Native American cultures thrived in this land of lush forests, salmon-filled rivers and coastal fisheries. The Russians once claimed much of this part of California, but pressure from the Spanish to the south and problems at home changed that. Today, quaint fishing towns, state and national parks, wild rivers and some of California's most beautiful and rugged coast attract both residents and visitors. While the outdoors is the focus, there are plenty of small museums, historic lighthouses and great opportunities to shop in many of the restored "old towns" found throughout California's north coast.

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