Irvine Regional Park: A Hidden Gem in Orange County
Nestled in the foothills of Orange, Irvine Regional Park is one of Orange County's most beloved outdoor destinations. Whether you're looking for scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, a kid-friendly zoo, or stunning seasonal events, this park has something for everyone.
With expansive green spaces, historic oak trees, and a tranquil lake, Irvine Regional Park is the perfect place for family outings, nature lovers, and even photoshoots. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about visiting the park—from things to do, best times to visit, and special attractions.
Top Things to Do at Irvine Regional Park
Whether you’re visiting with kids, friends, or solo, there’s no shortage of activities at Irvine Regional Park.
1. Ride the Irvine Park Railroad 🚂
One of the most popular attractions is the Irvine Park Railroad, a 1/3-scale train that takes visitors on a scenic 12-minute ride through the park’s stunning landscape. This ride is a hit with young children and a great way to see the park from a new perspective.
💡 Tip: Visit during the fall or winter to experience seasonal train rides, including the Pumpkin Patch Train and Christmas Train.
2. Explore the Orange County Zoo 🦉
Located within Irvine Regional Park, the Orange County Zoo is a small but charming attraction featuring rescued and rehabilitated animals native to California. Some of the zoo’s highlights include:
✔ Mountain lions & black bears
✔ Bald eagles & hawks
✔ Coyotes, bobcats & foxes
✔ Petting zoo with goats & sheep
💡 Tip: The zoo is small and easy to explore in about an hour, making it perfect for young kids.
3. Go Hiking or Biking on Scenic Trails 🚶♀️🚴
Irvine Regional Park offers several scenic trails suitable for all skill levels, including easy walking loops and moderate hikes. Popular trails include:
✔ Horseshoe Loop Trail (2 miles) – Easy, shaded trail through oak woodlands ( I love to do this one with my toddler )
✔ Roadrunner Loop Trail (1.7 miles) – Moderate trail with slight elevation gain
✔ Irvine Park to Santiago Oaks (3+ miles) – Connects to Santiago Oaks Regional Park for a longer adventure
💡 Tip: If you love mountain biking, you can ride the Santiago Creek Trail for a more thrilling experience.
4. Rent a Paddle Boat on the Lake 🚣♂️
For a relaxing experience, rent a paddle boat or tandem bike near the lake. It’s a great way to enjoy the peaceful water views and spot ducks and turtles. Rentals include:
✔ Single & double paddle boats
✔ Tandem bikes & surreys
💡 Tip: Paddle boat rentals are available daily, but weekends get busy—arrive early!
🔗 Boat & Bike Rentals
5. Plan a Picnic or BBQ Under the Oak Trees 🍽
Irvine Regional Park has multiple shaded picnic areas equipped with tables, BBQ grills, and open space for games. Some key spots include:
✔ Picnic Area 1: Near the lake with beautiful water views
✔ Picnic Area 4: Larger area perfect for group gatherings & birthday parties
✔ Picnic Area 17: Close to hiking trails with a more secluded feel
💡 Tip: You can reserve picnic areas in advance for larger gatherings!
🔗 Park Reservations
6. Schedule a Photoshoot
One of the most stunning locations for photography in Orange County, Irvine Regional Park offers a variety of gorgeous backdrops for family portraits, maternity sessions, engagement photos, and more. With its:
✔ Majestic oak trees providing dreamy golden-hour lighting
✔ Tranquil lake and lush green fields for scenic landscapes
✔ Rustic wooden fences and bridges for timeless photos
It's no wonder photographers love this park for capturing authentic, natural moments.
💡 Tip: If you're planning a professional photoshoot, arrive during golden hour (1 hour before sunset) for the best lighting.
➡ Interested in booking a session? Check out my family photography services!
Best Time to Visit Irvine Regional Park
Irvine Regional Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do:
🌸 Spring: Best for wildflowers, mild weather, and fewer crowds.
☀️ Summer: Great for early morning hikes & shaded picnics—but can get hot!
🍁 Fall: Best for pumpkin patches, fall foliage & family-friendly events.
🎄 Winter: Great for holiday train rides, crisp air & smaller crowds.
💡 Tip: Weekends and holidays can get crowded—for a quieter visit, go early in the morning or on weekdays.
Seasonal Events at Irvine Regional Park 🎉
Irvine Regional Park is known for its exciting seasonal events that draw families year after year:
🎃 Irvine Park Pumpkin Patch (Sept - Oct) – Pick pumpkins, ride trains, and enjoy fall-themed games.
🎅 Christmas Train (Dec) – Meet Santa, ride the holiday train, and see festive lights.
🥚 Easter Eggstravaganza (Spring) – Easter egg hunts, face painting & spring activities.
💡 Tip: These events sell out fast, so check dates and book tickets early!
🔗 See Upcoming Events
History of Irvine Regional Park
Established in 1897, Irvine Regional Park is California’s first county park, spanning 491 acres of preserved natural beauty. The land was originally part of James Irvine’s massive ranch, later donated for public use. Today, it serves as a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to escape the city without traveling too far.
The park’s rich history is evident in its century-old oak trees, historic buildings, and long-standing equestrian trails. It remains a treasured part of Orange County's outdoor recreation scene, attracting families, hikers, and nature enthusiasts alike.
Photography & Scenic Spots at Irvine Regional Park 📸
With its rolling hills, historic trees, and golden sunlight, Irvine Regional Park is a favorite spot for family photoshoots, maternity sessions, and engagement photos. Some of the best photo locations include:
✔ The Oak Tree Grove – Stunning golden-hour light & rustic vibes
✔ The Lake – Tranquil water reflections & beautiful backdrops
✔ The Open Fields – Perfect for wide-angle family shots with natural landscapes
💡 Want to capture memories here? Check out my family photography and maternity photography pages for inspiration!
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Irvine Regional Park
If you’re looking for a beautiful, family-friendly park in Orange County, Irvine Regional Park is a must-visit. With its scenic trails, zoo, paddle boats, train rides, and seasonal events, it’s the perfect destination for families, nature lovers, and photographers alike.
📍 Location: 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA
🕒 Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (hours vary by season)
💲 Entrance Fee: $3-$7 per vehicle
➡ Plan your visit & check out more details on the OC Parks website.
💬 Have you been to Irvine Regional Park? What’s your favorite thing to do there? Let me know in the comments! 🚶♀️🌳🎡