1. Buena Vista Park Trail

A wonderful and short hike without the crowds. Though the uphill hike may seem daunting at first, just take it slow. The hike is quite short, and once you've reached the top, you'll have beautiful views of the city.

See what it’s like to hike this lovely trail

2. Crissy Fields Hike

A flat walk guaranteed to thrill with all of the best city icons. This hike from Crissy Field to Fort Point is one of the country's prettiest urban walks, with panoramic views galore.

3. California Coastal Trail

The Coastal Trail is mostly flat as it winds around the coast. This trail is beautiful and undoubtedly offers some of the best views of the Pacific, the Marin Headlands, and the Golden Gate Bridge.

4. Mission Creek Park

A hidden gem near downtown, Mission Creek Park has a great walking loop that starts at the 7th Street entrance. Enjoy lots of greenery and beautiful scenery, check out the houseboats, and hit up the dog park with your pooch.

Get a closer look at the views on this trail

5. Strawberry Hill Hike

Strawberry Hill in Golden Gate Park glows with every shade of green possible. And though you will have to go uphill, the short climb is well worth it once you reach the scenic peak.

6. Corona Heights Park

This easy and accessible climb ends with a breathtaking 360-degree view of Fog City and beyond. There's even a cool rock formation you can climb on top of as you admire the bustling city below.

7. Bay Area Ridge Trail

The Bay Area Ridge Trail is the perfect trail to take visitors since it ends at the Golden Gate Bridge. It's an easy hike, although there is some uphill walking on the way back from the bridge.

8. John McLaren Park

Enter the park from Mansell Street onto John F. Shelley Drive to start the 1.6-mile loop. You'll pass by the Jerry Garcia Amphitheater and catch some of the best views in the city. There are plenty more miles of trails in this park, too, if you're up for more exploring.

9. Sunset Reservoir Trail

This is a short walk in the residential Outer Sunset. Take in views of the ocean, and walk down to the water.

10. Heron’s Head Park

Heron's Head Park includes an easy trail that offers some amazing scenery. You'll get stunning views of the bay and a chance to spot more than 100 species of birds.

Get an aerial view of Heron’s Head Park

Have you been to any of these easy hikes near San Francisco? If so, let us know all about your experiences in the comments. For more great walking adventures, check out these incredible hikes under five miles everyone around San Francisco should take. Just make sure you’re well prepared with all the info you’ll need for these hikes.

The post 10 Easy Hikes To Add To Your Outdoor Bucket List In San Francisco appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Alamere Falls in Point Reyes National Seashore

The Alamere Falls is also called a "tidefall" and you won't see too many of these beauties around. This one takes a 40-foot plummet right into the Pacific. Of course, you gotta work a bit to see it. The hike is roughly 8.4 miles out-and-back. But, oh, is it worth it! Discover more about this trail on AllTrails.com.

2. Cataract Falls at Mount Tamalpais

Climbing Mt. Tam is a local favorite, and the Cataract Falls are a popular, refreshing attraction. Discover more about this trail on AllTrails.com.

3. Berry Creek Falls at Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Venture south along the coast to the oldest state park in California, and check out the beautiful Berry Creek FallsAllTrails.com.

4. Cascade Falls in Mill Valley

An easy, breezy hike from downtown Mill Valley will give you a wonderful display of the Cascade Falls. Discover more about this trail on AllTrails.com.

5. Golden Cascade Big Basin Redwoods State Park

One look and you'll see why the Golden Cascade is called "Golden." Discover more about the many trails inside the park on AllTrails.com.

6. Tucker Trail Falls in Marin

The trails are much quieter in this neck of the woods, if you're looking for a truly serene moment with nature. But you really can't go wrong with anything you find in Marin!

7. Huntington Falls at Stow Lake in Golden Gate Park

Althgouh these falls in Golden Gate Park are artificial, they are in the city! Also nearby (and manmade, too): Rainbow Falls.

8. Mount Diablo Falls in the East Bay

While at Mount Diablo, just follow the "Falls Trail Loop." We love when it's that simple. Also, watch for mountain lions! Discover more about this trail on AllTrails.com.

