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History
O’Neill Regional Park and much of Orange County owe a great part of their heritage to the ranching empires of the 1800’s. This park was once part of Rancho Trabuco, granted to Santiago Arguello in 1841 by the Mexican Governor Alvarado. The land eventually became the property of James Flood, a wealthy San Francisco businessman, and Richard O’Neill Sr., a former butcher and packing house owner. Both had immigrated to California during the gold rush. Flood and O’Neill were also co-owners of other lands including Rancho Santa Margarita y las Flores in San Diego county and Rancho Mission Viejo in Orange county. O’Neill worked the property into a successful ranching enterprise. Upon his death, the land was divided among his children. The family still owns a good portion of these ranch holdings today.
Today
What started as a 278 acre land donation in 1948, by the O’Neill family, O’Neill Regional Park today encompasses over 3,100 acres of lush shade trees and shrub covered hills. The park is a rare blend of oak/sycamore woodlands, grassy meadows, riparian, chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitats. Being located in the foothills, of the Santa Ana Mountains, provides O’Neill Park with fresh running streams and a variety of abundant wildlife. With the picnic facilities of an urban setting, and the recreational opportunities of a wilderness area, O’Neill Regional Park offers a unique day or night experience that’s close to home.
Recreation
Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding on miles of park trails. O’Neill Park is a great place to spend the day. Take a chance and enjoy the wildlife, bird watching, or a Spring hike to our abundant wildflowers. On a clear day, see the ocean from the West Area’s Vista Point, enjoy a long peaceful stroll along the Arroyo Trabuco trail, or check out our newly acquired land, Chiquita Ridge. Visit the Ranger Station at the park’s entrance for trail maps and information on these and nearby Holy Jim Falls!
Special Programs
O’Neill Park offers a wide array of special events and programs. From our campfire shows and weekend hikes, to special group and school tours. Or, if you have a desire to get involved in the park, inquire about our Volunteer programs. Become part of our team to preserve and protect the park and it’s resources. All program and event information can be obtained from the park office at (949) 858-9365.
Day Use
There are a variety of day use areas within the park. The Oak Grove offers plenty of shade, a turf area, and a playground for kids. The cool and relaxing Featherly Area stretches along Trabuco Creek, our seasonal waterway that flows from the mountains to the ocean. The mile long Mesa Area includes view points of beautiful Trabuco Canyon below. The West Area presents a great source of scenic wilderness trails. In each area facilities include picnic tables, BBQ’s, water faucets and restrooms.
Camping
Individual tent and RV camping is available year round along Trabuco Creek in our Main Campground. There are 90 sites to choose from, all on a first come, first served basis. Each campsite contains one picnic table, a BBQ, and fire ring. Water is located throughout the campground as well as in three Restroom buildings furnishing hot showers. As a family recreational area, we strongly enforce adult supervision of children and a maximum 15 day stay limit per month.
Group Camping
O’Neill Regional Park is a popular spot for overnight Group Camping. We have a wide range of sites available to accommodate groups of 15 to 300 people. Reservations are required at least 15 days in advance with a reservation fee of $10.00 for Youth Groups and a $25.00 fee for Adult Group Camping.
Rules to Remember
No alcohol or other intoxicants are allowed in the park.
No person under the age of 18 is permitted in the campground unless accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. Exception: Youth Group Camp - designated sponsor acceptable.
Dogs shall be on a 6 foot leash, maximum, at all times.
Park in designated parking areas only.
Wood gathering is prohibited, fires are to be contained within BBQ’s and fire rings only.
Firearms are not permitted within the park boundaries.
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