Skinny Bear is the translated name for Oso Flaco Lake in southern San Luis Obispo County. Today a nicely built wooden boardwalk over the sand dunes to the Pacific Ocean allows hikers, strollers and wheelchairs quick access. All sorts of fine feathered friends are easily seen by bird watching enthusiast. Docent led tours and educational exhibits can be arranged at the non-profit Guadalupe Dunes Center. Beautiful to look at the enormous waves often result in strong riptides so exercise caution. Surf fishing is the big draw at this State Park and the entrance fee of $5.00 per carload helps maintain this natural wonder. Parking tickets are given out often by the ranger so do pay at the kiosk before you start the nature walk. Posted signs say: no dogs, no bicycles, no horses and no camping allowed and these rules are strictly enforced. Dune buggies and four wheel drive autos have a separate designated entrance called Oceano State Vehicular Recreational Area to the north at the end of Grand Ave. in Grover Beach.
