Wilderness Park Expected to Grow by 646 Acres

Approval for a 646-acre expansion that will make Limestone-Whiting Wilderness Park the fourth-largest park in Orange County is expected by county supervisors at today’s board meeting.

The new area is near Santiago Canyon Road and contains chaparral, oaks and an abundance of wildlife habitat. In addition, the expansion has oaks lining tributaries to both Limestone and Santiago creeks.

The parcel is the first of eight to be turned over to the county by the Irvine Co. to compensate for the impact of development in Irvine and Orange.

The addition increases the park’s land to 2,340 acres.

The park’s steep grades have made it a magnet for mountain bikers, equestrians and hikers, who enjoy the diverse, lush terrain covered with live oak and sycamore trees.

Bobcat, turkey vultures, deer and other wildlife are often seen at the park.

Tim Miller, manager of the county’s Harbors, Beaches and Parks Division, said Limestone-Whiting is unique among the county’s parks. Within minutes on horseback or bike, people can go from the bottom of a wooded canyon, cross a stream and then climb to the top of a ridge where they can see the ocean.

The expansion is part of a 1991 agreement the county made with the Irvine Co. for dedication of 5,360 acres in eight parcels. The initial parcel was due after completion of the Eastern Transportation Corridor.

The property will be managed as part of the county’s Nature Reserve by park rangers in cooperation with the Nature Conservancy.

Annual costs for management and maintenance are estimated at $4,500, with funds coming from the county.

The new land also includes canyons and high ridges, providing mountain and coastal views.

The public will be provided access by rangers and docent tours on a scheduled basis.