The lochs, mires and fens of this nature reserve are surrounded by farmland. It is one of the best places in Scotland to see black-necked grebes, which nest in the midst of a colony of black-headed gulls. Ospreys regularly visit in the summer.
Two paths from the car park lead to the hides. The path to Gullery hide is 75m of rolled stone, and then continues for 25m of boardwalk/ramp. It continues for 290m, gently undulating in parts, to Swamp hide, incorporating boardwalks totalling 85m. The path to East hide, 225m from the car park, is surfaced with rolled stone and has a 1:15 slope.
Gullery hide is accessed via a wooden boardwalk. The door opens outwards; there are two adapted places, but help may be needed to move the bench. Swamp hide has an outwards opening door; two adapted places, again help may be needed with the bench. East hide is accessed via six steps.