Memorial Park Camping

History

Timber surrounding this area was logged in the late 1800's and early 1900's, both for redwood lumber and the bark of the tan oak tree. In fact, four small sawmill sites are either on or adjacent to the present park boundaries. Fortunately, many of the areas in the park were saved from the logger's saws and were eventually acquired by the County in 1924. The park was memorialized for for the men of San Mateo County who died in the First World War.

The Depression brought many to the area when Memorial Park was established as a project camp for the Work Projects Administration created by President Roosevelt. Many of the existing restrooms, roadways and picnic sites are the result of their efforts.

Trails

Over eight miles of hiking trails, including the Mt. Ellen Nature Trail (1 mile), lead the visitor through a changing panorama of habitats from Pescadero Creek, through the woods and to the summit of Mt Ellen (elevation 600 feet). The self-guided Mt. Ellen Nature Trail offers a short and easy interpretive loop through the park's northern area.

The other trails are: Mt Ellen Summit Trail (1.6 miles), Homestead Trail (.9 mile), Creek Trail (.75 miles), Tan Oak Whole Access Nature Trail (.4 mile), Wurr Trail (.5 mile), Pomponio Trail (3 miles), and Sequoia Trail (.7 mile). A wonderful panoramic view can be seen from the westerly loop of the Pomponio Trail (elevation 995 feet).

It is always required that one stay on the marked trails, particularly in the open meadow and grassland areas where endangered plants and animals may exist. Please respect your fellow trail users and follow the guidelines for safe and courteous trail use.