Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve
Encino, CA
Free
By Simir Shah
★★★★★4.6(1,130 Google reviews)
What parents say
AI summary of 5 Google reviews — not a first-hand visit. How we write these
Reviewers describe quiet, easy nature trails that work for families, with wetland birds, turtles and easy parking. The water is not clean, so no swimming or paddling. One reviewer noted graffiti and vandalism, and parts of the reserve have been under restoration.
A 225-acre reserve within the larger Sepulveda Basin, centered on an 11-acre lake with a protected bird-refuge island and a 2.6-mile loop trail — some of the most accessible birdwatching in the Valley. It's a major stopover on the Pacific Flyway, so expect herons, egrets, and even American White Pelicans; dogs aren't allowed, to keep the wildlife undisturbed.
Good for
- Ages 0–2
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Hours via Google — confirm before a special trip.
Map
What visitors say
- Avi Rhodes★★★★★
This is really my go-to spot for bird watching. I consider myself and amateur ornithologist and this place is great for variety and some what uncommon birds. Last time I was there I saw 2 Osprey and at least 5 Belted Kingfishers. I took saw a couple Juvinile Yellow Crowed Night Herons and put a couple pics. I have seen every type of hawk/falcon except a Paragon Falcon. There are typically not many people there. I rarely run into others when walking around. I have, and you can, kayak here. The water is not exactly clean so I would not recommend swimming. This place is great because it has a lot of water birds, tree birds, bush birds, and sky birds. It also has excellent lighting for photos and bird identification. Parking is super easy. Every time I go there I see a new bird that I did not see the time previous. If you go here with 8-10x44 binoculars you are sure to have a great time and see tons of birds with immense detail.
10 months ago
- CiCi Young★★★★★
Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve is a peaceful escape for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The walking trails are quiet and surrounded by beautiful wetlands, making it easy to spot birds, turtles, and other wildlife. It’s a wonderful place to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and reconnect with nature without leaving the city. A true hidden gem that’s well worth visiting!
a month ago
Showing 2 of 5 Google reviews · Read them all on Google Maps
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