Photo: Jonathan Neal
Photo: Anna Dela Rosa
Photo: David Charette
California Citrus State Historic Park
★4.7(1,370 reviews)FreePark
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 4-12. Elementary-aged children especially enjoy the hands-on learning about fruit trees and exploring the historic buildings, while younger kids love picking fruit during harvest season and running through the groves. Teens interested in history or agriculture may also appreciate the educational programs.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
California Citrus State Historic Park offers families a unique blend of outdoor exploration and agricultural education in the heart of Riverside's citrus heritage. Kids can wander through fragrant citrus groves, learn about the region's farming history, and enjoy wide-open picnic areas perfect for running and playing while parents soak in the peaceful, scenic atmosphere.
Highlights
- ✓Walking through authentic citrus groves with orange, lemon, and grapefruit trees
- ✓Exploring historic buildings that showcase Riverside's agricultural past
- ✓Spacious picnic areas perfect for family gatherings and outdoor play
- ✓Seasonal fruit picking and tasting opportunities
- ✓Educational ranger programs about citrus farming and local history
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit during citrus harvest season (winter through early spring) when kids can often participate in fruit picking and tasting experiences
- 2.Pack a picnic to enjoy in the shaded areas under the citrus trees - there's plenty of space for kids to roam safely
- 3.Arrive early on weekends to beat the heat and catch ranger-led programs that offer the most engaging educational experiences
- 4.Bring sunscreen, hats, and water bottles as shade can be limited in some areas of the groves
- 5.Check the park's event calendar before visiting - they offer special family programs, seasonal festivals, and hands-on agricultural activities
Best Time to Visit
Winter through early spring (December-March) is ideal when citrus is in season and the weather is mild. Weekday mornings offer the quietest experience, while weekends feature more organized activities and programs. Avoid summer afternoons when temperatures can be quite high.
What to Know
Parking is free and plentiful at the main entrance. There's a small per-vehicle day-use fee (typically $5). Bring your own food and drinks as there are no concessions on-site, though picnic facilities with tables are available throughout the park.
Seasonal Notes
Peak visiting season is winter through spring when citrus fruits are ripe and the weather is comfortable. The park hosts special events during harvest season and occasionally offers hands-on citrus picking. Summer can be very hot, so plan accordingly with plenty of water and sun protection.
Nearby Eats
Head to nearby Sycamore Canyon Boulevard for family-friendly chains like In-N-Out Burger or Chick-fil-A (5-10 minutes away), or explore downtown Riverside's Main Street (15 minutes) for more diverse dining options including pizzerias and Mexican restaurants with kid menus.
More Activities Near Riverside
Park
Fairmount Park
Free
Fairmount Park is a spacious community oasis in Riverside that offers something for every family member. With expansive playgrounds, a popular splash pad for hot California days, and wide open green spaces perfect for running and playing, this park is a go-to destination for local families. The combination of active play areas and peaceful picnic spots makes it ideal for everything from quick afternoon outings to full-day family adventures.
Park
Barton Street
Free
Barton Street Park in Riverside offers families a perfect blend of active play and relaxation with its well-maintained playground equipment, shaded picnic areas, and scenic walking paths. The park's thoughtful layout caters to children of various ages, making it an ideal spot for morning playdates, afternoon picnics, or evening family strolls through this welcoming neighborhood green space.
Park
Box Springs Mountain Reserve
★4.6Free❤️26
Box Springs Mountain Reserve offers families an accessible introduction to Southern California's desert landscape with well-maintained hiking trails that reward young adventurers with stunning panoramic views of the valley below. The reserve combines outdoor exploration with convenient amenities like picnic areas and restrooms, making it an ideal spot for families who want a genuine nature experience without venturing too far from civilization.
Park
Riverside Plaza
★4.5Free❤️73
Riverside Plaza offers families the best of both worlds,a beautiful downtown park with playgrounds and scenic walking paths combined with convenient shopping and dining all in one location. The 4.5-star rating from over 7,000 reviews speaks to its popularity as a family destination where kids can burn energy outdoors while parents enjoy nearby amenities.