The forest has nearly 200 species of plants, more than 100 varieties of birds, and many species of mammals and reptiles and amphibians. The forest includes a 1-mile boardwalk that is wheelchair accessible at the north end of 16th Street. Guided tours are given on the third Saturday of each month at 9:30 am starting at the north end of 15th Street off Santa Ysabel. (805) 528-0392.

At South 16th St. and Menetone Ave. are areas to barbecue, restrooms, a large covered picnic table area and two play structures. The park also boasts horseshoes, softball and a grass volleyball court

Located on Highway 41 next to the zoo, the park is open from dawn to dusk and is open to the public. Paddle boats and kayaks are available for rent depending on the water level of the lake. A pedestrian path loops around the lake and is about one mile.

Avila Valley Barn is a local favorite! Find fresh, local produce, amazing homemade bakery goodies, gift shops, delicious deli and sweet shop, farm animals, and much more. Also, visit Gopher Glen for organic apples and fresh pressed cider and hard ciders. 560 Avila Beach Dr. avilavalleybarn.com, (805) 595-2816

On Santa Maria Avenue between 2nd and 3rd streets. The market takes place every Monday from 2-4:30 p.m. (805) 748-1109.

Read more at https://www.slovisitorsguide.com/los-osos/los-osos-gateway-nature

The pier, at the intersection of 2nd Street and El Morro Ave., overlooks the shores of the back bay of Morro Bay. The Los Osos Oaks State Reserve Half-mile east of South Bay Boulevard on the south side of Los Osos Valley Road. The reserve has an easy one-mile trail through the “Pygmy Oaks”, which are dwarfed coast live oaks. The low canopy reserve is on the site where Chumash once lived.

9100 Morro Rd., Atascadero, just off Highway 41, about one-and-a-half miles west of Highway 101. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for children 3 to 11 years old and $6 for seniors 65 and older. The zoo is open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. The zoo is one of only 211 zoos accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association since 1991. The park was founded in 1955 by Charles Paddock, who was a park ranger who came to the aid of injured wildlife. (805) 461-5080