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La Pursima Mission State Historic Park
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LA PURSIMA MISSION STATE HISTORIC PARK
LA PURSIMA MISSION STATE HISTORIC PARK
2295 Purisima Road
Lompoc, California   93436
(lat:34.6698 lon:-120.4206) map location

Phone: 805-733-3713
La Purisima Mission State Historic Park is considered the most completely restored mission in California, with ten of the original buildings fully restored and furnished, including the church, shops, quarters, and blacksmith shop. The mission gardens and livestock represent what would have been found at the mission during the 1820?s. Special living history events are scheduled throughout the year. A visitor center features information, displays and artifacts, and a self-guided tour gives visitors the opportunity to step back in time for a glimpse of a brief, turbulent period in California?s history.
History of the Area
Mision la Purisima Concepcion de Maria Santisima (Mission of the Immaculate Conception of Most Holy Mary) was founded by Father Presidente Fermin de Lasuen on December 8, 1787. It was the 11th of 21 Franciscan Missions established in Alta California.

A major earthquake on December 21, 1812, destroyed many of the mission buildings. Father Mariano Payeras received permission to relocate the mission community four miles to the northeast in La Canada de los Berros, next to El Camino Real. La Purisima Mission was officially established in its new location on April 23, 1813. Materials salvaged from the buildings destroyed by the earthquake were used to construct the new buildings, which were completed within ten years.

The end of the California missions came in 1834, when the Mexican government, which had gained independence from Spain, transferred control of the missions from the Catholic Church to civil authorities. The property passed into private ownership and the mission buildings fell into ruin. In 1933, the Union Oil Company deeded several parcels to the State of California. Under direction of the National Park Service, the Civilian Conservation Corps restored or reconstructed many of the mission?s adobe buildings.


Location
La Pursima Mission State Historic Park is located near Lompoc, Santa Maria and Goleta

Picnicking
La Purisima Mission State Historic Park in California offers several picnicking options for visitors. The park has designated picnic areas with tables and benches where families or groups can enjoy a meal amidst the beautiful surroundings of the historic mission site. These spots are perfect to relax, eat, and appreciate nature after exploring hiking trails or touring the restored buildings within this state park. However, it's important to note that fires and barbecues aren't allowed due to fire safety regulations.

Trails
1. La Purisima Mission Trail: This is a 2-mile loop trail that takes you around the historic mission grounds, including restored buildings and gardens.

2. Burton Mesa Ecological Reserve Loop: A moderate level hike of about 5 miles round trip through oak woodlands and chaparral vegetation with occasional views over Vandenberg Air Force Base to the Pacific Ocean.

3. Cota Lane Trailhead - Harris Grade Road Route: It's an easy-to-moderate out-and-back route covering approximately four miles each way along rolling hillsides covered in coastal scrub brush, offering panoramic vistas of Lompoc Valley below.

4. El Camino Viejo Bike Path: An old road converted into a bike path which stretches for nearly three miles from Rucker Rd to Sweeney Rd on gentle terrain suitable for all skill levels; it also offers great opportunities for bird watching as well as wildflower viewing during springtime.

5. Reservoir Flats Loop Hike: This moderately challenging hiking trail spans roughly two kilometers across diverse landscapes such as grassy meadows, dense forests filled with towering trees like coast live oaks & California sycamores plus tranquil ponds teeming with local wildlife species ranging from deer herds up close or even elusive bobcats if lucky enough!

6. The Lower Ravine Nature Walk: A short but scenic half mile walkway winding down towards lower ravines where visitors can enjoy serene surroundings amidst lush greenery while learning more about native plant life via interpretive signs scattered throughout this area's length.

7. Vista Del Mar Ranch Overlook: This strenuous uphill trek leads hikers atop one highest points within park boundaries providing breathtaking oceanic panoramas stretching far beyond horizon line especially at sunset when sky turns ablaze fiery hues before gradually fading away under starlit nightfall.

8. Mission Hills Cross Country Course: Designed specifically cross country runners mind yet open general public too, its undulating terrain coupled with varying elevation changes makes it an ideal spot for those seeking to challenge their endurance and stamina.

9. La Purisima Mission State Historic Park Loop: This 1.8-mile loop trail offers a quick tour of the park's main attractions, including historic buildings, gardens, livestock areas and more.

10. California Coastal Trail Section: A part of this statewide project runs through the park offering hikers stunning views over Pacific Ocean while traversing diverse ecosystems ranging from coastal bluffs down sandy beaches below; its length within these premises varies depending on chosen route but generally covers around five miles round trip making suitable day hike option regardless skill level or physical fitness condition.

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Area Campgrounds
Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground
180 Avenue of the Flags
Buellton, CA
805-688-3716
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
The park is about two miles northeast of Lompoc.Driving time from Lompoc takes about 5 to 15 minutes depending on your location. Visitors can also bike, jog, or walk to the mission from Lompoc.

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California State Parks

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