Between LA & Riverside Is A 14,000-Acre California State Park With Nearly 90 Miles Of Trails & Rolling-Hill Views

California has no shortage of breathtaking natural scenery. It is, after all, the best state for national park adventures for a reason. But you don't have to go to where all of the tourists go, like Yosemite or Redwood National Park. Instead, you can take advantage of some incredible state parks, such as Chino Hills State Park. 

Located in the city of Chino Hills, which is about 40 minutes east of LA and 40 minutes west of Riverside, this park spans roughly 14,000 acres. The main attraction? Miles of peaceful rolling hills, which you can explore on nearly 90 miles of trails weaving throughout the area. But if you're more into colorful scenery, visit during the spring, when wildflowers bloom and transform the landscape. 

Overall, whether you're looking to experience a different side of California's environment or just want a relaxing, uncrowded place to hike and camp, let's break down what makes Chino Hills State Park such a welcome treat. 

Although the rolling hills of Chino Hills State Park are lovely no matter when you visit, they're far more impressive during the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom. Between February and April, the park is more colorful than usual, so it may be best to plan your visit during this period. However, there is no guarantee that all of the flowers will bloom, so you'll want to check the park website ahead of time for updates. For example, 2026 wasn't a superbloom year, but that can change from one year to the next. But even if the hills aren't alive with vibrant colors, you can still spot clusters of wildflower blooms as you explore the park.

With nearly 90 miles of trails, most of them multi-use, it's easy to move around Chino Hills State Park on foot, on bike, or even on horseback. If you happen to bring your horse to the park, there are equestrian campsites as well if you want to spend a few days covering every mile. That said, the trails close after more than a quarter inch of rain, and the park closes during Red Flag Warnings, so still check the park's website for updates before heading out.

If you're looking for easy trails that don't require strenuous effort, the Discovery Trail next to the Discovery Center is ideal for all fitness levels and ages. Similarly, the Upper Aliso Canyon Trail is easy for children and elderly visitors alike, thanks to its flat terrain. For more of a challenge, though, try the South Ridge Trail, which takes you along the canyon and provides some incredible views of the surrounding area.

Ontario International Airport is about half an hour northeast of Chino Hills State Park. Alternatively, depending on where you're traveling from, you can fly into one of the most traveler-friendly airports in the U.S., Long Beach Airport. From there, it's only about an hour's drive northeast, and you'll pass by Anaheim, the vibrant city with theme parks, hiking trails, and family fun.

As we mentioned, camping is allowed at Chino Hills at the Rolling M. Ranch campground. However, the amenities are limited, so California State Parks designates it as a primitive campground. There are toilets, showers, and potable water available, but not electricity or other features like a dump site if you're visiting in an RV. Campfires and charcoal grills are prohibited, but you can cook on a gas stove. There are only 20 campsites, and you can reserve a site online or by phone. Alternatively, there are numerous hotels nearby if you prefer to have more modern accommodations.

The park opens daily at 8 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. in winter and 7 p.m. in summer. Summer hours begin on the first Sunday in April and run through September 30. The Discovery Visitor Center offers interactive exhibits and information about the park's ecosystem. It's open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays in winter and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in summer. Finally, when visiting, you must pay a parking fee of $10.