TOP 30 Wildlife watching areas in California

Welcome to the Samoa Dunes Recreation Area in Samoa, California, United States. This 300 acre park offers a wide range of recreational activities such as hiking, surfing, fishing, beachcombing, picnicking, and birdwatching. Visitors can also enjoy off-highway vehicle (OHV) use in designated areas. It is important to respect the rights of other visitors and be aware of OHV riding areas when exploring the park. There are no seasonal restrictions or fees for recreation use at Samoa Dunes. Facilities include an unloading ramp, restroom, tables, cooking grills, and a scenic overlook. Riders have access to 140 acres of open terrain with trails, a one-way track, a 4x4 rock crawling course, and the beach strand. The Eureka Dunes area, extending about 1 mile north of the park, is also open to OHV use.

China Camp Point Picnic Area is a beautiful park located in San Rafael, California, along the shore of the San Pablo Bay. Visitors can enjoy stunning waterfront views, meadows, oak habitats, and a variety of wildlife such as deer, squirrels, coyotes, and numerous birds. The park also features an extensive intertidal salt marsh, where endangered species like the California clapper rail and salt marsh harvest mouse can be found. The park has a rich history, with a Chinese shrimp-fishing village thriving on the site in the 1880s. The museum at China Camp Village tells the story of these hardy shrimp fishermen. Visitors can also explore the beach, swim, picnic, and enjoy activities like wildlife-watching, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, swimming, boating, and windsurfing.

Coyote Point Recreation Area is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 1701 Coyote Point Drive in San Mateo, California, United States. This stunning waterfront park offers breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay and features a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including picnic areas, playgrounds, walking and biking trails, a marina, and a beach for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also explore the CuriOdyssey science and wildlife center, which offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for all ages. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the water or an adventure-filled outing, Coyote Point Recreation Area has something for everyone to enjoy.

Tilden Nature Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 600 Canon Drive in Berkeley, California, United States. Open daily from 5am to 10pm, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming at Lake Anza, riding the carousel, visiting the Botanic Garden, and hiking through the park's 2,079 acres of natural beauty. Named after Charles Lee Tilden, the park offers wheelchair accessible facilities including the Steam Train, Merry-Go-Round, Little Farm, and the Environmental Education Center. Picnic areas with barbecues are available for reservation, as well as venues for weddings and events such as Lakeview, Laurel, and the Brazil Building. With stunning views of Tilden Park and a range of activities for all ages, Tilden Nature Area is a must-visit destination in the East Bay area.

Benicia State Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 1 State Park Road in Benicia, California, United States. Visitors can enjoy 2 1/2 miles of road and bike paths for cycling, running, walking, horseback riding, and roller skating. Picnicking, bird watching, and fishing are also popular activities at the park. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. The marshland area on Dillon’s Point is a favorite spot for fishing. A parking fee is required for visitors. Three "Enroute" campsites are available for overnight stays on a first-come, first-served basis, limited to motorhomes or vehicles with trailers that are fully self-contained. Tents are not allowed. It is prohibited to collect or destroy anything in the park, including mushrooms. Online reservations are not available for this park. The weather in the area can be changeable, so layered clothing is recommended. To reach the park, take the Columbus Parkway exit on I-780, 1.5 miles west of the outskirts of Benicia. Latitude/Longitude: 38.0780/ -122.1926.

Stevens Creek Shoreline Nature Study Area Preserve is a peaceful and scenic park located in Mountain View, California, United States. This beautiful nature preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore the diverse ecosystem of the Stevens Creek shoreline, including wetlands, marshes, and grasslands. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking while taking in stunning views of the surrounding landscape. With its tranquil atmosphere and abundant wildlife, Stevens Creek Shoreline Nature Study Area Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Stivers Lagoon Nature Area is a serene park located at 40500 Paseo Padre Parkway in Fremont, California. This beautiful nature area offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, tranquil lagoons, and scenic walking paths, Stivers Lagoon Nature Area is the perfect place to connect with nature and unwind. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, birdwatch, or have a picnic with family and friends, this park has something for everyone. Come and explore the natural beauty of Stivers Lagoon Nature Area today!

Markham Nature Area is a beautiful park located at 1202 La Vista Avenue in Concord, California. This institution offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery, winding trails, and serene atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park, take in the sights and sounds of nature, and relax in the tranquil surroundings. Markham Nature Area is the perfect place to reconnect with the natural world and unwind in a peaceful setting.

