California Citrus State Historic Park photo
ParkCalifornia, US

California Citrus State Historic Park

Step into the golden era of California at the California Citrus State Historic Park, a captivating living museum spanning over 250 acres in Riverside.

About

Step into the golden era of California at the California Citrus State Historic Park, a captivating living museum spanning over 250 acres in Riverside. This unique park immerses visitors in the agricultural heritage of the state, showcasing the profound impact the citrus industry had on California's economy and culture. It serves as a beautiful tribute to a time when "Citrus was King," offering a picturesque and educational escape into the past.

The park boasts extensive groves featuring over 100 varieties of citrus, including Washington Navel and Cara Cara Navel oranges, blood oranges, kumquats, exotic Buddha's Hand citron, and various lemons, limes, and tangerines. Visitors can explore the Varietal Grove along the accessible Knoll Trail, which guides them through an array of citrus trees and offers interpretive insights. The Visitor Center and Museum, designed as a replica packinghouse, provides interactive displays, historical artifacts, photographs, and antique farm equipment, detailing the journey of citrus from Asia to Southern California and the diverse communities that made its cultivation possible.

More than just a collection of trees, California Citrus State Historic Park offers a tranquil and engaging experience for all ages. Beyond learning about cultivation techniques and the industry's history, guests can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnicking amidst fragrant blossoms, and discovering scenic vistas. Seasonal events like citrus tastings and harvest festivals enhance the visit, making it a memorable destination that blends history, nature, and recreation in a uniquely Californian setting. Unlock an interactive field guide for this spot: get the Snappit app to identify nature on the go.

Buffs * Nature Enthusiasts * Photography

What to do here

Explore the vast citrus groves, learn about the industry's history in the Visitor Center/Museum, enjoy a picnic at one of the many picnic areas, take a guided tour (available Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays), and participate in QR Code Taghunts along the trails for interactive learning.

Seasonal info

The park can get quite warm in summer, so plan for earlier morning or late afternoon visits during those months. Winter offers cooler, pleasant weather for walking. Citrus tasting opportunities are seasonal.

Accessibility

The Knoll Trail is a 0.65-mile accessible, paved path connecting the Visitor Center and Sunkist Center, with generally flat slopes suitable for wheelchairs. Accessible picnic sites with firm surfaces are available, and the Visitor Center, Sunkist Center, and amphitheater offer accessible routes and facilities, including restrooms and wheelchair seating.

Don't miss

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Don't miss the Visitor Center and Museum for its historical displays and artifacts. Stroll through the Varietal Grove on the Knoll Trail to see a wide range of citrus trees. Look for antique farm equipment displayed throughout the park. The Sunkist Activity Center and Amphitheater also host events.

Wildlife you might spot

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Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Snap map for this place

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Good to know before you go

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as there are trails and expansive groves to explore.

Bring water, especially during warmer months, as you'll be outdoors for much of your visit.

Consider taking a guided tour, offered Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, for in-depth historical information and potential citrus tasting opportunities.

Visit the Visitor Center first; it provides excellent context for the park's history and exhibits.

There is a day-use parking fee, so be prepared to pay upon entry (cash or credit card at automated stations, or kiosk attendant when staffed).

Don't forget your camera to capture the scenic groves, unique citrus varieties, and historical displays.

Frequently asked questions

The park generally operates daily from 8 AM to 5 PM year-round. From April to September, weekend hours extend until 7 PM. The Visitor Center and Museum are typically open Friday through Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM.
No, visitors are generally not permitted to pick fruit directly from the trees. Unauthorized picking and taking of fruit is prohibited by park rules. However, guided tours may offer samples, and fresh citrus grown at the park can often be purchased at the roadside fruit stand near the entrance.
Dogs are welcome on leash on the trails throughout the park. However, dogs are not allowed inside the Visitor Center or museum.

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