Butano State Park - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Big Basin Redwoods State Park is the oldest state park in California The park contains almost all of the Waddell Creek watershed, which was formed by the seismic uplift of its rim, and the erosion of its center by the many streams in its bowl-shaped depression. The park has many waterfalls, a wide variety of environments (from lush canyon bottoms to sparse chaparral-covered slopes), many animals and abundant bird life – including Steller's jays, egrets, herons and acorn woodpeckers.

This is a forested retreat not far from the coast. Many campsites in Memorial Park Campground are among the redwood trees and all sites are within easy walking distance of Pescadero Creek. A swimming hole there is popular in the summer. There are also group sites, some of them designated for youth groups. Reservations for all campsites can be made for up a year in advance. A seasonal camp store is located near the park entrance.

Pescadero Creek Park is located near Loma Mar and is operated by the San Mateo County Department of Parks. The park complex of 8,020 acres also includes the neighboring Memorial, Sam McDonald and Heritage Grove parks. The park borders Portola Redwoods State Park with seamless trails, and connects to Big Basin Redwoods State Park via a trail easement across private lands.

It is a lighthouse built in 1871 to guide ships on the Pacific coast of California. It is the tallest lighthouse in the area. It is still an active Coast Guard aid to navigation. The lighthouse is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a California Historical Landmark.

This is a lighthouse built in 1871 to guide ships on the Pacific coast of California. It is the tallest lighthouse on the West Coast of the United States. It is still an active Coast Guard aid to navigation. The lighthouse and the land around have been preserved as Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park, a California state park. The lighthouse is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and designated as a California Historical Landmark.

Bean Hollow State Beach is a beach in the state park system of California. It includes two sheltered coves, separated by a rocky point. The southern cove was once called Arroyo de Los Frijoles and marked the southern extent of Rancho Butano. The beach also has a self-guided nature trail. Swimming is dangerous because of cold water, rip currents, heavy surf and sharks.