Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Prado Regional Park is located in Riverside County, California, along the Santa Ana River in the city of Chino. Covering over 1,700 acres, it features a combination of natural habitats, open water bodies, and developed recreational areas. The park surrounds the Prado Dam reservoir, which provides flood control and water conservation for the region. The landscape includes riparian wetlands, open grasslands, and oak tree groves, supporting a range of wildlife such as waterfowl, deer, and small mammals. Established in the late 1960s and managed by the County of Riverside, the park offers a diverse set of activities including fishing in the stocked ponds and lake, boat rentals, multiple picnic areas, group camping sites, equestrian trails and stables, sports facilities, and hiking/bike trails of varying lengths and difficulty. Notable landmarks include the large Prado Reservoir, the nature center with educational programs, and numerous equestrian arenas. The park draws families, anglers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and bird watchers, making it a popular outdoor destination close to the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. Seasonal events and ranger-led programs enhance visitor engagement. Its combination of natural scenery with developed amenities makes Prado Regional Park a versatile recreation area to experience both active and passive outdoor activities.
