The Buena Vista Lagoon lies within the cities of Carlsbad and Oceanside in northern San Diego County, south of Highway 78, west of Jefferson Street.  The Lagoon is California's first Ecological Reserve and is owned by the California Department of Fish and Game. The text below gives a general breakdown of the lagoon's flora and fauna. Click here for additional historical information.

CLICK TO ENLARGE

This ecological and aesthetic jewel in the midst of a rapidly growing urban area provides: • a visual treat for the thousands of people who drive by daily • pleasures and challenges to the birders who observe many of the approximately 200 species that frequent the lagoon • tranquility for those who stop at or slowly pass, on foot or bicycle, the numerous viewpoints and trails around its shore • joy to the young and old who visit the friendly birds at the east end shoreline • recreation for anglers • an important ecological example of our rapidly disappearing coastal wetlands

Click on the links below for more information

Wildlife Protection RULES:

You are welcome to:

¯     Fish from shore (Commercial fishing is not permitted).

¯     Walk or Hike, but only on established trails, paths, or other designated areas.

But You may NOT:

¯     Feed the wildlife.

¯     Release any fish or animal, including domestic species.

¯     Swim, wade or dive or use any diving equipment

¯     Deposit, drop or scatter any debris except in a receptacle designated for that purpose.

¯     Launch or operate a boat or other floating device except by permit from the California Department of Fish & Game Commission.

¯     Disturb birds or nests or eggs, plants, ammals, fish, amphibians, reptiles, or any other form of plant or animal life except as noted elsewhere in these regulations.

¯     Bring dogs or cats in the reserve unless they are retained on a leach of less than 10 feet or are kept inside a motor vehicle.

¯     Drive, operate, leave or stop any motor vehicle, bicycle, or any other type of vehicle except on designated access roads and parking areas.

¯     Collect specimens unless you have a special Buena Vista Lagoon permit from the California Fish & Game Commission plus a scientified collecting permit. 

¯     Fire or discharge any firearm, bow and arrow, air or gas gun, spear gun or any other weapon.

¯     Use any pesticides on the reserve. 

In General, put nothing in, and take nothing out of the Reserve unless given permission by State Fish & Game Biologists. 

Thank you.