Drive Out to a National or State Park Near San Diego
Looking for national and state parks within driving distance of San Diego? Then it's time for a road trip! In these uncertain times, many of us are rethinking the way we travel and the added safety precautions that must be considered along the way. A rental car from a neighborhood Enterprise location in San Diego can alleviate many of these concerns so you can get to the park safely.
It may even be cheaper and more convenient to rent a car for your road trip instead of using your personal vehicle. With so many styles and options available, you’re sure to find the perfect rental car for your travels. Not sure which car to choose for your road trip? We can help! We've compiled a list of the best road trip cars for families, adventure-seekers and more.
There are a lot of national and state parks near San Diego to choose from, so we narrowed it down to the top ones that would make a perfect adventure or a quick weekend getaway. Be sure to check out the parks' websites to get their latest info before you hit the road.
National Parks Near San Diego
Joshua Tree National Park
Located in southern California, it's named for the twisted Joshua trees in the area.
Drive time: approx. 3 hours (Driving Directions)
Distance: approx. 164 miles
Open daily
Entranced fees required
Camping allowed
Death Valley National Park
Located in both California and Nevada, the park is known for its extreme weather yet very-much-alive dessert.
Drive time: approx. 4.8 hours (Driving Directions)
Distance: approx. 283 miles
Open daily
Entranced fees required
Camping allowed
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California and is known for its giant, ancient sequoia trees.
Drive time: approx. 6.5 hours (Driving Directions)
Distance: approx. 699 miles
Open seasonally
Entranced fees required
Camping allowed
State Parks Near San Diego
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
The largest state park in California is a world apart from the city, offers wilderness areas and many miles of hiking trails.
Drive time: approx. 2 hours (Driving Directions)
Distance: approx. 84 miles
Open daily
Entranced fees not required
Camping allowed
Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
The park offers camping and hiking in an oak woodland forest, with a sprinkling of pines and lovely meadows with creeks
Drive time: approx. 1 hours (Driving Directions)
Distance: approx. 43 miles
Open daily
Entranced fees not required
Camping allowed
Mt San Jacinto State Park
Trails wind through this park at the peak of Mount San Jacinto.
Drive time: approx. 2 hours (Driving Directions)
Distance: approx. 111 miles
Open daily
Entranced fees not required
Camping allowed
Driving Resources
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