Located in the Los Angeles Basin, just a 90-minute drive from the Coachella Valley, Chino Hills State Park offers a unique outdoor experience for everyone to enjoy.
Sitting in the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains, and covering parts of three counties (San Bernardino, Orange and Riverside), the park offers more than 90 miles of trails and more than 14,000 acres of beautiful and serene rolling hills with a diverse array of flora and fauna. With camping, hiking, mountain biking (there’s even a bike repair station), horseback riding and the beauty of nature, Chino Hills State Park has something for everyone.
You can see remnants of the area’s ranching history at the historic barn at the Rolling M Ranch campground. There are 20 campsites located in this open-space facility that has potable water, flush toilets and showers onsite. Each campsite offers paved parking for up to two cars or RVs up to 30 feet in length, with a picnic table, a fire ring (restrictions may be in place during high fire-danger periods) and a lantern post. There are no electrical, water or sewer hookups. Dogs are allowed at the campgrounds, the day-use areas, picnic areas and parking lots, as well as on Bane Canyon Road, but must be kept on a leash at all times. Camping fees are $30 per night. You can book your stay at www.reservecalifornia.com, or by calling 800-444-7275 (PARK). I haven’t camped here yet, but I’ve checked out the area, and I liked it. I hope to go back and camp soon!
Chino Hills State Park is significantly cooler than the Coachella Valley—often by 15 to 20 degrees. In August, it’s usually warm and dry—high temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to mid-90s—with cooler nights. There can be occasional thunderstorms, especially in late August. The transition to fall in September can bring increased humidity with a higher chance of thunderstorms, particularly in the early part of the month. September is slightly cooler than August, with temperatures averaging in the 70s to low 80s. The park tends to get more visitors in August, while it’s quieter after Labor Day.
The park is known for its biodiversity, and that’s a major highlight, especially for nature lovers and photographers. The diverse habitats such as grasslands, woodlands and chaparral bring a variety of wildlife to the park. It’s possible to encounter mule deer, coyotes, bobcats, gray foxes, raccoons, rabbits, snakes (I’ve seen rattlesnakes here, so be cautious), tarantulas and more. Many different birds can be seen as well—mainly California quail, red-tailed hawks, Western bluebirds, crows/ravens, owls and woodpeckers. It’s a birder’s paradise!
There’s not usually a lot of rainfall during the summer months, but isolated storms can lead to sudden downpours. Be aware of potential flash flooding in low-lying areas during storms. The most rainfall occurs from December to February, with December typically being the wettest month. Always check weather forecasts before visiting, as conditions can change rapidly. I once experienced one of these sudden downpours as a rolling thunderstorm popped up on me. Fortunately, it rolled right through, dumping only minimal rainfall, so there was no flash flooding that day. My clothes dried quickly, and I continued my trek through the park. It was an awesome experience!
After the winter rains, the rolling hills become lush and green, filled with vibrant blooms. You’ll enjoy a blanket of California poppies and lupines in the spring. I once visited in March, and it was a bit early for the blooms; the hills did have some color, but the blooms are more vibrant during the month of May.
Trails are usually dry and accessible May through October, making for good hiking conditions—but be prepared for potential heat during the day; early morning hikes are best. Stay hydrated (always bring more water than you will need), and wear proper shoes, clothing, a hat and sun protection.
Here are five of the most popular trails within the park, according to AllTrails:
• Bane Canyon Loop Trail is a moderate hike, just less than six miles, with an elevation gain of 787 feet. It can take around 2 1/2 hours to complete. You can access the trail off Bane Canyon Road; in fact, the first half of the trail parallels the road. The second half of the loop is along the Bane Ridge Trail, and this is where you’ll see nice views of the foothills; it is most scenic during the spring when wildflowers are in bloom.
• Bane Canyon Short Loop Trail is a moderate and shorter version of the Bane Canyon Loop. It’s only 2.5 miles with less than 400 feet of elevation gain, and takes around an hour to complete. This trail has great views of the rolling hills and is perfect for a quick hike—but be prepared for some rocky terrain and steep inclines with full sun. Go early; bring sun protection and lots of water.
• Telegraph Canyon Overlook is an easy to moderate 5.6-mile trail with an elevation gain of just less than 600 feet, and takes a little more than two hours to complete. Most of this trail is along Bane Canyon Road, and it’s recommended to stay on the dirt road when you get there. This one is a favorite, a relatively easy trail with pretty views of rolling hills and wildflowers when in season.
• Bane Ridge Trail to Pomona Trail Loop is a moderate, 4.3-mile loop, with an elevation gain of 810 feet; it takes about two hours to complete. It starts with a gradual uphill climb and circles Bane Canyon, with scenic views of Chino Hills and the surrounding mountains.
• Little Canyon Loop is a moderate hike, just over two miles, with an elevation gain of 406 feet; it takes about an hour to complete. Starting at South Ridge Trail, go east (uphill) for just more than a mile, to the first trail to the left. There will be a sign for Little Canyon Trail. It’s a narrow trail with a mix of steep inclines and scenic views.
Trails are subject to closure due to weather conditions. The park is closed during extreme winds and for 48 hours when the park gets a quarter-inch of rain. The park is also closed during times of extreme fire danger, when the National Weather Service announces a red flag warning. During a park closure, signs are posted at all entrances. Check for any fire restrictions or park alerts before your visit by going to the park’s webpage at www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=648.
The official park entrance is at 4721 Sapphire Road, in Chino Hills. Vehicle entrances are $10 ($9 for seniors age 62-plus) per day. Admission is free to all walkers, but you must park legally outside the park boundaries. It is not recommended to park along Sapphire Road near the park entrance, and unauthorized parking along residential streets or near the entrance may result in tickets or towing. Gate hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. from April through Sept. 30, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from October until the first Sunday in April. Find more detailed information at chinohills.org/284/Chino-Hills-State-Park.