If you’re looking for a nature getaway in the heart of Long Beach, look no further than El Dorado Nature Park, the hidden gem of Long Beach. This beautiful park is home to 105 acres of greenery, wildlife, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Whether you’re looking to spend an afternoon outdoors, take a leisurely walk through the park, play sports or more, El Dorado Nature Park has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll provide everything you need to know before visiting this Long Beach treasure!
Where is El Dorado Nature Park?
El Dorado Nature Park is located at 7550 East Spring Street in Long Beach, CA, between the 605 Freeway and the San Gabriel River.
Before heading to the Park, be sure to check the website for days and hours of operation. While the park is open every day from sunrise to sunset, the nature center has specific hours. Park admission is free for all visitors.
Trail hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, and no trail entry is allowed past 4:30 pm.
If you’re coming from out of town, the best way to reach the park is by car, but there is an entrance fee for vehicles. There are two large parking lots available for guests, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a spot.
You can also reach the park by public transportation taking the Long Beach Transit Bus Route 104 (Mondays-Fridays).
Recreational activities
El Dorado Nature Park has two miles of dirt trails, a 1/4 mile paved trail, six lakes, a stream, and forest. It’s a haven for protected species of animals and plant life. There are 1- and 2-mile trails, and all are mostly flat with some minor hills.
There is a multitude of recreational opportunities to find in the park, including:
- Hiking
- Picnicking: There are picnic areas with grills so you can bring groups of any size.
- Bird watching: The park has over 150 species of birds. Check the website for morning bird walks, which run at various times throughout the year.
- Animal spotting: Animals you can see include turtles, lizards, frogs, coyotes, bald eagles, rabbits, squirrels, and more.
- Check out the Nature Center: The park also has a nature center where you can learn about the local flora and fauna.
- Family fun: If you’re visiting with kids, they’ll love exploring the many trails and playing in the water, as well as playing on the playground at the park.
- You can also join one of the family night walks for $5 per person, which are led by a naturalist and include games, activities, and crafts. You must pre-register before you go.
- Go to the visitor’s center: It’s over the bridge on one of the lakes, on its own island. Here you’ll find educational displays, a gift shop with eco-friendly offerings, and an art gallery with work from local artists.
- Golf: The Nature Center has an 18-hole par 72 golf course, where the Long Beach Open is held, and there’s a restaurant on-site.
- Other sports: there are 15 tennis courts, a 6 baseball diamonds, disc golf, volleyball nets, skate park and archery range (fun fact: the 1984 LA Olympics had their archery events here).
Nature Center Special Events
Check and see if a special event is running when you plan to go to Long Beach or the park! Some of the events currently on the calendar include:
- A storytelling evening called “Liars, Thieves, and Chocolate”
- Summer Concert Series
For anyone with kids in the Long Beach area, the Nature Center also hosts camps. See the website for more details.
Volunteer Opportunities
The El Dorado Nature Park has volunteer opportunities throughout the year (which all require pre-registration), such as:
- Wetland Warrior Cleanup at Colorado Lagoon Marine Biological Reserve
- 1st Saturday Stewards
- Adopt-a-Beach
- California Coastal Clean-up Day
Rules to note:
Pets aren’t allowed, and you’re also not allowed to jog or run, bike, fish, feed wildlife, or smoke on the grounds.
In Conclusion: Visiting El Dorado Nature Park
El Dorado Nature Park is the perfect place to get away from the city’s hustle and bustle, and deep into nature while still right in the middle of the city! With its stunning views, variety of activities, and rich history, it’s no wonder this Long Beach gem is one of the most popular parks in the area. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your visit today!
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