Wishing Tree Park

From Industrial Site to Community Oasis

Located in unincorporated West Carson near Torrance, Wishing Tree Park is an 8.5-acre green space that's been worth the wait. Opened in May 2024, this park represents a 30-year community effort to transform what was once an industrial eyesore into something beautiful for everyone to enjoy.

The park's name has a heartwarming backstory. Local kids used to write their wishes on scraps of paper and tuck them into the branches of a large ficus tree that stood on the property before development. This simple yet meaningful tradition gave the park its identity - the Wishing Tree became a symbol of the community's long-held dream for a space of their own.

What You'll Find Here

You'll find both active and passive recreational areas at Wishing Tree Park, whether you want to exercise or just relax with a book.

Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the basketball court, baseball field, soccer field, and tennis/pickleball courts. If you're into fitness, check out the outdoor exercise equipment stations scattered across the grounds, or take a leisurely stroll along the walking trail that meanders through the park.

Kids will likely head straight for the playground area, which features modern equipment including a zip line and ninja warrior-style obstacles. When hunger strikes, the picnic areas offer covered shelters, clean tables, and BBQ grills - great for family gatherings or weekend cookouts.

Take a moment to visit the memorial plaza that honors the dedicated community members who made this park possible. It's a thoughtful reminder of the grassroots effort behind this green space.

An Environmental Success Story

Before becoming the beautiful park it is today, this land served as a synthetic rubber production facility. Extensive environmental remediation was necessary to make it safe for public use - a process that helped address years of industrial contamination. Today, the park represents an important achievement of the Los Angeles Environmental Justice Movement.

Nature and Learning

As you wander through Wishing Tree Park, you'll notice pollinator gardens that do double duty - providing habitats for local wildlife while offering quiet lessons about native plant species and ecosystems.

The thoughtfully designed green spaces with native plantings create peaceful corners ideal for relaxation or quiet contemplation. Everything is well-maintained, with clean facilities that reflect the community's pride in their new park.

Good to Know

You'll find plenty of parking available when you visit. The restrooms are spacious and clean - always a plus for a day at the park.

Dog owners, you can bring your four-legged friends as long as they're leashed, and you'll come across pet waste bag dispensers conveniently placed throughout the grounds. Parents will appreciate that the area is well-gated, adding an extra layer of safety for little ones.

Wishing Tree Park provides a much-needed public space in an area that previously lacked parks, where neighbors can gather, families can play, and everyone can enjoy a bit of nature in the city.