The Nature Center trails are one of my favorite spots for an easy peaceful walk. I come here about once a week with my elderly family member and it's always a nice change of pace. The trails are clean, mostly shaded and easy to follow. There's a short 1/4-mile loop if you just want a quick stroll, plus a 1-mile loop that can turn into about a 2-mile walk if you keep going and loop back around. There is one incline area, but it's short and not too bad. Plenty of benches are scattered throughout too, which makes it great for slower walks or taking breaks. The park itself has a really pleasant nature feel. You'll see squirrels, turtles, birds and other little wildlife moments along the way. The turtle dock is always fun to spot and the shaded paths make the whole walk feel relaxing instead of draining. Most people on the trails are friendly too, so the vibe is usually calm and welcoming. The Nature Center trails themselves are free if you walk or bike in, but there is a vehicle fee if you park in the Nature Center/East Regional Park lot. Parking is currently $6 on weekdays, $7 on Fridays, $8 on weekends and $9 on holidays. The entry booth is cashless, so bring a card or use a digital payment option. Parking can look packed at times, but I've always been able to find a spot. They also offer annual parking passes, including discounted ones for seniors 50+, disabled visitors and veterans, so it's worth asking at the Nature Center Visitors Center if you plan to come often. The office area has restrooms and some nice little nature/informational displays, which is a cool bonus if you're there with family or just want to look around. There's also El Dorado Park West across the street, which I've checked out a few times and didn't have to pay for parking on that side. It's a separate park area with sports fields, picnic areas, playgrounds, basketball, tennis and a skate park. I haven't explored every part of it, but it's good to know about if you're already in the area or want a free nearby option. Overall, I'd definitely recommend El Dorado Park if you want a clean, shaded and relaxing place to walk. It's peaceful, accessible and has enough nature charm to make a simple walk feel like a tiny reset. read more

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As the largest park in Long Beach at just over 640 acres (1 square mile), the El Dorado Regional Park was opened in 1964 and is located on the east side of the city. The Nature Centre comprises of 105 acres in the East Regional portion, and has 2 miles of dirt trails and 1/4 mile paved trail with an indoor visitor center (located on an island near the entrance). My wife, her mom, and I visited on a beautiful Thursday afternoon and we really enjoyed it. The land prior to 1964 was used as flat farmland. In the late 60's, major excavation was done, creating two small ponds connected by a stream, all fed by a groundwater well. It now is the home to varied wildlife, with the most visible being turtles. They love to sun themselves on wooden floating platforms, and the water is clear enough to see them swimming underwater near the walking path bridges. There are three walking trails: 1. quarter mile paved loop, good for strollers 2. 1 mile dirt loop 3. a longer 2 mile loop, sharing some parts of the previous. Everything is well maintained. Three things I appreciated: not too many ducks and geese around, thus no visible droppings along the path; plenty of varied bench seating to rest or observe during the walk; lack of biting insects. The center is open 6 days a week (closed on Mondays). Admission to the center is free, but parking is $6 - $8 per vehicle, payable at entry (credit cards only, no cash accepted). One can buy an annual parking pass (good at both El Dorado East and West parking areas). To incentivize myself to come here more often, decided to buy one for $43 (senior discount), minus the $7 already paid for the one time fee. read more

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I'm never disappointed on my morning walks at the Nature Center. It's one of my favorite places to get my walk in and enjoy the scenery. read more

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My favorite place to 'escape from the city' in LBC. The lakes, streams and greenery are a respite from our urban environment. For those who aren't aware, this park is awesome. Free entry, but you have to pay for parking. Beautifully designed and maintained, it is a wonderful place to walk, hike or just relax. Great for bird watching too. Plenty of turtles, ducks and squirrels. A must visit if you live in the area read more

El Dorado Nature Center - A stream - Parks Near Me - Long Beach, California

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I like coming here when I want to get some steps in but not have to exert my self too much!! Views are nice- there's various trails and none are very strenuous! Lots of kids at times for field trips and this place is also elder friendly. It's only $6 per car-no cash. read more

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I've been here far too many times to count. I love the trails here and the wildlife. It can be a little crowded on the weekends, but where else can you take a beautiful walk that feels like you are out in nature and not in middle of city. Side note - too many people feed the squirrels and they can be really aggressive. Parking is charged and they no longer take cash. Added bonus there is are many programs here if you have time to take advantage of them. read more

