As another heat wave rolls through Southern California, families are once again scrambling for ways to cool off. The usual options come to mind first: crowded beaches, packed public pools, or a pricey day at a major water park. But there’s a quieter alternative that tends to fly under the radar, one with cold water, mountain views, and enough space to turn a simple day trip into a full weekend getaway.
Tucked in the foothills near Redlands, with the San Bernardino Mountains and Mount San Gorgonio rising in the background, Yucaipa Regional Park packs an unusual amount of variety into one spot: fishing lakes, a sandy swim lagoon, waterslides, and camping, all framed by sweeping mountain views.
🏖️ A sandy swim lagoon with waterslides
The park’s biggest draw in summer is its swim complex, featuring a one-acre swim lagoon surrounded by a white sandy beach, plus double-flume waterslides. The swim area is seasonal, open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, with daily hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and lifeguards on duty throughout.
Swim admission runs $15 per person on regular days and $20 per person on holidays, which now includes waterslide access. Kids under 3 years old swim free, and a family 4-pack is available for $55 on non-holiday days. Riders must be at least 48 inches tall to use the slides.
🌳 Picnics, camping, and more
Beyond the water, Yucaipa offers plenty of first-come, first-served picnic areas shaded by trees, complete with tables and barbecues, plus room to bring your own pop-up shelters. Three rentable cabanas with grills are also available at the swim complex.
For longer stays, the park includes two campgrounds with RV and group tent camping, both equipped with restrooms and showers. Camping reservations can be made up to one year in advance.
🎯 Key details
- 📍 Location: 33900 Oak Glen Road, Yucaipa, CA 92399
- 🚗 Park admission: $10/vehicle weekdays, $15 weekends, $20 holidays
- 🏊 Swim season: Memorial Day through Labor Day, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
- 💵 Swim admission: $15/person (non-holiday), $20/person (holiday), kids under 3 free
