Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is a nature reserve in San Diego County featuring meadows, forests, and streams across multiple elevation zones. The landscape supports different ecosystems, with the highest point at Cuyamaca Peak.

The property became a state park in 1933 when Ralph Dyar sold his land to California, opening his former summer residence to the public. This transition converted the area into a protected recreation space.

The territory holds evidence of Kumeyaay settlements dating back 7,000 years, followed by Spanish colonists and American settlers during the Southern California Gold Rush.

The park offers camping sites, hiking trails suited to different abilities, riding paths, and mountain biking routes throughout its grounds. A visitor center provides information and educational resources about the natural features and activities available.

The reserve supports a variety of wildlife including mammals, birds, reptiles, and arthropods across its different habitats. This biodiversity thrives because of the varying elevation zones and the park's protected conditions.