SPOTLIGHT: CASPERS WILDERNESS PARK
Address: 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano
Phone number: (714) 728-0235
Features: Opportunities for a variety of primitive activities: camping, picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, photography, nature study and astronomy.
Facilities: Campgrounds, restrooms and showers, an equestrian campground, hiking and equestrian trails and a visitor center.
Description: This 7,600-acre county-run park is a protected wilderness preserve situated in the river terraces and sandstone canyons of the western coastal Santa Ana Mountains. Animal life is abundant (notoriously so--the park is the site of two recent mountain lion attacks) and plant life includes stands of coastal live oak and California sycamore, along with seasonal wildflower displays.
Admission: Camping in the park is restricted to adults, 18 years and older. Campsites are $7 a night ($3.50 for those over 60). The park is also open for day use daily from 7 a.m. to sunset. Entry fee is $1.25 per vehicle. Call the park for rules and regulations.
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