The Patrick Hannah Grove Picnic Area is a charming park located at 1035 Castle Rock Road in Walnut Creek, California. This peaceful and picturesque spot offers a perfect setting for picnics, gatherings, and relaxation amidst nature. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, visitors can enjoy a serene atmosphere and beautiful views. Whether you're looking for a place to unwind with family and friends or simply take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, the Patrick Hannah Grove Picnic Area is the ideal destination. Pack a picnic basket, grab a blanket, and come enjoy a day of tranquility in this lovely park.

Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 2500 Stanley Blvd in Pleasanton, California, United States. The park offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy, including swimming, fishing, boating, picnicking, and hiking. The park is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. Visitors can swim at the designated hours when lifeguards are on duty, or at their own risk outside of those times. Parking fees apply, and there are additional fees for boating, fishing permits, and bringing dogs into the park. Shadow Cliffs was originally a gravel quarry donated to the Park District in 1971, and has since been developed into a 266-acre park with an 80-acre lake. The park features facilities for persons with disabilities, accessible parking, trails, and restrooms. Beach wheelchairs are available for free to assist wheelchair users in navigating the sandy beach area. The park also has a wheelchair accessible fishing pier and interpretive pavilion.

The North Coyote Valley Conservation Area, located in San Jose, California, is a stunning natural oasis nestled between the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Diablo Range. This conservation area is a top priority for preserving the unique combination of nature's benefits it offers, including floodplains, wildlife connectivity, agriculture, and recreation opportunities. By protecting and restoring the natural benefits of Coyote Valley, we are making a smart long-term investment in the health and sustainability of our region, especially in the face of a changing climate. Through a partnership with Peninsula Open Space Trust and the City of San Jose, the Authority has protected 1,000 acres of open space in North Coyote Valley, creating the North Coyote Valley Conservation Area. This area plays a crucial role in connecting wildlife habitats, restoring natural floodplains, and improving water quality to build a climate-resilient future for the residents of San Jose.

Bolsa Chica Basin State Marine Conservation Area is a beautiful park located in Huntington Beach, California, United States. This conservation area is dedicated to protecting the marine environment and promoting education and awareness about the importance of preserving our oceans. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the coastline, observe a variety of marine life, and participate in educational programs and activities. Whether you're looking to relax and enjoy nature or learn more about marine conservation, Bolsa Chica Basin State Marine Conservation Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and environmental enthusiasts.

Hidden Valley Wildlife Area is a serene and beautiful park located in Riverside, California. This hidden gem offers visitors the opportunity to explore nature and observe a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center with educational exhibits. It is a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are looking to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings or learn more about the local flora and fauna, Hidden Valley Wildlife Area is the perfect destination for a day of exploration and adventure.

The Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 45211 County Road 32B in Davis, California, United States. Spanning over 16,000 acres, this wildlife area is a haven for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers alike. Visitors can explore the diverse habitats, including wetlands, grasslands, and marshes, while spotting a variety of bird species, including waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds. The area also offers opportunities for hiking, photography, and wildlife viewing. Whether you're looking to reconnect with nature or simply enjoy a peaceful escape, the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area is a must-visit destination.

Sunset Whitney Recreation Area, located at 4201 Midas Avenue in Rocklin, California, is a sprawling 184-acre park that was formerly the Rocklin Golf Club. Purchased by the City in 2018, the area is now being developed into a vibrant community space with a variety of amenities and activities for residents to enjoy. The master plan for the Sunset Whitney Recreation Area was approved by the City Council and includes features such as walking and biking trails, a central activity hub, and new park spaces. The community has shown great enthusiasm for the project, with over 175 people attending a recent meeting to share their feedback and ideas. Grant funding has been secured for trail expansions, and volunteer events have helped beautify the area by planting trees and painting facilities. The Sunset Whitney Recreation Area is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with events such as the annual Sunset Run 5K fundraiser drawing in residents from across the city. From public forums to volunteer days, the development of the Sunset Whitney Recreation Area has been a collaborative effort between the City and its residents, creating a space that is both beautiful and inviting for all to enjoy.

