National parks near San Diego

Closest first

The list shows up to 10 closest parks within 500 miles; if none are within that range, it shows the 3 nearest overall. Distances are straight-line miles from the city center to approximate park coordinates. Drive times are rough estimates based on distance, not live routing; ferry, traffic, road closures, and seasonal access can change a trip. Confirm routes and current conditions with the National Park Service before you go. Open the app for parks near wherever you are right now.

• 1 Joshua Tree · California · 190+ trails · $30 / vehicle108 mi · ~2.5 hr drive estimate
• 2 Channel Islands · California · 35+ trails · Free158 mi · ferry or flight required
• 3 Death Valley · California · 785+ trails · $30 / vehicle244 mi · ~5 hr drive estimate
• 4 Sequoia · California · 800+ trails · $35 / vehicle271 mi · ~5.5 hr drive estimate
• 5 Kings Canyon · California · 800+ trails · $35 / vehicle298 mi · ~6 hr drive estimate
• 6 Pinnacles · California · 30+ trails · $30 / vehicle346 mi · ~7 hr drive estimate
• 7 Grand Canyon · Arizona · 800+ trails · $35 / vehicle368 mi · ~7.5 hr drive estimate
• 8 Yosemite · California · 800+ trails · $35 / vehicle380 mi · ~8 hr drive estimate
• 9 Saguaro · Arizona · 165+ trails · $25 / vehicle389 mi · ~8 hr drive estimate
• 10 Zion · Utah · 90+ trails · $35 / vehicle394 mi · ~8 hr drive estimate

Planning a trip from San Diego

By our rough distance-based estimate, Joshua Tree, Death Valley, Sequoia, Kings Canyon are within about six hours by road. Actual travel times vary; check a current route and reserve campsites or lodging ahead in peak season.

Each park page covers popular trails, camping, entrance fees, and the best time to visit. In ParkAtlas, the home screen shows unvisited parks within reach of your current location and lets you log the one you pick.