9. Carson Falls in Marin

If you enjoy hiking, this one's so awesome you can see it from several different viewpoints along the wildflower-speckled trail.

10. McWay Falls in Big Sur

Ok, so the McWay Falls are a bit of a drive from SF, but OMG, look at this. Discover more about this trail on AllTrails.com.

If this doesn’t get you off your bum and out into the great outdoors, we don’t know what will!

So what do you think about these waterfalls and waterfall hikes near San Francisco? If you’d like to embark upon other hikes in the areas around any of these spots, you can find some great trails by going to the overall AllTrails website.

Any other waterfalls near San Francisco we need to add to this list? Let us know in the comments!

If you’re still in the mood for more California adventures, explore with us in this video about beautiful Big Sur:

The post These 10 Epic Waterfalls Near San Francisco Will Take Your Breath Away appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Driving downtown San Francisco during games for the Giants

The Giants are the most popular sports team for San Franciscans, whether you're a native or a newcomer to the city. And when there is a home game at AT&T Park, the traffic situation is insane! (But any die-hard Giants fan will tell you that the beloved home team is worth the crowds!)

2. Fisherman's Wharf

Once you've lived in San Francisco for a while - and definitely if you're a local - you'll know this part of town is quite touristy. Most locals tend to avoid it unless dragged by visiting family or friends. However, the experience of Fisherman's Wharf is well worth-it, despite being a tourist hot spot.

3. Sinkholes

In San Francisco, there have been sinkholes that have literally almost swallowed up cars, people, and even homes, and the problem is only getting worse. If you're curious, a sinkhole is technically a pit in the ground that forms in areas where water gathers without external drainage. Sinkholes can be (quite literally) one of the biggest things to avoid in San Francisco.

4. Bay Bridge Traffic

The Bay Bridge is beautiful to admire, but absolutely nightmarish to drive. The traffic in the San Francisco Bay area has become worse and worse, so if you live in the city and plan to use the Bay Bridge, then be prepared for some pretty terrible traffic jams.

5. Outdoor parades and events (if you're in a rush)

When you're in the city and want to get from Point A to Point B, the likelihood of a street parade or even protest delaying you is very possible. We love the celebrations here in the Bay Area, but they have a curious tendency to happen when you're in a hurry.

6. Dog *business* on the sidewalk

According to the Census and Animal Care and Control Department, San Francisco has around 10,000 more dogs than children. And not all of those dogs have responsible owners. All we are saying is watch where you're walking at all times!

7. Confusing cable cars with streetcars

In San Francisco, it's easy to mistake a streetcar for a cable car and vice versa. Unlike the mechanical cable cars, streetcars are pushed by on-board electric motors and require a trolley pole to produce power from an overhead wire. For reference, what's pictured above is a cable car!

8. Construction sites

The frustration and risks of living near a construction site in San Francisco are high. As the city economy is booming, so is the construction industry. There are tons of construction equipment and cranes out, as people in the city know.

9. Wearing shorts, especially during summer

While not totally unreasonable, wearing shorts in the summer here is a bit silly. It's also how you can spot the tourists, who sport shorts in our chilly, 60-degree "summer" days.

10. Potholes

San Francisco does not have a harsh winter, but it does suffer from a serious pothole problem. There are parts of town that drivers and especially cyclists need to watch out for. The pothole problem here can cause serious damage or injury!

Do you agree with any of these negatives about living in San Francisco? Anything that you think should be added to a list of what to avoid in San Francisco? Let us know about your experiences living in the Bay Area in the comments!

There are, however, plenty of things not to avoid in San Francisco! Check out this beautiful drone footage:

If you’re curious about odd San Francisco attractions, be sure to check out the 10 steepest streets in San Francisco.

Want to show off your love for California everywhere you go? Check out this great Explore California shirt from The Landmark Project!

The post 10 Things Everyone In San Francisco Should Avoid At All Costs appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. The Tenderloin

West of Union Square, the Tenderloin neighborhood is bounded by Taylor Street to the east, Geary to the north, Market to the south, and Van Ness to the west. The Tenderloin sees more serious crimes, such as assaults, drug violations, and robberies, as well as intense homelessness in concentrated areas. This place can be dangerous at all times.

