Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael

When you first arrive the pay station is just to the left of the ranger station, immediately past it. Parking is $5. If you happen to miss the station, you can pay at the Visitor Center (Cash Only). The area is pretty clean and the trails are mainly dirt. They loop around and have several trails leading to the river. There are a few areas along the trail when you can sit, but there’s a lot of families so if you’re looking for the sounds of nature, you’ll get that mixed with the sounds of kids. There was only one live animal that I saw in the visitor center, and only birds outdoors. There is a golf course next door, with a restaurant as well as a park area with river access. Overall a nice “mostly quiet” area for hiking easy to moderate trails and for families to bring friends and children.

It was too hot for me to explore everything but loved it! We were down to the river and enjoyed skipping rocks. We saw multiple deer right in front of us. I had a stroller and they weren't scared of us at all. I have a stroller too. Such a nice experience. We have to go back for sure and didn't know about getting wet in the lake so wasn't prepared.