Ralph B. Clark Regional Park
A sprawling 100+ acre park with playgrounds, a lake, trails, and an interpretive center, perfect for recreation and relaxation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Ralph B. Clark Regional Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling 100+ acre park with playgrounds, a lake, trails, and an interpretive center, perfect for recreation and relaxation.
"This park truly has something for everyone, whether you want to be active or just unwind. A real gem!"
🚗 Secure Your Car
Beware of street parking; car break-ins happen. Park inside the lot ($5 weekends) or get an OC Parks pass.
👟 Trail Ready
Wear comfortable shoes for the 1.5-mile perimeter trail and other walking paths.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Interpretive Center
Main Building
Discover fascinating skeletal exhibits and learn about local history and paleontology. Educational and fun for all ages!
Perimeter Trail
Around the park
A scenic 1.5-mile loop offering peaceful strolls, lake views, and potential wildflower sightings in spring.
Playgrounds & Lake
Central areas
Well-maintained playgrounds for kids and a tranquil lake with ducks and squirrels, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Smarts
Best Footwear & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Secure Your Car
Beware of street parking; car break-ins happen. Park inside the lot ($5 weekends) or get an OC Parks pass.
👟 Trail Ready
Wear comfortable shoes for the 1.5-mile perimeter trail and other walking paths.
🌸 Spring Wildflower Hunt
Visit in spring to catch blooming wildflowers, especially along the perimeter trail.
🎣 Fishing Fun
The park's lake is a spot for fishing; bring your gear for a relaxing day.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Secure Your Car
Beware of street parking; car break-ins happen. Park inside the lot ($5 weekends) or get an OC Parks pass.
👟 Trail Ready
Wear comfortable shoes for the 1.5-mile perimeter trail and other walking paths.
🌸 Spring Wildflower Hunt
Visit in spring to catch blooming wildflowers, especially along the perimeter trail.
🎣 Fishing Fun
The park's lake is a spot for fishing; bring your gear for a relaxing day.
🏛️ Museum Visit
Check the Interpretive Center's hours (Wed-Sat) for fascinating skeletal exhibits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Ralph B. Clark Regional Park's beautiful maintenance, cleanliness, and peaceful atmosphere, highlighting its diverse amenities for everyone from families to fitness enthusiasts. While the park offers a great escape with its trails, lake, and playgrounds, some visitors have unfortunately experienced car break-ins, emphasizing the need for parking caution.
"I absolutely loved this park! 🌳 It’s beautifully maintained, very clean, and surrounded by tall trees that make the atmosphere so peaceful and refreshing. There’s plenty of space for everything… walking, jogging, fishing, or just sitting back and relaxing. I took a nap while my son was fishing, it was great!! Also the playground is big and well-kept. Sports lovers will appreciate the baseball fields and tennis courts, I think you can also play pickle ball there… and there are open areas ideal for picnics or simply enjoying the outdoors. Whether you want to be active or just unwind, this park truly has something for everyone. A real gem! I loved it🥰"
Julissa M
"Gorgeous park, lush grass, a 1mile loop around the perimeter of the park. Functioning restrooms, several playgrounds and tennis courts. There is another trail loop across the street just south of the baseball parks that overlooks the LA skyline. BEWARE OF PARKING ON THE STREET. Do not leave items visible in your car especially around dusk (my car got broken into before 😢) I would suggest parking inside and paying or getting the OC park pass $55/year it’s totally worth it 😊."
Adriane Curran
"Ralph B. Clark Park is one of my absolute favorite parks! It’s a beautiful, peaceful area with so much to do. There are lots of trees, open grassy areas, a lake, playgrounds, baseball fields, and tennis courts, something for everyone. It’s also safe for kids to ride bikes, which is a huge plus for families.
The hiking trails are a great way to explore nature, and the views are amazing, especially around sunset. There’s even a small museum that adds a fun educational touch to your visit. Perfect spot for relaxing, playing, or just enjoying the outdoors. Highly recommend:)"
Corinna L. Szilagyí
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ralph B. Clark Regional Park is located at 8800 Rosecrans Ave, Buena Park, CA 90621. It's easily accessible by car, with major freeways like the 91 and 57 nearby, making it convenient for travel within Orange County and to Los Angeles.
Yes, there is designated parking within the park. Weekday parking is $3, and weekend parking is $5. Street parking is also available but be cautious about leaving valuables in your car.
Information on direct public transportation routes to Ralph B. Clark Regional Park is limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for the most convenient access.
The park is well-marked and situated on Rosecrans Avenue in Buena Park, making it relatively easy to locate. GPS navigation is recommended for precise directions.
