The Sweet Springs Nature Preserve, 32+ acres located off Ramona Avenue in the town of Los Osos, has been owned and managed by the Morro Coast Audubon Society since 1989. The preserve offers hiking trails, beautiful views of Morro Bay and Morro Rock, and excellent birding opportunities.
Finally, if you haven’t had your fill of butterflies, then head over to Sweet Springs Nature Preserve in Los Osos for yet another look at the hibernating beauties.
For the protection of wildlife and bird species that inhabit and nest in Sweet Springs Nature Preserve, dogs and other pets are not permitted in the preserve. MCAS greatly appreciates the understanding and cooperation of pet owners.
From Oceano Campground take Highway 1 north to South Bay Boulevard, then turn right on Santa Ysabel Avenue. Next, take a left on 7th Street and a right on Ramona Avenue. Sweet Springs Nature Preserve is located on the the right, next to a prominent sign which marks the entrance. Part of the Audubon Nature Preserve, this 24-acre vegetative restoration project is considered a minor Monarch viewing site, so it’s usually pleasantly devoid of the seasonal crowds.
There’s no official parking at the preserve, however it’s possible to parallel park on the street outside the main entrance. There’s curb-cut access up to the sidewalk and barrier-free access to the preserve itself. From there a hard-packed dirt trail leads into the grove where it’s estimated that some 8,000 Monarchs overwinter. Make sure to stay on the main trail though, as the loop that heads to the right has deep sand and is not wheelchair accessible
And don’t miss the boardwalk at far end of the preserve. To find it, continue along Ramona Avenue and turn right on Broderson. The short road then dead-ends into an equally accessible boardwalk. And if you don’t happen to spot any butterflies, it’s not a total loss, as the preserve offers a pleasant walk through the woods. And that it itself is reason enough to add this stop to your must-do list.
