Yorba Regional Park

Park Overview

Stretching along the Santa Ana River in Anaheim, California, Yorba Regional Park spans an impressive 175 acres of green space. Since its opening in 1976, this linear park offers a green retreat for locals and visitors alike. The land itself has quite a story - once part of the vast Rancho Cañon de Santa Ana owned by Don Bernardo Yorba, where cattle roamed and crops flourished until the early 1900s. Orange County had the foresight to acquire 166 acres in 1972, transforming it into the beloved park we enjoy today.

Natural Features

Stretching over one mile in length, Yorba Regional Park offers plenty of room to roam and explore. One of its most charming features is the system of four lakes connected by streams that wind through the property, creating a serene backdrop for your outdoor adventures.

Mature trees dot the landscape, offering welcome shade on sunny California days. The designers thoughtfully incorporated elements that echo the Santa Ana River's natural setting, creating a peaceful retreat from the surrounding urban bustle.

Fishing Opportunities

If you enjoy fishing, take note. The park's lakes and streams are home to catfish, trout, bluegill, and bass, making it a popular spot to cast a line. Just remember to bring your California state fishing license if you're over 16 - the fish wardens do check!

Picnic Facilities

Yorba Regional Park is well-equipped for picnicking. With roughly 400 picnic tables and 200 barbecue stations scattered within the grounds, there's always a spot to enjoy an outdoor meal. Planning something bigger? Seven group shelters are available for reservation, with the largest accommodating up to 250 people.

The park's open spaces can be used for more than just dining - they're good spots for flying kites, tossing a frisbee, or simply spreading out a blanket to relax on the grass.

Trails and Recreation

A network of paved trails winds through the park, ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling. These paths connect to the Santa Ana River Trail, which stretches about 20 miles southwest all the way to Huntington Beach. Forgot your bike? No problem - rentals are available on-site.

The smooth, paved paths make this an excellent spot for kids learning to ride bikes. Its convenient location near the 55 Freeway and Chapman Avenue also makes it a great pit stop for cyclists using the Santiago Creek Bike Trail.

Playgrounds and Sports Facilities

Kids have plenty of options with six playgrounds distributed within the park. For the more athletically inclined, the park offers volleyball courts, two baseball fields, and a soccer field - plenty of options to get your game on.

Dog Park

The Orange Dog Park is a standout feature, with separate areas for small and large dogs. This dog park is notably well-maintained - the grass is consistently green and lush, which isn't common for many dog parks.

The large dog section cleverly rotates between two separate areas on alternating days to keep the grass in top condition. One section offers more shade than the other, so you might want to bring sun protection depending on when you visit.

You'll discover comfortable seating areas throughout, and the community spirit is evident with regulars often bringing extra balls and water dishes to share. If you prefer a quieter experience, mornings before 11 AM tend to be less crowded than the bustling late afternoons.

Amenities

Clean restrooms are strategically placed within the grounds, including near the dog park entrance. You won't have to hunt for parking either, as there's plenty available close to key areas.

The park management does an excellent job maintaining the grounds. While some areas feature younger trees that don't yet provide much shade, you'll notice an ongoing tree planting program that will gradually increase shade coverage throughout this expansive green space.