|
|
|
|
THINGS
TO DO IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA |
|
|
|
Montano de Oro
State Park
|
|
|
Montano
de Oro State Park is one of the hidden wonders of the
Central Coast. Nestled past huge eucalyptus trees and
the town of Los Osos is this spectacular place perfect
for day of adventure.
Once inhabited by grizzlies and Chumash Indians, this
land went through several people before the state of California
purchased it to be used as a state park. It was largely
used as farmland for cattle and sheep, then a creamery,
and finally an attempt at logging.
When the agricultural industry failed to thrive here,
the state purchased it and officially named it Montano
de Oro, meaning “Mountain of Gold.” This is
truly a mountain of treasures. While you will not find
true gold here, the experience that you do find is a treasure
itself.
There are over 50 miles of hiking trails that take you
from feeling like you are in a dense forest, meandering
along flower strewn meadows, strolling up grassy hills,
climbing cliffs, and walking on the beach.
There are not too many places where you can find so many
environments in one place. The beaches are great for picnics
and large group activities.
Tide pools and inlet areas provide the kids with endless
opportunities for releasing energy and finding treasures
of their own. The caves are fascinating to explore and
wildlife is endless. You can find many different species
of birds, seals and other marine life. The visitor center
keeps all of this information plus maps of the trails. |
|
|
Spooner’s Cove Montano de Oro State
Park |
For those
who want a more organized method of hiking, there are scheduled
guided tours and hikes by volunteers who will give you a
good workout and history of the park.
Other day activities include swimming, fishing, mountain
biking, and horseback riding. Photographers will find endless
chances to catch that great shot. There are horse facilities
that you can use for a day or camp overnight with your horses.
The other campground area offers full service facilities
that will give you a great camping experience.
Montano de Oro State Park is located in the town of Los
Osos, just south of Morro Bay. San Luis Obispo lies just
to the southeast. The area wine country, museums, and shopping
districts make this day trip a fantastic one that will not
leave you disappointed.
Montana
De Oro State Park Reservations- Park features
over 8,000 acres of rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches,
coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills. Naturalists
and backpackers enjoy the solitude and freedom found along
the park trails. More
information.
Morro
Bay State Park Reservations - Morro Bay State
Park features lagoon and natural bay habitat. The bay's
most prominent landmark is Morro Rock. The park has opportunities
for sailing fishing, hiking, and bird watching. Pismo Beach
16 miles. More
information.
Pacifci
Dunes Ranch RV Resort Reservations - Bring
your family to the Pismo Beach area's most unique RV resort,
nestled among the dunes of the beautiful Oceano Preserve.
You'll enjoy breathtaking vistas and trails to the beach.
More
information. |
Montano de Oro State Park
|
Rugged Cliffs Montano de Oro State Park |
Montano de Oro State Park
is six miles southwest of Morro bay and seven miles south
of Los Osos on Pecho Road.
The park features rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches,
coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, including 1,347-foot
Valencia Peak. Naturalists and backpackers enjoy the solitude
and freedom found along the park’s trails.
There are also mountain biking and equestrian trails. The
best-known beach is Spooner’s Cove, across from the
campground. |
|
|
|
|
|
| |
Cambria
is a quaint English style village located near Hearst
Castle. |
|
Morro
Bay a central
coast fihing town with a huge rock at its harbor
entrance. |
|
Pismo
Beach has it all and the atmosphere
ranges from peaceful to adventurous. |
|
Living
Desert Zoo in
Palm Desert displays over 450 desert animals within
its 1200 acre park. |
|
|