Discover the Natural Wonders of Big Morongo Canyon Preserve
Explore one of California’s most diverse and vibrant ecosystems, where desert meets marshland, creating a haven for wildlife and a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Support the preserve through donations or volunteering to help with educational programs, maintenance, habitat preservation, and providing free visitor resources.
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Welcome to Big Morongo Canyon Preserve
Big Morongo Canyon Preserve is a 31,000 acre nature preserve in the desert above Palm Springs, California. Nestled in the Little San Bernardino Mountains, along a fault line where ground water rises up, the desert oasis at Big Morongo Canyon is one of the most important cottonwood and willow riparian (stream) habitats in California. The preserve is also a gateway to the Sand to Snow National Monument.
It is home to many animals, is an internationally-recognized birding site, and is an eBird hotspot. Visitors enjoy our hiking trails, observation decks, and rare desert shade.
We hope you enjoy your visit to our wonderful preserve, or the virtual visit we’ve provided on these pages. You can learn about who we are and what we do, things you can see and do here, and ways you can help out.
We created our Mission Video that highlights our many educational programs and the fundraising efforts that make them possible. This project captures the heart of our mission through the voices and experiences of passionate volunteers, including Kurt Kosek, Caroline Conway, Kim McClinton, Robin Balch, and our Education Ranger, Kaeliegh Watson.
We are also deeply grateful to Conservation Lands Foundation for providing funding support for this meaningful project.
Notice Board
Friends of Big Morongo Canyon Preserve is celebrating our 30th anniversary stewarding Big Morongo Canyon through education and responsible visitation. Please support the Friends group through a transformative donation!
Family Nature Walk will be held on Saturday, September 5. This free event is held on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month. Meet at the visitor kiosk at 9:00 am.
The next Saturday Bird Walk will be held on Saturday, September 12. We meet in the parking lot at 7 am. Loaner binoculars are available.
Hours & Admission
The Preserve is open daily throughout the year–from 7:30 am to sunset–but the ideal months to visit are in the fall, winter, and spring seasons.
Admission is free but donations are welcomed.
Things to do at the preserve
Hiking
Extensive trail systems for your enjoyment.
Educational Programs
We offer many opportunities to learn about nature at the preserve.
Birding
The preserve has recorded 263 species of birds.
Wildlife
Wildlife viewing on the trails and at the Education Center.
For the Kids
Creating a new generation of conservationists and having fun!
Desert Plants
The riparian oasis provides water and deep shade for plants.
Sights
A wondrous location for photographers, artists, to sit and enjoy nature.
Enjoy your visit
Do: Bring a camera and binoculars for great wildlife and landscape views.
Do: Wear shoes for walking in the a desert environment.
Do: Use our extensive boardwalk to visit with strollers, wheelchairs, or walkers.
Do: Be prepared for our desert climate.
Don’t bring your pets. Dogs, leashed or not, are not allowed in our nature preserve.
Don’t collect plants or animals. Like all preserves, we don’t allow collecting things. Take only pictures.
Don’t stay past sunset. There is no camping or overnight parking.
Don’t smoke. There is always a risk of wildfires!
Latest News
National Public Lands Day
We will be celebrating Natiional Public Lands Day on Saturday, September 26
Newsletter – August 3
Happy Labor Day Weekend!
We work every day at the preserve, including holidays, and because of our growing educational programs we are looking for a great individual who wishes to work in a nature settings with a great team of staff and volunteers. See the below ad for a part-time administrative assistant and please help us spread the word.
Our Fall newsletter has received rave reviews on the topics of the two proposed wildlife crossings in Morongo Valley, two rare plants found in or near Big Morongo Canyon Preserve, and, of course, Kaeliegh’s Korner!
We’re Hiring! Administrative Assistant Position
We are looking for an organized and service-oriented Administrative Assistant to help support our programs and daily operations, advancing the mission of Friends of Big Morongo Canyon Preserve.
Upcoming Events
Events
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Science Sunday with Ranger Kaeliegh
Big Morongo Canyon Preserve 50048 29 Palms Hwy, Morongo Valley, CA, United StatesJoin Ranger Kaeliegh on "Science Sunday" - educational programs for families. Just "drop by" between 9 am and 12 noon at the Education Center.
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Wednesday Bird Walk
Big Morongo Canyon Preserve 50048 29 Palms Hwy, Morongo Valley, CA, United StatesBring your binoculars and spend the morning strolling the trails with knowledgeable local bird walk leaders. Meet at the Information Kiosk south of the parking lot. Beginning birders are welcome. […]
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Family Nature Walks
Big Morongo Canyon Preserve 50048 29 Palms Hwy, Morongo Valley, CA, United StatesFree guided Family Nature Walks on the first and third Saturdays of the month. Bring the little ones. Meet at the visitor kiosk at the parking lot at 9 am.
View the Full Calendar
Thank you to our partners
Website design and implementation was funded by a grant from the Conservation Lands Foundation.