California State Parks Announces the Classification and Formal Naming of Wildwood Canyon State Park
Wildwood Canyon State Park received its official name and classification following a vote by the State Park and Recreation Commission this week. Photo from California State Parks.
LOMA LINDA — California State Parks is excited to announce the formal classification and naming of Wildwood Canyon State Park by the State Park and Recreation Commission at its regular public meeting on Dec. 17. The park has been open for day use since 2003, welcoming hikers, equestrians and cyclists.
“This newly classified state park is a wonderful addition to the largest state park system in the nation,” said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “This gorgeous landscape nestled at the edge of Yucaipa offers trails, views, wildlife and respite in a sometimes chaotic world!”
Already part of the State Park System and formerly called Wildwood Canyon Park Property, Wildwood Canyon State Park is one of California’s natural gems, located approximately 75 miles east of Los Angeles and 25 miles east of San Bernardino and Riverside in the community of Yucaipa. The park offers scenic views of the surrounding valleys with a variety of native plant species, such as scrub oaks, manzanita, yucca and chamise. It is also home to diverse wildlife, including mountain lions, red-diamond rattlesnakes, mule deer, black-tailed jackrabbits and more than 100 species of birds that may be found throughout the year as the property is located along the Pacific Flyway.
“California State Parks’ Inland Empire District staff want to thank the community, the Supporters of Wildwood Canyon State Park, Inc., and the State Park and Recreation Commission for their support of Wildwood Canyon’s classification and naming,” said Inland Empire District Superintendent Kelly Elliott. “We look forward to the next phase to improve the park for all visitors.”
Additional planning efforts are now expected to be completed to help guide the future of Wildwood Canyon State Park. State Parks looks forward to working in partnership with the public, California Native American tribes and other stakeholders to help ensure the park remains a cherished and accessible destination for all visitors. The public may follow the future planning process for formulating a cornerstone document and general plan on the park’s website.
Left: Wildwood Canyon State Park currently serves equestrians, hikers and mountain bikers along existing trails. Top right: Sector Superintendent John Rowe provides information about the park during a recent public tour. Bottom right: Nine buildings occupy the park, including two with the potential to be nominated to the California Register of Historical Resources. Photos from California State Parks.
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