Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Lake Cuyamaca

"In Kit Carson Park and the Iris Sankey Arboretum, you’ll find this magical sculpture garden created by French artist Niki de Saint Phalle. There are nine huge sculptural works, plus a maze and a 400-foot-long undulating snake wall decorated with colorful mosaics. The star piece in this unique art garden is the sculpture of Queen Califia riding on the back of a five-legged eagle."

"This unique sculpture garden was created by French artist Niki de Saint Phalle. She was inspired by her visions of early California history, myths, and Native American culture to create the magical artworks found in the garden. Kit Carson Park 3333 Bear Valley Parkway Escondido."

"This 3,000-acre conservation area near Dixon Lake was established in 1996 to help preserve biologically unique habitats. There are six trails totaling more than 20 miles that are good for walking, biking, and horseback riding. Rangers offer tours of the Daley Ranch House and its outbuildings every second Sunday."

"Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Downtowngal used under CC BY-SA 3.0. A great way to explore true southwestern California, the way you’re supposed to, Daley Ranch has fresh air and rustic ambiance in a gorgeous location. The hiking trails are lovely, offering breathtaking views over Escondido ranch land."

"Daley Ranch has everything a hiker, biker, or runner could ask for. Some trails provide excellent views of Dixon Lake. Dixon Lake will give you immediate shade and a shoreline trail."

"A hike in Mission Trails Regional Park is one of the best things to do in California. The whole preserve spans more than 7,000 acres, and depending on where you enter, you can see everything from bare, rocky cliffs to green fields bursting with life. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the wide range of activities offered at the park."

"Mission Trails Regional Park is a 7200-acre open space preserve comprised mostly of rugged canyons and hills with some developed areas mixed in. Go to walk, run, or bike the trails. Spot birds, native plants, and other wildlife."

"This is also another big place that packs plenty of alternatives for your landscape photography. The paths here are quite romantic with amazing views of the hills. And the sky usually reflects attractively of the peaceful lake."

"Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user RightCowLeftCoast used under CC BY-SA 4.0. Sikes Adobe Historic Farmstead is a wonderful museum where visitors can learn about what life used to be like in Escondido, California. Tour the farmstead and garden, and marvel at the simple comforts of times gone by."

"One of the oldest homes in the city established in 1870, the Sikes Adobe historic farmstead is a place for people who would love to get an insight into history and culture of old American era. The place is open only on Sunday and was restored with new interior decorations a few years back."

"But Potato Chip Rock is one of the most Instagrammable places in San Diego. It is a potato chip-shaped rock at the end of a 7.5-mile hike with a 2,400-foot elevation gain. Bring some water and hiking gear, and enjoy the views and photos on top of the “potato chip."

"We have mixed feelings about this hike, but we can’t deny that it’s an interesting photo opp. It’s an optical illusion that you have to see for yourself. More: The Truth about the Potato Chip Rock Hike"

"Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Visitor7 used under CC BY-SA 3.0. San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park is a memorial that honors the soldiers who fought in California’s bloodiest battle during the Mexican-American War. This well-maintained park has plenty of information about both the war and the 1846 Battle of San Pasqual, including a visitor center that shows a movie."

"Just east of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park you’ll find San Pasqual Battle State Historic Park. It honors the soldiers who fought on December 6, 1846, one of the only military encounters in California during the Mexican-American War. The park normally hosts living history activities and you can also walk its Nature Trail."

"The San Pasqual battlefield state historical Park is a park that is set on the spot where the American Mexican battle took place in 1846. The park is spread over an area of 50 acres and has a special centre. The Centre is a place where you can get all the details about this significant battle and the location."

"Hike to the top of Cowles Mountain for prime panoramic views of San Diego County. At 1,593-feet, the summit is the highest peak in all of San Diego, California. The three-mile hike is a rather strenuous switchback-style uphill trek, but the incredible views are worth the effort."

"Let your little one splash around this pirate-themed spray park on a hot summer day. The park has a large open space and grass, which is perfect for the crew. Even more, the large playground nearby has tons of swings."

"8751 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA 91942Order Your Food Early Here$ | Cafe | Hole in the Wall | Hidden Gem. Lunchbox is a down-to-earth humble little shop that prides itself on providing excellent service and food. If it doesn’t then they have no problem fixing the issue."