also, 10pm to 6am are quiet hours. If you camp there for a night, you will pay $25 per campsite.

2) Stargazing

I have never had a better stargazing experience than at Red Rock Canyon State Park. Cantil is the only small town nearby. Therefore, the night sky at Red Rock Canyon is free of light pollution.

I’m lucky to be in Meteor ShowersIt’s really spectacular! You can spend the night outside your tent while enjoying the beautiful view of the stars and the moon.

3) Go hiking on the Hagen Gorge Nature Trail

The first hike I took when I visited Red Rock Canyon State Park in California was the Hagen Canyon Nature Trail. This is a fairly easy hike that is 1.2 miles long with an elevation change of 62 feet. On this hike, you will see Joshua trees, red columnar rocks, and desert cacti.

I chose this hike because the Hagen Canyon Nature Trail is a little less impressive than the Red Cliffs Trail. The Hagen Canyon Nature Trail also has a sandy trail with rocks on both sides to help you stay on the right path. This trail led me to a high rock wall.

4) Go hiking on the Desert View Nature Trail

Red Rock Canyon’s California signature red color was rarely seen on the Desert View Nature Trail. While hiking there, most of the hills were white with a slightly yellowish base. Although I couldn’t see any red rock formations, the pillars were still mesmerizing.

The trailhead for the Desert View Nature Trail is located near the Ricardo Campground. When I was hiking there, the only way I knew I was not on the Ricardo Nature Trail was when I saw the sign for the “Desert View Nature Trail.” I went deep into the desert valley and saw a lot of alcoves there.

5) Enjoy the beautiful scenery while driving

Don’t like rock climbing and hiking? No worries! Red Rock Canyon State Park allows you to explore the park in comfort with a car. Since I was here in the summer, I chose the off-road vehicle recreation activity.

Remember, all vehicles must be licensed to navigate the park’s rugged roads. Also, you must abide by the drink-driving laws.

in conclusion

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this hidden California gem offers a journey like no other. Get ready for an amazing journey through the beautiful scenery of Red Rock Canyon.

Lilith Morgan

Hi, I’m Vanessa Harris, a dedicated writer known for weaving stories that connect deeply to the human spirit. Beyond the written word, I find solace in the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, take long walks to chase the enchanting beauty of sunsets, and hold onto the profound and simple feelings of life’s everyday moments. Will you join me on this rich and meaningful literary adventure?