Take a look at the slow change in the Tenderloin neighborhood:

2. Hunters Point

The notoriously crime-ridden, impoverished Hunters Point neighborhood is one of the most historic, but dangerous, places in San Francisco. Crime statistics continue to reflect the danger here.

3. Bayview

Bayview has some of the highest crime rates in the city. This area can be particularly dangerous because of gun violence, thus the crime rate is 161% higher than the national average.

4. Mission District

Though one of the most popular places to visit in San Francisco, Mission District can be very unpredictable after 9 or 10 p.m., and the source of the crime is varied. In fact, there's a whole blog dedicated to keeping up with all the theft, violence, and vandalism that goes on in the Mission. Be sure to check out Mission Local: Trouble.

Get an in-depth look at the Mission District:

5. Outer Mission

Outer Mission is a small residential neighborhood on the south edge of San Francisco. The overall crime rate in Outer Mission is 98% higher than the national average, so be careful when it gets dark.

6. Western Addition

Western Addition is roughly the area between Van Ness, Fulton, Divisadero, and Geary. Parts of Western Addition are rife with petty crime, especially muggings and car break-ins.

Learn about the history of the Western Addition:

7. SOMA (South of Market)

Historic South of Market (SOMA) is a huge district, sprawling from the Embarcadero to 11th Street, between Market and Townsend. The northern part of SOMA (near Market Street), between 4th and 10th Streets, is a high-crime area. The overall crime rate in South Of Market is 67% higher than the national average.

8. Golden Gate Park

Though beautiful during the day, Golden Gate Park practically empties out by sunset, making it a hotbed for illicit activities. In particular, it has a reputation for some unpredictable homeless campers.

Did we miss a dangerous place in Fog City? What do you consider to be the worst or most dangerous neighborhoods in San Francisco? Let us know in the comments.

Of course, no place is perfect, and locals happen to love living in this beautiful little corner of the Golden State. So let’s move on to some happier news, shall we? Take a look at some of the best places to live in San Francisco.

The post Here Are The 8 Most Dangerous Places In San Francisco After Dark appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

We all know that San Francisco is an amazing city, but there are also many ways that the City by the Bay changed the world. There are so many things that originated here, things that San Francisco did first, and San Francisco inventions. The history of San Francisco is a rich and lengthy one, so it should come as no surprise how many things from San Francisco have been so life-altering for so many. We’ve gathered up a few things that San Francisco did first, check them out:

1. San Francisco was the first major city to be transformed by the technology boom at the end of the 20th century.

The dot-com boom of the late 1990s was quite the dramatic and profound period for San Francisco! Lots of entrepreneurs and computer software professionals moved into the city. They were soon followed by marketing and sales professionals, changing Fog City dramatically. In the ensuing years, many other cities, like Austin and Seattle, have become tech hubs as well, but this was a San Francisco first!

2. San Francisco is the birthplace of the United Nations.

San Francisco was hand-picked by a former president to launch the start of the United Nations. The San Francisco Opera House was where meetings of the United Nations Conference on International Organization took place until 1945. The United Nations officially came into creation later that year.

3. San Francisco was the inspiration for Summer of Love.

In 1967, San Francisco was the most publicly-known location for the explosion of a massive social movement. The Human Be-In in Golden Gate Park in January 1967 brought hippie culture into the mainstream. This led to the legendary Summer of Love that permanently changed culture.

4. Irish Coffee originated at the Buena Vista Cafe in San Francisco.

Here's another San Francisco invention, in the United States, at least! Irish coffee was popularized in Fog City. In 1952, Santon Delaplane, a travel writer for the San Francisco Chronicle, brought Irish coffee to the United States after drinking it at Ireland's Shannon Airport. At the time, he worked with the Buena Vista Cafe, which would later perfect this delicious drink.

5. The bear on the California flag is from Golden Gate Park.

The bear used for the image on the California State flag lived in Golden Gate Park. The bear, named Monarch, was one of the last wild grizzly bears in California. His stuffed body is still on display in the park today.

