Carbon Canyon Regional Park

Carbon Canyon Regional Park offers a tranquil natural retreat in Southern California featuring rare redwood groves, diverse habitats, and family-friendly recreational facilities.

125
Acres Protected
3.5
Miles of Trails
150,000+
Annual Visitors
1987
Year Established

About Carbon Canyon Regional Park

 

Located in Orange County, California, Carbon Canyon Regional Park encompasses a unique ecological zone distinguished by one of the southernmost naturally growing coast redwood groves in North America. The park covers a gently rolling landscape that includes oak woodlands, grasslands, and riparian habitats along Carbon Canyon Creek. This diverse environment supports various native wildlife, including several bird species and small mammals. Historically, the park area was used for ranching before being developed into a public recreational space by Orange County. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing in the stocked lake, picnicking, playgrounds for children, and camping at the designated campground. The park is well known for its serene, shaded walking trails through the redwood forest and for providing an accessible escape from urban Southern California life. Notable landmarks include the serene man-made Carbon Canyon Lake, the quiet redwood grove, and extensive picnic areas. The park appeals to families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a peaceful setting close to the Los Angeles metropolitan area.

Highlights

Highlight

One of the southernmost native coast redwood groves in the United States

Highlight

Carbon Canyon Lake stocked with trout for year-round fishing

Highlight

Family-friendly playgrounds and picnic facilities

Highlight

Well-maintained multi-use trails suitable for hiking, biking, and jogging

Notable Natural Features

Coast Redwood Grove

A rare stand of native coast redwoods provides shaded trails and a cool, forested environment unusual for Southern California.

Carbon Canyon Lake

A stocked lake offering fishing opportunities with picnic tables and scenic views in a peaceful setting.

Multi-use Trails

Trails suitable for hiking and biking wind through oak woodlands, riparian zones, and open grasslands.