Kaweah Oaks Preserve

Nice place, but a little strange walking in… cows, etc.

For someone not from the south valley, 5 stars may seem like a bit much, but… considering our surroundings, i think this place is pretty special. Off the 198, it’s super duper easy to find. From Hanford, it takes about 30 min (visalia is about 20, 25 min, so i would say it’s not far out of visalia at all — minutes) on the 198, turn left, go down the street, voila.
there is no fee to go in & there are map guides available in print & posted as a large sign outside the gate. there are 3 trails you make take, and each i believe, is under a mile. we only did two — the grapevine & the sycamore trails before it got too warm & it was lunch time anyway. the trails we were on were easy & surprisingly scenic. i didn’t really think it was too hard to get lost, but do pay attention — there is a spot or two which forks into two trails. The oak trees are beautiful but do watch your step — i actually tripped and fell on a branch (but im clumsy). There’s a meeting area outside the trails with a few picnic tables, but there are SEVERAL places to sit on the trails as well! Benches can be found in random areas so you may sit and enjoy the beauty. I loved this & thought it was kind of unique. A very family friendly spot (picnic lunches anyone?) we also saw a family getting their portraits taken here (great idea!). The entire grounds are pretty well maintained too — we only saw one piece of trash left by some thoughtless hiker.
when we came by today, it was mid Sat morning, and there were about 28 – 34 cars out: we came across a class doing a hike as well as a few families. i should also mention that there is a dinky looking surveillance camera in the parking lot, but it doesnt even look like it works (i really hope it does though). i wouldnt normally think twice about that, but the first time i came it was a monday morning, around 9 am or so and i noticed there was glass shattered all over the parking lot. did someone’s car get broken into? it was unsettling since we were the only ones out. so do be safe & wise about your valuables.

Great place! Went last year around May and saw a baby fox! One of the best moments I’ve had hiking ever! Although me and my friend did get lost at one point reading the signs. So watch out, pay attention to your surroundings so you wont get lost on the trails.
Also the Preserve asks you not to litter or leave food or hurt or capture any animals. There is also a place near the front where you can leave a donation to the organization, its not required but it helps the preserve!
I would recommend this place to anyone or any family looking for a get away thats not to far away :)

This is a great place to get out! It’s so close to Visalia, Exeter, Tulare that you can get there in just a few minutes and feel like you are in an a wilderness, especially if you are a kid. Awesome place to have a family outing.

My kids and I went there for the first time today, and it was GREAT!!! There are several trails nothing difficult all are nicely maintained. We only did one trail this time it got a little to warm. Next time I will prepare better and stay longer they also have picnic tables so you can bring a picnic. The only thing i did not like is they had porta potty’s but when you gotta go you gotta go. I will be back.