Nature Center
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Visit our Nature Center
The Nature Center is where much of the teaching activity of the preserve is found. Originally a homestead cabin, the Nature Center is where we conduct our Science Sundays, a popular family activity, where we conduct elementary school programming, and hold our board meetings. Inside of the building you will find historical displays and information that pertains to the preserve. Outside of the building, you will find our Native Plant and Pollinator gardens, as well as the bird and wildlife viewing area. Bird feeders and the water feature attract birds, squirrels, and, occasionally, mule deer. Shaded seating is provided at the Nature Center for wildlife viewing.
Latest News
Newsletter – August 20
On Saturday, September 26, we will celebrate National Public Lands Day with our partners from the Sand to Snow National Monument. California Cadet Corps and members of the Single Marine Program of the 29 Palms Marine Corps base will help us to pull out downed, cut timber from alongside the Marsh Trail. In addition, we will have a bird walk and a nature journaling class. See the links below for registration. Yes, we need your help to reduce the amount of downed fuel in the preserve!
On October 16, we are hosting Birding for Kids with Desert Recreation District and Desert Sands Unified School District (Coachella Valley) to provide enriching opportunities at the preserve. We will gift each of the 25 children, ages 4-10, their own Nocs binoculars so they can continue their new activity at their homes and public spaces.
In addition, elementary schools and homeschool programs are already beginning to make reservations for field classes in the new school year. Providing children with meaningful outdoor education is one of the outstanding opportunities we offer at Big Morongo Canyon Preserve. For many young students, a visit to the Preserve is their first opportunity to experience nature firsthand—to explore a wetland, observe birds and wildlife, and discover the importance of protecting our natural world.
Newsletter – August 6
Yes, it has been hot in the desert! Everyone, including the wildlife, is looking to cool off. Despite the heat, we continue to provide safe environmental education for families during the summer.
In July, we completed five sessions of Summer Science Fun! with 88 participants. Our education team designed and implemented programming for children during their summer break on the shaded porch and inside the cool, air conditioned Nature Center. Both the children and their parents felt the science experiments and craft projects were exciting and rewarding.
Thank you for supporting our 30th Anniversary fundraising campaign which was a great success! Here are wonderful comments that accompanied donations:
We love our visits out there. You guys are doing everything right!
Blessings and keep up the great stewardship.
This is one of my happy places. We are honored to support it in life and beyond, as a beneficiary of our estate!
Newsletter – July 23
Imagine standing quietly on a shaded boardwalk as the morning sun filters through towering cottonwoods. Birds fill the air with song. A family pauses to watch a mule deer emerge from the trees. Children excitedly discover a butterfly resting on a native wildflower. For a moment, the noise and stress of everyday life disappear.
Moments like these happen every day at Big Morongo Canyon Preserve because people like you care.
Your generosity helps protect one of California’s most remarkable desert oases while creating opportunities for thousands of visitors each year to experience nature, learn about conservation, and discover why places like this deserve our protection.
This month marks the 30th anniversary of Friends of Big Morongo Canyon Preserve. As we celebrate this milestone, we are proud of everything our community has accomplished together, and we are also looking toward the future.
Upcoming Events
Events
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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.
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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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