Mentryville Historic Park
Explore California's oil history at Mentryville, a preserved ghost town featuring the state's first commercial oil well.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Mentryville Historic Park
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore California's oil history at Mentryville, a preserved ghost town featuring the state's first commercial oil well.
"Fascinating, small piece of history. It’s so close to the urban side of town that makes it super accessible."
🚗 Parking & Access
Pay the $5 parking fee or park at the gate and enjoy a short walk in. 🚗
💧 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and picnic items as amenities are very limited. :water_wave: :apple:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.4 · 145 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
First Commercial Oil Well
Pico #4
See the historic site of California's first successful commercial oil well, a pivotal point in modern industrial history.
Ghost Town Ruins
Mentryville Historic Park
Wander through the preserved relics of a 19th-century oil town, including a barn and storage buildings.
Scenic Mountain Views
Trails surrounding the park
Enjoy picturesque vistas of the Santa Susanna Mountains and Santa Clarita Valley from the park's trails.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Ghost Town Vibe
Plan for Limited Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Access
Pay the $5 parking fee or park at the gate and enjoy a short walk in. 🚗
💧 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and picnic items as amenities are very limited. :water_wave: :apple:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the historic site and trails. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photography Ready
Capture the unique atmosphere of this historic ghost town and its surroundings. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Access
Pay the $5 parking fee or park at the gate and enjoy a short walk in. 🚗
💧 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and picnic items as amenities are very limited. :water_wave: :apple:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the historic site and trails. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photography Ready
Capture the unique atmosphere of this historic ghost town and its surroundings. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Explore the Trails
Hike or bike the Pico Service Road for more history and scenic views. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mentryville Historic Park is praised for its fascinating historical significance as the site of California's first commercial oil well and its charming ghost town atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained landscape and scenic mountain views, making it a great spot for a picnic or a hike. However, some note the limited amenities and the potential for future access issues due to nearby construction.
"$5 parking fee, port-a-potty, picnic tables. Structures boarded up, landscape maintained, wander at your own pace."
Linda Garcia
"I love abandoned places. This one is pretty cool because it has the first commercial oil well. It was owned by a company that is now called Standard Oil. This is basically where modern society started!"
Lennon Cihak
"Fascinating, small piece of history. It’s so close to the urban side of town that makes it super accessible. Great spot for a hike, for a picnic (few tables available) or to simply enjoy nature."
NJ Cruz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mentryville is located in Stevenson Ranch. Access is via a single-width road, which may become challenging during future construction. Parking is available for a fee, or you can park at the gate and walk in.
While not directly on a bus route, Pico Canyon Park in Stevenson Ranch, which is near Mentryville, is mentioned as being accessible by bus.
The road to Mentryville is a single-width road for about a mile to 1.5 miles from the main road. Future construction by Lennar may cause access issues.
Yes, the Pico Service Road is paved and suitable for biking, leading to historical sites and trails.
Yes, there is a $5 parking fee. Alternatively, you can park at the gate and walk in.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a $5 parking fee to access the park.
Mentryville is an open park, and visitors can wander at their own pace. Specific hours are not listed, but it's best visited during daylight.
No, advance booking is not required for Mentryville Historic Park. It's a public park accessible on a first-come, first-served basis.
The historic structures are generally unsafe to enter. Visitors are advised to explore the grounds and trails responsibly.
Yes, you can get a good sense of the history and scenery with a visit of 1-2 hours, especially if you focus on the main oil well site.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can see the ruins of an old oil town, including a barn and storage buildings, and the site of California's first commercial oil well, Pico #4.
No, the historic buildings are generally considered unsafe to enter. Visitors should admire them from the outside.
There are trails that lead through the mountains, offering views of the surrounding landscape. The Pico Service Road is also a nice path for walking or biking.
Absolutely! The abandoned structures, historical significance, and natural scenery make it a fantastic spot for photographers.
Yes, there are a few picnic tables available, making it a nice spot for a picnic lunch amidst historical surroundings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food services or restaurants within Mentryville Historic Park. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. There are picnic tables available.
The nearest dining options would be in Stevenson Ranch or Santa Clarita, which are a short drive away.
No, there is no cafe or snack bar at Mentryville Historic Park.
Pack sandwiches, snacks, and plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike or spend a few hours exploring.
📸 📸 Photography
The ghost town ruins, the historic oil well site, and the scenic mountain backdrops offer excellent photo opportunities.
Yes, Mentryville has been used for filming TV shows and movies, indicating its cinematic appeal.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and enhance the atmosphere of the abandoned structures.
There are no specific regulations mentioned regarding drone usage, but it's always best to check local park rules or FAA guidelines.
It's ideal for historical, architectural, landscape, and atmospheric photography due to its unique ghost town setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit