Fort Ord Dunes State Park

Fort Ord Dunes State Park is a protected coastal area spanning roughly 1,000 acres with about 6 miles (10 km) of beach along Monterey Bay. The landscape features rolling dunes, coastal bluffs, and a network of trails that wind through sand formations and natural vegetation.

The land served as a United States Army training base from the 1940s until 2000, when military operations ended. In 2009, it officially became a public park through a program that converted former military properties into accessible outdoor spaces.

The site now functions as a place where people gather to enjoy nature while learning about its military past and ecological importance. Interpretive signs throughout the grounds help visitors understand how the landscape has been repurposed for recreation and conservation.

The park is open during daylight hours and welcoming to walkers, cyclists, and hikers of various abilities. Wearing sturdy shoes is recommended since sandy terrain can be uneven, and staying on marked paths helps protect both you and the land.

The dunes serve as nesting habitat for rare bird species and other wildlife, which is why visitors must stay on trails to protect these sensitive ecosystems. This careful management allows animals to thrive in this coastal setting.

Location: Monterey County

Inception: 2009

Operator: California Department of Parks and Recreation

Website: https://parks.ca.gov/?page_id=580

GPS coordinates: 36.65440,-121.82200

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:41