Heading towards the Barona Indian Reservation, hidden in the rocky hills, a canopy of oak woodlands greets the wondering visitor as they gander into the entrance of one of Lakeside’s hidden gems. Louis Steltzer County Park.
These 310 acres of oak woodland and coastal sage scrub is one of East County’s finest places for a vigorous hike, spirited jog or just a relaxing walk around the trails and river that run through its diverse environment.
Heading towards the Barona Indian Reservation, hidden in the rocky hills, a canopy of oak woodlands greets the wondering visitor as they gander into the entrance of one of Lakeside’s hidden gems. Louis Steltzer County Park.
These 310 acres of oak woodland and coastal sage scrub is one of East County’s finest places for a vigorous hike, spirited jog or just a relaxing walk around the trails and river that run through its diverse environment.
It holds a large area for picnicking, family gatherings and can accommodate large groups. With the oaks rising above the grounds, there is plenty of shade for respite from some of Lakeside’s hot days. There is a playground with enough entertainment to keep the young happy and active and a stroll around the trails are educational as well.
From the entrance, hang a right and begin the 0.7-mile casual hike down the Riparian Trail. Nestled against the low side of the park, this portion of the trail is an easy walk and there is plenty to keep the eyes focused on the beautiful surroundings. Even with no rain, part of the river springs up from the ground.
There are much to do for people out there to capture a bit of nature, a scenic venue for a fitness run and some moderately vigorous paths for the trailblazer. After reaching the end of the Riparian Trail, there is a quiet place to picnic or rest, secluded from the main area and it is the beginning of the 0.9-mile Wooten Look. This leads up towards a rockier trail into the chaparral with a better view of the heavier trail or service road, choosing the Summit Trail that leads to the top. From there it is an overlook into the heart of the Lakeside river valley.
This park is perfect for family gatherings and offers the opportunity for guided educational trips that teach of the many plant and animal lives that depend on this tiny ecosystem. But there is also a history and a charm to the park that draws many people. Along the river, large granite rocks contain mill holes, used by the Kumeyaay women to grind acorns and grains, reminiscent of an age long ago.
With the many weddings in this prized setting within the regal century-old oak trees and babbling brooks, the Wedding Tree is a bravura oak that stretches as wide as it does high. Its age is evident in its magnificence.
Its Discovery Program Classroom in a Park is available for people of all ages, with some catered to the younger school crowds. But the hands on, eyes seen education that is derived from this program provides education in ecology, birds, Native American history, botany, geology, aquatic ecology and birding basics.
Opening at 7 a.m. and closing at sunset, the sun sets this park’s hours. It is located at 11470 Wildcat Canyon Road in Lakeside. For more information about the park and all of the features it offers go to sdcounty.ca.gov/parks.
