Lakeside may sound like an obscure California pick for those considering visiting or moving to the Golden State. However, this community located on the San Diego River, on the western foothills of the Cuyamaca Mountains, is a spot that is for sure worth examining.
It is the home to the Kumeyaay indigenous peoples of America, whose tribe consists of three related groups, the Kamia, the Tipai, and the Ipai. It got founded in 1886 on a 6,600 acre stretch of land around Lindo Lake, a naturally occurring water formation. In the early-20th-century, it became famous for boasting a horse and automobile race track. These spots with the accompanying inn became a gathering ground for celebrities and the wealthy.
Lakeside has long boasted a reputation for being a rodeo town. That status has gotten entrenched due to the Lakeside Rodeo Grounds operating here for over ninety years, managed by the El Capitan Stadium Association. These days, Lakeside has a modest population of some twenty thousand residents. Most people that visit it arrive here to enjoy the area’s natural beauties, predominantly this county’s natural-born lake. Other popular Lakeside activities include going hiking, equestrian riding, or gambling. Below, we get into the top four things everyone should partake in when they find themselves in Lakeside.
Visit the Barona Resort & Casino
California has a somewhat complicated relationship with games of chance and betting overall. The state allows card rooms. Yet, it does not permit Class III commercial gambling venues. Thus, the only places where California’s locals and tourists can partake in some wagering excitement within the state’s borders are tribal establishments located on Native American reservations. The Barona Resort is Lakeside’s only tribal locale, found at 1932 Wildcat Canyon. It is also the county’s primary entertainment destination.
It opened its doors in 2002, boasting an enormous gaming space that sprawls 300,000 square feet. It offers seventy-five croupier tables that provide Pai-Gow, Mississippi Stud, California craps, and blackjack. Regarding the latter option, Barona claims to have the loosest blackjack tables in the entire country, which makes it the premier destination for twenty-one enthusiasts. For those who do not know how to play the world’s most popular table game, its rules are super simple, and by following some basic tips, anyone can improve their winning chances at blackjack hands.
Take a Trip to the Cultural Center & Museum
The Cultural Center & Museum in Baron is the first venue of its kind in San Diego located on an Indian reservation that promotes the culture of the Kumeyaay people. It features objects from this indigenous tribe with a history dating back to ten thousand years ago and is open only on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Entry into this Center/Museum is free. But, groups have the schedule their visit ahead of time. They may book a tour by calling or by sending an email to the museum’s staff.
Outside of exploring the historical exhibits, museum visitors can also stroll the plant garden, browser the research library, or purchase items inspired by the Kumeyaay people. All in all, this is a small but active venue that provides insight into a unique chapter of San Diego’s past. It is only a forty-minute drive east of America’s Finest City.
Roam the Lindo Lake Country Park
The Lindo Lake Park at 12660 Lindo Lane is the main recreational center for locals of this community. It supplies several activities for members of all demographics to enjoy. The park has tennis courts, a butterfly garden, horseshoe pits, a robust children’s playground, and a softball field. Moreover, there is a community center nearby and a library. Those looking to stay fit can get their power-walk on here, as there are seventeen fitness stations planted throughout the park that deliver stunning scenic views.
The Lindo Lake Park also has gotten equipped with multiple TRACK and ADA-friendly trails where youngsters can go on scavenger hunts and hikes. The neighboring Boathouse from the close-by community center is also available for rent. It is a quality choice for those wishing to spend their special day here or for companies wanting to team-build.
Have a Picnic at Lake Jennings
Lake Jennings is an 85-acre artificial lake on 9535 Harritt Road, 700-feet above sea level. It is a renowned fishing spot that only allows this hobby on weekends to licensed individuals. That said, it features multiple campsites where anyone can make a home for a day or two. Of course, these come with distinct price tags listed on the Lake Jennings website.
The surrounding area has dozens of hiking trails, plus row, motor, and paddle boating options. Know that trout stocking events are a thing here. Usually, such happenings get hosted twice a month on the campgrounds.
About the Author
Shelly Schiff has been working in the gambling industry since 2009, mainly on the digital side of things, employed by OnlineUnitedStatesCasinos.com. However, over her eleven-year career, Shelly has provided content for many other top interactive gaming websites. She knows all there is to know about slots and has in-depth knowledge of the most popular table games. Her golden retriever Garry occupies most of her leisure time. Though, when she can, she loves reading Jim Thompson-like crime novels.
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