Montana De Oro California Natural Bridge Archway Stock Image

This park features rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, including 1,347-foot Valencia Peak. Naturalists and backpackers enjoy the solitude and freedom found along the park`s trails. There are also mountain biking and equestrian trails. The best-known beach is Spooner`s Cove, across from the campground. The park`s name, `Mountain of Gold,` comes from the golden wildflowers that bloom in spring. Morro Bay State Park and Montana de Oro State Park are renowned for their spectacular scenery produced over millions of years by volcanic activity, plate tectonic interactions subduction and collision, and erosion to shape this unique landscape. Marine terraces are evidence of regional uplift.