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Yahoo
17-05-2025
- Yahoo
Where's the best place to camp in California? ‘Iconic' coastal spot named No. 1
A state park on California's Central Coast is the top spot in the state to pitch a tent and sleep under the stars, according to the California State Parks Foundation. The Bay Area-based nonprofit organization recently released the results of its first-ever poll ranking the best state parks in California. The No. 1 place to camp in the Golden State was Morro Bay State Park in San Luis Obispo, according to the Best of California's State Parks 2025 survey. 'Coastal fog, kayaking adventures and views of iconic Morro Rock make this a camping destination unlike any other,' the foundation said. The California State Park Foundation called on people to vote for their favorite state parks across 10 categories this spring, choosing the best among 280 park units, 15,000 campsites and more than 5,00 miles of hiking trails in the Golden State. More than 1,300 survey participants took part in the poll, the news release said. Morro Bay State Park was the only SLO County destination to land on the list. Morro Bay State Park was hailed as the perfect place for camping due to its views of the Pacific Ocean and Morro Bay Estuary, as well as its access to nature and outdoor activities. 'Campers especially love waking up to foggy mornings, scenic trails and the iconic view of Morro Rock,' the foundation said. Rachel Norton, the executive director of the California State Parks Foundation, called the SLO County park one of the most stunning spots on the California coast. 'Camping on the coast is a particularly unique and wonderful experience,' she said. 'That's my thought on why people chose it.' People who responded to the survey said the Morro Bay campsite was serene and dog-friendly, while also being close to town and nature walks. It's a place 'surrounded by beauty, wildlife, great hiking and the feeling of peace,' wrote Doug Brand, who voted for Morro Bay State Park. Here are the winners of the 2025 Best of California's State Parks poll: Best California State Park for Camping: Morro Bay State Park Best California State Park for Hiking: Mount Tamalpais State Park in Marin County Best California State Park for Spectacular Views: Point Lobos State Natural Reserve in Monterey County Best California State Park for Birdwatching: Salton Sea State Recreation Area in Imperial and Riverside counties Best California State Park for Wildflowers: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in Imperial, Riverside and San Diego counties Best California State Park for Kid-Friendly Adventures: Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz County Best California State Park for Picnicking: Torrey Pines State Beach in San Diego County Best California State Park for Learning About History: Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park in Santa Cruz County Best California State Beach: Crystal Cove State Park in Orange County Best California State Park for Dog-Friendly Adventures: Sonoma Coast State Park in Sonoma County The California State Parks Foundation, which is dedicated to preserving California's state park system, decided to make its first-ever top 10 list after receiving hundreds of queries over the years about the best parks to visit, Norton told The Tribune. The nonprofit group conducted a survey in March to find out what members and supporters thought were the best state parks to visit across 10 categories. It gathered responses through email lists and social media, Norton said. 'From camping and hiking to picnicking, birdwatching, and family fun, we received over 1,300 submissions — each reflecting the deep love people have for these parks,' the foundation said in a news release. Norton hopes the new best of list will inspire Californians to see state parks they might not have known about otherwise. 'The idea is really to say, 'Hey, if you haven't explored these places, here's some great ideas that you may not have thought of, for places to go, places to visit, places to enjoy,' ' Norton said.
Associated Press
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
2025 Top 10 Hidden Gem Awards announced by 'Pat Pattison's Best of California' TV show: May is California Tourism Month
LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES, April 30, 2025 / / -- Just in time for May, officially California Tourism Month, Pat Pattison, the host of ' Pat Pattison's Best of California ' has released his list of the top ten 'Hidden Gems' for Summer Travel. This is an annual review of the places Pattison has been to and featured on his national TV show and social media platform, 'Pat Pattison's Best of California.' The show is locally seen in Los Angeles on MeTV Sundays at 7:30am, and nationally on and and many streaming outlets. Pat and his crew , including his on-air actress daughter Liza Pattison, have determined these to be 'the Best of The Best' but also 'Hidden Gems' that deserve to have a spotlight shined on them and are not known to the general traveler. One criteria Pat uses is fun for families with a special eye for destinations that are senior-friendly. Here is the list of this year's 'Top 10 Hidden Gems': Museum for Families-Haggin Museum, Stockton, CA The Haggin Museum in Stockton is a captivating blend of art and history, making it a must-visit for families. Visitors can delve into Stockton's past and admire an incredible collection by illustrator J.C. Leyendecker. The museum also features fascinating agricultural history exhibits, such as an early Caterpillar tractor. A perfect mix of education and inspiration! Address: 1201 N Pershing Ave, Stockton, CA 95203 Phone: (209) 940-6300 Website: Haggin Museum BestofCA segment: Haggin Museum Best Spa and Resort-Yaamava Resort and Casino, Highland, CA California's second most-visited destination after Disneyland, Yaamava' Resort & Casino in Highland offers a luxurious escape. Whether guests indulge in a