It’s summertime at The Wildlands Conservancy’s California Desert Preserves! Check out this article to find out what we’re up to at Whitewater Preserve.

Whitewater Preserve is an oasis in the desert year-round, but is especially inviting in the summer. Before you visit the desert this season, check out this article for tips about staying safe as you enjoy the Beauty of the preserves.

It is tough to beat the feeling of lounging in a river on a hot low-desert day. Whitewater Preserve has long been known as a place for families to enjoy one of the few year-round natural water sources with free access. But if you were to take a look at the river right now, you will see that nobody will be cooling off in its soothing waters any time soon.

Whitewater Preserve is home to a variety of species of reptile and amphibians. Amongst reptile enthusiasts this Canyon is the stuff of legends. Because of the frequent presence of water throughout the area, reptile populations can expand much quicker than in other areas resulting in a higher than usual density of our scaly friends. The Preserve is so much of a reptilian haven that it is also a stronghold for species that aren’t doing as well, population-wise.

Click Read More to learn about three species you may encounter on the Preserve

Despite a dry and warm winter season, and the Whitewater River currently not flowing above ground, the wildflowers at Whitewater Preserve continue to flourish this spring. The hillsides are covered by beautiful yellow flowering brittlebush. The trails are lined with a number of wildflowers that are being enjoyed by our visitors, animals, and pollinators!