Madrona Marsh Preserve and Nature Center
You don’t have to leave the city to get up close with nature. Situated in the heart of Torrance is the Madrona Marsh Preserve and Nature Center, a nearly 50-acre marsh home to a vibrant ecosystem waiting to be explored.
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Discover the Madrona Marsh Preserve and Nature Center
The Madrona Marsh Preserve and Nature Center in Torrance is one of Southern California’s last seasonal wetland habitats –a 43-acre vernal marsh tucked into the urban landscape. Fed by winter rains, the marsh fills with ponds, then dries by late summer, providing a dynamic ecosystem for over 275 native and 50 non-native bird species, reptiles, amphibians, insects, and small mammals.
Explore the Park
Wander self‑guided trails that loop through cattails, willows, and sycamores—keep an eye out for egrets, ducks, lizards, and rabbits.
Browse the Nature Center’s Exhibit Hall featuring live animals, like frogs, snakes, turtles, insects, hands-on labs, and a demonstration garden.
Events & Special Programs
The Madrona Marsh Preserve is operated in partnership between the City of Torrance and the nonprofit Friends of Madrona Marsh, who work together to protect and enhance this rare urban wetland. The nonprofit leads the majority of the public programs. Most events are free to attend, with donations warmly encouraged to support ongoing conservation efforts.
Kids Programs
Monthly Tyke Hikes (ages 0–6): 10 am -11:30 am, 1st Thursday of every month. Kids get to listen for birds, look for frogs, and learn about a new nature topic each week. Closed-toed shoes and sun protection are recommended. Meet inside the Nature Center.
Nature Storytime (ages 2–5): 10:30 am – 12 pm, 2nd Thursday of every month. Children will discover the wonders of the Madrona Marsh through stories, science activities and crafts. Pre-registration is required. Call the Nature Center to register.
Friday Fun! (ages 3–6): 10 am – 12 pm, A hands-on program for preschoolers that includes nature crafts, story time, and a nature walk on the Preserve. Registration opens on Tuesdays at 10 am of the same week. Call the Nature Center to register.
All Ages Programs
Star Party: Bring the entire family to explore the night sky at the Madrona Marsh! Star Parties focus on different celestial objects at each event and begin with a short introductory presentation inside the Nature Center led by knowledgeable astronomers. Telescopes are available for viewing (weather permitting). Dates vary, check the Local Anchor events calendar, visit the Friends of Madrona Marsh website or call the Nature Center for dates and times.
Docent Nature Walks: 10 am – 12 pm, every Saturday. Guided tour of the park with introductions to the plants and wildlife commonly found at the Madrona Marsh and around the South Bay. Call the Nature Center to register.
Night Hikes: April–September (7:30–9:30 p.m.), October–March (6:30–8:30 p.m.) every 2nd Saturday, $5/person or $10/family. Walk through the Preserve and experience the sights and sounds of animals and insects as they begin their nightly activities. Pre-registration is required by contacting the Nature Center.
Henrietta Basin walk: 9 – 11 am, every 3rd Saturday at Henrietta Basin: 20501 Henrietta Street, Torrance, 90503. Henrietta Basin is one of several stormwater collection basins in the City of Torrance. It offers habitat space for wildlife, trails for observers, and a natural water treatment system.
Guided Bird Walks: 9 – 11 am, every 4th Saturday at Henrietta Basin. Join members of the Palos Verdes / South Bay Audubon chapter for a guided bird walk through the Madrona Marsh Preserve. Meet at the Nature Center at 9 a.m. For new and beginner birders of all ages! Binoculars are available to borrow from the Nature Center upon request.
Visiting The Preserve and Nature Center
The Preserve and Nature Center is open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm (Closed Sunday and Monday). Admission is free; no reservations needed.
The parking lot and Nature Center are located on the north side of Plaza Del Amo. The entrance to the Preserve is located on the south side of Plaza Del Amo, directly across the street from the Nature Center. Address: 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, CA 90503.
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