rejuvenating spa day, catch world-class entertainment, or try their luck at the casino, this resort is a one-stop destination for relaxation and excitement. Address: 777 San Manuel Blvd, Highland, CA 92346 Phone: (909) 864-5050 Website: Yaamava' Resort BestofCA Segment : Yaamava' Resort Best Hidden Gem City-Redding, CA Redding, California's sunniest city, is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise! From jet skiing on Lake Shasta to exploring ancient caverns and even touring the massive Shasta Dam, Redding offers adventure for all. Visitors don't want to miss Turtle Bay Exploration Park or take a leisurely stroll across the iconic Sundial Bridge. Website: Visit Redding BestofCA segment: Things to do in Redding, CA Best Hidden Gem State Park-Pio Pico State Historic Park Immerse in California's rich history at Pío Pico State Historic Park, the former home of the last governor of Mexican California. This hidden gem tells the story of one of California's most controversial eras and serves currently as a peaceful retreat. Address: 6003 Pioneer Blvd, Whittier, CA 90606 Phone: (562) 695-1217 Website: Pío Pico State Historic Park BestofCA Segment: Pío Pico State Historic Park Live Events/Festivals - Coronado Island Film Festival For 3–4 days, film enthusiasts converge on the beautiful Coronado Island to celebrate cinema at the Coronado Island Film Festival. The event is packed with screenings, panels, and, of course, fantastic food and wine! Great environment to enjoy some amazing films! Address: Venues all over Coronado Island Website: Coronado Island Film Festival BestofCA Segment: Senior-Friendly Travel Hack-Sequoia Shuttle, Visalia, CA The Sequoia Shuttle is a convenient and affordable way to explore the breathtaking Sequoia National Park, especially for seniors. With round-trip transportation from Visalia and unlimited shuttle service within the park, it's a stress-free way to enjoy nature's wonders. Address: 425 E Oak Ave, Visalia, CA 93291 Website: Sequoia Shuttle BestofCA segment: Sequoia Shuttle and Visalia Food Experience-Boysenberry Festival, Knott's Berry Farm Buena Park, CA The annual Boysenberry Festival in the Spring and Knott's Berry Farm is not to be missed! Pat Pattison's Best of California has tried dozens of Boysenberry-themed foods and desserts. Boysenberry/Lemon Tart, Pulled Pork Sandwich on Boysenberry Corn Bread and Boysenberry Cole Slaw, on and on and on. Great value with a tasting ticket and easy place for families to hang out. Address: Kott's Berry Farm-8039 Beach Bl. Buena Park, CA 90620 Website: Knott's Berry Farm BestofCA segment: Knott's Boysenberry Festival Best Food & Drink Restaurant: Rock & Brews -various locations Seldom is this award given to a chain, but this season Pat Pattison's Best of California visited two locations of Rock & Brews and fell in love! The chain, founded by Gene Simmons, Paul Stanly of Kiss and Restaurateur Michael Zislis, now has seventeen locations, yet another CA export! They visited the locations in Buena Park and the Rolling Hills Casino in Corning. Website: Rock & Brews homepage BestofCA segment: Rock & Brews: History Book & Historic Spot – 'Made in California' by George Geary and Bob's Big Boy Beatles Booth! Author/Chef George Geary has written about the origins of many fast-food chains in California! Pat Pattison's Best of California loved 'Made in California Vol. 1 and 2.' They also agree with George that Bob's Big Boy in Burbank is a true historic treasure from that era. To add to its magic it also has a designated Beatle Booth where the Fab Four ate when in town in the early 60's to perform. Website Author George Geary and Made in CA book Website: Bob's Big Boy Burbank BestofCA segment: Geary Bob's Big Boy Beatle Booth Best Made in CA Product: Paskenta Brewery & Distillery - Rolling Hills Casino & Resort, Corning, CA. Tucked inside Rolling Hills Casino, Paskenta Brewery & Distillery, named for the Paskenta Nomlaki Tribe, owners of the Rolling Hills Casino & Resort. This is a true hidden gem, crafting bold, locally inspired beers. Signature offerings, such as the Peskenta Pale Ale with its crisp citrus notes and the Deep Roots Amber, a smooth, malt-forward brew, showcase the best of California's ingredients. With a dedication to quality and community, Peskenta Brewery is redefining local craft beer. Address: 2655 Everett Freeman Way Corning, CA 96021 Website: Rolling Hills Casino Resort BestofCA segment: Paskenta Brewery & Distillery: About 'Pat Pattison's Best of California' 'Pat Pattison's Best of California' evolved from Pattison's YouTube and Facebook video travel segments. The show highlights California's natural wonders, unique history, and fascinating people from all over the state. It most recently won the prestigious Image Award from the Native Daughters of the American West for its work in history education on TV. A veteran on-air host and actor, Pattison has been the host of the business show 'Remade in California' for Spectrum Cable. He has a book, Creative YOU Turn, based on his second-act journey. He is also a regular contributor to PBS's and Pattison has always worked in the entertainment industry where he was V.P. Creative Services at Walt Disney Studios as well as positions at KTTV-TV, WTTG-TV, WCVB-TV, Disneyland, and the head of marketing for the Merv Griffin Show over his long career. The show also airs nationally on MeTV in Los Angeles, and many CW affiliates. The show is available to stream on Tubi, Roku, BIZ-TV, and First-TV. Facebook: @bestofCA YouTube: 'Pat Pattison's Best of California' Instagram: _bestofcalifornia Website: For more information: Pat Pattison: 626-429-3296 CESD Talent Agent: Karen Cabada 310-981-6423 News agent David Brunner DBA: 484-695-5187 To schedule news appearances, public speaking, or book interviews: Jon Book: 619-778-0849 Amanda Kent Boundless Media USA +1 313-403-5636 email us here Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. 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