El Dorado Nature Center - Reflection in stream - Parks Near Me - Long Beach, California

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I visited the El Dorado Nature Center this afternoon. The parking fee is $8 (no cash nor AmEx). At the entrance walkers were warned not to feed the squirrels, they are best ignored, and they bite! (I only saw two and they didn't approach). The amphitheater is toward the left just steps inside and I noticed there were several seats designated for wheelchair users. There were numerous benches to rest throughout each of the 1- and 2-mile trails. Most of the trails are shady and have markers to indicate which trail and some markers highlight a few animals like cottontail rabbit or insects like a red dragonfly that walkers may spot in the area. The terrain is mostly flat and easy to navigate in sneakers with traction - which many people had on. (I wore hiking boots). The bridges, lakes, and varied flora were nice to experience - an escape in Long Beach. read more

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Great walking spot without having to go too far away from home. Lots of trees, lots of shade, so it stays relatively cool even when it's really hot in the sun. We usually do the one mile loop twice rather than the two mile loop, as I think there's just less to see on the extended path. It's also great for kids, but I suggest you leave the strollers at home as it will be very bumpy for the occupants. Be on the look out for tiny critters like squirrels and turtles that are commonly seen. No eating food or snacks on the trails. Parking is a little tough on weekend mornings, but there's always spots on the adjacent side road, just might add a little bit to your walk. For multiple visits, I highly recommend purchasing the annual parking pass. They can deduct your day parking fee from the total if you buy it the same day. Lock your car and hide your parking pass from sight after you park though. read more

El Dorado Nature Center - Parks Near Me - Long Beach, California

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A well maintained nature center with nice trails and a visitor center. Open Tuesday - Sunday (close Monday), until 5pm. Beautiful and tranquil lakes with benches to sit and enjoy the quiet moments with clear reflection and to watch ducks and turtles. 3 clearly marked trails at 1/4, 1, and 2 miles with progress markings along the way. The dirt trail is clean and pretty easy to walk, mostly shaded, with many squirrels along the way. Tips: $8 for parking on a Saturday, credit cards only!! Tips: if you go in the mid-afternoon, you need to plan your time, and be aware the parking closes at 5pm sharp. After that , the volunteers told us you have to call the police to unlock the gate and you may be fined for trespassing. read more

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We have the yearly pass and visit the nature center once every 1-2 weeks. My toddler loves the Indoor part (the bird sounds, x-ray activity, blocks, insect info, and the live snake and frog) and really enjoys exploring outdoors. The turtles are always visibly bathing in the sun and there are nice trail options that are kid friendly. We always do the paved 1/4 mile loop because it gives just enough time to do it since we stop several times to sit. The picnic area is kinda far from the main areas, which can make it hard with very young kids since no food is allowed. read more

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My family loves this place for hikes. It feels like you get lost in the force in the middle of a city. read more

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Met with a friend here to do some light walking and enjoying the nature. Parking is 8.00 for the nature side and the dog park side. We went on the nature walk side. Once you walk in it already feels as your walking into a forest. So much trees and shade in the walk area, beautiful plants, trees and flowers. You are able to see the local squirrels and some are brave and will come up to you, I believe people feed them, therefore they assume if they come up to you, they will get food. You see turtles and ducks in the water area, they are just living their best life. it's about 2 miles all around and its shaded most of the time and it's really nice and easy for kids at any age. all around in about an hour. I would suggest come early to avoid it being so crowded. read more

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El Dorado Nature Center is such a hidden gem and one of the most peaceful places to unplug and recharge. There's tons of beautiful shade, which makes walking the long, well-maintained trails so enjoyable, even on warmer days. You can really slow down here, breathe, and relax while surrounded by nature. Yes, it can get a bit busy, but one of the BEST things is that no bikes are allowed, so the trails feel calm and safe for walking. It's truly a place meant for quiet reflection and enjoying the scenery. Also worth noting: no snacks or picnics are allowed inside, which helps keep the park clean and serene. Parking: Ample parking available $8 parking fee on weekends (well worth it for the experience) Weekdays are usually less crowded and easier to park Extras: There's a cute little nature store on-site that's especially fun for kids and curious adults! They have educational displays, including real Madagascar cockroaches and tarantulas, which is pretty cool and unexpected. Overall, this is a perfect spot for nature lovers, peaceful walks, and a mental reset. If you're looking for a relaxing escape without leaving the city, El Dorado Nature Center is absolutely worth a visit. read more

