Mt. Helix Park Foundation
Learn more about the Mt. Helix Park Foundation
About the Foundation
The Mt. Helix Park Foundation is a 501(c)3 California non-profit public benefit corporation which receives no government funding. The Foundation is responsible for preserving and enhancing the Park, amphitheater and cross memorial on top of Mt. Helix. In addition, the Foundation has purchased land next to the original Park trust property with the purpose of developing it to supplement Park needs.
The Foundation was formed in 1999 to maintain and preserve Mt. Helix Park, a registered California Point of Historical interest. The Park, including a 1600 capacity outdoor amphitheater, was built in 1925 and gifted to the County of San Diego in 1929 by the founding Yawkey family. Since the Foundation has taken over governorship from the County, the Park has seen many improvements including electronic entrance and exit gates, security cameras, a picnic area, a Park walking trail with interpretive signage, and a Park office to house part-time staff.
The Crown Jewel of East County
At roughly 1300 feet above sea level, Mt. Helix Park is recognized as one of San Diego County’s most magnificent landmarks, where people come for spectacular views, for a walk to the top, along the Yawkey Trail, or simply to relax and take in the tranquility of its beautiful rock formations and native landscape.
Known as the “Crown Jewel of East County” it is one of San Diego’s premier wedding venues, features an annual Easter sunrise service, Christmas caroling event and is home to the heART of Mt Helix gala which celebrates the community’s rich music and art heritage.
Mt. Helix Park is generally open from sunrise to sunset daily. See our Park seasonal hours.
Dedicated to a Mother
Mt. Helix Park was created in 1925 by a brother and sister in honor of their mother, Mary Carpenter Yawkey, and has been a staple of San Diego ever since. The memorial cross towers a staggering 35 feet and is visible from all around San Diego, sitting at an elevation of 1,365 feet.
The natural bowl shape of the hilltop was used to create the amphitheater that sits there today. The name “Helix” comes from Helix aspera — the snail that is very common to this area.
Mary Yawkey’s Children
1925 — Park and amphitheater built
1929 — Gifted to the County of San Diego
1999 — Foundation formed
1,600 — Amphitheater capacity
Support the Park
Become a Friend of the Park
Please consider becoming a “Friend of the Park” donor or volunteering. We receive no government funding, and therefore need public support to operate the facility and to ensure that this historical place will still be here for future generations to enjoy.
Donations to the Park are tax deductible to the full extent of the law.
Park FAQs
What is the elevation of Mt. Helix Park?
1365 feet (416.05 m)
How did the park get its name?
Mount Helix was named after a snail in the area, the helix aspersa.