Top Rated Parks to Visit in Lake Cuyamaca

"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."

"The park was named after Christopher (Kit) Carson, the famous scout who guided Captain John C. Fremont over the Sierra Nevada Mountains during a government exploration expedition. The City of Escondido acquired the land for its largest regional park from the City of San Diego in 1967. Address:3333 Bear Valley Parkway, Escondido, CA 92025"

"Named after Frances Ryan, a former teacher at Escondido High School, Ryan Park is a 67-acre park that’s been developed for sporting events. While the park is home to the Escondido Youth Soccer club—which would explain the five soccer fields—there’s also a playground area, baseball fields, and a concession stand."

"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."

"One of the richest living natural-history museums in the nation, this state park is a vast, nearly uninhabited wilderness where you can…"

"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."

"From Business: The Cheesecake Factory offers something for everyone featuring a wide variety of over 200 menu items prepared fresh to order each day, plus over 30 legendary…"