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A very beautiful, peaceful, and well-maintained nature center and trails. The nature center is especially child education-centered, with a small gift shop. There's a paid parking lot. We've been here many times and sprung for an annual parking pass to access this side and the north-eastern side of El Dorado that's across Spring Street, and we'll be renewing when it expires. read more

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I really enjoyed this trail. I would definitely recommend for beginner (hikers) or just if you want to go for a nice walk. From start to finish it provided some beautiful scenery, well-maintained paths, benches to rest or ponder, and just the right amount of relaxation. read more

El Dorado Nature Center - 1/2 trail - Parks Near Me - Long Beach, California

Chose this location to hike some trails. This is great for super beginners and families. 3 trails 1/4 mile 1 mile and 2 miles hikes. Very peaceful and scenic for all ages. Plenty of resting points but what is great is there is a nature center before starting the hike. Bring snacks and water to keep you going. read more

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Nature in the Middle of Long Beach. My husband and I recently spent half day exploring El Dorado Nature Center Trail in Long Beach with friend's family, and I honestly didn't expect to enjoy it this much. It really felt like a secret little oasis tucked right into the city. The entrance is shared with Long Beach Animal Care Services. If you're going to the animal shelter, just let the parking attendant know, and you can make a left right away into their small lot for free. However, if you are here for the Nature Center, just pay at the entrance and the fee was $6 on a weekday, $7 on Fridays, $8 on weekends, and $9 on holidays per car. No cash accepted. Two parking areas are in different locations and fenced off from each other. If you don't want to pay for parking, you can try finding a spot nearby and just walk in. Once we started walking the trails, I immediately felt like I'd escaped the city. The Nature Center is over 100 acres, with beautiful trees, a gentle creek, and two lakes. I spotted squirrels, turtles, ducks, birds, and even a rabbit just chilling in the grass. It's super quiet and peaceful, with lots of signs along the way sharing cool facts about the local wildlife and plants. There's also a little gift shop located right at the beginning of the trail. It actually has mini exhibits inside and we took some time looking around and got relaxed on bench before heading out to the trails. There are 3 trail options: * A ¼ mile paved path that's stroller- and wheelchair-friendly. * A 1 mile dirt path. A 2-mile dirt path that loops deeper into the woods. We firstly walked the ¼ mile and it was easy. And then we walked deeper for 1 mile to feel more out in nature. The 1 mile trail gave off that rustic, foresty vibe while still being easy to walk on. The 2-mile trail was closed at the time we visited. Here are some heads-up: *No pets allowed on the trails. *No food or picnicking inside the Nature Center. There is a El Dorado Park right across the street. It's great for picnics, dogs, and an archery range is available. The entry fee is the same, or you can buy an Annual Parking Pass for $65 which covers both the Nature Center and the park. I'm seriously thinking about getting one. Also nearby: *El Dorado Park Golf Course *The El Dorado Frontier Theme Park, a small western-style amusement spot for families with kids If you're looking for a quiet, nature-filled break without driving far, I highly recommend spending a couple hours here. I left feeling refreshed, and definitely will be back soon. Address: 7550 E Spring St, Long Beach, CA 90815 Open Tuesday-Sunday, 7am-5pm (Closed on Mondays) read more

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El Dorado Nature Center is directly across the street from the entrance to El Dorado Park. The cost to enter on the weekend is $8 per vehicle. However, it's free to enter if you're on a bicycle or on foot. After visiting, I decided to buy the yearly parking pass, which also covers the entrance to El Dorado Park. It's an amazing, location with 1 to 2 mile trails that put you in the middle of nature. There are benches throughout if you're just looking for a place to relax or read a book. No food is allowed inside, but benches are located outside of the nature center to enjoy your lunch before you enter. Also, no dogs are allowed inside the nature center. The turtles bathing in the sun were entertaining along with the ducks taking a nap amongst them. This spot is definitely worth a visit if you're in the area and looking for a walk amongst nature. If you plan on visiting, keep in mind that they are closed on Monday. read more

