DAY TRIP California Citrus State Historic Park

The California Citrus State Historic Park attempts to rekindle the magic of the centuries-long history of the citrus industry in California. Referring to a time when “citrus was king,” the park gives visitors the opportunity to tour 377 acres of citrus groves for a view that is depleting in the state.

The park is created to reflect a 1900s city park, featuring an activity center, interpretive structure, amphitheater, picnic area and demonstration groves. The Riverside location was chosen for the park due to the area’s abundance of citrus groves and its historical importance in the orange’s history.

Calling it the second Gold Rush, the state’s citrus industry first blossomed in 1876 when two navel orange trees were sent to Eliza Tibbets who was living in Riverside at the time. After planting the trees, they took off in near-perfect soil and weather conditions and produced a fruit that was argued to be superior to others being grown around the country.

Due to the easy production and quality product, those interested in starting a citrus business flocked to the area.

GETTING THERE

Take CA-55 north to CA-91 east toward Riverside. Exit Van Buren Boulevard/Arlington. Turn left at Indiana Avenue. Turn right at Van Buren Boulevard. Turn left at Dufferin Avenue.

To get to the park’s offices, instead exit Tyler Street from CA-91. Turn left at Victoria Avenue and right at Jackson Street. The office address is 1879 Jackson St., Riverside, CA.

HOURS

From October through March, the park is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; from April to September it is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. The visitor’s center is open Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

HISTORY

Citrus was first brought to California in the 1700s by Spanish missionaries who planted the Mediterranean-type orange trees at the missions. The fruit was popular and easy to grow, and thus succeeded as a business venture.

By the 1930s, fresh-squeezed orange juice was being sold roadside and had become a staple in the California economy.

TRAILS

The park offers two hiking trails for visitors. The Knoll Trail allows visitors to enjoy one section of the park, starting at the gazebo near the Sunkist Center. There is an accessible restroom and parking.

The Varietal Grove Trail gives guests the opportunity to travel through an urban orange grove, starting at the same point as the Knoll Trail.

SUNKIST CENTER

The Sunkist Center offers a number of public programs through its nonprofit organization. It has a kitchen area, which is accessible for visitors and parking.

The activity center is open for special events and has two interpretive structures, a picnic area and a demonstration grove.

— Daniel Tedford