William S. Hart Park

Description:

• This park was once the ranch of William S. Hart, a silent film cowboy star. The now-public park is 253 acres in area, 110 of which are a wilderness preserve. The other areas feature a picnic area, an animal compound, and a house called La Loma de los Vientos that is used to showcase artwork and sculpture by artist Charles M. Russell. Visit the website for information on the museum inside. The William S. Hart Regional Park features a western art museum, barnyard animals including wild buffalo and picnic facilities. The western art museum rests atop a hill within the park; the Spanish colonial Revival style mansion exhibits a stirring art collection, original furnishings, mementoes of early Hollywood and Native American artifacts.

  Deep respect for Native Americans grew within William S. Hart eventually leading him to become a blood brother to the Sioux tribe and an officer in the National League for Justice to American Indians. In memorial, today the park hosts an annual event titled, Hart of the West Powwow, a Native American gathering at a cowboy ranch. The event began back in 1986 with a few hundred people and today gladdens over 25,000.

  Other events such as animal fairs and "Olde Towne Days" delight the whole family. The facility is available for weddings and special gatherings. The park is open daily from 7 AM to sunset; call for museum hours (see Contact Information for phone number).

  Visitors come to this special park to enjoy the art museum, view barnyard animals, dine under the open sky, or enjoy special events either of the park's making or their own.

  The William S. Hart Regional Park is off Interstate 5 north (Golden State Freeway) . Take I-5 north to the 14 North, exit San Fernando Road West. (Road loops under freeway.) Travel another 1 to 2 miles - bear left at fork - park is on left hand side of road past tracks.

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