The family had a great time at the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch on Guadalupe Road in Gilbert, AZ.

This preserve consists of 110 acres and has multiple types of areas ranging from marshland to desert land. There are 6 ponds and 1 lake, with the ability to fish in the Water Ranch Lake only. As per the website, there are around 289 species of birds, along with insects, fish, amphibians, reptiles and mammals. As per the rules, the wildlife cannot be fed except for the Mallards (semi-domestic ducks) at the Water Ranch Lake only, and can only be fed bird seed, cracked corn or whole grain cereal. There are many gravel trails that go through the preserve. Horses are allowed but only on trails marked as such. There is also a floating boardwalk, viewing blinds, ethnobotanical garden, a dig site, hummingbird garden and butterfly garden, along with an observatory and hilltop outdoor classroom. There are even educational panels scattered throughout the area too. One cannot damage the plants, harm any wildlife or release any animals into the preserve. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash and need to be picked up after.

There are restrooms, picnic areas, ramadas and a play area for the little ones. As per the website, a ramada can be rented for $15 to Gilbert residents and $22.50 for non-residents. A small campsite (for up to 20 campers) can be rented for $30 to Gilbert residents and $45 to non-residents. A large campsite (for 20-35 campers) can be rented for $40 for Gilbert residents and $60 for non-residents. Lastly, one can rent the Dinosaur Dig Site can be reserved for $20 per hour for Gilbert residents, $30 per hour for non-residents and $40 per hour for staff facilited).

We loved seeing the wildlife (ducks, egrets, hummingbirds and rabbits) and various different types of cactus up close, the kids had a blast in the dig site, and we all got some fresh air during the process.

All in all, we will for sure be visiting the Riparian Preserve very soon.