Vasco Caves Regional Preserve facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Vasco Caves Regional Preserve |
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|---|---|
| Location | Mount Diablo, Contra Costa County, California |
| Nearest city | Brentwood, California |
| Area | 1,644 acres (665 ha) |
| Created | 1989 |
| Operated by | East Bay Regional Parks District |
| Status | Restricted access (via guided tours only) |
The Vasco Caves Regional Preserve is a special natural and cultural area. It is located on the eastern side of Mount Diablo in Contra Costa County, California. This preserve was created to protect important wildlife, native plants, and ancient rock art made by Native Americans.
Contents
History of Vasco Caves
The land for Vasco Caves Regional Preserve was bought together by two groups. These were the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) and the Contra Costa Water District (CCWD). The first part of the preserve was set aside in 1989. It is located between the cities of Brentwood and Livermore, California.
In 2009, these two groups bought more land next to the Vasco Caves. This added about 1,644 acres (665 hectares) to the preserve. This new land is not open to the public. It is kept as a "land bank" because it has sensitive wildlife habitats. There are also wind turbines on this land that are still working.
Amazing Features of the Preserve
The preserve has some amazing rock formations. On top of these rocks, you can find "vernal pools." These are temporary pools of water that form in the rainy season. They are home to tiny creatures called long-horned fairy shrimp.
Nearby, there are natural springs. These springs are where you might see the red-legged frog. Many other animals live here too. These include kit foxes, coyotes, and birds of prey like eagles and hawks.
Ancient Ceremonial Site
This area was once a very important place for Native American people. They used it for ceremonies. Experts have found ancient cave art here that is over 10,000 years old.
The art shows pictures of birds. Near the rocks, there are many deep holes carved into the bedrock. These were likely used to grind food. Between 700 BC and 300 AD, these caves and the nearby area were an Ohlone village called Chitactac.
How to Visit Vasco Caves
The Vasco Caves Regional Preserve is not open for everyone to visit freely. You can only visit by joining a guided tour. You need to make a reservation in advance to go on one of these tours.
