Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Feel free to feel puny next to the world's tallest tree, the coast redwood. In fact, here there are entire forests of giant redwoods. Loop hiking trails weave among old-growth redwoods and dip into green pastures. Take the James Irvine Trail west to Fern Canyon before hitting Gold Bluffs and the beach. This 4.5-mile route gives you the most bang for an afternoon buck. The canyon is far from dusty and scraggly. There's greenery as far as the eye can see.

Check out Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway for a driving tour surrounded by wooden sentinels. Head towards the beach along Davison Road, a mostly dirt road. You just might spot a herd of Roosevelt elk grazing in an emerald-green meadow.

These national and state parks offer a unique experience to get up close to one of nature's behemoths. Two in-park campgrounds provide an adventure you can't find anywhere else. Redwood National and State Parks Group, including Redwood National Park, preserves a natural treasure just off Highway 101.