Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park in Tulare County, California is rich in resilience and pioneering spirit. It preserves the only town in U.S. history founded, financed, and governed by African Americans. Nestled amid the Central Valley plains, Allensworth invites visitors to explore restored buildings, reflect on cultural heritage, and camp under star-filled skies—all at the crossroads of history and community.
What Makes Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park Unique
Originating in 1908 under Col. Allen Allensworth’s leadership, the town supported the development of more than 300 families. It was a self-governed community with a school, church, library, and hotel. Recognized as a National Historic District and a State Historic Park established in 1976, it stands today as a testament to empowerment, community resilience, and the California Dream .
Top Activities & Amenities
Visitor Center & Museum Exhibits
The Visitor Center opens daily from 10 am to 4 pm. It features immersive exhibits, silent films, and interactive displays on African American heritage. These displays depict life in early 1900s Allensworth.
Historic Buildings & Self-Guided Tours
Explore restored structures—including the schoolhouse, Colonel Allensworth’s home, church, general store, and rare boxcars—via audio-enhanced tours. Free brochures and interpretive panels detail the town’s founding, decline, and restoration .
Guided Tours & Educational Programs
Guided tours are available by appointment. There are seasonal educational and cultural events. These events deepen understanding of Allensworth’s legacy and community significance.
Picnic Areas & Restrooms
Shady picnic tables under mature trees provide scenic lunch spots near the historic core. Vault and flush restrooms are conveniently located near the visitor center and picnic zones .
Camping & Group Camping
The campground is open year-round. It offers 15 sites, including two with RV hookups. Each site is equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and potable water. Flush toilets, hot showers, and a dump station are available onsite .
Drinking Water & Parking Lot
Free drinking water fill stations are located near campsites and picnic zones. A large paved lot accommodates cars, RVs, and limited tour buses, with EV charging nearby .
Bird Watching & Wildlife Viewing
The park’s Central Valley setting offers opportunities to see burrowing owls, San Joaquin kit foxes, and coyotes. You might also spot kestrels and various songbirds. These sightings are especially common along the picnic areas and open fields.
Educational Events & Special Celebrations
Annual festivals—including Black History Month and the Allensworth Festival—featuring reenactments, tours, music, and cultural workshops. Seasonal ranger-led events bring history and heritage to life .
Gift Shop
A small onsite gift shop offers books, local crafts, maps, and historic reproductions to commemorate your visit.
Visitor Tips
- Park open 9 am–sunset; Visitor Center runs 10 am–4 pm.
- No day-use fee; special events may require parking fees ($10–$75 per vehicle or bus) .
- Camping costs $20/night (dry) or $30/night with hookup; senior/disabled discounts apply .
- Pets are welcome in camp and picnic areas—leash required; not allowed in buildings.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and shade gear—a typical summer exceeds 100°F.
- Roads are narrow—RV drivers should watch for passing vehicles.
- No drones, artifact removal, or firearms on park grounds.
- Wide-brim hats and light clothing help with summer heat; check weather in winter for frost risk.
- Arrive early on event days; Amtrak stops by reservation for groups of 20+ .
- Download audio tour apps or pick up brochures at the Visitor Center for richer context.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Visit in April or October to beat the heat and enjoy vibrant spring blooms or crisp fall air. On event weekends, pause at the restored schoolhouse porch. Sip lemonade while imagining children walking the halls over a century ago. For a quiet moment, walk to the old library’s rear garden at dusk—listen for owls while the valley’s golden light fades—a hidden gem moment steeped in history and natural beauty.