Thing to do in Gilbert: Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch
Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch
2757 E. Guadalupe Road,
Gilbert AZ 85234
Located in South-East of South Greenfield Road and East Guadalupe Road in Gilbert AZ 85234, The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is a 110 acre resource developed for groundwater recharge, outdoor recreation and educational opportunities.
The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is best known for its birds. Over 200 species of birds can be seen throughout the year. There are 4.5 miles of walking trails, and fishing at the recreation lake at Water Ranch. This unique area was designed to utilize recycled water to create community wetland wildlife sanctuaries for recreation, education, and research. The Riparian Institute also offers programs and classes to the public, like birds walks, kids camps and programs, and public viewings at the new Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory.
Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, Gilbert AZ
What is Water Ranch?
The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is a water recycling facility for the Town of Gilbert. Gilbert treats its waste water, and then pipes it into the basins here where it replenishes the underground water supply. The water can then be pumped out of the ground to support the water needs of the homes and businesses in Gilbert. This system, then, creates an opportunity for habitats for many kinds of wildlife and plant life that you might not see in other desert areas.
Public Programs at The Riparian Preserve
- Desert Rivers Audubon offers free Family Bird Walks every 3rd Saturday, October through March, from 8 a.m. to 12 noon, at the Dragonfly Ramada.
- Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory.The observatory is open every Friday and Saturday evening at nightfall, September through June.
- Little Nature Explorers. Provide opportunities for preschoolers to grow strong minds, bodies, and spirits through the nurturing of our natural world exploring and discovering nature
- Tours of the Preserve. Learn about the formation of the Preserve, and the birds and plants of this riparian habitat. A donation of $5 is requested. every second and fourth Saturday, 10 am, October through April
- Outdoor Learning Project. Learn about the habitat, wildlife, people and activities that relate to The Riparian Preserve
Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch Park Amenities
- 110-acre wetland, wildlife sanctuary
- 7 ponds along hiking trails
- 1 recreational urban fishing lake, fishing (must have license)
- 1 floating boardwalk
- 3 Overnight Campsites
- 2 Reservable Small Ramadas
- 2 Restroom Facilities (north and south)
- Unique children’s play area
- Various Benches, Bike Racks, Multi-Use Trails
- One Dino Dig
- Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory
- Viewing blind areas
- Ethnobotanical garden
Ramada’s/Campsites/Dino Dig
Ramadas and other amenities can be reserved.
- Dragonfly Ramada: Small Ramada with 4 tables and 1 grill. No Power available
- Rattle Ramada: Small Ramada with 4 tables and 1 grill. No Power available
- Overlook Pavilion: Pavilion with amphitheater style seating. No Power available
- Water Sedge Edge Campsite: Can accommodate up to 20 campers, one fire pit and 1 grill
- Honey Bee Point Campsite: Can accommodate up 20 to 35 campers, two fire pits and 1 grill
- Canal Campsite: Can accommodate up to 40 campers, two fire pits and 1 grill
- Dino Dig: Simulated dinosaur fossil dig pit. (Instructional staff can be added for a fee)
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