Santa Margarita County Preserve — Attraction in Fallbrook

I was startled in finding a variety of green trees--tall ones and forests of them, all surrounded by vines and other lush wild greenery. I am so thankful the preserve is locked in order to protect. This location has a wooden gate opens at 8 am. I was totally disappointed in seeing people swimming--not only mothers encouraging small children and also their infant dipping in the stream. Being a Guest to nature doesn't mean the same to everyone. I spoke to a few horse women who routinely enjoy early mornings. Then, in evening other equestrian ladies were washing down their horses, while fully respecting and appreciating the park, the preserve, common sense and the natural environment. I crossed paths with dog owners--not all dogs on leashes. Another example of strong sensible regulations ignored. These pet owners don't recognize or else don't care about mountain lion paw tracks or other wildlife residents who live here. This preserve is an exceptional place for North County. I was startled to discover such rare...

Such a pretty place! Be prepared to cross the Santa Margarita River, as trail continues on the other side. Water was approx. 2 feet deep. There were rocks the first 1/3 of way across, then nothing, so I recommend wearing bathing suits, slipping on aqua socks to cross, and carrying a dry bag, for car keys, etc. Rocks have algae on them, so they're probably pretty slippery. We were stopped by this river crossing part, but I did find a mini trail to the right, that follows the river bank a little ways. It enabled me to get some pretty shots of the river. I saw a few birds, like a group of Yellow Warblers, way up in the high branches of the opposing bank's eucalyptus tree. Also spotted a Yellow Rumped Warbler, and some sparrows, feeding in the grass, near start of the trail. I saw a Mourning Cloak Butterfly, as well. Half of the parking lot is for trucks carrying horse trailers, and the other half is designated for autos. There were a couple Porta-Potties in parking lot, in case...

I spent an hour exploring Santa Margarita County Preserve. I hiked on the Santa Margarita Trail and went as far as I could towards reaching the end until water prevented me from continuing. I wasn’t prepared to wade across the river. The trails are well marked but not very clean – it’s obvious that trash floats down the river and settles in the park. The trails are mostly sand – some wet and some like the beach sand that water never touches. No other people were around when I hiked on a Friday morning. Equestrians may also use the preserve – the huge, dirt parking lot accommodates horse trailers. The preserve does not have a visitor center, but there are a couple of porta-potties in the...