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Rocky Nook Park
updated: Jul 30, 2011, 9:30 AM
By Katie Rodman
Shaded by giant oaks and sycamore trees, the trails at Santa Barbara's Rocky Nook Park look like something right out of a fantasy movie. Just around the corner from the Mission, but somehow still tucked away into the Mission Canyon nature, this park shows off the tranquil, woodsy beauty that separates Santa Barbara from other coastal California towns. It is the perfect location for a low key afternoon with the family, a big barbeque bash, or a stroll through the lush 19-acre forest with a friend. Known for its serenity, the park is usually quiet and relaxing, and finding a free bench or picnic table is an easy feat.
To get there, follow Mission toward the mountains until it dead-ends, and then turn left. At the stop sign in front of the Mission, turn right and follow the road until you see the sign for Rocky Nook Park on your right. It is the 3rd right turn.
They have reserve-able group picnic areas. There are tons of places to sit and eat nestled between the trees for the average picnicker, but for large parties it is best to reserve a whole area. The fee is $90 for the 50 person area and $65 for the 25 person, but the extra huge barbeques and additional seating are well worth the fees. Even if you do not go for a big party, the non-reserve tables and barbeques are well taken care of and each area includes a trashcan. There are even horseshoe pits, but you have to bring your own horse shoes!
 Kids have not only a playground but tons of sandstone boulders and fallen tree trunks to climb on. The playground is a nice touch, but most kids get much more excited about climbing the giant rocks and trees. The entire park is littered with boulder piles to explore, and huge logs are everywhere waiting to test kids' balances. The entire park is actually a huge playground. The real playground keeps many kids entertained, and there are conveniently placed benches for the parents to keep an eye on their kids.
 Easy, scenic hiking and horse trail. Don't expect a work out, but the trails at Rocky Nook Park are great for a relaxing stroll. There is a very short loop that takes you back to the edge of the property, or you can choose to follow any of the tributary trails that make for a more scenic route. The horse trail is short but relatively well-maintained.
 Mission Creek runs straight through it. The best part about these trails is that they run along this beautiful creek bed. The stream is active all year long, so it is always a sight to see. The creek is great for artists attempting to capture its raw beauty and curious kids hoping to get their hands on a few tadpoles or splash in the water on a hot day.
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