Kit Carson Park

Kit Carson Park is a sprawling 285-acre municipal park located in Escondido, California. Named after Christopher "Kit" Carson, the famous 19th-century explorer, the park sits in a valley approximately 5 miles west of the Battle of San Pasqual site where Kit Carson fought.

The City of Escondido acquired the land for this regional park from the City of San Diego in 1967. Of the total acreage, 100 acres have been developed for recreational use, while the remaining 185 acres have been preserved as natural habitat. This balance allows visitors to enjoy both organized activities and natural open spaces.

The park features a diverse landscape, including three ponds named Tree Lake, Duck Lake, and Eagle Scout Lake. Visitors can explore the park's network of walking and hiking trails that wind through areas of coastal sage scrub, riparian vegetation, and forested sections. The trails offer opportunities for exercise, nature observation, and scenic views of Bear Valley and the surrounding hills.

One of the park's unique attractions is Queen Califia's Magical Circle, the only American sculpture garden created by internationally acclaimed artist Niki de Saint Phalle. This whimsical installation, opened in 2003, adds a touch of artistic flair to the park's natural beauty.

Kit Carson Park serves as a hub for community recreation, offering a wide range of facilities for sports and leisure activities. The park is home to lighted sports fields, tennis courts, and a sports complex that includes a skate park and arenas for soccer and roller hockey. Additionally, the park features an outdoor amphitheater with a capacity of 3,000, providing a venue for community events and performances.