Interesting Things You Can Do in Red Rock Canyon State Park, California

California is a destination of many attractions. One that I cherish most due to its simplicity is Red Rock Canyon State Park. Don’t pass the Red Rock Canyon State Park if driving off the highway near Cantil. Be amazed by the staggering tall pillars that will make you feel small. In this article, I will show you all the best adventures you can enjoy in this beautiful park.

The Overview of Red Rock Canyon State Park, California

During the early 1870s, 20-mule team freight wagons used the colorful rock formations in the park as landmarks for water. Now, Red Rock California protects significant paleontology sites. It also protects the remains of the 1890s-era mining operations in the area. In addition, many movies have used the site to shoot some of their scenes.

The park boasts of its mini Joshua tree, some hoodoos, a few cactuses, beautiful desert cliffs, and refreshing rock formations. You will find it in Cantil, California. The closest city is Bakersfield, and it’s 70 minutes drive west. If you are an LA resident, the park is a suitable day trip since it is only under a 2-hour drive southwest of Red Rock, California.

If you are considering visiting the place, it’s better to go in the late fall, winter, and early spring. Visiting during the summer is a bad idea due to the season’s high temperatures. When I visited the park, I stayed there for about five hours. However, I spent most of the time taking photos.

You can easily explore the whole park in three to four hours. When visiting, ensure you bring lots of food and water. In addition, bring sunscreen, face lotion, closed-toe shoes, and proper clothes so you can protect against the intense sun and not have a problem getting sandy.

Here are the fun activities you can explore in Red Rock Canyon State Park!

1) Camping

When you visit Red Rock Canyon State Park, go to Ricardo Campground. You will love it there! The place offers 50 true-to-the-era campgrounds, fire rings, potable water, tables, and pit toilets for the ultimate accurate camping experience.

One thing I would have liked them to improve was to include RV hook-ups and showers. But still, I had tremendous fun! When we visited the place with my family, we didn’t book any reservations; it was first come, first served.

While camping in Ricardo Campground, you should know a few things. You should put off the generators from 8 pm to 10 am. In addition, from 10 pm to 6 am are quiet hours. You will pay $25 per site if you go camping there for one night.

2) Stargazing

I have never had a better stargazing experience than in Red Rock Canyon State Park. The tiny town of Cantil is the only town nearby. Therefore, the night skies in Red Canyon are free from light pollution.

I was lucky to visit the place during a meteor shower. It was a sight to behold! You can spend the night outside your tent while enjoying the beautiful view of stars and moon coinciding.

3) Go Hiking on Hagen Canyon Nature Trail

The first hike I went when visiting California’s Red Rock Canyon State Park was Hagen Canyon Nature Trail. It is a fairly simple trek of a 1.2-mile loop with a 62-foot elevation change. On this hike, you will see Joshua trees, red pillar-like rocks, and desert cactus.

I chose this first hike because compared to Red Cliff’s Trail, Hagen Canyon Nature Trail is slightly less grand. Hagen Canyon Nature Trail also has a sandy path lined with rocks to help you stay on the right path. The trail led me to a tall rock wall.

4) Go Hike on Desert View Nature Trail

Red Rock Canyon California’s signature red color is rare in the Desert View Nature Trail. When hiking there, most buttes were white with a yellowish undertone. Even though I couldn’t see any red rock formations, the pillars were still mesmerizing.

The Desert View Nature Trail Begins near Ricardo Campground. When I was hiking there, the only way I knew I was not in Ricardo Nature Trail was the “Desert View Nature Trail” sign I came across. I went deeper into the desert valley, where I saw many alcoves.

5) Go for a Scenic Drive

Are you not into climbing and hiking? Worry not! Red Rock Canyon State Park allows you to tour the pack in the comfort of your car. Since I visited this place in the summer, I opted for off-highway vehicle recreation.

Remember, all vehicles can travel on the rugged roads within the park only if they have a license. In addition, you must follow the drinking and driving laws.

Conclusion

It does not matter if you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer. This hidden gem in California offers a journey you have never had. Have everything ready for this astonishing journey to explore the beautiful scenery of Red Rock Canyon.