With temperatures soaring into the triple digits, it’s the perfect time to explore California State Parks museums. Below are nine great places to beat the heat while uncovering the Golden State’s rich cultural history:

Note: If you're heading outdoors during hot weather, don’t forget your water, hat, and sunscreen. Stay safe and cool! For additional safety tips, visit our Safety Tips webpage.

1) Calaveras Big Trees Museum – Calaveras Big Trees State Park (Calaveras County)

Discover the stories behind Calaveras Big Trees State Park at this museum, with exhibits on history, wildlife, and the unique environment surrounding the giant sequoias. Grab a cold drink from the gift shop before heading out to walk under the cool shade of some of the world’s largest trees. 

2) Morro Bay Museum of Natural History – Morro Bay State Park (San Luis Obispo County)

Enjoy breathtaking ocean views as you step into the only natural history museum in the California State Parks system. This museum, perched on a hill overlooking Morro Bay, Morro Rock, and the Pacific Ocean, features hands-on exhibits showcasing the area’s natural wonders. 

3) Gold Discovery Museum – Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park (El Dorado County)

Dig into the story of the Gold Rush that transformed California, with exhibits showcasing the diverse cultures that shaped and were shaped by this pivotal era. Cool down afterward with a cold drink or a sweet treat from the park’s ice cream concession. 

4) Ya’i Heki’ Regional Indian Museum – Lake Perris State Recreation Area (Riverside County)

Explore the history, culture, and traditions of the Native American tribes of the Inland Empire, with exhibits showcasing the heritage of the Cahuilla and other indigenous groups through artifacts, art, and interpretive displays. 

5) California State Railroad Museum – Old Sacramento State Historic Park (Sacramento County)

Explore one of North America’s finest and most popular railroad museums that houses more than 20 beautifully restored locomotives and cars, thousands of artifacts, and engaging exhibits that bring rail history to life. 

6) Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park (Los Angeles County)

Marvel at this one-of-a-kind museum, which incorporates a Mojave Desert rock formation into its design and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Inside, view fascinating artifacts from American Indian groups of three major cultural regions. 

7) California State Capitol Museum – California State Capitol Park (Sacramento County)

Tour one of the state’s most iconic buildings for an understanding of California’s complex and dynamic legislature and learn about its influential role in shaping the state’s past, present, and future. 

8) Chaw’se Regional Indian Museum – Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park (Amador County)

Immerse yourself in the history of the Miwok and other Sierra Nevada Native American groups through an outstanding collection of artifacts, technology, and crafts. Cold water is sold on-site for a refreshing break. 

9) California State Mining & Mineral Museum (Mariposa County)

Journey through the glittering history of California’s mining past and view a dazzling collection of California’s gemstones and minerals from around the world, including glow-in-the-dark minerals and even “outer space” rocks (meteorites).