Santiago Oaks Regional Park

Address: 2145 N. Windes Drive, Orange

Phone number: (714) 538-4400

Features: Nature center, ranger interpretive programs, self-guided nature trail, hiking and equestrian trails.

Facilities: Picnic area with barbecues, playgrounds, restrooms.

Description: This 125-acre county park, situated astride Santiago Creek in east Orange, was created from two purchases known as the “Blome” and “Rinker” properties. After a few years of limited use, the park matured in 1981 with the opening of the nature center. Along the creek the park offers a typical riparian setting, with sycamores and willows flanked by oak woodlands and chaparral. A specimen grove of various non-native trees and a six-acre orange grove, both planted by earlier owners, are also part of the park.

Admission: The park is open for day-use only, 7 a.m. to sunset all year. Office business hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Entrance fee is $1.25 per vehicle, $7.50 for buses.