Usal Beach Campground

California · Southwest

ModerateView on eBird Directions

Habitat

Coastal

Best Seasons

Fall Winter Spring

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Usal Beach Campground is a productive birding destination in California, with 228 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

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Notable Species

Sanderling Brown Pelican Osprey Royal Tern Willet

Live Bird Data

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

White-breasted Nuthatch

Sitta carolinensis

7/15/2026Benbow Dam Rd. and trail1 observed

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

7/14/2026SCARF Fitness Trail1 observed

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Accipiter striatus

7/6/2026Benbow Dam Rd. and trail1 observed

Gray Catbird

Dumetella carolinensis

7/3/2026Shelter Cove1 observed

Birding Tips

1
Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.
2
Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.
3
Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Amenities

Parking

Trails

More in California

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California Birding Guide

Complete guide to birding in California →

Birding Guides

Fall Bird Migration Guide

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Usal Beach Campground for birding?▼

The best months to visit Usal Beach Campground for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.

What birds can I see at Usal Beach Campground?▼

Notable species at Usal Beach Campground include Sanderling, Brown Pelican, Osprey, Royal Tern, Willet. The area supports coastal habitats.

How difficult is birding at Usal Beach Campground?▼

Birding at Usal Beach Campground is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.

What amenities are available at Usal Beach Campground?▼

Usal Beach Campground offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.