The Carmel River, dry in summer, ends in a small lagoon and marsh, which opens to the ocean generally only after winter storms. The river bed, lined with willows and cottonwoods, is a favorite of birding groups in search of fall vagrant warblers. Drive to the junction of Highway 1 and Rio Rd. in Carmel. Best access to riverbed is behind the Crossroads shopping center just north of Highway 1 bridge. Perhaps better known for its rocky, scenic coastline and marine mammals, this peninsula also offers rewarding birding.
Several trails wind through Monterey pine forest and patchy coastal scrub.
Take Highway 1 south of Carmel 2 miles to the reserve entrance on the right. Park outside along the highway or enter for a small fee. This large inland park along the Carmel river features riparian willow thickets, lowland sycamores, live oak woodlands, and chaparral. From the Highway 1 junction in Carmel take Carmel Valley Rd. 9 miles east to a large dirt parking area on the right adjacent to the roadway.