Azalea State Natural Reserve is a 30-acre protected landscape in McKinleyville on California’s North Coast, near the lower Mad River and just north of Arcata. Acquired by the state in 1943, it was set aside to preserve a notable stand of western azalea, Rhododendron occidentale. The reserve is especially known for its spring bloom, when pink and white azaleas flower abundantly in April and May. A short self-guided nature trail features plants native to the north coast region, and a picnic area adds to its public use. It remains valued as a small but distinctive coastal refuge for native flora.