The San Diego area offers a rich selection of choices for the outdoorsman. From ocean and beach, to desert, to mountains, you’ll find a variety of eco-systems to explore. Here are some parks and recreation areas to consider when planning your next outdoor travel adventure.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
This jewel of a wild space is actually within San Diego’s city limits. The tree that it was named for, the Torrey Pine, is abundant in many areas. The Los Penasquitos Marsh, with its salt flat and mud flat, is home to interesting sea plants, fishes and birds. Hike the reserve’s miles of trails, or take a guided nature walk. The western side of the reserve is magnificent Pacific Ocean beach, where you can swim beachcomb and check out tide pools. The reserve is a day-use area only, and no overnight camping is allowed there.
San Elijo State Beach
This spectacular beach is a haven for surfers and snorkelers. It’s located off Coast Highway 101, and the beach is flanked by steep bluffs. Experienced surfers can ride the waves on their own. Aspiring wave riders can sign up for the surf school operated on the beach. There is a campground and food concessions. Divers and snorkelers enjoy the reef for its scenic wonders.
Cowles Mountain
Get a good workout by hiking to the top of this in-city crest. After the 4-mile climb, you’ll be rewarded with a sweeping view of San Diego from its highest point. It’s part of Mission Trails Regional Park, and located in the eastern part of the city. You’ll likely encounter other hikers, as it’s a popular workout trail.
Santee Lakes
This 190-acre park on the eastern edge of San Diego. It’s comprised of 7 lovely lakes and an exciting array of amenities for the outdoorsman. Cast your line for catfish and rainbow trout, which are stocked seasonally. Native bluegill and bass are also draws for fishing fans. There are six playgrounds, to keep youngsters happily involved in the outdoors. And, birders will have a field day spotting everything from kingfishers to ospreys. Stay overnight in the camping spots, or in their cabins.
Mission Bay Park
This multi-use park offers 4,235 acres of salty, sandy fun. Take a long walk or jog on the parks’ trails. Or, fly a kite on the beach. Watch a game of beach volleyball, or start your own. Fiesta Island and Vacation Isle are small bodies of land perfect for soaking up the sunshine and building sandcastles. Kids of all ages will love setting sail in the Model Yacht Pond.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
This desert delight is not in San Diego, yet it is spectacular enough to warrant the short travel time to get there. The park is at its visual zenith in the springtime, when brightly colored wildflowers and cacti spring up for a limited appearance. Birdwatchers enjoy the park, because Borrego Springs is a migration stopping point for the magnificent Swainson’s Hawks. Hikers frequent Anza-Borrego year round for its trails that travel through canyons, washes, palm groves and plethora of cacti.
Lake Morena County Park
This park offers water, desert and mountains. Fish for trout, bass, crappie and bluegill, from the shoreline or by boat. Camp in either the primitive campground or the trailer/tent area. Explore the 3,250 acres of land that includes woods, chaparral and grasslands. There is something for every outdoorsman to love at this multi-use park.
Image Credits
DSC00774 by Ryan Denner
Torrey Pines State Park near San Diego by Brian
Climb That Mountain by Scott Gould
Mission Bay Park by Lionel & Heidi
Lake Morena Park by San Diego Free Press
