Picnic in a Park
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Life’s a picnic! Nothing’s better than a picnic with friends on a beautiful day.
The Parks and Recreation oversees approximately 50,000 acres of parks, historic sites, and open space preserves. From North County to South County, and the coast to the desert, there’s a park within 20 minutes of nearly every residence in the region. Even better, there are literally hundreds of established picnic spots that are ideal for a meal outdoors.
View the list of County day-use parks and camping parks – these locations were made for picnicking. Enjoy your next alfresco dining experience under a canopy of ancient oaks, in a boathouse, or on a historic stage. If you’re planning to spend some quality time in the countryside, Parks and Recreation encourages you to try some secret spots, which are on their rangers’ must-see list.
Carved wooden bench at the summit of Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve
Upper deck at the San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center
Palomar County Park, with views of the Palomar Observatory and quick access to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)
Half-way point of the Santa Ysabel East County Preserve trail (and at the creek crossing)
Staging area at Hellhole Canyon County Preserve (as well as stopping points at the 1, 3, and 6-mile markers)
Along the nature trail at Potrero County Park
Deck from Cabin #5 at Agua Caliente County Park
Two other picnic spots favorites are Flinn Springs and El Monte County Park.
Along Old Highway 80 in El Cajon sits Flinn Springs County Park, a 95-acre day-use park with features for kids, athletes, brides – and even birders! Pull up a seat for 1 – 500. Another benefit of Flinn is its small collection of semi-private picnic tables.
Head over to Lakeside to enjoy a little history with your PB&J. El Monte County Park is one of the oldest in the County Parks system, equipped with five prohibition era picnic tables. Each table dons a plaque bearing the names of early landowners and community stewards.
In addition, 18 County parks have reservable picnic areas for special occasions. From company picnics, wedding receptions and large family reunions, to birthday parties or team building events, there is a park for you.