Californians can vote for their favorite state parks for hiking, beaches and other outdoor activities in the 2026 “Best of California’s State Parks” poll, organizers announced Wednesday, with several parks in Los Angeles and Orange counties among the nominees.
Voting will continue through April 11 in the poll organized by the California State Parks Foundation.
Several local parks are nominated across multiple categories.
In Los Angeles County, Malibu Creek State Park is nominated for both best park for birdwatching and best park for day trips.
Malibu Lagoon State Beach is also nominated for birdwatching, while Leo Carrillo State Park — located in Los Angeles and Ventura counties — is nominated for best beaches and dog-friendly adventures.
The Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve State Natural Reserve, also in L.A. County, is nominated for spectacular views, wildflowers and family-friendly experiences.
In Orange County, Crystal Cove State Park is nominated in the categories for best beaches and spectacular views.
“The `Best of California’s State Parks’ poll is a fun opportunity for Californians to share what they love about their state parks,” Rachel Norton, executive director of the California State Parks Foundation,” said in a statement. “There are so many different types of parks to explore in California, whether you’re looking for a day at the beach, a hike among the redwoods, or a chance to learn about history.”
The voting options were nominated by members of the public earlier this year. The categories include camping, hiking, beaches, birdwatching, day trips, family-friendly experiences, dog-friendly adventures and learning about history, along with new categories for water activities and hidden gem parks.
The California state park system includes 280 park units statewide, with more than 5,200 miles of trails, about 340 miles of coastline and roughly 15,000 campsites, according to the foundation.
The nonprofit organization launched the “Best of California’s State Parks” poll in 2025.
Organizers said more than 1,300 people participated in the inaugural survey, sharing photos and personal stories about their favorite parks.
Information and voting details are available at calparks.org/bestof2026.