Etnies Skatepark of Lake Forest


etnies Skatepark of Lake Forest is a public skatepark located in Lake Forest, California. It is the largest free skatepark in the state, with an area of over. The skatepark is owned and operated by the City of Lake Forest. The skatepark provides free identification cards for residents of Lake Forest and Foothill Ranch, while a $15 fee is required for non-residents in exchange for the identification card. Helmets, knee and elbow pads are required for all users. Spectators, with the exception of permitted photographers, are not allowed inside the park.

History

etnies Skatepark of Lake Forest opened on December 13, 2003. The skatepark is a joint venture between the city of Lake Forest and etnies. In 2009 it was announced that an expansion would be made to the skatepark to increase the size by roughly, making it one of the largest skateparks in the country and largest in California. The expansion will cost $632,500 and is expected to be completed by January 2011. The park was designed by SITE Design Group, a consulting firm specializing in urban design. In August 2010, OC Parenting Magazine named the it the best skatepark of the year, making four consecutive wins.

Events

etnies Skatepark of Lake Forest does not offer select hours for BMX riders. Other events include summer camps, movie screenings, film camps, skateboard camps, overnight camp outs, private lessons and skateboarding classes. The skatepark's programming, fundraising, events, and operations are managed by Scott Stewart. In May 2010, etnies Skatepark of Lake Forest, along with professional skateboarder Ryan Sheckler, hosted a contest in which proceeds went to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. In July 2010, the park hosted the 6th annual Riverbed Cleanup and Environmental Awareness event. 1500 pounds of debris, including trash and dirt were removed from nearby Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park and California State Route 241. Other participants included Home Depot and the Boy Scouts. The National Scholastic Skating League holds competitions at the park for middle school and high school skateboarding teams.