In the sprawling California countryside, it can be difficult to pick the best spots to explore nature, but if you’re near Porterville, CA you need look no further than this list of local state parks. Hop in your car and head out to these natural destinations.
1. Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park
This park is located on the ancestral lands of the Yokuts and is home to Allensworth, “the town that refused to die.” In 1908, settlers led by Colonel Allen Allensworth founded the only town in California financed and governed by Black people. While the town did not last in the long term, the buildings and surrounding area are now preserved for site-seeing and camping.
2. Tule Elk State Reserve
This park is so named for the herd of tule elk it protects. Tule elk were once in danger of extinction until a local cattleman began efforts to protect them in 1874. In 1932, the herd was given protected status and eventually, elk were transplanted to other areas of California. Now there are thousands roaming the land again and this is the perfect place to see them.
3. Fort Tejon State Historic Park
Sitting on a grassy plain at the foot of a mountain, the remains of this fort present the perfect place to observe local history and nature in one. Come to learn about life on the California frontier from preserved buildings and actors performing living history. When you’ve had your educational fill, sit and marvel at the scenery and its 400-year-old oak trees.
4. Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland
This little park exemplifies the area’s unique desert ecosystem. The park protects native junipers and Joshua trees, which were once abundant in the area and provided vital materials for Native Americans. Though not technically trees beyond appearance and name, Joshua trees produce beautiful white flowers that bloom for months, and they are truly a sight to see among the wildflowers and other plant life emerging from the sand.
5. Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
Hike along eight miles of trails through rolling hills covered in wildflowers and poppies, California’s state flower. The fields are kept completely natural, only being tended to by nature. Depending on rainfall, flowers tend to bloom between February and April. Come here to breathe in the fresh air and the sweet scent of poppies, but don’t pick any flowers because this natural wonderland is to be left exactly as is.
The California plains and deserts present many opportunities for nature lovers to indulge in the outdoors. If you’re looking for more than just a day trip, get yourself a 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe for maximum camping space while enjoying nature’s bounty. Visit Merle Stone Chevrolet today for your chariot into the wilderness.
Image by Brigitte Werner from Pixabay
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