Moss Landing Wildlife Area
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Moss Landing Wildlife Area is a nature reserve located in the state of California, USA.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
It is an excellent destination for nature lovers and bird watchers, offering visitors an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.
One of the best reasons to visit Moss Landing Wildlife Area is the abundance of wildlife that can be seen here. The reserve is a nesting ground for many species of birds, including the Snowy Plover, American Avocet, and Black-necked Stilt. Additionally, the reserve is home to several species of mammals, including sea otters, harbor seals, and sea lions.
Another point of interest to see at Moss Landing Wildlife Area is the Elkhorn Slough. This slough is one of the largest estuaries in California and is home to a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can explore the slough by kayak or take a guided boat tour to get an up-close look at the wildlife.
Interesting facts about the area include that it was once a thriving hub for the fishing industry, and the area is still home to several active fishing communities today. Additionally, the reserve is located at the confluence of the Elkhorn Slough and the Monterey Bay, making it an important location for marine research and conservation.
The best time of year to visit Moss Landing Wildlife Area is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the bird migration is at its peak. However, the reserve is open year-round and offers visitors the opportunity to experience the beauty of the outdoors in any season.
In conclusion, Moss Landing Wildlife Area is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and bird watchers alike. With its abundance of wildlife, beautiful scenery, and interesting history, it is a unique and fascinating place to explore.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
South Camp
|
||
Pine Hollow Camp
|
||
Dunes Camp
|
||
free campsite
|
||
Sunset State Beach
|
||
Free Campsite. Sunset-Sunrise
|
Moss Landing State Beach
Zmudowski State Beach
Santa Cruz Long-Toed Salamander Ecological Reserve
Salinas River State Beach
Elkhorn Slough Visitor Center