El Dorado East Regional Park

Park Layout and Features

El Dorado East Regional Park is a sprawling 388.2-acre outdoor space located in Long Beach, California. The park is divided into two main areas: Area II and Area III.

Area II, situated north of Spring Street and south of Wardlow Road, spans 165.8 acres and includes several key features. It houses an archery range that was used for the 1984 Olympic competition, overnight camping facilities, a lake with paddleboats, group picnic areas, and bicycle and walking trails.

The lake in this area is named after Milton B. Arthur, a Recreation Commission member who played a crucial role in acquiring the land for the park.

Area III Highlights

Area III, covering 203.6 acres north of Wardlow Road, opened to the public in July 1974. This section of the park features group picnic areas, two lakes named Alamo and Coyote, a model train ride, and additional bicycling and walking trails.

A notable feature of Area III is Glider Hill, created from the excavation of the lakes. Originally intended to be an amphitheater, it has instead become a popular spot for model airplane enthusiasts.

Recreation Opportunities

The park offers a diverse range of activities for visitors. It contains two stocked fishing lakes where visitors can fish for species such as Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, and Trout, though a fishing license is required for those over 16 years old.

The park also boasts four miles of paved bicycle trails, providing ample space for cycling enthusiasts. In 1975, five miles of bicycle trails were added to Areas II and III, dedicated to Billie Howe Boswell, a respected educator who tragically lost her life while cycling near the park.

Entry Information

The park charges entrance fees, which vary depending on the day of the week and whether it's a holiday. Annual passes are available for regular visitors, with discounted rates for seniors, disabled individuals, and veterans.