Water points in protected areas are critical hubs for wildlife, providing drinking and gathering sites. This study investigates the diversity of medium and large mammals and the impact of human activities around ponds in the central zone of Comoe National Park, Côte d’Ivoire. Using a combination of reconnaissance walks and camera traps, we surveyed seven ponds at the end of the dry season to assess mammalian diversity and human pressures. Twenty mammal species were recorded, indicating an important diversity within the study area. Small and medium ponds showed the highest diversity and evenness indices, whereas larges ponds had the lowest diversity and was dominated by African buffalo (Syncerus caffer). This pattern may reflect habitat preferences, forage quality, and competition dynamics. Artiodactyls were the most frequently observed group, while carnivores and threatened species like elephants and leopards were rare, suggesting anthropogenic pressures or detection limitations. Evidence of illegal human activity—such as bushfires, spent cartridges, and food remnants—was observed at multiple ponds. These findings highlight ponds as both biodiversity hotspots and human attractive zones. Strengthening monitoring around such critical habitats is essential. The combined use of camera traps and reconnaissance surveys should be expanded for long-term monitoring to improved conservation strategies.