Hike and Peak

Hike Camarillo Grove Park

06.02.2015

Reaching a stunning peak vista in under a mile? If it sounds too good to be true, you haven't been to Camarillo Grove Park. The 1-mile (round-trip) Upper Loop Trail in this unassuming park is your peek into a world of chaparral growth, wildlife, and a magnificent bucolic view that sweeps across Ventura County. Though this destination is right off the 101, as you take the winding Camarillo Springs Road down from the freeway, you'll feel the busy world melt away behind you, along with the sounds of the speeding cars. If you didn't know it was there, it would be easy to miss the trailhead, hidden away in the back corner of the park. It's your VIP access to the wild hills surrounding the grove. As you spiral up the trail, signs help you identify the various desert flora, like purple sage, California buckwheat, sweet fennel, and prickly pear cactus. At the top you can breathe easy as you take in the views: a neighboring meadow with goats and horses, a sprawling vineyard, and the beaches of Oxnard out in the distance. Mile oh mile, that's a good view!

Parking at Camarillo Grove Park is $2 on weekdays and $5 on weekends. After you pay at the parking entrance, drive straight to the back, past picnic area #1, and park. The trailhead will be on your right. To take the upper loop, make a left at the first junction and follow the trail as it spirals up to the peak (staying left at the second junction). To complete the loop, come back down from the peak to the second junction and go the other way to spiral back down. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

    View
  2. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View

  4. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

    View

  2. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

    View
  3. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

    View

  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View