6. San Francisco was a pioneering and accepting city long before any other city in the USA.

The first openly gay man to be elected to public office in California was Harvey Milk in San Francisco. He was assassinated in 1978, but lives on in history and through the 2008 biographical film starring Sean Penn. San Francisco was also the birthplace of the first lesbian rights organization in the United States.

7. This is where denim jeans originated.

Denim jeans were invented in San Francisco by Levi Strauss for the Gold Rush miners who needed tough, comfortable clothing.

8. Cioppino came from the Italian immigrants who lived in North Beach.

This seafood-tomato mélange was born right here in San Francisco. The dish was first created by Italian immigrants in the late 1800s and continues to be a must-try dish to visitors and locals alike. Cioppino is a tasty seafood soup that is uniquely San Franciscan.

9. Haight-Ashbury popularized hippie culture.

As the Summer of Love occurred primarily within San Francisco, it's no surprise there was such a strong hippie movement here in the 1960s and 1970s. The hippies that frequented the intersection of Haight and Ashbury are perhaps the best-known followers of the movement.

10. The Mission is the home of the San Francisco Burrito.

The Mission burrito is so closely associated with San Francisco that it's also called the San Francisco burrito. This type of burrito first became popular over 40 years ago. It's stuffed with extra rice and plenty of other ingredients that differentiate it from other burrito styles. Hundreds of taquerias in the area add their own pizazz to the dish!

Were you familiar with all these things San Francisco did first? Who knew that our city had so many inventions!

The post Some People Don’t Know That San Francisco Was The First To Do These 10 Things appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Russian River

The Russian River is the classic river getaway for city and Bay area residents. If you're looking to enjoy the best of Northern California, look no further. There is no better way to experience the beauty of the mighty Russian River than to take a trip down it. There are a number of worthwhile tubing locations along the river.

2. Bass Lake

Bass Lake is the perfect spot for anything fun and summery near San Francisco. Before you arrive, make sure you are prepared to hike. This is a lake for all occasions and wonderful amusements. Tubing is just one of the many attractions here. You're also not far from one of the most beautiful waterfalls near San Francisco: Alamere Falls.

3. Lake Berryessa

Looking for the perfect destination to relax for a weekend? It doesn't get much better than Napa. Lake Berryessa is perfect for thrill-seekers and relaxers alike. If you want to get away and have some real summer thrills, check out the heart-stopping view of the glory hole: it's wild and looks like an optical illusion, but it's real life. If you prefer something a little more chill, take a tube and enjoy one of the best floats near San Francisco.

4. Spring Lake

Spring Lake is the perfect place to visit for the entire family. Kayaking, canoeing, floats, and tubes are all fantastic options for enjoying a day out on the water. Spring Lake Regional Park is massive and such a delight. There is a lot to do in this Santa Rosa park!

5. American River

The American River offers up so many options for fun that will make your day bright and joyful. If you have a tube or inflatable, the section from Ponderosa to Upper Clementine is a particularly easy put-in spot for relaxing down the river. If you've never been rafting down the American River, it's one of the most enjoyable activities in Northern California and definitely belongs on your bucket list.

6. Sacramento River

Willing to explore a little? Head out towards Sacramento. Along the Sacramento River, you'll find plenty of tubing action. As the longest river in Northern California, there's more than enough room for fun here!

Have you ever been to any of these lakes and lazy rivers near San Francisco? Share your experiences in the comments! Want even more waterside fun? Check out these waterfront trails near San Francisco.

The post 6 Lazy Rivers & Lakes Around San Francisco That Are Perfect For Tubing On A Summer’s Day appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Marin Headlands, Muir Woods, Mount Tamalpais & Stinson Beach

Travel slightly north and take a look at the city from a whole different angle. Marin County has a slew of things to do: explore the coastal areas of the Marin Headlands (including the Point Bonita Lighthouse), walk through the sky-high redwoods of Muir Woods, hike up Mt. Tam, and hang out on the expansive Stinson Beach.

One of the best Northern California day trips is always Muir Woods. Enjoy a hike on the Bohemian Grove Trail and the Redwood Creek Trail with California Through My Lens:

2. Napa & Sonoma Counties

Make your way up through the wine country of Napa and Sonoma, where you’ll find hundreds of wineries to visit and quaint towns to pass through, all with incredible scenery and food (we suggest stops in Sebastopol, Calistoga, and/or St. Helena, too).

