Arroyo Verde Park

Natural Setting

Located in Ventura, California, Arroyo Verde Park spans a generous 132 acres of natural beauty. Picture this: 14 acres of grassy open spaces dotted with trees, all surrounded by rugged, untamed terrain. It offers an excellent balance between manicured park and wild nature.

The park sits in what was once a flowing river valley, and you'll discover the entrance where Foothill and Day Roads meet in Ventura.

Hit the Trails

Whether you're in the mood for a casual stroll or looking to break a sweat, Arroyo Verde's trail system offers various options. Miles of paths wind through the landscape, offering everything from easy walks to challenging climbs.

The 3.5-mile Arroyo Verde Park Trail is well-suited for a good workout, while the aptly named "The Wall" will definitely test your endurance with its steep incline. Spring brings an extra treat, with wildflowers creating splashes of color along the paths and butterflies dancing in the air.

If you're new to hiking, stick to the flatter routes, but if you're up for a challenge, the steeper trails won't disappoint. On clear days, you can enjoy views stretching across downtown Ventura, the Channel Islands, and the Fillmore mountains in the distance.

For the Dog Lovers

Early birds with four-legged friends will appreciate that dogs can roam off-leash from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM, Tuesday through Sunday. It's a great way to start the day, watching your pup explore the open spaces. Outside those hours, your canine companion needs to stay on leash while enjoying the park.

You can find waste disposal stations within the grounds, making it easy to keep the park clean for everyone to enjoy.

Family Fun Zone

Kids have plenty of room to play and explore at Arroyo Verde. The park features multiple playgrounds, including a standout addition that opened in April 2022.

This 10,750 square foot inclusive play area is something special - Ventura's first playground designed for children of all abilities. It includes swings, hammocks, balance beams, a sensory garden, a motion-inclusive carousel, climbing structures, and musical play areas.

The park actually offers two playground options: a smaller one near the entrance that's excellent for the little ones, and the larger inclusive playground toward the back that welcomes children of all ages and abilities, including those using wheelchairs.

Picnic Paradise

Scattered within the park, you'll discover numerous picnic tables and BBQ grills that make Arroyo Verde an ideal spot for family gatherings or casual meetups. Many picnic areas sit under the shade of mature trees, offering a cool retreat even on warm California days.

The expansive grassy areas provide plenty of space for frisbee, catch, or just lounging on a blanket. If you're feeling more competitive, check out the baseball fields and volleyball areas for more structured play.

Good to Know

You'll discover clean restrooms at various points within the park, and there are drinking fountains near the main areas. That said, it's always a good idea to bring your own water, especially if you plan to hit the trails.

Park access is free, but there is a $3 parking fee on weekends and holidays (cash only). Weekday parking is free. The park welcomes visitors daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Seasonal Magic

If you can, try to visit in spring when the park transforms into a vibrant showcase of nature. Wildflowers - some reaching three or four feet tall - create a patchwork of colors across the landscape, while butterflies add bursts of movement throughout. After a good rain, the entire park becomes particularly lush and green.