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Today was my first visit to this location, and I'm genuinely surprised that a nature center like this even exists in the middle of Long Beach! I always assumed you had to travel far outside the city to find a place like this, so discovering it was awesome. This spot is a hidden gem. It's peaceful, beautiful, and full of nature. It offers a refreshing escape from the urban noise, and once you're walking the trails, you almost forget you're still in the city. The center features three hiking paths of varying lengths: a quarter mile, one mile, and two miles. So you can spend all the time you want hiking these trails. The trails are wide, well-maintained, and even handicap accessible. We only did the quarter mile and 1 mile and a light slope was probably the most we saw in terms of a challenge. What really surprised me was seeing several people hiking barefoot -- and now I get why! The trails are soft, covered in fallen leaves and dirt, with no sharp rocks or pebbles in sight. It feels very natural and grounding. Maybe I'll try that next time lol All in all, this place is a peaceful retreat tucked right into Long Beach, and I'm so glad I stumbled upon it. I'll definitely be back. read more

I have lived near Long Beach for years, and I never heard about this place. And I am angry because this place is an emerald safe-space that is not a lost treasure, I just never cared to find it. I guess what I am expressing is regret for not being the type of person that found peace and welcomed breadth when I was younger amongst the hidden spots that promised lushed green. When I was younger I was not into fitness. I am into fitness now so I seek spots that will allow me to get steps in, and this a spot allows me to get steps in amongst peace. But more on that later. For now, I am expressing lament and regret and allowing myself that I found this place when I was ready, to know its beauty and power, not a moment sooner. So I was never being lazy, or never letting myself down, I was simply doing the best I could with what I knew and I have to believe this because this is the best cure for the pang and pinch of regret. No one told me about this place, this what just a suggestion I found online. Should I go? Should I not? You are familiar with the tug. I don't want to go somewhere new cause it might not hit. But if a friend recommends it, then I can trust their wisdom cause a friend's opinion is a recommendation that carries personal nuanced. So I went, with hope of finding something great but also not really thinking about what would happen, which is disappointment lock and loaded. But I walked a little into the land, and new this place was more than great because almost immediately I encountered a puppet show involving an owl, a lake tranquil in movement, and the frame of greenery surrounding me like I was a portrait that needed carved and precious woodwork around me. And quite frankly I did. I am grateful that I discovered this place. I started my romp across the woods, and first walked through a bridge and saw turtles sunbathing, relaxing, existing in eternal peace because I cannot imagine what would disrupt their lounge? And, frankly, nothing should. Later as I was walking back to my car, I heard a guy explain to his family that's the big one I was talking about. Different people come for different reasons. I went by myself for a mindful stroll, families went there to spend a day and still found the turtles as a point of conversation. If you go with the group that is right for you, what thoughts will you imagine in regards to the turtles that sunbathe and lounge on a log within this sanctuary of peace? As I continued to walk, I did take time to accept peace, and practice it to find its meaning. Meaning, that I accepted my Bachelor's rose and knew I needed to honor the gift, by practicing its purpose, like learning to use throwing stars not to intimidate or hurt but to defend when necessary. I stoped amongst the trees that felt like a circle. I stood in the middle. I looked up and saw the sun shine, just enough, through the branches. It was a moment that centered my self amongst the quiet joy of the place. I opened my arms, took deep breadth, remembered the lessons that I should practice and ask the wild, the light, the breeze, to support my decisions so I can honor who I am meant to be, a version of myself that can only be described as best for me and the world. The place had branch framed tunnels, benches near ponds, and other spaces that would allow for reflection and meditation, in the name of securing peace. But like I said, peace is not simply found, it is welcomed when it is found, by intent, and nurtured through action so its impact becomes a daily practice. As I continued to walk, I found two other guests, Luis and Angeles. We had a conversation and we agreed to be grateful to this proverbial oasis that pulls you out of city vibes and helps you know a break for the turbulence of urban sprawl though birds that chirp, creeks that babble and soil that grounds. Angeles invited me to walk barefoot. My immediate reaction was, girl, you cray! But then I thought, I should give it a try and learn from experience. So I walked barefoot and the land fed my soul and my feet gave the land purpose. I did not feel in danger, I did not feel like my feet were going to be impaled by wood from trees or broken glass from a bottle of a teen who snuck in. I engaged with the task that I was invited to feel, and it was different and safe but not for me. I realized that I got to expressive, so I will say if you want to get step ins or need just an escape to nature when you cant afford a trip to the Amazon, this place is solid and somewhere that is for all. Oh, also I saw a person who rode the trails on a motorized wheelchair so it might be accessible. It had no peaks or valleys to climb and traverse. This place will be added to my garden rotation, for sure. read more

