Wilder Ranch State Park is named after a rancher named James Wilder, who owned and operated a dairy farm on the property in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The park spans over 7,000 acres and features a variety of habitats, including grasslands, chaparral, and coastal scrub.

Activities

Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and horseback riding on the park’s many trails, as well as picnicking, birdwatching, viewing wildflowers and beach activities.

History/Museum

There are several historic buildings within the park, including the Wilder family farmhouse, which has been restored and converted into a museum showcasing the history of the ranch and the area. The park also includes several other historic buildings, including a blacksmith shop, a carpenter’s shop, and a dairy barn.

Additionally, the park offers educational programs and guided tours, as well as opportunities for camping and group activities. Overall, Wilder Ranch State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike, offering a unique glimpse into the natural and cultural history of the region.

Wildflowers

The park is located in California’s Santa Cruz County, and it encompasses more than 7,000 acres of coastal terrain, including grasslands, chaparral, and redwood forests. Here are some of the wildflowers you might find in the park:

  1. California poppies – These bright orange flowers are a common sight in the spring and early summer months.
  2. Lupines – There are several species of lupine that can be found in Wilder Ranch, including the silver lupine and the arroyo lupine.
  3. Paintbrush – This tall, colorful plant produces bright red or orange flowers in the spring and early summer.
  4. Mariposa lilies – These striking flowers have white petals with purple or blue markings and bloom in the late spring and early summer.
  5. Wild iris – This delicate flower blooms in shades of blue and purple in the spring.
  6. Sticky monkeyflower – This low-growing plant produces bright yellow or orange flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
  7. Yarrow – This plant produces clusters of small white or pink flowers in the summer.

These are just a few of the wildflowers you might encounter in Wilder Ranch State Park. The best time to see wildflowers in the park varies depending on the weather and other environmental factors, so it’s always a good idea to check with the park rangers for the latest information on bloom times and locations.

Address: 1401 Coast Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Phone: (831) 423-9703
Website: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=549