Rocky Nook Park
Just north of the Santa Barbara Mission

This rustic park gives a real taste of what this area must have looked like before it was settled. The trees are lush and towering and the ground is strewn with boulders. This is a popular park for picnics, in large part because it is centrally located between the Mission and the Natural History Museum.  Mission Creek runs through the park and since it is spring fed is active all year long.

Directions:  From the 101 take the Mission exit and turn towards the mountains.  Follow Mission until the end and turn left.  At Los Olivos turn right.  At the fork in the road bear to the left.  Continue until you get to the signs for Rocky Nook and turn right into the park.