Welcome to Wilder Ranch State Park in Santa Cruz, California. It is a sweeping coastal preserve. This place is where dairy-era history meets dramatic bluffs, redwood forests, and miles of wild trails.
What Makes This Park Unique
Spread across 7,000 acres of diverse terrain, Wilder Ranch State Park unfolds from cresting terraces atop Ben Lomond Mountain down marshlands and shoreline. Once a thriving 19th-century dairy operation powered by water, this living museum offers both historical immersion—in Victorian homes, a water-powered machine shop, barns, rodeo arena and farm animals—and outdoor adventure, with 33–35 miles of multi-use trails through redwoods, meadows, and coastal bluffs.
Top Activities and Amenities
State Park
Operated by California State Parks, Wilder Ranch preserves not only natural landscapes but also a cultural legacy. This includes restored ranch structures and living history programs that bring its dairy heritage to life.
Hiking Trails
Over 33 miles of trails invite exploration from serene forested valleys to expansive coastal bluff paths, offering sweeping ocean views and varied ecosystems.
Equestrian Trails
Horses are welcome on most unpaved roads and trails—except those along the ocean side of Highway 1—with dedicated staging and six first-come, first-served horse-camping sites available near Dimeo Lane.
Picnic Areas
The front lawn of the cultural preserve, shaded and scenic, is ideal for a picnic break—especially after historic tours or a farm visit.
Historic Buildings
The park features an 1897 Victorian home, a Gothic-Revival farmhouse from 1859, a water-powered machine shop from 1896, the Bolcoff adobe, barns, and a rodeo arena—all restored and interpreted.
Interpretive Exhibits
Many of the historic buildings offer exhibits and panels sharing the stories of Ohlone heritage, rancho days, and the Wilder dairy innovation era.
Guided Tours
Free ranch tours are offered weekends at 1 p.m., led by docents in period attire, covering building interiors, machinery, and farm life demonstrations.
Wildlife Viewing
From coastal bluffs you may spot migrating whales, pelicans, and marine birds. Inland, watch for marsh wildlife and forest fauna along shaded trails.
Beach Access
While not a traditional beach destination, trails descend to pocket beaches and tide-pounded bluffs—great for quiet coastal walks and nature viewing.
Restrooms & Parking Lot
Accessible restrooms and ample parking are available at the main lot. The Visitor Center and temporary ParkStore currently operate from the Meder House due to recent flooding.
Visitor Center
A mini-Visitor Center in the restored Meder House provides exhibits, maps, and volunteer-staffed orientation while the main facility is under repair.
Biking Trails
Bicycles are welcome on trails and roads (not the historic complex, where bikes must be walked). A 15 mph limit and etiquette guidelines keep all trail users safe.
Group Camping Area
No traditional group camping or overnight public camping is available—only horse-camping for equestrians.
Environmental Education Programs
The park offers school group programs, cultural tours, and living history demos that bring ranch history and environmental awareness to life.
Birdwatching
With varied habitats including marshes and forests, birdwatchers will enjoy opportunities to observe both coastal and upland species along trails and preserve areas.
Fishing Access
There’s no formal fishing access within the park, though coastal views may tempt anglers exploring adjacent public beaches beyond park borders.
Whale Watching
Whales migrating along the coast are often visible from coastal trails, especially during winter and spring migrations.
Practical Visitor Tips
- Fees: Vehicle day-use fee is generally $10 (reduced to $9 for seniors). Various California State Parks passes are accepted.
- Hours: Open daily 8 a.m. to sunset. Mini-Visitor Center hours vary.
- Dogs: Not allowed except for service animals.
- Reservations: None required—tour and horse-camping access is first-come.
- Accessibility: Main parking and restrooms are accessible. Historic buildings may require assistance; visitor staff can help.
- Trail Etiquette: Bicycles yield to horses and hikers; walk bikes through historic area, and obey speed limits.
- Weather: Coastal fog and breezes are common—layered clothing is wise.
- Recent Flooding: The main Visitor Center and store are closed due to flooding; check current operations before visiting.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Time your visit for a weekend afternoon to catch both historic ranch tours and a coastal bluff hike in one day—just pack a picnic to enjoy on the butter-yellow lawn afterward. In late spring, the bluffs bloom with wildflowers and whales stream offshore—a serene scene best experienced from the East Bluff Trail. Afterwards, stop in Davenport for a local art gallery or cafe to complete your coastal escape from park to shore.