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This place is amazing. Great place in Long Beach. It's so beautiful and relaxing. Wonderful trails. read more

El Dorado Nature Center - Parks Near Me - Long Beach, California

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We walk this place all the time. Its perfect. I wish there were more interest in planning more of these kinds of parks instead of mass apartment buildings....its so relaxing taking a healthy hike around gorgeous nature. Beautiful! read more

Today it's 8.00 cash or card to come in. We really enjoy coming for a stroll. With pavement areas and non paved. Really enjoy a little nature close to home. read more

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Beautiful place with many options of trails for shorter and longer walks. Nice to see turtles and ducks in coexistence. The trees are tall and overhang to provide shade on hot So Cal days. read more

If you want a mini getaway in nature, this is the spot. 3/4, 1 mile and 2 mile trail options to enjoy with markers throughout to guide you and show you the nearby flora & fauna. A great spot for elders, families with strollers, kids, and just about anyone. Very accessible trails with a ton of benches and sitting spots. We came on a Sunday right before closing and it was still pretty packed. Can't imagine what it'd be like in peak season. I'd totally go back for the smell of trees everywhere. Logistics: -Parking $8 -No Dogs -No food -No celebratory photography read more

A great place to take your group for a wilderness walk! We use this location often for our scout groups and it's always a good time and loved by the kids. There's plenty to see and explore, and it's within a half mile of the group camp sites so we can combine it with a hike for the smaller ones and make a day of it. read more

El Dorado Nature Center - Parks Near Me - Long Beach, California

El Dorado Nature Center is such a nice place for hiking and light photography. There is a variety of plants, animals, and even an interactive area to look at insects close up, touch real animal fur, and listen to recordings of animal sounds that you may interact with at El Dorado. Near the entrance, there's also a Free Library / Exchange. Education also doesn't stop there because once you enter there's a sign describing the timeline for the decomposition of familiar items. My favorite part about El Dorado Nature Center was the option to whether choose a 1-mile or 2-mile trail. Additionally, parking close to the site was easy. On the way back to the car, there was even a squirrel nibbling on a pine cone. What a sight! Recommended: Not sure if there's a list of all easier to find animals / plants, but it'd be fun for the kiddos to have a scavenger hunt to see if they can photograph everything on their visit! read more

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It's been years since I was here. They sell an annual pass. There are scenic trails, the one mile and the two miles. There was only one incline. The turtles were on a wooden structure in the water. Friendly squirrels come up next to you and hope to get a treat, although it isn't allowed. Most of the trail was shaded, so it is a very pleasant experience. read more

Great neighborhood park for hikes. There is a larger park on the other side for picnics, bike rides etc. $6 vehicle entry. read more

El Dorado Nature Center - Parks Near Me - Long Beach, California

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what a cute little hiking spot! so many options in trails and so much wildlife, you can truly feel the crisp fresh air! their center with all the displays is so fun for little kids & the staff is super duper friendly read more

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Cute nature center, good for family and friends. You can get a good amount of steps for a couple miles walked here. Lots of greenery and shade. The pond or mini lake is my favorite with lots of turtles. read more

Entrance to the El Dorado Regional Park is free, but there is a fee to park your vehicle. However, they offer annual passes to seniors, disabled citizens, and veterans. Spread over nearly 100 acres of land, El Dorado Regional Park preserves over 150 species of wildlife species and plants. It's a hidden sanctuary where you can easily spot turtles sunbathing on an island and squirrels that aren't afraid to approach you. I think they have been conditioned to believe that we have food for them, so they're not afraid of us. The Nature Center has several paved trails that are perfect for a leisurely stroll. I came here after lunch with a family and their kid, and it was exactly what the kid needed to blow off some energy before his nap. Once you're on the trail, you forget about the busy urban scene. I have to say that there was a sense of tranquility in my walk, surrounded by lush plants and trees, tiny creeks, and lakes in the park. We initially did a quarter-mile loop and found it too short, so we did another half-mile loop. Overall, it was time well spent. If you have a bicycle, you can park your vehicle at El Dorado Park and bike your way inside for free. Just make sure to carry a bike lock. read more

