Los Osos State Oaks Reserve
California Sanctuary Protects Acres of Beautiful Historic Trees
Apr 20, 2009
Los Osos is a sleepy little California beach town. It's difficult to imagine it as it was long ago, covered by forests of native oak trees. Fortunately, a small 90 acre portion of land has been preserved and allowed to remain undeveloped. It doesn't look like much from the road, but upon entering this truly magical place the senses can quickly become overwhelmed.
Despite three trails spanning only 1.5 miles, the park is remarkably diverse. One footpath makes a loop through through the bizarre outlines of grandfatherly oaks twisted into grotesque shapes. Another follows a small gurgling stream through the forest and the third wraps around the exterior in full sunlight, offering a beautiful view of the lush surrounding valley.
Oak Trees and other Native Plant Life
It's hard to look at anything but the oaks with their creepy fingers woven together in the canopy. Splotches of sunlight filter in through their boughs and form polka-dots on the floor. There are meadows covered in wildflowers-violet, crimson and soft white. A pleasant ocean zephyr hisses through the leaves and there is a hint of salt water in the air.
Along the stream the grass is the youngest color of green. Near the end of the stream trail there is small gorge that offers a wonderful photo opportunity of a majestic cottonwood shimmering in the breeze. Along the dusty sand trail, the sagebrush smells wonderful. Communities of scrub oak reflect the sun in their tough leaves like tiny mirrors.
Animals
A number of different bird species make their home in the park as well. A rustling near the trail may reveal a California quail scooting away. A dark flash in the sky could also be a hummingbird zipping along at top speed. Small mice and wood rats burrow in the underbrush and an attentive hiker will hear the humming of a beehive buried in the thick black trunk of a fallen oak.
Poison Oak
Visitors should be aware of the abundance of poison oak in the underbrush. It is prevalent in wooded areas with patches of sunlight. It is readily visible and there is a sign at the park entrance identifiyng the plant. However, the trails are well maintained and free of danger.
Park Information and Regulations
The park is open year-round for day use and camping. There is no entrance fee and no facilities. Camping, fires and dogs are prohibited.
How To Get There
From Highway 101 southbound, exit at Madonna Rd. and follow south for 0.2 miles until Los Osos Valley Road. Continue for approximately nine miles. The park is on the left side of the road just before the town of Los Osos.
Nearby Attractions and a Famous Hotel
The town of Los Osos is very close to San Luis Obispo, which is exactly in between San Francisco and Los Angeles. In addition to the natural beauty of the land travelers should check out the world-famous Madonna Inn and its vast number of themed rooms.
The nearby town of Morro Bay offers a spectacular view of Morro Rock at sunset and for those interested in good eats, the thursday night SLO Farmers Market is a must, with live entertainment, barbeque and a wide assortment of fresh produce.
 |
