You’ve probably driven past it a dozen times without realizing what’s actually back there. Tucked away in North Long Beach, specifically in the DeForest Park neighborhood, this 24.8-acre stretch of land isn't your typical manicured city park with just a swing set and a patch of grass. It’s rugged. It’s green. Honestly, it’s one of the few places in the city where you can actually forget you’re surrounded by the 710 and 91 freeways. DeForest Park in Long Beach serves as a vital lung for the community, but if you ask most people downtown, they couldn't even tell you how to get there.
It’s a bit of a local treasure.
What makes DeForest Park actually worth the drive?
For starters, it's huge. Most people show up for the sports facilities because, let's be real, finding an open court in Long Beach on a Saturday can be a nightmare. You’ve got tennis courts, basketball courts, and a sand volleyball area that actually gets some decent use. But that’s just the "park" side of things. The real magic of this place is the DeForest Wetlands, which sit right alongside the Los Angeles River.
Back in the day, this area was mostly neglected, just a patch of overgrown weeds and dirt. That changed. Around 2018, the city wrapped up a massive $5.3 million restoration project. They didn't just plant some flowers; they fundamentally changed how the land works. They created 34 acres of freshwater wetlands that act as a natural filter for urban runoff before it hits the ocean. It’s pretty cool when you think about it. You’re walking on trails that are literally cleaning the city’s water.
The birdwatching here is legit. Because of the native plants—think mulefat, willow trees, and various sage species—migratory birds actually stop here. You'll see snowy egrets, black-necked stilts, and sometimes even a red-tailed hawk circling overhead looking for a snack. It’s quiet. Well, as quiet as it gets near a freeway, but the rustle of the wind through the trees usually drowns out the hum of the cars.
The nature trail vs. the concrete jungle
If you’re into hiking or trail running, the DeForest Nature Trail is a breath of fresh air. It’s roughly two miles of dirt path that winds through the trees.
Warning: it can get muddy.
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If we’ve had any rain at all, don't wear your brand-new white sneakers. You’ll regret it. The trail feels primitive in a way that’s rare for Southern California suburbs. You aren't looking at backyards the whole time; you’re looking at the riverbed and thickets of greenery. It connects to the L.A. River Bike Path, too. So, if you’re a cyclist, you can hop off the main river run and loop through the park for a change of scenery.
Community and the DeForest Park Neighborhood Association
A park is only as good as the people who look after it. The DeForest Park Neighborhood Association (DPNA) is basically the heart of this operation. They aren't just some boring committee; these folks actually get their hands dirty. They host "Clean Up Days" and community events that keep the park from falling into disrepair.
I talked to a local resident recently who mentioned how much the park has changed over the last decade. It used to be a place people avoided after dark. Now? You see families hosting birthday parties under the gazebos and groups of seniors doing their morning walks. The "DeForest Park Vision Plan" is a real thing the city is working on, which aims to add even more amenities like an environmental education center.
- The park has a clubhouse that can be rented for events.
- The playground was renovated to be more inclusive.
- There's a dedicated dog park area nearby, though people often walk their pups on the trails (keep them on a leash, seriously).
- Racquetball enthusiasts actually have a place to play here, which is becoming a rarity.
Dealing with the "Urban" reality
Look, I’m not going to lie to you and say it’s a pristine wilderness. It’s an urban park. You might see some trash near the riverbed, and since it’s right by the L.A. River, you’ll definitely see the concrete channel that defines so much of our local geography. Some people find the riverbed ugly. I think it has a weird, industrial beauty to it, especially when the sun starts to set and hits the water.
Safety is a common question. Like any large park in a major city, you want to be aware of your surroundings. Most regulars will tell you to stick to the daylight hours. The park is generally well-used during the day, which creates a "neighborhood watch" feel naturally. The presence of the park rangers and increased community activity has made a massive difference in the vibe over the last five years.
How to get there (and where to park)
Getting to DeForest Park in Long Beach is straightforward, but GPS can sometimes be a little wonky because the park is so long and skinny. The main entrance is at 6255 De Forest Ave.
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- If you're coming from the south, take Atlantic Ave all the way up.
- Turn left on 61st St.
- Follow it until it dead-ends near the park.
- There is a dedicated parking lot, and it's usually free.
If the main lot is full—which happens during youth soccer games—you can usually find street parking in the residential area. Just be cool and don't block anyone's driveway. The neighbors are protective of their spot, and rightly so.
Why this park matters for Long Beach's future
We talk a lot about climate change and "urban heat islands." Areas with lots of concrete stay hotter than areas with trees. DeForest Park is a massive "cool zone." The wetlands help lower the ambient temperature of the neighborhood. According to studies by groups like the Council for Watershed Health, these types of projects are essential for making cities livable as temperatures rise.
It’s also about equity. For a long time, North Long Beach didn't get the same investment in green space that the waterfront or East Long Beach received. Seeing millions of dollars poured into the DeForest Wetlands was a signal that the city is finally paying attention to the north side.
Actionable steps for your visit
If you're planning to head out this weekend, here’s the best way to do it:
Start early. The light hitting the wetlands around 8:00 AM is incredible for photos. Plus, it's cooler.
Bring binoculars. Even if you aren't a "bird person," seeing a Great Blue Heron take off from the water is objectively cool.
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Check the DPNA calendar. They often have events, like the "DeForest Park Fall Festival" or native plant workshops. It’s a great way to meet people who actually live in the area.
Pack your own water. There are fountains, but they aren't always the coldest or most reliable. Bring a reusable bottle.
Respect the wildlife. Don't feed the ducks or birds. The wetlands are a delicate ecosystem, and human food (like bread) actually makes them sick and ruins the water quality.
DeForest Park isn't just a patch of grass; it's a 25-acre reminder that nature can thrive right in the middle of the city if we give it half a chance. Whether you're there to smash a tennis ball or just sit by the water and listen to the birds, it’s a spot that deserves a place on your Long Beach bucket list.
Next Steps for Visitors:
- Check the official Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine website for current clubhouse rental rates if you're planning a party.
- Download a bird-identification app like Merlin Bird ID before you hit the nature trail to identify the species you encounter in the wetlands.
- If you’re a cyclist, plan a route that connects the L.A. River Trail to the DeForest loop for a 10-mile round trip from the Shoreline area.