And while Napa is certainly glorious, don't forget about Sonoma County, Napa's wine-producing neighbor to the south. If you've yet to experience the splendor of Sonoma County, now’s the time to change that. Between long-standing institutions like Gundlach Bundschu Winery (the third-oldest winery in the state, in fact) to beloved family-run operations like Chateau Diana, wine lovers have a lot to celebrate (and taste!) in Sonoma County -- as do environmentalists. With 99% of Sonoma County’s vineyards certified sustainable, this is the most sustainable wine-growing region in the world.

3. Half Moon Bay & Pescadero

Take a short day trip down Highway 1 and stop at the adorable seaside town of Half Moon Bay. Explore the fancy Ritz-Carlton while you’re at it, as well as the beach that sits below it. From there, keep traveling south to Pescadero for more great beach options. Then, head into the small downtown and to Harley Farms to play with goats and sample their incredible cheeses. If you keep traveling south, we also recommend a hike through Big Basin Redwoods State Park.

4. Santa Cruz

Keep traveling south and you’ll find yourself in Santa Cruz, known as, among other things, the birthplace of the best hot dogs in NorCal! Dogs aside, walk around downtown for great shops and cafes, then take to the Beach Boardwalk, hop on some rides, and scarf down a funnel cake. It’s also worth exploring nearby nature, including Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, where you can even go zip-lining through the trees.

5. Oakland & Berkeley

No car? No problem. Because our neighbors across the bay have some pretty great attractions to discover. Take a walk around Oakland’s Lake Merritt (and be extra kind to the geese), and head to neighborhoods like Rockridge, Temescal, and Piedmont Avenue for quirky shops and notable eateries. Don’t forget to stop by the Gourmet Ghetto of Berkeley for some of the Bay Area’s finest restaurants. You’ll also find plenty of great hiking trails scattered throughout the hills of Oakland and Berkeley.

Another one of our favorite San Francisco day trips is Oakland’s Lake Merritt. Enjoy a virtual tour in this video from LifeOfBD:

6. Sausalito & Tiburon

The best way to experience these two charming towns across the bay is by bike and/or ferry. Both will quickly melt the city stress right off of you with their cute boutiques, cool art galleries, fantastic waterside bistros and cafes, and, of course, unmatched views. For a jam-packed day of fun, we recommend biking across the Golden Gate Bridge, stopping in Sausalito first, then winding your way through to Tiburon, and taking the ferry back to the city.

7. Angel Island

A quick ferry ride away from downtown, Angel Island, a California Historical Landmark, is for the more adventurous day-trippers. There are a few different hiking trails, all of which grant 360 views of the bay, as well as plenty of historical landmarks to explore. If you want to turn this into more than just a day trip, it’s also a pretty cool spot to camp.

8. Bolinas

Just north of Stinson Beach is the artsy small town of Bolinas. It’s a good spot to grab some lunch before heading to Point Reyes National Seashore, which offers some of Marin County’s most beautiful trails (and that’s saying a lot). Our favorite hike takes you to the stunning beauty of Alamere Falls.

9. Tomales Bay & Bodega Bay

Travel further up the coast to explore two more beautiful spots: Shuck and slurp your way through all the oysters you can eat along Tomales Bay, then head up to the picturesque fishing village of Bodega Bay, where Alfred Hitchcock filmed The Birds.

10. Skyline Boulevard

From San Francisco, head south on Highway 280, then take Highway 92 until you reach the peak, where you’ll arrive at Skyline Boulevard, one of the most scenic drives in NorCal. This road winds through lush mountain forests and offers scenic overlooks of the Pacific as well. Take a pit stop at the rustic biker diner Alice’s Restaurant in Woodside, and go for a hike (and a climb) in Castle Rock State Park.

11. Farallon Islands

A few different tour companies will guide you right into the Pacific, 27 miles off the coast of San Francisco, to explore this group of islands, home to seals, whales, and even great white sharks.

