There’s nothing better than breathing fresh air and getting in touch with nature. State parks, botanical gardens, trails, lakes, and farms are exactly the place to do it – and this area is full of them.
Take a look at all the options within driving distance – you’ll be surprised at how close your next adventure is. We provide the driving directions, but the sunscreen’s on you!
5700 Arden Way
Carmichael, CA 95608 Directions
Run, bike and walk outdoors along the American River Parkway, aka Jedediah Smith Memorial Bicycle Trail. You'll travel a spectacularly scenic 3.2 mile trail that runs from Old Sacramento to Folsom Lake offering many entry and exit points along the way.
2850 San Lorenzo Way
Carmichael, CA 95608 Directions
Spend some time outdoors and enjoy a nature walk at Effie Yeaw Nature Center located where the Sacramento and American rivers meet. You'll want to bring your binoculars, camera or artist pad to capture the "watchable wildlife" in the area, including wild turkeys, wild birds, deer and snakes. You're sure to appreciate nature even more at this award-winning, 77-acre environmental and cultural education center.
7806 Folsom Auburn Rd
Folsom, CA 95630 Directions
You'll feel miles from civilization at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, located at the base of the Sierra foothills. The 18,000-acre state park is home to 75 miles of shoreline around Lake Natoma. Camp out, have a picnic in the great outdoors, hike or bike through the hills, or spend a day on the water fishing, boating, or sailing.
L St & 15th St
Sacramento, CA 95814 Directions
Tree huggers unite at the Sacramento Capitol Park. Thousands of species of trees occupy the park, some of them as old as Thomas Jefferson. The capital state park is home to majestic red oak trees, hundreds of unusual plants, and well manicured gardens that wind through the popular pathways used by local walkers and joggers. This park is California's rendition of an outdoor paradise.
3930 W Land Park Dr
Sacramento, CA 95822 Directions
Family time is a zoo at the Sacramento Zoo, when you get up close to the wildly inspiring Giraffe Habitat, Tiger Cubs and White-faced Owls. The 14-acre landmark is home to 400 animals and 140 native, rare and endangered species. Catch special events like the Ice Cream Safari and Zoo Parent Picnic. It's a great attraction for family fun.
5225 San Pablo Dam Rd
El Sobrante, CA 94803 Directions
Brave the rapids on a guided American River whitewater rafting voyage through Gold Rush country. The water logged experts at Whitewater Voyages will make sure you and your paddles stay afloat. If you're too tired to go home, spend the night outdoors at their free Adventure Camp with the necessary creature comforts like a warm shower and flushing toilet.