Situated 4,200 feet above sea level in a forest of pines and oaks along the northern extremity of the Cuyamaca Mountain Range in the unincorporated community of Julian sits William Heise County Park. The day-use and camping park spans over 1,000 acres bringing unique features to life, every season, from playful winter snowfall and vibrant spring wildflowers to starry summertime skies and the changing colors of fall. Every trip is a new experience, with new places to visit and new sites to see. Mule deer are frequently seen through - out the park as well as large flocks of Rio Grande Turkey. Other common visitors include the gray fox, bobcats, raccoons, steller’s jay, hawks, golden eagles and the occasional mountain lion

William Heise County Park is home to a number of trails that vary in both difficulty and geography. The Desert View Trail meanders past the Self-Guided Nature Trail to a scenic overlook where on a clear day, views of the Salton Sea to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west can be seen. If you choose to extend your hike, you have the option to connect to the 1.65-mile Canyon Oak Trail. The 5.75-mile Kelly Ditch Trail takes adventurers south all the way to Lake Cuyamaca and offers equestrian and biking options in addition to hiking. The Fern Trail is a 0.5-mile connector of the Kelly Ditch that takes you into a riparian area alongside the tranquil waters of the Cedar Creek. You can expect to find shady, vibrant green foliage with a nice view to the west on the 1-mile Cedar Trail. View the map for locations of these and other trails on site