Taking a boat tour of the beautiful Farallon Islands, often called California's Galapagos Islands, is one of the best day trips in San Francisco. Learn more about this fascinating tour in this video from At Home In Wild Spaces:

Planning your day trips from San Francisco as a starting point gives you nearly an infinite amount of exceptional places to explore. Seriously, you can’t get bored around here, but if you’re looking for more of the best day trips in San Francisco, check out these nearby hiking spots, waterfalls, and state parks.

The post Here Are 11 Unique Day Trips Near San Francisco That Are An Absolute Must-Do appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Capitol Corridor on Amtrak

The Capitol Corridor is a 168-mile passenger train route by Amtrak. The Capitol Corridor is a popular route on a train that will take you to Auburn in the foothills of the Sierra Mountains, through the Sacramento area, and eventually to Emeryville where one can transfer to a bus to San Francisco. You can also continue onward to Santa Clara and San Jose. This is one of the most scenic day trips near San Francisco. Book your tickets for the Capitol Corridor route on the Capitol Corridor website.

2. Coast Starlight on Amtrak

The Coast Starlight is a passenger train by Amtrak. Board at Emeryville if you're in San Francisco and take a day trip to Davis, Chico, or any number of stops locally. The Coast Starlight is a special route because it features a first-class lounge car called the "Pacific Parlour Car". A train trip aboard the Coast Starlight is one of the most unique things to do around San Francisco. Visit the Amtrak website to book your tickets.

3. Napa Valley Wine Train

The Napa Valley Wine Train is 18 miles long and runs between Napa and St. Helena. Although a short ride, this train goes through Yountville, Rutherford, and Oakville. The most unique aspect of this train is that the route passes by many of the best vineyards and wineries in Napa. Enjoy wine tastings and a gourmet meal aboard the train. It's one of the best day trips near San Francisco you can take.

4. Altamont Corridor Express

Altamont Corridor Express connects Stockton and San Jose, so you need to get to the Pleasanton Station from San Francisco. The route is 86 miles and includes 10 stops. WiFi is available on board. Visit the ACE Rail website to view routes and book your tickets.

5. San Joaquins by Amtrak

The San Joaquins Train by Amtrak takes you to Fresno, Stockton, and as far as Bakersfield. Start your journey at the Oakland station and explore the San Joaquin Valley for a fun day trip. This train runs multiple times a day. You can learn more and book your tickets on the Amtrak website. It's one of the best day trips near San Francisco.

6. California Zephyr on Amtrak

The California Zephyr is operated by Amtrak and runs locally through Martinez, Sacramento, and Truckee. You can continue to Reno, NV for a more scenic route if you would like. This will be one of the most beautiful day trips near San Francisco you could possibly take.

Have you taken any of these trains? What other best day trips from San Francisco would you suggest? Let us know your opinions. Also, if you’re curious check out this lighthouse road trip near San Francisco that’s dreamily beautiful!

The post 6 Incredible Day Trips You Can Take From San Francisco By Train appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Lake Temescal - 6500 Broadway, Oakland, 94618

This is one of the closer spots to swim near the city. The swim area has a sand beach bordered by a beautiful green area. Many avid water enthusiasts will love the swimming opportunities here.

2. Bass Lake - Mesa Rd, Bolinas, CA 94924

When you leave the city, pass by the lovely Golden Gate to this beautiful lake. Be prepared for a 2.7-mile hike to this lake though. This is a popular spot with lots of hikes and natural beauty around as well.

3. Crown Beach - 8th St & Otis Dr, Alameda, 94501

Very close to the city, and better yet you get a sandy beach in the Bay Area. The water is warmer than what you get in the city and shallow, so you can swim with ease. Crown Beach is an ideal spot for a day trip from the city.

Get a closer look at this beautiful beach:

4. Lake Del Valle - 7000 Del Valle Rd, Livermore, 94550

Not too far from Fog City, this man-made lake has everything you could want for swimming or just cooling off. Lots of activities here including fishing, boating, and beach fun.

5. Garden of Eden - 210 State Rt 9, Santa Cruz, 95018

Expect and enjoy natural beauty, clear water, and a lush ring of redwoods. The Garden of Eden is truly mesmerizing. This is a spot in the Santa Cruz area that attracts swimmers of all types, so expect anything goes mentality here.

