Atascadero, California

Picturesque Atascadero Lake is often the gathering point of community events, such as the popular Tuesday Evenings in the Park barbecue and free band concert series held throughout the summer. Surrounded by oak trees and rolling hills, the lake offers fishing, paddle boats, picnic areas and a beautiful pavilion. Steps away from the lake discover more than 150 animals at the Charles Paddock Zoo, a perfect spot for family fun.

While in the region venture through the miles of hiking trails located throughout the Los Padres National Forest or explore award winning wineries that abound in the surrounding areas. Hundreds of miles of back roads make an ideal setting for cycling enthusiasts while the avid golfer can play a round on courses set among lush oak groves and undulating hillsides.

You can reach, San Luis Obispo or the coast within minutes-each drive is through beautiful hilly country that makes the journey part of the purpose.

Founded: 1913

Incorporated: July 1979

Atascadero, California is in an area settled by American Indians, Spanish and Mexicans for many years before other American Europeans began to arrive. Today the census reports that 15% of the population is of German descent.

The Mexican government began to distribute land in the valley to private citizens in 1833, and Pedro Estrada received 40,000 acres that includes the land the city now occupies. In 1913, Edward Garner Lewis founded the "utopian" Atascadero Colony, marking the start of the settlement of what has become the city of Atascadero. You can learn more about this fascinating history at the Atascadero Historical Society.

Atascadero straddles Highway 101 about 18 miles north of San Luis Obispo and about 18 miles east of Morro Bay by Highway 41. It lies in a cozy valley that is so picturesque with surrounding peaks and hills covered in oak and sycamore that you have to see it to believe it.

Atascadero has all the amenities of an established city, yet retains the old west rural character of its history. Within minutes in almost any direction, you can find yourself in ranch country. The city's high school agricultural program participants win awards almost every year.