Ballona Freshwater Marsh — Attraction in Los Angeles

This park is frustrating.

It's awesome that it's being preserved and restored, but public access is really lacking. Almost all of the reserve is off limits to the public despite there being a loop path all the way around the freshwater marsh. Half of this loop is inexplicably blocked off. The one part that is public, basically just the path adjacent to Lincoln and the end of Jefferson, is half homeless encampment and half a fenced off path that doesn't allow many views of the actual marsh.

The first time I went here I was quite impressed with the preserve, turns out that some maintenance workers had left a gate open and I had actually (and accidentally) been in the off-limits section opposite the pond from Lincoln. So yeah, that part is nice, but apparently it was supposed to be closed off for some reason, so you can't actually enjoy it. There's some nice spots for duck photography there ... oh well

Parking is possible on Jefferson but said encampment blocks off 90% of the spaces, so be aware. If it's full over there, you can park on Bluffs rd but be aware of street sweeping day.

Overall, not really worth the drive through traffic to get here. Malibu lagoon is a much more accessible marsh with a very similar array of birds if you live far from both like me. I hope the state, who apparently owns the entire reserve, allows for more public access in this...

Nice place for a short walk, but don’t expect to see too much wildlife or wetlands.

It’s one long path on flat land. Not a challenging walk at all, though the ground is covered in wood chippings, which might be rough for anyone that needs a paved surface.

Park across the street at the sports park on Bluff Creek Dr. (next to the elementary school) and walk over to the entrance on Lincoln, right at the intersection with Bluff Creek Dr. There’s also an entrance at Lincoln & Jefferson, and one further west on Jefferson.

There were lots of dragonflies and wildflowers. Larger fauna like birds are farther away in the fenced off areas. Could make for some nice photography if you have a long lens!

Bring sunscreen and a hat because there is no shade or cover along the path at all. There are a couple benches for a quick rest, but they get very hot in the sun.

I’m glad this already is protected from disturbance or development, but it doesn’t make for the most interesting nature hike. But it’s still nice for people that want an easy...

Nice place in the city to take a walk. The pond has ducks. It would be more enjoyable if sanitation would get with the program and stay on top of the trash. In the evening and later, I'd be careful walking with pets in this area as there is a strong coyote presence in the area. Also, it should be noted that due to increasing wealth inequality, lack of services and countless personal issues, I'm sure, this area has become a safe place to park for many of L.A. 's RV dwellers. If you have a problem with this growing reality in our nation you may not enjoy walking here. I don't go often but when I have, I've never had a problem with any of the L.A. residents that now find this is all they can afford.

Oh, and bring water if your walking in the summer. There is very little shade and it can be...