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Time to see spring wild flowers. Emerge myself with the city forest. Easy trail of 1 mile and dirt 2 miles. Once I cross the 1st bridge, im entering the enchanted forest full of Ca natural wonders. A restroom is inside the natire center center. read more

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Affordable local spot to feel like you've gotten away from the city to a more secluded area. The hiking trails are easy and family-friendly, and if it's not crowded it's nice and quiet. Some areas are pretty exposed, but a lot of the trail is shaded. The downsides I've experienced: parking can fill up quick on a weekend or holiday, and the trails sometimes get closed down after a rainy day. There's a small exhibit and gift shop near the front of the park that are good for kids. It's nice that they have some interactive stuff (pictured: my toddler especially enjoyed the puppet show area). Workers are friendly. The only thing missing there is some indoor seating. read more

El Dorado Nature Center - Saw a hawk try to catch a fish here, it was pretty sick - Parks Near Me - Long Beach, California

The park itself was nice. I'm a wildlife photographer and was visiting from Hawai'i. I carried a fairly large backpack with my camera inside. After a nice walk along the entire 2 miles, I sat quietly minding my own business on a bench outside of the Nature Center to wait for my Uber to arrive. One of the volunteers came up to me and asked if I had any food. I thought this was a strange question, as I had snacks inside but had not eaten them as I saw signs posted near the entrance saying food and drinks were prohibited along the trail. I told him I had some snacks stored inside my backpack and he directed me towards another park with a picnic area as if to shoo me away to go eat somewhere else. I explained I wasn't planning to eat anything and also told him I had a camera stored inside my bag as I do wildlife photography. Then he lectured me about how portrait (posed) photography was also prohibited inside the park. I explained I wasn't doing any human portraits and simply looking for birds to photograph. Then he goes on to tell me how it was a terrible day for bird photography because it was cloudy. WTF? I got the feeling he just didn't want me there for some reason. That was strange! read more

I used to walk here regularly when I lived nearby bc I had the annual pass. Now that I live further away, I haven't had the chance to visit as often as I like to but fortunately, I was in the area & I stopped by today to get my steps in. Weather was perfect today & I was able to capture scenic spots of the nature center & take photos. This is a hidden gem if you're looking to walk in nature with a shaded area & an easy stroll that runs close to 2 miles. You do have to pay for parking that costs $6 tues-fri, $7 on fri & $8 on weekends. read more

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A really special place for getting away from the city. Even though you're right near the 605 and spring street, it feels like a world away. The nature center is protected from any real landscaping or interference. There are leaves and sticks and rocks and the paths are rough, except for the 1/4 mile paved, accessible trail. You won't find bikes or pets or strollers (I've seen it, but not often). No picnics inside this area. The little nature center building has a couple hands on activities for kids, and grab a scavenger hunt little paper handout for fun. read more

So glad we have this place close by! Greatful for it each time I go. Untouched nature to recharge the batteries. read more

El Dorado Nature Center - Parks Near Me - Long Beach, California

This review is for the current art exhibit inside the Nature Center until the end of July- BLOOM, an Art Show by Rainbow Wang! Cute, nature-inspired watercolor paintings that evoke joy and nostalgia. Come check it out and bring home some original artwork to brighten your day! Plenty of parking! $8 per car on weekends, $7 on Friday, and $6 on weekdays. They're open 8:30am - 4:00pm Tuesdays - Sundays. After your visit to the art show, you can check out the gift shop or take a walk - they have 2 miles of dirt trails and a ¼ mile paved trail that winds around two lakes, a stream, and forested areas. Don't miss it!! read more

El Dorado Nature Center - Front of Rainbow Wang's business card - Parks Near Me - Long Beach, California

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Beautiful trail, perfect for a family outing or a cute date walk with your significant other. I suggest going early to avoid crowds. read more

El Dorado Nature Center - Parks Near Me - Long Beach, California

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