CLIPBOARD : Bommer Canyon Ranch

A visit to Bommer Canyon Ranch is a dream come true for anyone longing to see what’s behind the locked gates of the undeveloped Irvine Co. property surrounding UC Irvine. The 15-acre site, which was home to countless Irvine Co. cattle roundups and hoedowns, is available to groups for barbecues, dances, company picnics, family reunions and the like. Reservations are required.

The open-air site, which includes deep-pit barbecues, a chuck house, picnic tables, large outdoor dance floor and a bandstand, was donated to the city by the Irvine Co. several years ago and is now a popular site for parties, children’s nature study classes and conferences.

Its rustic authenticity makes it the perfect spot for romantics, history buffs and nature lovers. A grove of oak trees towers overhead, and leaves drift about in the breeze. To the south, there are no houses, telephone poles or roads in sight for miles. The dominant sounds are cows mooing and birds chirping.

The facility is equipped with electricity, so most groups hire a band or disc jockey to provide music. It’s a great place to enjoy a hearty barbecue, dance the night away or just enjoy the incredible quiet while huddled around a fire.

Address: Entrance on Bonita Canyon Road in Irvine near Turtle Rock Community Park. Reservations are required.

Telephone: Contact the Irvine Facilities Reservations office, at (714) 724-6620, for more information on rental fees, rules and permits. The maximum number of persons allowed is 350. Individuals may enjoy the site on special “Day in the Canyon” trips sponsored by Turtle Rock Community Park. Information: (714) 854-8144.

Miscellaneous Information: Fees vary according to the size of group and function. A permit is required for groups planning to serve alcohol. Smoking is restricted due to the fire hazard. Two portable restrooms are provided. No overnight stays are permitted.