Madrona Marsh in Torrance, California, is home to more than 300 species of birds, as well as ducks, butterflies, lizards, frogs and more. It's one of only a few wetlands located in an urban area, and visitors will truly feel as if they're in the midst of the wilderness instead of the city.

Parking and Public Transportation at Madrona Marsh Nature Center
There is free parking in a large lot next to the nature center, which is across the street from the marsh. By bus, Torrance Transit line 3 stops at Carson Street at Madrona Avenue, about half a mile away.

Best and Worst Time to Go to Madrona Marsh Nature Center
The best time to go is March and April, when flowers are blooming and the wildlife is proliferating. For visitors hoping to see a lot of activity, the worst time to go is on a rainy or hot day.

Admission to Madrona Marsh Nature Center
Admission is free. There is a small fee (around $5) for occasional special events such as "Night Life on the Preserve" and "Sunday Science."

Must See/Do at Madrona Marsh Nature Center
In the nature center, visitors can view paintings of the marsh by local artists, as well as live snakes, turtles and frogs on display.

Be sure to bring binoculars (or borrow a pair at the nature center) to get a closer look at the flora and fauna.

Starting at 10 a.m. on the fourth Saturday and Sunday of each month, knowledgeable docents lead free, two-hour nature tours for all ages.

Other Places to Visit Near Madrona Marsh Nature Center
For nature lovers, F E Hopkins Wilderness Park is just a couple miles west in Redondo Beach. For those who prefer to shop, it's a 10-minute walk to Del Amo Fashion Center, at one time the largest mall in the country. Wilson Park, which offers free miniature steam train rides on the first and third Sundays of each month, is about a mile away.

Insider Tip for Visitors to Madrona Marsh Nature Center
Along with sunscreen (there is very little shade), it's a good idea to wear insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites.

Author's bio: Laura Goldman is a freelance writer, native Angeleno and lifelong nature lover. Follow her on Twitter and visit her blog, i Still Love Dogs.