Originally established in 1876 as Calvary Cemetery, it served as a Catholic burial ground before being repurposed as a public park in 1968.

[2] For the years when it was in operation, it provided burial grounds primarily for Catholic residents of San Diego.

[8][4] In December 2024, a vandal drove into the grassy area of the park and performed donuts, leaving behind deep ruts and mud.

These stories have made the park a point of interest for paranormal enthusiasts.

[11][12] Several prominent individuals and families are interred at the site from its time as Calvary Cemetery.