Little River State Beach
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Little River State Beach is located in the state of California and is known for its picturesque views, sandy beaches, and diverse marine life.
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Summary
The beach is a popular destination among tourists and locals alike, offering various recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, surfing, and beachcombing.
One of the most significant points of interest at Little River State Beach is the abundance of tide pools. Visitors can explore the pools during low tide and discover a variety of marine life, including sea anemones, starfish, crabs, and mussels. The beach is also home to a diverse bird population, making it an ideal location for birdwatching.
Aside from the natural beauty of the beach, visitors can also enjoy several amenities, including picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. The beach is wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for people with mobility issues.
Interesting facts about Little River State Beach include its history as a Native American settlement and later a fishing village. The area was also once an important location for the logging industry, with redwood trees being harvested for lumber.
The best time of year to visit Little River State Beach is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, visitors should be aware that the beach can get crowded during peak season, and parking may be limited. Spring and fall are also good options, with fewer crowds and milder temperatures.
Overall, Little River State Beach is a must-see destination for anyone visiting California. With its stunning views, diverse wildlife, and rich history, it's no wonder that it's a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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