Learn about current park closures and updates.
17430 Highland Valley Road (just east of Archie Moore Road)
Ramona, CA 92065
Phone: (760) 788-3326
Hours: 8 a.m. – sunset,
daily (Pedestrian access: sunrise to sunset).
No public vehicle access or restroom availability on December 25.
Ramona Grasslands County Preserve sits in the Santa Maria Valley between scenic coastal mesas and the rocky outcrops of the peninsula mountain ranges. Hikers, cyclists and equestrians alike can explore this 3,867-acre preserve; however, not all acreage is open to the public; some land is closed to protect sensitive resources along with the natural beauty of the area. Visit on your own or attend docent-led interpretive excursions – both lead to open breathtaking panoramic views.
From the main staging area off Highland Valley Road, enjoy an easy
hike through sprawling grassy hills and majestic oaks along a
4-mile loop trail system. Take the Meadow Loop Trail (0.8 miles) to
the Wildflower Loop Trail (2.0 miles) via the Connector Trail (0.2
miles).
The preserve contains a significant section of
Santa Maria Creek– supporting a mosaic of sensitive habitats including
grasslands, wetlands, vernal pools, coastal sage scrub and oak
woodlands, along with hundreds of unique plant and animal species. In
fact, there are 408 plant species on site and 16 of them are
considered special-status species – most notably San Diego thornmint
and spreading navarretia. This biologically diverse preserve also
supports 23 butterfly species, 21 reptile species, six types of
amphibians, 37 mammals, and over a hundred types of birds. Nearly 40
protected animals can be found inside the preserve, like arroyo toad,
Stephens’ kangaroo rat, burrowing owl, and golden eagle.
If you’re lucky, you’ll spot a mountain lion, bobcat or
long-tailed weasel. You might even come face-to-face with more common
locals like coyotes, raccoons and skunks. Golden eagles forage in the
grasslands looking for prey.
Beginning on March 20, the first phase of a trail reroute through Ramona Grasslands Preserve will be open for multi-use. This first phase will include a 0.6 mile reroute. The westernmost 1.1 miles of the previously existing trail is now permanently closed for passive restoration and to protect sensitive golden eagle habitat. As a reminder, we ask that you please stay on designated trails.
The new trail will be open year‑round for hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders. It’s the first step in a larger plan to connect the Ramona Grasslands Preserve to San Pasqual Valley through a regional trail system, the Coast to Crest Trail.
Please use the trail responsibly:
Street parking is available along the shoulder of Rangeland Road. Please use caution when parking and when accessing the trailhead. Help keep this area clean by disposing of all trash and horse manure in the appropriate bins located at the trailhead.
This new segment is part of a larger reroute designed to provide year‑round access while enhancing protection of golden eagles, sensitive habitats, and other important natural and cultural resources. To learn more, visit the Park Development Plan website.
Previously, the trail had to close each year during raptor nesting season to protect nearby golden eagles. The new route will move the trail farther away from an off-site golden eagle nest, helping to strengthen their habitat and other sensitive natural and cultural resources.
A new trail name will be selected with gracious assistance from the Mesa Grande Band of Diegueño Mission Indians and the Barona Band of Mission Indians, honoring Kumeyaay history and culture.
The County and The Nature Conservancy worked together to create a Resource Management Plan for the Preserve that aligns with the broader conservation strategies in the Draft North County Multiple Species Conservation Program . The County Department of Parks and Recreation currently manages the preserve and follows the plan’s specific guidelines for how to protect, improve, and monitor the area’s natural habitats and wildlife.
Visit the News Center page for park events, updates and closures. View Development Projects .
