FORT ORD DUNES STATE PARK
This recently opened State Park has a 1,500 foot trail to 4 miles of ocean beach with beautiful views of Monterey Bay. From the parking area visitors may also take a stroll on the new boardwalk to a bluff top viewing platform. Eight educational panels have been installed that will inform the public about the natural and cultural history of the park. Existing park roads are open to bicyclists, hikers and dogs on leash.
To protect park resources public access is limited to designated roads and trails. Dogs must be on leash and remain on paved roads. Horses and campfires are not allowed on the beach.
Located in Monterey Bay, California, the area was originally a military training facility known as Fort Ord. Established in 1917 for World War I preparations, it served until its closure in 1994.
In 2009, after years of cleanup and restoration efforts by local communities and environmental groups to remove unexploded ordnance and other debris from decades of military use; this land became an official state park.
The site now offers four miles of beachfront with beautiful views over Monterey Bay. It is home to various wildlife species including birds like snowy plovers which are protected under federal law.