Rio de Los Angeles State Park, State recreation area in Glassell Park, Los Angeles, US.
Rio de Los Angeles State Park is a recreation area with 247 acres of restored wetlands stretching along the Los Angeles River. The grounds include sports fields, children's playgrounds, picnic areas, and trails designed for walking, jogging, and cycling.
The site was once Taylor Yard, a freight facility operated by Union Pacific and Southern Pacific railroads starting in the 1920s. After closing in 1985, the industrial land was transformed into a park with restored natural wetlands.
The park serves as a gathering place where neighbors often spend weekends together along the river trails and open fields. Local groups run education programs that help city residents learn about native plants and local wildlife.
The park is easy to explore on foot, by bike, or while jogging with several entry points and parking areas available. Bring water and sun protection as the open fields offer limited shade and exposure to direct sunlight can be intense.
The site supports more than 150 bird species and serves as a refuge for local wildlife within the urban sprawl of the city. This variety makes it a notable spot for watching birds and encountering animals in an urban setting.
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