Tuna Canyon Detention Station

Tuna Canyon Detention Station Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance in Los Angeles

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Tuna Canyon Detention Station, located in the Tujunga area of Los Angeles, is a profound historical landmark representing a difficult chapter in American history. Established during World War II, the site was used to detain over 2,000 individuals, mainly of Japanese, German, and Italian descent, under the authority of the Alien Enemies Act and Executive Order 9066. Although the original structures no longer exist, Tuna Canyon’s legacy is preserved through memorialization efforts, educational programming, and community engagement. This guide provides comprehensive details about the site’s history, current ways to visit or engage with its story, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions, ensuring a meaningful and respectful experience for all visitors. (Tuna Canyon Detention Station Coalition, Japanese American National Museum, Descanso Gardens)

Historical Overview: From CCC Camp to Detention Facility

Early History

Before European settlement, the Tuna Canyon area was inhabited by the Tongva people, whose deep connection to the land is still recognized. In the 1930s, the site became home to Camp P-223, a Civilian Conservation Corps facility, as part of New Deal-era efforts to provide employment and improve public lands. (Tuna Canyon Coalition Timeline)

World War II Conversion

The attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941 led to the rapid conversion of the CCC camp into the Tuna Canyon Detention Station. Under the administration of the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), the site became a temporary detention and processing center for individuals deemed “enemy aliens,” including Japanese, German, and Italian immigrants, as well as Japanese Peruvians brought to the U.S. (Densho Encyclopedia; Japanese American National Museum)

Living Conditions and Detainee Experience

Detainees at Tuna Canyon faced austere conditions: barracks were cramped, privacy was minimal, and the facility was surrounded by barbed wire and guard towers. Up to 300 people could be held at a time, though fewer were typically present. Despite the hardships, detainees maintained a sense of community through religious services, cultural activities, and mutual support. Communications were restricted, and family visits were limited to conversations through fences in English (GAIC; Local News Pasadena).

Closure and Later Use

Tuna Canyon Detention Station closed in 1943, with detainees transferred to larger camps. Subsequent uses for the land included a boys’ reform school and, later, the Verdugo Hills Golf Course. Today, the area is slated for residential development, but the history lives on through memorial efforts. (Tuna Canyon Coalition Timeline)

Memorialization and Ongoing Legacy

Historic Designation and Preservation

Growing public awareness led to the designation of part of the site as Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument #1039 in 2013. The Tuna Canyon Detention Station Coalition, with community support, continues to protect the memory of the site through advocacy, public education, and legal efforts. (Tuna Canyon Coalition Timeline)

The Memorial and “Only the Oaks Remain”

Although no original buildings remain, the Tuna Canyon Detention Station Memorial features commemorative plaques and ancient oak trees—symbols of endurance and the phrase “Only the oaks remain.” This theme is central to traveling exhibitions and educational programs that bring the site’s history to new audiences. (OC Register)

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and How to Engage

Current Site Access

Original Site: The former Tuna Canyon Detention Station site is not open as a traditional museum or visitor center. Physical remnants are gone, but memorial plaques and oak trees mark its location.
Memorial: The Tuna Canyon Detention Station Memorial is open year-round during daylight hours, generally from 8:00 AM to sunset. Admission is free.

Exhibitions and Special Events

Traveling Exhibits: The primary way to experience Tuna Canyon’s history is through exhibits like “Only the Oaks Remain,” which are hosted at venues such as Descanso Gardens and the Japanese American National Museum. (Descanso Gardens Event Page)
Visiting Hours: Exhibition hours follow those of the host venue (e.g., Descanso Gardens is open daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM).
Tickets: Admission to exhibitions at host venues is generally included with standard entry. For Descanso Gardens, adult tickets are $15, with discounts for seniors, students, and children.
Special Events: Talks, panel discussions, and descendant testimonies are often held during exhibition periods. Check the Tuna Canyon Coalition website and host venue event pages for schedules.

Accessibility

Physical Accessibility: The memorial and major exhibition venues are wheelchair accessible. Contact venues in advance for specific accommodations.
Etiquette: Visitors are encouraged to approach the site and exhibitions with respect due to the sensitive nature of the history.

How to Get There

Memorial Location: Near 6200 Verdugo Hills Drive, Tujunga, Los Angeles, CA.
By Car: Parking is available near the memorial and at Descanso Gardens (1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge).
By Public Transit: Metro bus lines serve the Tujunga area, but schedules should be confirmed ahead of time.

Educational and Community Engagement

Digital Resources: Oral histories, detainee lists, and archival materials are available at tunacanyon.org.
Programs: The Tuna Canyon Detention Station Coalition organizes educational events, descendant panels, and provides research resources.
Exhibitions: “Only the Oaks Remain” features artifacts, photographs, and personal stories, humanizing the experience and highlighting the importance of civil rights. (Japanese American National Museum; Pasadena Star News)

Nearby Los Angeles Historical Sites

Japanese American National Museum (JANM): A leading institution on Japanese American history, frequently hosting Tuna Canyon-related exhibits. (JANM)
Descanso Gardens: Venue for traveling exhibits and a renowned botanical garden.
Angeles National Forest: Offers hiking and natural beauty near the site.
Museum of Social Justice and other heritage sites: For broader context on civil rights and social justice in Los Angeles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the original Tuna Canyon Detention Station open for public tours?
A: No, the original site is not open to the public, but the memorial is accessible during daylight hours.

Q: Where can I see Tuna Canyon-related exhibitions?
A: Traveling exhibitions are hosted at venues such as Descanso Gardens and the Japanese American National Museum. Check tunacanyon.org for current locations and schedules.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: The memorial is free to visit. Exhibitions at host venues are included with general admission (e.g., $15 at Descanso Gardens).

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, during special exhibitions or events. See host venue or coalition websites for details.

Q: Is the site accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, both memorial and exhibition venues are ADA accessible.

Plan Your Visit

Check Exhibition Dates: Before visiting, consult the Tuna Canyon Coalition and host venue websites for current exhibitions and events.
Purchase Tickets if Needed: For exhibitions at Descanso Gardens or JANM, buy tickets in advance via the venue’s website.
Attend Special Programs: Enrich your visit through talks, descendant testimonies, and guided tours if available.
Respect the Site: Maintain a contemplative and respectful demeanor during your visit.

Visual Elements

Tuna Canyon Detention Station Memorial Oak Trees

Image Alt Text: Memorial oak trees at Tuna Canyon Detention Station, a significant Los Angeles historical site.

Descanso Gardens Japanese Garden

Image Alt Text: Japanese Garden at Descanso Gardens where Tuna Canyon history exhibits are displayed.

Additional Resources

Call to Action

Summary

Tuna Canyon Detention Station stands as a powerful reminder of the fragility of civil liberties and the enduring consequences of wartime prejudice. While the physical structures are gone, the site’s story is kept alive through memorialization, educational exhibitions, and community engagement, ensuring that future generations reflect on this critical chapter in Los Angeles—and American—history. By supporting preservation efforts and participating in related programs, visitors help uphold the memory of those unjustly detained and reinforce the importance of vigilance against injustice.