Did you know that Chino Hills State Park protects one of the last intact stands of native California walnut trees in Southern California? This 14,102-acre natural treasure serves as a critical wildlife corridor connecting the Santa Ana Mountains to the Puente Hills, allowing animals to move freely across an increasingly urbanized landscape. Nestled at the intersection of San Bernardino, Riverside, and Orange counties, this verdant oasis offers visitors a chance to escape the urban sprawl and reconnect with nature just a short drive from major metropolitan areas.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Chino Hills State Park is conveniently located within driving distance of several major Southern California cities. The park has multiple access points, with the main entrance located at 4721 Sapphire Road in Chino Hills.
Closest Airports
- Ontario International Airport (ONT) – 23 km (14 miles)
- John Wayne Airport (SNA) – 32 km (20 miles)
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – 80 km (50 miles)
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Driving Directions
From Los Angeles: Take the 60 Freeway east to CA-71 North. Exit at Soquel Canyon Road and turn left. Proceed to Elinvar Drive and turn left. Elinvar merges into Sapphire Road, and the park entrance will be on your right.
From Orange County: Take the 91 Freeway east to CA-71 North and follow the same directions as above. Alternatively, you can access the Discovery Center entrance at 4500 Carbon Canyon Road in Brea.
Explore at Your Own Pace
Rent a car to easily visit Chino Hills State Park and other Southern California attractions.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Recommended Seasons to Visit
Best Months
- March-May: Spring wildflower blooms and comfortable temperatures ranging from 15-24°C (59-75°F)
- October-November: Pleasant fall weather with temperatures around 18-26°C (65-79°F) and fewer crowds
- December-February: Lush green hills after winter rains, cooler hiking conditions at 10-18°C (50-65°F)
Months to Avoid
- June-September: Summer heat can be intense with temperatures often exceeding 32°C (90°F)
- Rainy days: The park closes for at least 48 hours after significant rainfall (more than 0.6 cm or 0.25 inches) due to muddy trail conditions
- Red Flag Warning days: Park closes during extreme fire danger conditions
Weather Tip: The clay soil in Chino Hills becomes extremely slippery when wet, making trails hazardous. Always check the park’s website or call before visiting after rain.
Getting Around Locally
Chino Hills State Park is primarily explored on foot, bicycle, or horseback. There are no shuttle services within the park, so visitors should be prepared to navigate the trails independently.
Transportation Options
- Hiking: The most popular way to explore with over 90 miles (145 km) of trails ranging from easy to strenuous
- Mountain Biking: Permitted on designated multi-use trails
- Horseback Riding: Allowed on specific trails with staging areas available
- Vehicle Access: Limited to paved roads and parking areas only
Note: The park enforces a strict 15 mph (24 km/h) speed limit for all vehicles and bicycles.
Where to Stay
While Chino Hills State Park offers limited camping options, there are several accommodation choices both within and near the park to suit different preferences and budgets.
Camping in the Park
Rolling M Ranch Campground
The only campground within Chino Hills State Park offers 20 primitive campsites with access to potable water, flush toilets, and hot showers. RVs up to 8.5 meters (28 feet) are permitted, but there are no hookups available.
- Fee: $30 per night
- Reservations required: Can be made up to 6 months in advance
- Facilities: Picnic tables, fire rings (when fire restrictions allow), potable water, restrooms with showers
Nearby Accommodations
Hotels in Chino Hills
Several hotels and motels are located within a 10-15 minute drive from the park entrance, offering comfortable accommodations with modern amenities.
- Price range: $100-200 per night
- Amenities typically include Wi-Fi, pools, and complimentary breakfast
Nearby RV Parks
Several full-service RV parks are located within a short drive of Chino Hills State Park, offering more amenities than the primitive camping within the park.
- Prado Regional Park (15 minutes)
- Canyon RV Park (20 minutes)
- East Shore RV Park (25 minutes)
Dining & Local Cuisine
There are no food services within Chino Hills State Park, so visitors should come prepared with their own food and drinks. However, there are several dining options in the surrounding communities.
Picnicking in the Park
Designated picnic areas are available at the Rolling M Ranch and near the Discovery Center. These areas include tables and trash receptacles, making them perfect spots to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Important: Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles. Open fires are not permitted in the park, but portable gas stoves are allowed in designated areas when fire restrictions are not in place.
Nearby Dining Options
The cities of Chino Hills, Brea, and Yorba Linda offer numerous dining options within a 15-20 minute drive from the park entrances. You’ll find everything from fast-casual eateries to upscale restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.
Local Specialties
While visiting the area, consider trying some Southern California specialties at local restaurants:
- Fresh California-Mexican fusion cuisine
- Farm-to-table restaurants featuring local produce
- Artisanal coffee shops and bakeries
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Chino Hills State Park offers a variety of attractions and activities for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Here are some of the top experiences to enjoy during your visit:
Top Hiking Trails
Telegraph Canyon Trail
This popular 7.7 km (4.8 mile) trail follows a creek bed through the heart of the park. With minimal elevation gain, it’s suitable for hikers of all skill levels and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
North Ridge Trail
For more experienced hikers, this challenging 11.4 km (7.1 mile) trail rewards with panoramic views of the San Gabriel Mountains, Catalina Island, and even downtown Los Angeles on clear days.
South Ridge Trail
This moderately difficult trail leads to San Juan Hill, the highest point in the park at 510 meters (1,675 feet), offering spectacular 360-degree views.
Bane Ridge Trail
A 6.8 km (4.2 mile) trail that provides beautiful vistas of the surrounding valleys and connects to several other trails in the park’s network.
Explore Chino Hills State Park with Expert Guides
Discover hidden gems and learn about the park’s unique ecosystem on a guided tour.
