Calaveras Big Trees State Park is home to the legendary giant sequoias, the largest trees on Earth, and the very place where these magnificent giants were first discovered. Word of the towering giant sequoias spread quickly in the 1850s, and by 1853 travelers were already making the journey to the Calaveras North Grove to witness them in person. Today, historians believe the North Grove is the longest continuously operated tourist attraction in California, and possibly anywhere west of the Mississippi, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventurers alike.
This beautiful year-round park features two main areas where visitors can experience the awe of giant sequoia trees. The historic North Grove, home to the visitor center and museum, is open daily throughout the year. The expansive South Grove, known for its serene trails and some of the park’s largest sequoias, opens seasonally once the snow has melted, typically from late April through mid-November. For maps, trail descriptions, and planning tips, visit our Calaveras Big Trees State Park recreation page for complete details.
Traveling with dogs? Learn the Calaveras Big Trees State Park dog-friendly guidelines here.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park – 4 Seasons of Spectacular Beauty
A four-seasons destination, the park is spectacularly beautiful in spring with blooming dogwoods, in summer with all trails open for full access to the entire park, in fall with the dogwoods changing to their fall colors, and in winter with annual snowfall. Every season is worth your visit to take in the full beauty of this amazing State Park.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park – Visitors Center & Museum
The new visitors center, completed just a few years ago includes a fabulous gift shop and comfortable seating area for those wishing to take a load off while their family or friends browse the shop. The visitors center museum describes Native American use of the area, and shows examples and information on the local flora and fauna. In addition, there is a movie room where you can see a movie about the discovery of the giant sequoias by Augustus T. Dowd in 1852.
The gift shop features a large variety of quality souvenir apparel, science and nature themed items, and lots of fun and educational toys for the kids. It’s easy to come here and buy gifts for your entire family.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park also has two of the most beautiful campgrounds with 129 campsites in Calaveras County (in both the North and South Groves). The North Grove campground is available March through November, while the Oak Hollow Campground is available when the South Grove opens. If you’d rather stay in a structure, there are also cabin rentals available year-round.
5 Amazing things to do while you’re here visiting Calaveras Big Trees State Park
See Big Trees Park through the eyes of world traveler, Jonathan Berg at www.theroyaltourblog.com.
