Richie Valens Park
Rate this placeNearby: Paxton Park Devonshire Arleta Park
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Richie Valens Park is a popular destination located in Pacoima, California.
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Summary
The park is named after the legendary musician, Richie Valens, who grew up in the area. This park is a must-visit for any music lover or anyone looking for a fun day out.
One of the main attractions of the park is a bronze statue of Richie Valens, which was unveiled in 1990. The statue stands at the entrance of the park, greeting visitors as they arrive. Additionally, the park has a playground, picnic areas, and a basketball court, making it a great place to spend the day with family and friends.
The park is also home to the Ritchie Valens Recreation Center, which offers a wide range of activities for people of all ages. The center has a gymnasium, a dance studio, and a computer lab, among other facilities.
An interesting fact about the area is that it was once a thriving agricultural community, known for its citrus groves. Over time, the area transitioned into a more urban setting, but the park serves as a reminder of the area's rich history.
The best time of year to visit Richie Valens Park is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild. Summer can be hot, and winter can be rainy. However, the park is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy the facilities regardless of the season.
In conclusion, Richie Valens Park is a must-visit destination in Pacoima, California. With its beautiful statue of the famous musician, playground, picnic areas, basketball court, and recreation center, there is something for everyone here. Plus, the area's rich history and mild climate make it a great place to visit any time of year.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
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Group Campground 6
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Group Campground 3
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Group Campground 2
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Group Campground 1
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