i’ve already been up and down the coast, looking for one area of CA to thoroughly explore. any reccs?
It depends what you’re after. Northern California solitude and grandness in the Redwoods, alpine lakes and meadows that speak Muir lines in the Sierras, or the vastness of the deserts in the southwest (Death Valley, Joshua Tree, Anza-Borrego SP etc.). Also dependent on the time of year. It’s all great, not to mention the beaches!
I’ve explored Mt.Shasta and surrounding areas and am always drawn back, the place is magical.
Lassen National Park is incredible for its solitude and beauty - sometimes you can have spots here all to yourself! I tent camped at Warner Valley, a very remote spot and had the time of my life. Lots of bears here so be prepared for that!
I also like to pick a highway up into the Sierras, like 88 (or any of them) and take a summer to find spots to explore all along the way.