Prairie City State Vehicle Recreation Area (SVRA) is a park located at 13300 White Rock Road in Rancho Cordova, California. This area offers off-highway vehicle enthusiasts a variety of terrain and trails for motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, and 4-wheel drive vehicles. The park is situated at the base of the Sierra Nevada foothills, providing a mix of flat grasslands, rolling hills with oak trees, and historic mine tailings. Prairie City SVRA takes its name from a gold rush community that was once located nearby. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds like golden eagles and deer. The park has a rich history, with remnants of its space-age past still visible today. Prairie City SVRA is committed to sustainable land management, with ongoing projects to stabilize eroded areas and provide habitat for wildlife. The park also features an Environmental Training Center and regularly holds workshops and events. Visitors can enjoy a range of recreational activities while supporting conservation efforts in this unique outdoor space.

Redwood Picnic Area is a charming outdoor facility located at 200 John F Shelley Drive in San Francisco, California. Surrounded by majestic redwood trees, this picturesque picnic area offers a tranquil and serene setting for visitors to enjoy a meal or gather with friends and family. With plenty of picnic tables, BBQ pits, and scenic views, Redwood Picnic Area is the perfect spot for a relaxing day out in nature. Whether you're looking to have a peaceful solo picnic or host a lively gathering, this institution provides the ideal backdrop for a memorable outdoor experience in the heart of San Francisco.

Kennedy Grove Regional Recreation Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 6531 San Pablo Dam Road in El Sobrante, California, United States. The park offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy, including picnicking, hiking, bird watching, playgrounds, and more. The park is open seasonally from November to October, with varying hours. There are parking fees for weekends and holidays, as well as fees for dogs. The park is wheelchair accessible and offers reservable group picnic areas. The park also features a historic indoor/outdoor facility called Fern Cottage, which is popular for events such as weddings and parties. The park is rich in history, once being the site of ranchos and a narrow-gauge railroad. The park was dedicated in 1967 in honor of President John F. Kennedy and is operated by the East Bay Regional Park District. Visit Kennedy Grove Regional Recreation Area for a relaxing and enjoyable outdoor experience.

The San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a park located at 1080 Gunpowder Point Drive in Chula Vista, California. This refuge consists of two distinct areas where visitors can enjoy the beauty of San Diego Bay's wildlife, connected by the Bayshore Bikeway. Accessing the refuge is easy, whether you choose to ride your bike, take the bus, or drive. Limited access is available at the Sweetwater Marsh Unit, where visitors can catch a free shuttle from the Living Coast Discovery Center to access refuge trails. The Refuge protects a diverse range of endangered, threatened, migratory, and native species and their habitats within a highly urbanized coastal environment. Monthly tours are available to the public, as well as winter tours led by the San Diego Audubon Society. Habitat management techniques are used to maintain, recover, or enhance plant and wildlife values within the Refuge.

Lake Sonoma Recreation Area is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Geyserville, California. Nestled along the picturesque Stewarts Point-Skaggs Springs Road, this institution offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area. With its crystal clear lake, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails, Lake Sonoma Recreation Area is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, go fishing, or take a leisurely stroll through the park, this institution has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and serenity of Lake Sonoma Recreation Area today.

San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area, located at 31426 Gonzaga Road in Gustine, California, is a picturesque park and tourist attraction offering a range of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, board sailing, camping, and picnicking in the beautiful grassy hills of the San Joaquin Valley. Anglers will especially appreciate the three lakes within the park. The reservoir was constructed as a storage facility for water projects, providing a vital resource for the region. The Romero Visitor Center, administered by the CA Dept. of Water Resources, offers informative displays and materials about the reservoirs and water projects. The area has a rich history, once home to the Northern Valley Yokuts Native Americans who relied on the land's resources for survival. Over time, Spanish settlers and Euroamerican pioneers changed the landscape and way of life in the region.

Lake Casitas Recreation Area is a popular destination located at 11311 Santa Ana Road in Ventura, California. This beautiful institution offers a wide range of activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy. From camping and lodging options to a variety of recreational activities, such as fishing, boating, and hiking, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Lake Casitas. The park's serene setting and stunning views of the surrounding mountains make it the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking for a fun day out with the family or a peaceful retreat in nature, Lake Casitas Recreation Area has something for everyone.

