Today is the third post in my series of National Parks near major cities. I started this series because I’ve had so many people tell me over the years that they wish they lived closer to National Parks. Or they wish it was easier for them to visit. Although not everyone can live in a state that boasts 9 National Parks like we do, there are so many great National Parks that are easily accessible from major cities you can fly into! Check out these National Parks close to Los Angeles and let me know which one is on the top of your list!

National Parks Close to Phoenix

National Parks Close to Las Vegas

about Los Angeles, California

Although not the state capital of California, Los Angeles is the biggest city with a population of almost 4 million. Los Angeles has a Mediterranean climate with mild transitions in temperature throughout the year. LAX is the major International Airport located in the city, making this city a great home base while you explore some of these National Parks close to Los Angeles.

5 National Parks close to Los Angeles

Channel Islands (1½ hours from Los Angeles)

Channel Islands National Park is probably the least accessible of any of the nine National Parks in California. To actually get to the one of the five islands that comprises the National Park you must either take a chartered or private boat. Luckily, you can easily visit the Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center in Ventura and admission is free.

| Read: 50+ Places to Visit in California with Kids |

Joshua Tree NP (2 hours from Los Angeles)

Joshua Tree National Park is easy to visit if you are passing by or only have a few hours. This spot where the Mojave and Colorado Deserts come together is a fun place to have an adventure with the kids and go bouldering. It was designated a National Monument in 1936 but didn’t become a National Park until 1994–the same year as the next National Park on our list.

Death Valley NP (4 hours from Los Angeles)

Death Valley became a National Park in 1994 and is currently the largest National Park in the lower 48 states with 3 million acres. Don’t judge a desert by its cover though–Death Valley is a fantastic place to explore with your kids. With unique rock formations and an eco system unlike anywhere on earth it’s definitely not a spot to be missed.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon (4 hours from Los Angeles)

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks have been jointly administered since 1943. Located right next to each other they are home to caverns, waterfalls, and giant Sequoia trees. There are various options for lodging and camping within both parks and they are both must-see National Parks close to Los Angeles.

| Read: 3 National Parks to Visit in California with Kids |

Which one of these national parks is on your bucket list?