6. Russian River - Monte Rio Beach - 20488 Hwy 116, Monte Rio, 95462

Believe it or not, you can find free activities in wine country. Swimming is free and fun and what better way to stay cool than visit this epic river? The recommended area here is Monte Rio Beach on the Russian River.

7. American River - Discovery Park, Sacramento, 94203

This is a more relaxing spot for lounging on the river, relaxing on the beach, picnics, and of course swimming. The American River is popular, so expect big groups, especially for tubing and weekend gatherings.

8. Shadow Cliffs Park - 2500 Stanley Blvd, Pleasanton, 94566

This is the perfect place for families and gatherings, and most importantly to swim. Wander around the park and spend time at Shadow Cliffs as this is a hidden gem in the South Bay.

Check out the sights you’ll see here:

Have you been to any of these Bay Area swimming holes? Do you have any favorite secret swimming holes? Let us know and share your experiences in the comments. Share this story too! If you’re curious about the best swimming holes then check out this lazy river near San Francisco.

The post Here Are 8 Swimming Holes Near San Francisco That Will Make Your Summer Epic appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. China Camp State Park - 898 N San Pedro Rd, San Rafael, CA, 94901

China Camp State Park features stunning panoramic views of San Pablo and San Francisco Bays and hiking trail. Also, you can if you're curious be close to wildlife. Come by unannounced and camp!

2. Half Moon Bay Campground - 460 Wavecrest Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA, 94019

Hop and skip away from the city, and gorgeous as well. Half Moon Bay also offers an RV park and plenty of room to explore. The nearby beach access is always a guaranteed winner as well.

3. Lawson's Landing - 137 Marine View Dr, Dillon Beach, CA, 94929

If you're going towards Bodega Bay then you need to stop at Lawson's Landing to camp. No reservations required either. Also, not many places let you camp so close to the water.

4. Castle Rocks State Campground - 15000 Skyline Blvd, Los Gatos, CA, 95032

This park and campground only offers first-come, first-served trail camping only. The campground is at the north end of the park at Castle Rock Trail Camp. There's running water here as well as toilets, making it a very worthwhile camping spot.

5. Carnegie SVRA Campground - 18600 W Corral Hollow Road, Tracy, CA, 95376 - CLOSED DUE TO STORM DAMAGE

Editor's note: Carnegie SVRA is CLOSED until futher notice due to storm damage. Tesla Road is closed. Motomart is open.

There are lots of trails for hiking and biking and off roading at Carnegie SVRA Campground. There is a first come and first serve process to securing the night in the campground.

6. Stillwater Cove Regional Park Campsite - 22455 Highway 1, Sonoma, CA, 94923

There are reserved campsites and walk up sites you can camp on as well at Stillwater Cove Regional Park Campsite. This NorCal campsite is a hidden gem for people who enjoy the serene and wildlife scenery.

7. Austin Creek State Recreation Area - 17000 Armstrong Woods Rd, Guerneville, CA, 95446 - CLOSED DUE TO WILDFIRE DAMAGE

Editor's note: Austin Creek State Recreation Area remains closed to the public until further notice. The Walbridge Fire (LNU Complex Fire) damaged significant portions of the park, impacting trails, signage and facilities. This includes utility infrastructure and the Bullfrog Pond Campground. Repair work is underway as we work to identify a possible reopening date. Please refer to the Austin Creek State Recreation Area website for more information.

Austin Creek State Recreation Area is a memorable campsite on the bank of a deep green river. You're not too far from the Redwoods, so you have the added bonus of iconic California nature.

8. Bullards Bar Reservoir Camp - 12571 Marysville Rd, Emerald Cove Marina, Dobbins, CA, 95935

Bullards Bar Reservoir Camp is also near a popular tubing spot. Also, this is a big, beautiful recreation facility known for excellent fishing. Come by and grab a spot before it's too late.

Have you been to any of these campgrounds? Let us know. If you’re curious about nature in the city then check out The Most Beautiful Campground In All Of San Francisco.

The post 8 Glorious Campgrounds Near San Francisco Where No Reservation Is Required appeared first on Only In Your State ®.