Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch — Attraction in Gilbert

The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, AZ, is an absolute paradise for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. This beautiful reclamation pond system is a gem tucked away in the middle of the city, and it offers one of the best birding experiences I’ve ever had. The variety of habitats, from wetlands to desert landscapes, makes it a haven for wildlife, especially birds.

I had such an incredible day here—seeing 20 new bird species in one trip was unreal! The ponds and trails are so well-designed that you’re constantly spotting birds everywhere you look. The diversity is amazing. There were herons, egrets, ducks, and shorebirds around the water, while songbirds, woodpeckers, and hummingbirds were flitting through the trees and shrubs. It’s one of those places where every few steps bring a new surprise, and it’s perfect for both beginner and experienced birders.

The preserve is well-maintained, with clearly marked trails and plenty of viewing areas, so you can get great looks at the birds without disturbing them. The observation blinds and platforms are a really nice touch, offering perfect spots to set up binoculars or a camera. It’s also a fantastic place to just sit quietly and take in the sounds of nature. You can hear everything from the cheerful chirping of sparrows to the haunting calls of waterfowl—it’s so peaceful.

What’s also impressive is how accessible the preserve is. The trails are easy to navigate, making it a great spot for families or anyone who just wants to enjoy a relaxing walk. The signs provide helpful information about the local ecosystem and the role of these reclamation ponds in supporting both wildlife and sustainable water management. It’s such a cool blend of conservation and recreation.

If you’re into birding, the Riparian Preserve is an absolute must-visit. Even if you’re not, it’s worth stopping by just to enjoy the beauty of the landscape and maybe spot a few of the amazing birds that call this place home. I can’t recommend it enough—I’m already planning my next visit to see what else I...

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...

What a gem in Mesa and the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. You can get out in nature in the middle of the city at this park. They have a beautiful unpaved nature trail around multiple wildlife ponds which horses can use, a paved trail around a park lake which you can fish in, a dino dig and play area for kids, campsites, observatory, restrooms, and ramadas.

The only issue is that sometimes they put up signs that the nature trail is closed at sunset, which is unacceptable for summers in Phoenix and they're right underneath the flight path for Sky Harbor, Phoenix Mesa Gateway, Falcon Field, and Chandler Airpark; and have busy streets on two sides of the park. So noise pollution is very heavy. However, you can get lucky with some periods of quietness to where you can hear the nature. I usually walk with headphones because of the noise pollution. Also, local photographers can get a little over eager in this place so be prepared for lots of dodging and trying to be quiet on the trails as to not disturb wildlife photographers and group photographers.

I've been coming here for most of my life and will continue to and then very happy with the improvements that they have continued to do, especially the hope walk which gives mental health tips for people walking the nature trail. What...