California Red-Legged Frogs

A California red-legged frog sits on a reed in the mud.

The freshwater pond and streams inland from this bridge are home to the California red-legged frog, a threatened species native to the state and the largest native frog in the western US. Typically, they are between two and five inches in length with reddish underbellies and legs. They prefer slow-moving or standing deep ponds and streams as habitat and can live up to 10 years. In the winter, the park puts up "Slow down for frog crossing" signs here.


This species has been eliminated from 70% of its former range from Mendocino County to Baja, California. The 1880s saw a huge demand for frog legs which led to an over-harvesting of frogs for consumption. Modern threats to the species come from human activity related to agriculture, development, timber harvest and the introduction of non-native predators like bullfrogs.

To the next tour point: Look for signs on the right for the Coastal Trail, which will lead you up through the riparian glade and back to the Visitor Center.