Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge

Directions: From San Diego, drive south on Interstate 5. Take E Street exit at Chula Vista, turn west. Park in lot for Chula Vista Nature Interpretive Center and take shuttle bus. Private vehicular access is not permitted.

Primary Wildlife: Endangered species include California least tern, light-footed clapper rail, salt marsh bird's beak plant, and Palmer's frankenia. The only place in the United States where Palmer's frankenia is found. Over 200 species of birds recorded. Important shorebird and waterfowl habitat.

Habitat: 316 acres of salt marsh and coastal uplands. Refuge includes largest emergent wetlands area remaining in San Diego Bay.

Recreation and Education: The Nature Interpretive Center operated by the City of Chula Vista has extensive interpretive programs including: formal environmental education classes, monthly newsletter, and volunteer programs. Wildlife observation, study, and photography. Future recreational foot trails.

San Diego NWR Complex
301 Caspian Way
Imperial Beach, CA 91932
FWS phone (619) 575-3616 x316
Visitor Center (619) 409-5900