California Citrus State Historic Park
From the moment you arrive, the sweet scent of orange blossom fills the air offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life that surrounds this citrus preserve. Set above a hilltop with an amazing view of Southern California Mountains and the valley below, the park preserves some of the rapidly vanishing cultural landscape of the citrus industry.
The visitor center offers exhibits and movies and to tell the story of this industry's role in the history and development of California. The park recaptures the time when "Citrus was King" in California, recognizing the importance of the citrus industry in southern California.
At the park, you will find miles of trails to explore, an activity center, interpretive structure, amphitheater, picnic area, a gazebo with a rose garden suitable for weddings, the Sunkist Center and the Orange groves. This is a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch, but be sure to bring your own food or purchase something from the Gless Ranch fruit stand which sells fresh citrus and juice. And even though it may seem so easy to give in to temptation it is highly recommended that you resist the urge because it’s actually illegal to pick or remove fruit from the groves.
The park also offers a Junior Ranger program. This program provides a fun learning environment for kids where they can play games, hike trails, discover tracks, observe wildlife and make new friends. Meetings are every other Sunday.
For more information on reserving the park for weddings or to schedule a school group tour, visit the Park website.
- by Jennifer Pruett, Moreno Valley Reporter for HelloMetro
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Jennifer PruettA self proclaimed “queen of everything," Jennifer is a writer, planner and passionate lover of making exciting events extra special. As a creative mother of two she loves art, music, family, friends, exotic cuisine and exploring new areas of self improvement. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal studies from the University of Oklahoma and has been writing restaurant and attraction reviews in the Phoenix Metro area since January, 2009.