The park is close to other recreational areas like the Fullerton Loop Trail for biking and hiking. It's also within a reasonable driving distance to various shopping and dining options in Buena Park and surrounding cities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no general entrance fee to access the park grounds. However, there is a parking fee of $3 on weekdays and $5 on weekends.
The park itself is generally open from sunrise to sunset. The Interpretive Center has specific hours: Wednesdays from 12 PM to 4 PM, and Thursdays through Saturdays from 10 AM to 2 PM.
Tickets are not required for general park entry. If you plan to reserve a picnic site or facility for a special event, advance booking is recommended.
Yes, an OC Parks pass is available for $55 per year, which can be a cost-effective option for those who visit the park or other OC parks regularly.
The park generally offers accessible pathways and facilities, including restrooms and picnic areas. Specific accessibility details can be confirmed with park management.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking on trails, playing at the playgrounds, fishing in the lake, picnicking, barbecuing, playing tennis, and exploring the Interpretive Center.
Yes, the park features several well-maintained playgrounds suitable for toddlers and older children.
Fishing is permitted in the lake at Ralph B. Clark Regional Park. Make sure to check local fishing regulations.
Absolutely! There's a 1.5-mile perimeter trail around the park, and another trail across the street offers views of the LA skyline.
Yes, Ralph B. Clark Regional Park is dog-friendly, but always ensure your pet is on a leash and clean up after them.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The park offers numerous picnic tables and BBQ grills, making it ideal for bringing your own food. There are no on-site restaurants, so packing a picnic is the way to go.
Yes, the park is well-equipped for picnics and barbecues with plenty of tables and grills available. Reserving a site in advance is recommended for larger gatherings.
Typically, there are no permanent food vendors or concessions within the park. It's best to bring all your food and drinks.
Given the picnic and BBQ facilities, classic park fare like sandwiches, grilled items, salads, and snacks are popular choices. Many families also bring desserts and refreshing drinks.
While there are no vendors inside the park, you can find grocery stores and convenience stores in the surrounding Buena Park area to stock up before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake area, the Interpretive Center's exterior, the walking trails with natural scenery, and the playgrounds offer great photo opportunities. The wildflowers in spring are particularly photogenic.
Yes, with its beautiful natural setting, open fields, and playgrounds, it's an excellent location for casual family photos. The variety of backdrops ensures diverse shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in most regional parks to ensure safety and the enjoyment of other visitors. It's advisable to check with OC Parks for specific regulations regarding drones.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. Golden hour around sunset is particularly beautiful.
The park's lake with ducks, the skeletal exhibits at the Interpretive Center, and the seasonal wildflowers provide unique subjects for photography. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With numerous picnic tables and BBQ grills, it's perfect for family gatherings and birthday parties. Don't miss the Interpretive Center for a fun educational element that kids often find fascinating with its skeletal exhibits.
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
Consider an OC Parks pass if you plan to visit frequently for your workouts.🌳 Nature Lovers & Photographers
The Interpretive Center also provides a unique subject for photography with its exhibits. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
For those seeking a bit more elevation and different vistas, there's an additional trail located across the street, south of the baseball fields. This trail offers views that can even extend to the Los Angeles skyline on a clear day. These trails are great for getting some exercise and enjoying the outdoors. While not overly challenging, they provide a pleasant way to explore the park's natural beauty. Many visitors appreciate these paths for their peaceful atmosphere, especially during quieter times of the day.
During the spring, the trails, particularly the perimeter loop, can be a fantastic spot to catch blooming wildflowers, adding an extra layer of beauty to your walk.
The park's natural setting also makes it a good place to spot local wildlife, such as squirrels and ducks around the lake. The Interpretive Center: A Touch of History
The Interpretive Center has undergone renovations and has specific operating hours, typically open Wednesdays from 12 PM to 4 PM and Thursdays through Saturdays from 10 AM to 2 PM.
It's worth checking the current schedule before your visit to ensure you can experience this educational aspect of the park. The center adds a layer of depth to the park, making it more than just a recreational space but also a place for learning and discovery. This historical and educational component makes Ralph B. Clark Regional Park stand out. It's a great addition for families looking for activities that combine outdoor fun with learning opportunities. The exhibits provide a glimpse into the region's past and natural heritage, enriching the overall park experience.
Family Fun and Amenities
Beyond the playgrounds, the park is equipped with numerous picnic tables and BBQ grills, making it an ideal spot for family reunions, birthday parties, or casual weekend outings.
For those interested in sports, the park features baseball fields and tennis courts, catering to a variety of athletic interests.
The combination of recreational facilities, natural beauty, and family-friendly atmosphere makes Ralph B. Clark Regional Park a highly recommended destination for a day out with loved ones. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit