Garcia Bend Park is worth a visit in spring and fall to look for migrating landbirds in the riparian growth and Caspian or Forster’s Terns over the river. In winter, check for waterbirds you may have missed at Greenhaven Lake (described above) or River Lake (access via West Shore and East Shore drives north of Pocket Road). Marriott Park has large valley oaks that attract migrating warblers, vireos, tanagers and others in spring. eBird Sightings - Garcia Bend Park, Marriott Park
Caspian Tern, Image by Ray Rozema
Directions: Exit Interstate 5 at Pocket Road (6.0 miles south of Highway 50) and head west for 1.9 miles; the park will be on your left. For Marriott Park, from Pocket Road just west of Interstate 5, go south on Greenhaven Road for 0.2 mi, then turn left and drive 0.2 mi east on Grand River Drive to the park.
Garcia Bend and Marriott Parks are the fourth stop in the Sacramento Urban Birding Tour. This tour begins in William Land Park and continues south, including Reichmuth Park, Greenhaven Lake, Garcia Bend Park and Marriott Park, and Chorley Park. Find directions from park to park and read the complete tour guide here.
Tim Manolis