SANTA MARGARITA RIVER TRAIL PRESERVE
In 2018, The Wildlands Conservancy acquired five miles of the oak- and sycamore-shaded Santa Margarita River, one of the last free-flowing wild rivers in Southern California and the southernmost range of steelhead trout. This 1,384-acre water-blessed property is part of the vulnerable South Coast Ecoregion that is recognized as one of the Earth’s 25 global hotspots of threatened biodiversity. For several decades the Fallbrook Trail Council has maintained 18 miles of equestrian and hiking trails on this former water district property. The Fallbrook Trails Council and The Wildlands Conservancy are now partners in maintaining this trail, which was voted the number one trail of the best 50 trails in San Diego County. Visitors are often surprised to see so many broad water impoundments along the river that are the industrious work of the California golden beaver.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
PRESERVE HOURS
8 AM to 4:30 PM
ADMISSION
FREE
CONTACT US
(909) 372-0138
southcoastpreserves@wildlandsconservancy.org
GETTING HERE
4251 River Edge Road
Fallbrook, CA 92028
Get Directions
THINGS TO DO
AMENITIES
PROHIBITIONS
SAFETY
LEAVE NO TRACE
Pack it in, Pack it out.
Take any trash you make with you.
Leave What You Find.
Allow others a sense of discovery by leaving rocks, plants, archaeological artifacts and other objects of interest as you find them.
Respect Wildlife.
Learn about wildlife through quiet observation. Do not disturb wildlife or plants just for a “better look.” Observe wildlife from a distance so they are not scared or forced to flee.
Be Considerate of Others.
One of the most important components of outdoor ethics is to maintain courtesy toward other visitors. It helps everyone enjoy their outdoor experience.
Principles courtesy of Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics.
RESOURCES
FREE INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS
Join our staff at Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve for FREE interpretive programs
CONSERVATION OUTCOMES
The Wildlands Conservancy’s stewardship will protect many of the 70 species of special concern found in the Santa Margarita River Valley such as the federally endangered least Bell’s vireo, southwestern willow flycatcher, and arroyo toad. This five-mile-long river woodland, with hillsides of chaparral and coastal sage scrub, is a vital section of the landscape linkage between Palomar Mountain and Camp Pendleton. Our friendly onsite managers and rangers will inspire visitors with their knowledge and commitment to protect this precious resource.
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