Old Mission Dam

North east end of Father Junipero Serra Trail

This is a nationally registered historic landmark and a starting point for hikes into Oak Canyon, the East Fortuna Mountain region, or along Father Junipero Serra Trail and the San Diego River. This is an excellent area for bird watching and just relaxing. The pathway to the San Diego River is wheelchair accessible, and there is a bench on the viewing terrace. The interpretive pathway and viewing terrace were funded in part by the City of San Diego Special Promotional Program. The Old Mission Dam parking lot is open 8AM to 7PM, and it is strongly recommended that park visitors not leave valuables in their vehicles.

Restrooms  Picnic  Parking  Water


Directions to Old Mission Dam
From Interstate 8 (Kumeyaay Highway) - Take 8 to the Mission Gorge/Fairmount exit. Turn north onto Mission Gorge Road. Proceed down Mission Gorge Road for 6.5 miles to the Kumeyaay Lake entrance to Father Junipero Serra Trail. Turn left onto Father Junipero Serra Trail. The entrance to Old Mission Dam is 0.7 miles down Father Junipero Serra Trail, on the right.

Old Mission Dam - April 2010
Old Mission Dam on the San Diego River

From Highway 52 - Take the Mast Blvd. exit. Driving from the west, turn left onto Mast Blvd., go under the freeway to the second traffic signal at West Hills Parkway, and turn right.
Driving from the east, turn right onto Mast Blvd. and turn right at the first traffic signal onto West Hills Parkway. Continue 0.7 miles to Mission Gorge Rd. and turn right.