An investment in parks is an investment in public health, and the County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation is doing its part to support a stronger, healthier and more balanced region. They continually seek new recreation opportunities for residents of all ages, interests and abilities so you can choose your own adventure at any of their parks.

Hike, Bike or Ride

County Parks offers more than 350 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Test a trail from the comfort of your screen before heading out with a virtual hike through Annie’s Canyon or Sycamore Canyon/Goodan Ranch! A handful of County parks are ideal for exploring the outdoors on horseback, and 23 miles of multi-use trails were planned with cyclists in mind – the latest additions at Tijuana River Valley Regional Park. Great for kids, the TRACK Trails program sends youngsters on 10 miles of educational scavenger hunts along safe trails where they can complete tasks and collect prizes.

Camp

County Parks operates nine campgrounds from the coast to the desert and valleys to the mountains that offer tent sites, partial hook-up sites and full hook-up sites. Running water and showers are available at most locations. If you’re into glamping with upgraded amenities like air conditioning, power outlets and sturdy wooden bed frames, you can reserve a cabin at six campgrounds: Agua Caliente, Dos Picos, Guajome, Lake Morena, Potrero and William Heise.

Fish

Lake Morena County Park is a camping park that doubles as a freshwater fishing destination. Located southwest of the Laguna Mountains at 3,000 feet, the park contains desert, coastal and mountain habitats with a plethora of interesting plants and animals. View the weekly fishing report to get information on effective baits, top catches and general information. Once there, plan to set your pole down for a picnic or a quick trek along the “wild” Pacific Crest Trail.

Birdwatch

With seasonal migrations in the fall and spring, nesting in winter and resting in summer, and an average temperature of about 70 degrees, every day is a good day to birdwatch at a San Diego County park. Their stretch of the Pacific Flyway, which soars over Tijuana River Valley Regional Park, Otay Lakes County Park, Lindo Lake County Park, San Elijo Lagoon and Ecological Reserve, and other locations, attracts 480 species of birds – more than any other region in the United States!

Party

Plan your next party under a canopy of oaks or from the summit of a hillside; County Parks maintains nearly 20 unique event venues that are perfect for any special occasion or budget. Reservations can be made up to a year advance by calling the reservations hotline at 1-877-565-3600, or by visiting the reservation center in Kearny Mesa during normal business hours. More information is available at sdparks.org.

County Parks is balancing the preservation of natural and cultural resources with the public’s desire to access new outdoor amenities and adventures every day – so that ALL of San Diego (plants and animals included!) can Live Well.