Tijuana Slough is a 1,072-acre wetland where the Tijuana River meets the Pacific Ocean. The refuge was established in 1980 and is part of the 2,800-acre Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve, one of only 30 such reserves in the United States. The refuge is also recognized as a Wetland of International Impor
Maybe — confirm before you go.
This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 619-575-2704
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Encanto Avenue, Beach Trail, Imperial Beach Pier, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Often restricted to protect wildlife — many refuges limit or prohibit pets. Check this refuge before you go.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Wildlife Refuge land.
Nearby sites
Pacific Southwest Region USFWS from Sacramento, US / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
NPS Photo / Dan Zeller National Park Service Cabrillo National Monument
ConfirmedYour pass covers the $20 park entrance fee.
