From Desert to Coast: 7 Must-See Destinations for California Overlanders
California is an overlander's dream. With diverse terrain ranging from rugged deserts to misty coastlines, you can start your day in the sand and end it under towering redwoods. Whether you're testing your Solid Wood Worx drawer system on a dusty trail or organizing gear for a weekend on the coast, these seven must-see destinations are made for those who live life on the road.
1. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Best for: Desert solitude, wildflowers, and off-grid camping
California’s largest state park offers remote beauty, slot canyons, and off-road trails that make it a true overlanding gem. The wide-open terrain is ideal for testing your rig’s capabilities — and your drawer system will come in handy when packing recovery gear and extra water.
2. Big Sur
Best for: Coastal views, cliffside drives, and iconic campsites
Highway 1 through Big Sur is nothing short of legendary. While dispersed camping is limited here, nearby campgrounds like Kirk Creek offer unbeatable ocean views. Pack light, stay organized, and take it slow — this is one drive you’ll want to savor.
3. Joshua Tree National Park
Best for: Starry skies, bouldering, and desert vibes
Joshua Tree blends rugged terrain with a mystical desert energy. There are plenty of backroads for high-clearance vehicles and a network of BLM land around the park for dispersed camping. Your drawer system will help keep everything dust-free and dialed in.
4. Mendocino National Forest
Best for: Forested trails, hidden lakes, and remote boondocking
No permits, no paved roads, and plenty of space — Mendocino is one of the last true wild frontiers in California. It's a great destination for those who want to get off the grid for a few days and live out of their rig comfortably.
5. Death Valley National Park
Best for: Extreme terrain, vast landscapes, and overland challenges
Don’t let the name scare you — with the right prep, Death Valley offers some of the most unique and jaw-dropping overland experiences in the West. Just make sure your drawer system is stocked with extra fuel, water, and tools.
6. Los Padres National Forest
Best for: Mountain trails, coastal proximity, and flexible camping
Covering over 1.7 million acres, Los Padres gives you the best of both worlds — from pine forests to ocean cliffs. There are tons of fire roads and dispersed sites, so your weekend route can be as chill or challenging as you like.
7. Sequoia National Forest
Best for: Towering trees, alpine air, and backroad exploring
Less crowded than its National Park counterpart, this forest is full of dirt roads and scenic spots to set up camp. It's a prime location to see your drawer system in action — storing food, gear, and cold-weather essentials as you explore high elevations.
Ready to Explore?
Every trip starts with a solid setup — and Solid Wood Worx is here to make sure your gear is organized, accessible, and road-ready. Whether you're chasing desert sunsets or coastal sunrises, our dual drawer systems and DIY kits are built for the journey.
Stay prepared. Stay adventurous. And stay organized.