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San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park

Explore California's past at San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park, site of the bloodiest battle in California during the Mexican-American War.

4.5

Commemorating the 1846 Battle of San Pasqual, this park offers trails, a visitor center, and the San Diego Archeology Center. It marks the site of the bloodiest battle in California during the Mexican-American War and honors the Kumeyaay people.

A brief summary to San Pasqual Battlefield State Park

Local tips

  • Check the park's website for updates on visitor center renovations and special events, including the annual battle reenactment.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails and exploring the historic grounds.
  • Bring water and sun protection, as the weather can be hot, especially during the summer months.
  • Be aware of the potential presence of rattlesnakes on the trails and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby San Diego Zoo Safari Park for a full day of adventure.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Escondido, drive east on Highway 78 for about 8 miles. The park entrance is on San Pasqual Valley Road, just east of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Parking is available on-site. Parking fees are typically around $3-$5.

  • Public Transport

    Take the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) bus system. From downtown San Diego, take the 120 bus to Escondido Transit Center. Transfer to the 345 bus towards San Pasqual Valley Rd. Get off at the stop closest to the park entrance. The nearest bus station to San Pasqual Battlefield in San Diego is Hwy 78 & Sd Archaeological Ctr, a 4 min walk away. Bus line 371 stops near San Pasqual Battlefield. Check the MTS website for the latest schedules. A one-way fare on MTS is $2.50.

  • Ride Share

    Use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. Input the destination address '15808 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027' into the app. Fares vary based on the starting point, traffic, and the type of service. This provides a direct route to the park.

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Discover more about San Pasqual Battlefield State Park

San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park, located near Escondido, California, preserves the site of the Battle of San Pasqual, a significant event in the Mexican-American War. Fought on December 6, 1846, it was the bloodiest battle in California during that conflict. The park serves as a place to remember the soldiers who fought and to reflect on the human cost of war. The park also recognizes the Kumeyaay people, the original inhabitants of the land, and incorporates their history and culture into the park's exhibits and programs. Visitors can explore the visitor center, which features displays about the battle, the cultural history of the San Pasqual Valley, and the influences of Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and American cultures. A short film provides an overview of the battle, and maps and displays offer historical context. The park offers walking trails, including the 1.5-mile Battlefield Monument Trail that leads to the San Pasqual Battlefield Monument, erected in 1925. The trails provide views of the valley where the battle took place. The San Diego Archeology Center is also located within the park, offering insights into the region's history. The Native Sons of the Golden West were instrumental in raising money, preserving and ultimately creating the park, which was then given to the state of California.

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