A series of small ponds, surrounded by cottonwoods, are along Mission Road south of the cantonment area. There was once a small dirt track that passed by most of them, but this is now abandoned and only the southeasternmost pond can be viewed from Mission Road.  Be aware that this is not public property, but Army land, and entry off-road is prohibited. Birders have even been stopped when on Mission Road and told to move along. A quck check and go is probably the safest.

Any duck, wader, or waterbird is unusual on Fort Hunter Liggett (except for Mallard, Ruddy Duck, American Coot), to these ponds have attracted waterfowl of local interest, including Wood Duck, Ring-necked Duck, Common Gallinule, and Spotted Sandpiper. Yellow Warbler breeds across the road in cottonwoods in summer. A Golden Eagle or Bald Eagle might fly over.