Long considered the “crown jewel” of California’s 280 state parks, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a magnet for nature lovers around the world. With its breathtaking beauty, fascinating wildlife and friendly and knowledgeable volunteers, Point Lobos is a place where one can experience nature at its best and explore this area's fascinating human history.
While the California Department of Parks and Recreation continues its work to find creative ways to sustain our state parks, Point Lobos is benefitting from the support of the Point Lobos Foundation. Our mission is to protect and nurture Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, to educate and inspire visitors to preserve its unique natural and cultural resources, and to strengthen the network of Carmel Area State Parks. The Foundation is the sole source of funding for the model volunteer program, protects the Reserve's environmental health and historical integrity by funding work on trails, facilities and vegetation, and continuously strives to improve programs and services for approximately one million visitors each year.
Point Lobos is a natural reserve, not a park, and afforded the highest level of statewide protection. The purpose of a reserve is to forever protect an area of unique natural beauty and ecological significance. You can do your part by staying on marked trails, leaving natural objects where you find them, and respecting wildlife in their natural habitat.
You have questions, we have your answers! The Point Lobos docents are available to answer your nature questions. Bring out your inner naturalist and submit your questions.
You will get a response within a few days. Just click on the link below to begin the conversation.
California Wildlife Day went virtual on March 20th and 21st. The theme, "Cultivating Resilience in a Changing Climate" was met with great enthusiasm. Point Lobos docent, Don Blohowiak created and shared an inspirational video, "Point Lobos Connected. Protected." watch it here.
Did you know Point Lobos has docent-led free public walks almost daily? Docent-guided walks allow visitors to see Point Lobos through experienced eyes and gain insights that one might easily miss when walking the trails on one’s own. Docents are aware of seasonal events that many visitors miss, and can help in identifying the wealth of flora and fauna seen within the Reserve. These walks are less than a mile in length and can cover many interesting topics, such as nature, history, geology, tidepools and others. View Upcoming Walks