Montaña de Oro State Park
Did you know California is home to nearly 300 State Parks? Today’s we’re heading to one of the largest. Join me at the ‘mountain of gold’...otherwise known as Montaña de Oro State Park.
History
When Spanish explorers first arrived in 1542, this area was inhabited by the Chumash and Salinan people. In 1769 the mission period began here, and while the property changed hands numerous times until the mid-1800s, it was used primarily for grazing sheep, as well as a dairy and cattle ranch during the early 1900s. In 1965 the property was purchased by the state, and on April 24, 1965 Rancho Montaña de Oro was dedicated as an official California State Park.
Location/Topography
Located just 6 miles southwest of Morro Bay, Montaña de Oro is known for spectacular scenery, which was created by incredible volcanic activity and erosion. Miguelito Shale, formally ancient seafloor, is the vast jagged rock found throughout the park at the ocean’s edge. Montaña de Oro’s unique habitat covers over 8,000 acres, including 7 miles of shoreline rich with 3 unique beaches and vibrant tide pools.
Hiking/Activities
Popular activities here include biking, horseback riding, camping, surfing, birdwatching and of course hiking. Over 20 trails are found here, reaching from the hills to the beach. My personal favorites are the beautiful Bluffs Trail (which overlooks the rugged coastline and leads to thriving tide pools) and Valencia Peak Trail (which offers a decent elevation gain as it leads to the 1,400 ft Valencia Peak overlook). From the easy 1 mile Hazard Reef Trail to the strenuous 11 mile Hazard Peak Trail, there’s something for every hiker here.
Know Before You Go
• Poison oak grows throughout the park, so it’s important to stay on the maintained trails when hiking...always remember “leaves of three, leave it be!”
• The weather can change rapidly here, so layered clothing is recommended.
• Always bring twice as much water as you think you’ll need when hiking.
• The rocks around the shoreline can be jagged and slippery, so plan your footwear accordingly.
• Islay Creek Campground offers over 40 campsites.
• Please consider the Leave no Trace Principles to help keep this place wild and beautiful.
In Summary & Behind the Blog Video
Thanks for joining me here today at Montaña de Oro State Park. For a fun behind-the-scenes look at creating this blog, make sure to watch my Behind the Blog video below…and until next week I hope you find adventure encouragement wherever you go!
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