Sycamore Highlands Park

Stunning Vistas

Situated in the Canyon Crest neighborhood, this 9-acre park offers a peaceful escape with impressive panoramic views. From various spots, you can see the San Gabriel Mountains, San Bernardino Mountains, San Jacinto Mountains, and Santa Ana Mountains stretching across the horizon.

The park's gently sloping landscape creates an ideal natural viewing platform for taking in the Inland Empire and Riverside below. Head to the top of the hill, where ten thoughtfully placed benches await, each offering its own unique perspective on the surrounding beauty.

The sunset views are particularly noteworthy and have made this park popular with locals. As day transitions to evening, the 360-degree vistas transform with rich, warm colors painting the sky above the city lights beginning to twinkle below.

Winter visits have their own special charm, with snow-capped mountains creating a striking contrast against the Southern California landscape. And occasionally, you might even catch sight of rocket launches from Vandenberg Air Force Base - a rare treat for skygazers!

Play Areas for All Ages

Kids will find plenty to keep them busy with two distinct playground areas. The main playground features a tall slide that's sure to thrill, a challenging rock climbing wall, multiple staircases, additional slides, and interactive games to spark imagination.

The swing set area includes four traditional swings plus two bucket swings for the little ones. Younger children have their own dedicated space with smaller slides, engaging games, talk tubes, monkey bars, and more jungle gym equipment sized just right for them.

Parents can breathe easier knowing the playground surfaces are cushioned with spongy material to help prevent bumps and bruises. During summer, the water feature springs to life, creating a splash zone great for cooling off on hot California days.

Space to Play

Beyond the playground, you'll discover a grassy field that's fantastic for casual games of catch, frisbee, or simply lounging with a good book. While the slight slope and modest size might not accommodate regulation sports, it's ideal for impromptu play and picnics.

Shoot some hoops at the basketball court which offers two half-courts for pickup games or practice sessions. On breezy days, the open spaces become a favorite spot for kite enthusiasts, with colorful creations dancing above the park.

Nature Exploration

For those with adventure in their hearts, Sycamore Highlands connects to hiking trails leading into the adjacent Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park. These paths offer a chance to extend your outdoor experience and discover more of the area's natural beauty.

If you prefer a more leisurely stroll, take advantage of the paved walking path that loops around the park's perimeter. Well-maintained and accessible, it's ideal for a morning jog, an evening walk, or just stretching your legs while enjoying the surroundings.

Comfort and Convenience

Scattered around the grounds are picnic tables and benches that make this park ideal for everything from family gatherings to quiet solo lunches with a view.

Look for the gazebo with its picnic tables offering a welcome patch of shade on sunny days. You'll also find natural shade under trees where you can spread out a blanket and enjoy a leisurely picnic while soaking in the scenery.

While most of the park has good lighting, note that the playground area isn't illuminated after dark, so plan accordingly if you're visiting with children in the evening hours.

Good to Know

You should be aware that there are no public restroom facilities available at the park. Also, parking can get tight, especially during popular sunset hours. Make sure to carefully read street parking signs in the surrounding neighborhood, as regulations are strictly enforced and nobody wants to end their park visit with a parking ticket!