If you’re headed down south, you’ll find the perfect stop in the middle of the Central Valley. There aren’t a lot of great options on I-5 to get out of the car and let the kids run a bit. But Lost Hills Park is the perfect stop for a mid-trip break!
In the middle of the Central Valley lies an off-the-beaten-path playground and recreation center amply named Lost Hills Park. This unexpected premiere facility could appear like a mirage in a sea of Central Valley’s barren agriculture landscape. If the tule fog is thick, one could easily drive by and miss this destination, located south of Monterey County off I-5 and State Route 46.
My husband loves the park so much he even joked, “Let’s have our son’s birthday party up here.” While I won’t ask my guests to drive two hours and 45 minutes for a birthday party, I will ask that you readers write down Lost Hills Park and make a note of this area that is not only a destination but also a location to note while road tripping in central California.
My family first discovered this park while driving down to southern California, as do many of our central coast families. Our routine route of driving south on the 101, cutting across State Highway 46, and then merging onto I-5 South is my husband’s preferred route to avoid the beach traffic of 101 South. Those who have driven on I-5 throughout California know there are not many options and choices to pull over and it is essential, especially for young children, to have the ability and means to exert their energy and release their wiggles before staying still in a car, especially on such a busy road as I-5. This is how Lost Hills Park became a stopover on every one of our trips through the Central Valley.
Recently renovated, Lost Hills Park has multiple play structures for different ages and abilities, including slides of various sizes and shapes, sound and music equipment, rock walls, and climbing contraptions. Spinning equipment and different swings are ideal for sensory-seeking children and a splash pad is open in the summer. Families can stretch their legs together playing basketball, walking the track, or playing on the soccer field. Picnic tables throughout the facility are ideal for meals and snacks that are prepacked, and there are fast food options down the street, as well as the El Toro Loco Mexican market directly across the park. For those traveling with pets, there are a plethora of paths and grassy areas to walk your animal.
Traveling to Lost Hills Park from the Monterey Peninsula is an adventure on its own, with opportunities to explore the shops, restaurants, and breweries in Paso Robles. Ravine Waterpark is a premiere family-friendly attraction just east of downtown and includes water attractions for all abilities and interests. Thrill-seekers will enjoy the twists and turns and fast water slides, while others may prefer the calmer waters of the lazy river and Tadpool kiddie pool. The “Highway 46 East Wine Trail” includes 21 wineries and lodgings that provide bed-and-breakfasts and RV resorts. At the end of State Highway 46, as it approaches I-5, Lost Hills Park is on the left.
Automobile enthusiasts will enjoy speedways in the Central Valley on I-5 within 30 minutes of Lost Hills Park. After playing and picnicking at the park, head south on I-5 for 14 miles to Buttonwillow Raceway Park. Car enthusiasts will be thrilled by the cars, motorcycles, karts, and performance driving clinics. The 498-acre facility includes three separate tracks, a go-kart track, and 43-space RV hook-ups with water and electricity. Venture another 15 minutes to Bakersfield to the oval speedway named Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway. This event space hosts events with trucks, motorcycles, sprint cars, and race cars, as well as demolition derbies.
An hour north on I-5 leads you to Harris Ranch Resort for an overnight stay or dining destination. Known for its steakhouse, Harris Ranch offers signature BBQ sauces, steak seasoning, wine, and IPAs.
From Harris Ranch, bask in the glory of the iconic Central California rolling hills, lined with oak trees, wildflowers, and cows. The scenic yet windy road connects its drivers to the 101 south of King City, allowing for a day hike at Pinnacles National Park before arriving back to the Monterey Peninsula.
For families on road trips in the Central Valley, Lost Hills Park provides an ideal stop, whether it is a few minutes to use the restroom and stretch one’s feet and play. Make it a stopover along the way or a longer visit for exploring the California Central Valley.
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