IRWD San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary

About this Location

IRWD's San Joaquin Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem in the heart of busy Orange County. It encompasses more than 300 acres of coastal freshwater wetlands, half of which have been restored to a natural state. The remaining acres are quality habitat and are not in need of restoration. With 12 miles of walking trails, the San Joaquin Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary has become one of Southern California's most notable nature respites.

IRWD invites you to enjoy the marsh. But while you’re there, you must follow these rules to ensure the well-being of the plants and animals that call the marsh home.

The IRWD San Joaquin Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary is a place for everyone to enjoy the beauty of nature. Visitors can walk along the trails, watch the more than 200 bird species that visit the marsh, take photographs, or simply relax under a native willow and listen to the sounds of nature. Because the Marsh is a wildlife sanctuary and place for quiet reflection, vehicles, bicycles, drones, dogs, horses, and other animals are not permitted.

Notable Trails

The AllTrails website has a description and map of a hike at San Joaquin Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary.

Content from Official Website, Tom Benson, and Aaron Jones

IRWD San Joaquin Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary trail map