articles

Explore Oak Canyon Nature Center

January 19, 2017
My sister and I took our kids to Oak Canyon Nature Center and discovered a wonderful outdoor adventure perfect for all ages! There are fun bridges to cross and twisty trees to explore as you follow the numerous trails and paths along the stream. The kids finally settled into an area with a beautiful tree cover canopy and a fun "troll" bridge where they "fished" with fishing poles made from sticks and long grass. A trip to the Oak Canyon Nature Center is a perfect escape from the stress of the upcoming busy school year!

Welcome to Oak Canyon Nature Center

Oak Canyon Nature Center is a 58-acre natural park nestled in the Anaheim Hills.  A year-round stream meanders through the park.  Consisting of three adjoining canyons, four miles of hiking trails traverse one of the few remaining areas of oak woodland and coastal sage scrub in our region.  Native wildlife makes the canyon their home and is just waiting to be discovered.  Also located on site is the John J. Collier Interpretive Center, a small museum with live animal and regional natural history exhibits. 

The Nature Center is ideal for those who are just stepping into the wilderness for the first time or for those more experienced trekkers who are seeking a short hike.

The Nature Center also offers Birthday Parties and Day Camps! Sign up on the email list to receive more information.  Click Here: Oak Canyon Nature Center

Hours of Operation

Park grounds and trails are open sunrise to sunset, seven days a week
The Interpretive Center is open Saturdays, 10:00am-4:00pm.
Parking lot gates lock at 5:00pm

Entrance and Parking Fees

There is no fee required to enter or park at the nature center. However, a $2.00 donation is greatly appreciated!

Groups and Self-Guided Tours

Groups and classes must have reservations. Guided group tour information and packages can be found here . Please call at (714)998-8380 for more information.

Park Regulations

The Oak Canyon Nature Center has established operational guidelines which are designed to promote the conservation of the Nature Center's wildlife resources, as well as for the benefit and protection of park visitors. The guidelines include:

  • No pets, dogs, or horses
  • No collecting of natural objects
  • No bicycles or skateboards
  • No smoking, cooking, or flame of any kind
  • No alcohol
  • Picnicing is welcome in our picnic area only. Picnicing is prohibited inside the park
  • Stay on marked trails. Do not approach the stream or take shortcuts
  • “Take only memories, leave only footprints”

The Oak Canyon Nature Center grounds and trails are closed to the public when Red Flag Warnings and Flash Flood Warnings are issued for our area. Trails may also be closed due to heavy rain or high winds. It is recommended that you call (714)998-8380 during these times for current information.

ocnc@anaheim.net

Oak Canyon Nature Center
6700 E. Walnut Canyon Rd.
Anaheim, CA 92807