Rural Creston, CA lies about ten miles east of Atascadero in San Luis Obispo County, just south of Highway 41 on Highway 229. With a population of about 1100 people, Creston is a laid-back country town that you've probably never heard of, in the middle of cattle and horse country.
You get four seasons in Creston, though the winters are not extremely harsh. A sprinkling of snow may occur, but seldom an accumulation that lasts very long. But the crisp temperatures and frequent freezes reminds you that California isn't just about beaches. Summers are warm, and you'll definitely want air conditioning. The spring brings a wonderful wildflower show after winter rains.
Horse and cattle ranches abound, surrounding the center of Creston. Rolling hills dotted with oaks, chaparral, and grassy fields support wineries, agribusinesses, and small family farms.
Creston has two claims to fame, which may surprise you. One is that Dianetics writer and Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard died there on a ranch he owned, in 1986. He had essentially retired from the church he founded and no longer was in charge of daily operations. He lived on a sizable ranch in Creston from 1983 until
his death in 1986. He had let his hair grow long and was able to move through his daily routine in his neighborhood without anyone recognizing him. He died of a stroke, alone except for his doctor and lawyer. The ranch has since been deeded to the Church of Spiritual Technology (an offshoot of Scientology), and is occupied by caretakers who keep it in mint condition. Unfortunately, the ranch is not open for tours.
Another point of interest in Creston is the ranch once owned by television personality and Jeopardy host Alex Trebek, where he bred, raised, trained, and cared for Thoroughbred horses. He has since sold the farm, but lived there for several years.
Horse trailers, pickup trucks, and real cowboys are a common sight around Creston. And beautiful ranch parcels are available for a very reasonable price. Check it out!
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