Known for its immaculate scenery and unobstructed views of the Pacific, California’s Highway 1 is a bucket list scenic drive. But when NorCal’s famous highway ends, the state’s scenic shoreline continues on: a meandering, 120-mile stretch of Pacific coast that boasts solitude unlike anywhere else in the state, known as California’s Lost Coast. Here, you’ll find some of the best state parks in Northern California. This rugged slice of the state is also home to Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, one of the most remote state parks in Northern California. But this isolated state park is more than just overlooked; it’s also wild, crowd-less, and beautifully serene.
Sinkyone Wilderness State Park in Northern California encompasses approximately 60 miles of the southern end of the Lost Coast, which stretches from Orange County north toward Mendocino.
Uniquely, Sinkyone boasts an incredible amount of eco-diversity, which only adds to its isolation. Dense natural forests create a thick barrier between the beach and the rest of civilization.
Fortunately, at hundreds of miles from the bustling hotspots of SoCal, civilization is equally far away as well.
Sinkyone is bordered by the King Range National Conservation Area, a 42,000-acre preserve that holds the distinction of being the first national conservation area in the country.
For this reason, there are no modern services at Sinkyone Wilderness SP. This is the perfect place to unplug, but it's vital to come prepared.
After bushwhacking through the Lost Coast Trail, park visitors can explore a variety of non-motorized activities, such as surfing, horseback riding, and beach strolling.
The Golden State is full of natural beauty, but Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, one of the most remote state parks in Northern California, is a hidden gem that has remained one of the best-kept secrets in the state.
