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Oak Woodland Trail (Dairy Creek)
🥾 Trail

Oak Woodland Trail (Dairy Creek)

San Luis Obispo
Dog Friendly
🥾 Hiking
📸 Scenic
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family
🦭 Wildlife

A gentle, ranger-maintained county trail winding through native oak woodland and grassland in the El Chorro / Dairy Creek area between SLO and Morro Bay.

The Oak Woodland Trail traces a peaceful route through native coast live oak groves and rolling grassland in the Dairy Creek area of El Chorro Regional Park, maintained by County Park Rangers and volunteers. With gentle grades and ample shade, it's one of the most approachable hikes in the county system — ideal for families, casual walkers, and birders looking to immerse in the inland oak-savanna landscape that defines SLO's backcountry. The trail connects to the broader Dairy Creek and Eagle Rock network, allowing for short loops or longer outings, and showcases seasonal wildflowers, oak-dependent wildlife, and views toward the surrounding morros. It's a quiet, restorative walk that captures the gentle, golden character of the county's interior.

🌟 Why Locals Love It

Shady, gentle, and uncrowded — a classic oak-woodland walk that's easy enough for the whole family and connects to bigger trails.

What to Expect

A gentle, shaded trail through oak woodland and grassland with wildflowers, birds, and morro views; connects to longer loops.

💡 Good to Know Before You Go

Access via El Chorro Regional Park / Dairy Creek (day-use fee). Family-friendly grades. Bring water in warm months.

📍 Local Tip

Pair the Oak Woodland Trail with Eagle Rock for a varied half-day loop through the El Chorro hills.

Best Time to Visit

Spring for wildflowers; cooler months for comfortable walking.

Notable Features

Native oak woodland
Gentle grades
Wildflowers
Ranger-maintained

Practical Info

El Chorro Regional Park, Highway 1, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Sunrise to sunset
Park at El Chorro Regional Park; day-use fee per vehicle.

Amenities

Parking
Trails
Restrooms
Verified Official Source
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