The Fiscalini Ranch Preserve in Cambria is known for its dramatic rocky bluffs with Pacific Ocean views, dry grassy meadows with wildflowers and a Monterey pine forest. Be ready to spot rare coastal birds, butterflies, migrating whales and sea otters as you follow its various public trails.
The preserve covers 437 acres (177 hectares) and is one part of coastal California that never developed. The land was once part of the Rancho Santa Rosa, a Mexican land grant. The Fiscalinis, a family of dairy and beef farmers, owned the property for almost 100 years. The preserve is now managed by the local district council and the Friends of the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve (FFRP), a non-profit organization.
Visit in spring to see all the wildflowers in the prairie and watch the butterflies fluttering around. Some 500 native flowers have been recorded in this preserve alone. Summer activities in the park include the harvesting of wildflower seeds.
Take a guided walk with a docent to make the most of your visit. Bring your binoculars if you are into wildlife spotting and birding. From the bluff, you may see wonderful marine creatures, including sea lions, shore birds, whales and sea otters, but the prairies attract some special wildlife too.
During the expert Birding Walk tour, your guide will point out all the different species, including condors, woodpeckers and turkey vultures. The more general Bluff Trail Walk takes in the unique flora and fauna of the coastal prairies and the ocean cliffs. Alternatively, do the more shady Forest Loop Walk from the Tipton Street entrance. Your guide will stop often to point out the local species and you’ll also learn about early human activity in this area. The Northern Chumash and Salinan First Nation peoples both have ancestors that roamed here.
The Fiscalini Ranch Preserve is in Cambria itself and is bordered by Santa Rosa Creek, which also winds its way through the city. Most tours start in the mid morning and last until noon. Wear enclosed footwear and a long pair of pants to protect your skin from poison oak. Street parking is available at all entrances to the preserve and access is free.
