Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch

Experience More - Subscribe to Our Weekly Events Newsletter

As an oasis in the desert, the Riparian Preserve provides an outing strolling around ponds and watching birds just outside Phoenix, Arizona. In 1986, the town of Gilbert wanted to find a way to create recreational and educational opportunities while also ensuring wildlife habitat and conservation of water. It created the Riparian Preserve in 1999 to reuse its wastewater and serve the community.


The Phoenix area offers few places to wander along a body of water and watch water birds. The park occupies one hundred ten acres, seventy of which consists of water in seven ponds. You can walk along the four and a half miles of trails, hang out onshore and fish, or sit in a blind watching the wildlife enjoy the ponds. There is even a stream near the center of the park to enjoy.


Multiple species of fish, insects, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals have been seen in the preserve along with over two hundred species of birds. Native trees provide shade from the hot sun as you meander the wide level paths. With all the other people enjoying the park, you know that you are still within a major city. However, the calm, quiet surroundings can certainly give you a nature fix.


You can venture out on the floating boardwalk to get a close up look at the fish and waterfowl. The zigzagged wooden and metal structure fits the landscape and brings you among the reeds.


There are plenty of places to picnic or share a bench with a friend along the water. The preserve is easy to find and has good parking. A play area for children offers a unique romp along and around curved walls. The Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory sits in the middle of the preserve and hosts star viewing on certain nights.


Visit the Riparian Preserve in the outskirts of Phoenix to enjoy the water and wildlife. It is a perfect place to hang out with friends or family and stroll in a natural area.

#family
#outdoor
#parks
#picnic_spots
#playgrounds
%wnphoenix