From biggest to lowest to tallest, these California national parks have plenty of superlatives.

California may not be the largest state in the U.S. (it’s No.

3), but it’s certainly one of themost geographically diverse.

Mountain Ridges Rise High Over The Pacific Ocean

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It’s a state that has it all: mountains,beaches, vineyards, deserts, and forests.

Sprawling across 3.3 million acres are never-ending salt flats, mountain-sized sand dunes, and colorful Mars-like canyons.

This is part of what makesChannel Islands National Parkso special.

Rocky desert landscape at dawn

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The park encompasses five islands off theSouthern California coast, providing a true escape from civilization.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

True to its name,Lassen Volcanic National Parkis all about volcanic activity.

Sequoia was established in 1890, while Kings Canyon joined the ranks 50 years later, in 1940.

Joshua Tree National Park at dusk

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Mountains in Yosemite

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Panoramic view of rocky mountains against sky, Pinnacles National Park, California

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Lassen volcanic national park in California

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Picnic Table in Campground, Redwood National Park

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Giant sequoia trees in Sequoia National Park, California

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