California Citrus State Historic Park: An orange grove preserved from a bygone era
Located in Southern California, sits a small historical park reminding park visitors of one of California’s bygone eras.
This park preserves some of the rapidly vanishing cultural landscape of the citrus industry and tells the story of this industry's role in the history and development of California. Furthermore, it recaptures the time when "Citrus was King" in California, recognizing the importance of the citrus industry in southern California.
This “park within a park” reflects building design and landscaping of the early 1900s, with Craftsman/California Bungalow-style structures. Grassy, tree-shaded areas evoke a quieter time, an era when the American Dream might be found in a leafy evergreen grove heavy with golden fruit.
Today, California Citrus State Historical Park still grows oranges, grapefruit and lemons.
Revenues generated under a nonprofit management agreement help fund new facilities and programs, and maintain the citrus groves in the park. The income producing groves also provide a backdrop for the palm tree-lined trails, walkways, entry way and picnic areas. The Varietal Grove features at least 75 varieties of citrus. The Visitor Center/Museum has exhibits on the significance of the citrus industry as well as a gift shop. Visitors may take self-guided tours daily. Please call the park to schedule guided school or group tours.
The temperature at the park can vary so visitors are advised to dress in layers.