Atwell Recreation Area

Atwell Island Restoration Project (AIP) is located in the historic Ton Tache Wetland basin and the Sand Ridge on the southern edge of Historic Tulare Lake. The AIP began in 2000 and consists of 8,000 acres of restored native valley grassland, a wetland, and alkali sink habitats on an area that has been farmed for the past century. The Atwell Island Project is an important wintering area for migratory waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds and other water birds in the southern San Joaquin Valley. The AIP is one of the few remaining wetlands left in the area providing opportunities to enjoy wildlife viewing, nature study and photography, particularly during the fall migration. AIP features a wetland viewing platform as well as a nature trail showcasing the restored upland habitat for recreational use.