Beals Point is probably the single best location for viewing large numbers of gulls and water birds on Folsom Lake. From late October through March, this is usually the best spot to watch thousands of gulls flying in to roost on the lake. Bruce Webb reports that the show usually begins around 3 p.m. and lasts until dusk. Large groups will often stop along the shore, giving you a chance to identify them, before heading out onto the lake to spend the night. As many as 14 Common Loons have been recorded just from this site. Depending on the water levels, you can scan the lake from near the parking area, or you will want to walk up to a quarter-mile down to the waterline. A spotting scope is very helpful. Rock Wrens and Rufous-crowned Sparrows are often seen. The campground area is also worth checking. eBird Sightings
California Gull, Image by Daniel Lee Brown
Directions: From Sacramento, take Interstate 80 east for 17 miles from Interstate 5 to East Douglas Boulevard (exit 103A). Head east on Douglas for 5.2 miles, and turn right on Auburn Folsom Road. After 1.8 miles, turn left at the Beals Point access.
Alternately, from Highway 50, go east from Interstate 5 in Sacramento for 18.5 miles to the Folsom Boulevard exit (exit 23). Go north for 3.6 miles. At Greenback Avenue, the road becomes Folsom Auburn Road. Continue 2.6 miles to the Beals Point access. Note that the road name changes to Auburn Folsom Road once it crosses from Sacramento to Placer County.
Granite Bay Entrance
To reach Beeks Bight, you will go through the Granite Bay entrance (see below). Along the way, you will encounter oak woodland habitat that can produce a species list similar to the Beeks Bight area. It is also worthwhile to check the lake for water birds. The shoreline near the boat ramps has produced local rarities such as Snowy Plovers and Sanderlings.
Chris Conard and Kimya Lambert