Chino Hills State Park
Chino Hills State Park is a significant natural region located in close proximity to Riverside in the state of California. It spans a total area of 12,452 acres and connects a wide variety of ecosystems while also serving as a refuge for flora and fauna.
Visitors can appreciate the tranquility of the natural surroundings while camping, hiking, or biking along the park’s extensive route network. These activities can be done while taking in the park’s natural beauty. Picnic spaces, equestrian staging, and restrooms are just some of the amenities within the park, allowing visitors to get the most out of their time there.
History of Chino Hills State Park
The Chino Hills region has long been valued for its rich natural resources by the many people who have settled here. The open terrain and plentiful water supplies were essential for the subsistence of the Gabrielino Indians, who settled in the Santa Ana River valley.
Mission animals grazed in the Chino Hills when Mission San Gabriel was founded in 1771. During the Mexican Republic, nearby ranches Santa Ana del Chino and La Sierra Yorba grazed the slopes. California’s principal use after 1848 was grazing.
Activities At Chino Hills State Park
The park’s 90 miles of trails are perfect for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. Pack your tent for an extended stay and picnic in one of the many scenic areas. Plan to spend a few hours learning about the region’s natural history, wildlife, and resources at the Discovery Center through the many displays, activities, and events available. The Discovery Center may be found in Brea at 4500 Carbon Canyon Road.
Chino Hills State Park Hike
Chino Hills State Park has almost 14,000 oak and walnut forests, sage scrub, grass-covered hills, scenic valleys, and more than 90 miles of trails. Among the many stunning hiking routes at Chino Hills State Park are:
Little Canyon Loop
The Chino Hills are home to the magnificent Bane Ridge Trail, a 5.8-mile-long hiking route. It’s accessible to hikers of many skill levels because of its manageable level of difficulty. The trail winds through the beautiful Chino Hills scenery, with plenty of photo-worthy vistas.
The trail’s connectivity to other paths is a significant perk, allowing hikers to extend their routes and discover more of the area. The Bane Ridge Trail is an excellent option for hikers seeking a quick or lengthy outing.
The curve of Little Canyon
East of the South Ridge Trail, the Little Canyon Loop offers a gentle 2.2-mile hike through an oak and walnut forest. The trail stays on a fire road for a pleasant and leisurely stroll. But there’s a challenging decline just before the junction with the Telegraph Canyon Trail.
This hiking circle takes you through various wooded landscapes, allowing you to take in the area’s natural beauty while also getting a taste of the topography and vegetation found in the area.
Horseback Riding at Chino Hills State Park
Chino Hills State Park has equestrian facilities for those interested in horseback riding. The concessionaire of the park, Prado Equestrian Center, offers trail rides with experienced riders. Many of the park’s routes are suitable for equestrians to ride about and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
In addition, visitors can ride their horses anywhere inside the park. Visitors to Chino Hills State Park can experience the thrill and peace of horseback riding whether they join a guided excursion or bring their horses.
Birding at Chino Hills State Park
Any season offers the chance to witness a variety of birds, but spring migration is when things become exciting. You could see a Red-winged Blackbird or one of the other birds that migrate north to nest during this season.
It is possible to spot a Red-tailed Hawk, Great-horned Owl, California quail, raven, mourning dove, white-throated swift, turkey vulture, acorn woodpecker, black phoebe, or ash-throated flycatcher while hiking along the trails that wind through the area’s undulating hills, woods, and rocky creeks.
Nature and Wildlife at Chino Hills State Park
The grassy hills, oak walnut woodlands, and picturesque valleys that comprise Chino Hills State Park’s 14,000 acres provide a diverse ecosystem for the park’s abundant fauna. There have been sightings of almost 200 different species here. Deer, squirrels, raccoons, bobcats, coyotes, and snakes are some wildlife you might encounter in this tranquil environment.
Address: 4721 Sapphire Rd, Chino Hills, CA 91709
Opens-Closed: 8 am-7 pm
Phone: (951) 780-6222
Management: California State Parks
Established: 1981