Rancho Seco Recreational Area is a 400-acre park located at 14960 Twin Cities Road, Herald, California, United States. This beautiful park offers a wide range of recreational activities including camping, boating, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The 160-acre lake is fed by the Folsom South Canal and provides a great year-round getaway just 25 miles from downtown Sacramento. The park has made significant infrastructure improvements over the years to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors. These improvements include new shade structures, restrooms, shower facilities, laundry facilities, and more. The Beach Store is open Thursday through Monday, offering a variety of amenities for visitors.

Los Banos Wildlife Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 18110 Henry Miller Avenue in Los Banos, California. This expansive wildlife area is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of recreational activities such as bird watching, hiking, fishing, and wildlife photography. Visitors can explore the diverse habitats of wetlands, grasslands, and forests, and spot a wide range of bird species, including waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds. With its serene atmosphere and stunning natural scenery, Los Banos Wildlife Area is the perfect destination for a peaceful escape into nature.

Anthony Chabot, Marciel Staging Area is a campground and lodging facility located at 9999 Redwood Road in Castro Valley, California, United States. Fees are collected on weekends and major holidays from April through October at the Redwood Gate entrance. Parking fees are $5 per vehicle and $4 per trailered vehicle, with buses charged $25 per bus. Dogs are welcome for a fee of $2 per dog, except for guide or service dogs. The institution can be contacted toll-free at 888-EBPARKS (888-327-2757, option 3, extension 4553, but public WiFi is not available. Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, previously known for extensive logging in the mid-1800s, now boasts a serene forest of 150-foot coast redwoods. Named in honor of Dr. Aurelia Henry Reinhardt in 2019, the park offers multiple entrances and various amenities, including picnic sites, group camping areas, and over 40 miles of trails for hiking, jogging, and horseback riding. Wildlife within the park includes rare species such as the golden eagle and Alameda striped racer. Fishing is not allowed, but visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of this 1,833-acre park.

Laguna Seca Recreation Area Campgrounds is a picturesque destination nestled in the heart of Salinas, California. Situated at 1021 Monterey Salinas Highway, this campground offers a perfect blend of nature and comfort for visitors looking to relax and unwind. With a variety of lodging options available, including tent and RV sites, cabins, and yurts, guests can choose the accommodation that best suits their needs. The campground also features modern amenities such as bathrooms, showers, and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.

The Sea Lion Viewing Area at Pier 39 in San Francisco, California is a popular tourist attraction where visitors can observe California sea lions up close. The sea lions first started appearing on K-Dock after the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989 and have since made it their home. With over 1,700 sea lions at its peak in 2009, the viewing area offers a unique opportunity to witness these playful and noisy creatures in their natural habitat. The Marine Mammal Center has helped ensure the well-being of the sea lions, making Pier 39 a safe and ideal environment for them to thrive. Whether you're a local or a tourist, a visit to the Sea Lion Viewing Area is a must-see experience in San Francisco.

The Golden Gate National Recreation Area - Lands End is a breathtaking tourist attraction located in San Francisco, California, United States. This stunning natural reserve offers visitors a chance to explore rugged cliffs, scenic coastal views, and historic landmarks. With miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife watching, this institution is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the California coastline at the Golden Gate National Recreation Area - Lands End.

Brannan Island State Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 17645 California 160, Rio Vista, California, United States. The park is open from sunrise to one hour after sunset, with a new gate closing one hour after sunset and reopening at sunrise. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and under human control at all times. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance, with bookings based on availability and the park's maximum stay rules. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, and fishing for species such as striped bass, sturgeon, catfish, and more. Birdwatchers will also enjoy the 76 species of birds that call the park home.

Little Yosemite Area is a picturesque park located at 1895 Geary Road in Sunol, California, United States. The park offers a variety of activities such as camping, picnicking, hiking, and backpacking in its 6,859-acre wilderness. Visitors can explore sandstone outcrops with fossils, massive basalt outcrops, and the inviting creekside community along Alameda Creek. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife including ground squirrels, yellow-billed magpies, red-tailed hawks, raccoons, skunks, and black-tailed deer. The Sunol Visitor Center is open on Fridays from 10am to 2pm and on Saturdays, Sundays, and most holidays from 8:30am to 4pm. The center offers information on trail suggestions, recent animal sightings, and nature hikes led by the naturalist staff. Visitors can also meet animal ambassadors and learn about the park's plant specimens at the Sunol Herbarium.