Fullerton Arboretum | Anaheim

The Fullerton Arboretum is a 26-acre botanical garden located on the campus of California State University, Fullerton (CSUF). It serves as an educational resource, a conservation center, and a peaceful public space for the community to enjoy nature. The Arboretum houses a vast collection of plants from various regions of the world and provides visitors with opportunities to explore its diverse landscapes, engage in environmental education, and participate in community events.

History and Overview

Opened: The Arboretum was established in 1976 and officially opened in 1979. It was founded to provide both a space for plant conservation and a facility for educational purposes at CSUF.

Size: The Arboretum covers about 26 acres of land.

Location: Situated in Fullerton, California, at California State University, Fullerton, it is easily accessible to local residents, students, and visitors.

Plant Collections

The Fullerton Arboretum features an impressive variety of plant collections, each carefully curated to represent different ecosystems and regions. Notable collections include:

Cultivated Collection: Focuses on plants used in horticulture and agriculture.

Woodlands Collection: Showcases plants found in temperate forest regions.

Mediterranean Collection: Highlights plants from Mediterranean climates, such as parts of California, South Africa, and Australia.

Desert Collection: Exhibits a range of drought-tolerant plants, including cacti, succulents, and other desert species.

In addition, there are special collections like the Rare Fruit Grove, Cycad Collection, and Palm Grove that attract plant enthusiasts and provide an opportunity to learn about unique species.

Educational Programs and Services

The Fullerton Arboretum is not just a space for leisure but also an educational resource. The facility offers various programs, including:

Workshops and Classes: Covering topics like gardening, plant identification, sustainability, and nature photography.

Youth Programs: Programs such as the Junior Environmental Education Program (JEEP) and Children’s Environmental Education Program (CEEP) offer children opportunities to learn about environmental science and plant life.

Special Tours: The Arboretum offers both self-guided and guided tours. Visitors can also participate in specialized nature tours, focusing on specific plant collections or the history of the site.

Heritage House and Museum

Heritage House: A historical structure built in 1894 and relocated to the Arboretum in 1972. It was originally the home and medical office of Dr. George Crook Clark. Today, the Heritage House serves as a museum, allowing visitors to explore life in the late 19th century, with exhibits on early medical practices and daily life.

Agricultural and Nikkei Heritage Museum: This museum focuses on the agricultural history of Orange County and the contributions of the Japanese-American community to the region’s farming heritage.

Community and Cultural Events

The Fullerton Arboretum regularly hosts community events, including seasonal festivals, plant sales, and educational programs. Popular annual events include:

Spring Plant Sale: A chance for gardening enthusiasts to purchase rare and native plants.

Earth Day Celebrations: The Arboretum participates in Earth Day events, hosting activities and talks about environmental conservation.

Holiday Events: Special holiday-themed events for families, including tours and educational activities.

Visitor Information

Hours: The Fullerton Arboretum is open every day from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Admission: Entry is free, but a donation of $5 per person is suggested to support the Arboretum’s maintenance and educational programs.

Parking: Parking is available on-site in front of the Arboretum and in nearby parking lots. A parking fee applies, and visitors can pay through the ParkMobile app.

Accessibility

Public Transportation: The Arboretum is accessible by public transportation, including local bus services.

Facilities: The Arboretum is wheelchair accessible, with paths designed for easy navigation, making it suitable for all visitors.

Recognition and Accreditation

The Fullerton Arboretum has been recognized for its excellence and is accredited as a Level IV Arboretum by the ArbNet network. This accreditation recognizes the Arboretum’s outstanding plant collections, conservation efforts, and educational programs.

Summary

The Fullerton Arboretum is a prime destination in Orange County for nature lovers, students, and those interested in horticulture and environmental education. With its vast plant collections, historical exhibits, and educational programs, it serves as a valuable community asset for both recreational and learning experiences. Whether you're visiting for a leisurely stroll, taking part in an educational workshop, or exploring its seasonal events, the Arboretum offers a peaceful and enriching environment for all ages.