Wildlife Viewing
Chino Hills State Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Patient visitors may spot:
- Mammals: Mule deer, bobcats, coyotes, gray foxes, and occasionally mountain lions
- Birds: Red-tailed hawks, golden eagles, California gnatcatchers, and numerous songbirds
- Reptiles: Western fence lizards, Southern Pacific rattlesnakes (maintain a safe distance)
Wildlife Safety: Never approach or feed wildlife. Keep a safe distance from all animals, especially rattlesnakes which are common in the park. If you encounter a rattlesnake on a trail, wait for it to move away or turn back and notify park staff.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Discovery Center
Located at 4500 Carbon Canyon Road in Brea, the Chino Hills State Park Discovery Center offers informative exhibits about the park’s ecosystems, wildlife, and cultural history. The center features interactive displays suitable for all ages and serves as an excellent starting point for your park visit.
Discovery Center Hours:
- Winter (October-March): Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Summer (April-September): Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Historic Rolling M Ranch
Visit the historic barn at Rolling M Ranch to learn about the area’s ranching history. The ranch dates back to the early 20th century and offers a glimpse into Southern California’s agricultural past.
Seasonal Events
Throughout the year, Chino Hills State Park hosts various events and programs:
- Spring Wildflower Walks (March-April)
- Junior Ranger Programs (summer months)
- Stargazing Events (seasonal)
- Guided Nature Hikes (year-round, check schedule)
Don’t Miss Special Park Events
Check the official California State Parks website for upcoming events and programs at Chino Hills State Park.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Beyond hiking, Chino Hills State Park offers numerous outdoor activities for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.
Mountain Biking
With over 90 miles (145 km) of trails, many open to mountain bikes, Chino Hills State Park is a popular destination for cyclists. Trails range from easy rides along Telegraph Canyon to challenging climbs up Bane Ridge and North Ridge.
Biking Tip: The South Ridge and Bane Canyon trails offer some of the best mountain biking experiences in the park, with technical sections and rewarding views.
Horseback Riding
Equestrians can enjoy many of the park’s trails, with dedicated staging areas available. The Rolling M Ranch area offers hitching posts and water troughs for horses.
Photography
The diverse landscapes of Chino Hills State Park provide endless opportunities for nature photography. Spring wildflowers, dramatic oak trees, and sweeping vistas make excellent subjects.
Geocaching
Several geocaches are hidden throughout the park, offering a fun treasure-hunting activity for visitors of all ages. Download a geocaching app before your visit to participate.
Experience the Best of Chino Hills State Park
Book guided outdoor activities and make the most of your visit.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Park Safety
- Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from all wildlife, especially rattlesnakes. Never approach or feed animals.
- Weather: Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and appropriate clothing. Summer temperatures can exceed 32°C (90°F).
- Trail Conditions: Stay on designated trails and check conditions before your visit, especially after rain.
- Cell Service: Cell phone coverage can be spotty in the park. Download maps in advance and consider bringing a portable charger.
Fire Safety: Open fires are not permitted in the park. The area is prone to wildfires, especially during dry seasons. Report any smoke or fire immediately to park staff or by calling 911.
Park Etiquette
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and leave natural and cultural features undisturbed.
- Trail Etiquette: Hikers yield to horses, and cyclists yield to both hikers and horses on multi-use trails.
- Noise: Keep noise levels down to respect wildlife and other visitors.
- Drones: Drones are not permitted within the park boundaries.
Pet Policies
Dogs are allowed only in specific areas of the park:
- Bane Canyon Road
- Rolling M Ranch day use area
- Rolling M Ranch Campground
- Discovery Center day use areas
Dogs must be on a leash at all times and are not allowed on trails or in the backcountry.
Visitor Comments About Chino Hills State Park
“As an avid hiker, I’ve explored many parks across California, but Chino Hills offers something special. The Telegraph Canyon Trail provided the perfect moderate hike with stunning wildflower displays in spring. We even spotted a bobcat in the distance! The park feels wonderfully remote despite being so close to urban areas.”
“We camped at Rolling M Ranch for two nights and were impressed by how well-maintained the facilities were. The night skies were incredible for stargazing, and the morning bird watching exceeded our expectations. Just be prepared for the summer heat if you visit June through August.”
“I visited during winter after some rain, and the hills were a vibrant green that reminded me of rolling European landscapes. The Discovery Center provided excellent information about local wildlife. My only regret was not allocating more time to explore all the trails. Will definitely return for a longer stay next time!”
Practical Travel Tips
Park Fees & Hours
- Day Use Fee: $10 per vehicle ($9 for seniors 62+)
- Camping Fee: $30 per night at Rolling M Ranch Campground
- Winter Hours (October-March): 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
- Summer Hours (April-September): 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily
What to Pack
- Plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person for day hikes)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction
- Trail map (available at entrance or downloadable from park website)
- First aid kit
- Snacks or picnic lunch
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Camera
Accessibility Information
The Discovery Center and certain areas of the park are accessible to visitors with mobility challenges. The Carbon Canyon Nature Trail near the Discovery Center offers an accessible path with interpretive displays. Contact the park in advance for specific accessibility information.
Reservation Tip: Campsite reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance through ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275. Weekends fill up quickly, especially during spring and fall.
Your Adventure Awaits in Chino Hills
Chino Hills State Park offers a remarkable escape into nature just a short drive from Southern California’s urban centers. Whether you’re seeking challenging hikes with panoramic views, peaceful wildlife encounters, or simply a tranquil picnic amid rolling hills, this natural treasure has something for everyone. The park’s unique position as a wildlife corridor makes it not just a beautiful destination, but an essential conservation area preserving Southern California’s natural heritage. Pack your hiking boots, bring your sense of adventure, and discover why Chino Hills State Park continues to captivate visitors year after year.
The above is subject to change.
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