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San Simeon State Park

San Simeon State Park is one of the oldest units of the California State Park System. The coastal park serves as a great introduction to San Simeon’s culture and history. Get involved with a long list of sites and recreational activities to explore.

Area Attractions: 

  • Coastal Discovery Center – Dive into a hands-on, interactive collection of exhibits showcasing Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary’s presence off the coast of San Simeon. Here preservation, education, and family fun come together for memorable experience.  Free to the public, the center offers a creative environment to learn and discover the local coast.
  • Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery – A unique opportunity to view northern elephant seals is available at the Elephant Seal Rookery and Boardwalk in Hearst San Simeon State Park. Located around Point Piedras Blancas, the elephant seal rookery extends along 6 miles of the shoreline.  Viewing areas are easily accessible and open to the public year round.
  • Hearst Castle – This historical landmark is truly one of a kind. Designed by Julia Morgan in 1919, for the original owner William Randolph Hearst, the 127 acre estate is both lavish and charm. Take a tour of the property to explore the castle, gardens, pools, winery, ranch and roaming zebras (once part of the world’s largest private zoo).

 

Camping & Lodging:

Visitors who wish to camp may choose to make reservations at San Simeon Creek Campground or Washburn Campground. Both offer a long list of recreational activities and amenities including fire pits, shower facilities, picnicking, and more.

Hikes & Trails:

San Simeon Creek Trail is a 3.3 mile trail runs through parts of the San Simeon Natural Preserve and the Washburn Campground. The trail includes scenic overlooks, rest-stop locations and information panels to educate visitors on wildlife and habitat. Trails are family-friendly, pet-friendly, and a portion of the wetland trail is wheelchair accessible.

Nature Programs: 

The state park is home to 3 nature preserves including, Santa Rosa Creek Natural Preserve, the San Simeon Natural Preserve and the Pa-nu Cultural Preserve, which features an archeological site dating back to 3,833 BCU. This offers visitors a unique opportunity to engage with nature and learn more about local preservation efforts. The Junior Ranger Program was specially designed to provide kids with the chance to partake in a variety of fun and educational nature-oriented activities at Hearst San Simeon State Park.

Location:

500 San Simeon Creek Road
Cambria, CA 93428