Watson Woods Riparian Preserve: A Prescott Oasis
Discover a peaceful riparian oasis in Prescott, Arizona, with easy trails, abundant wildlife, and a chance to reconnect with nature.
Escape into nature at Watson Woods Riparian Preserve, a 126-acre haven protecting a rare cottonwood-willow streamside forest. Once part of a much larger ecosystem, it offers easy trails, diverse wildlife, and a peaceful retreat for all ages.
A brief summary to Watson Woods Riparian Preserve
- 1626 Sundog Ranch Rd, Prescott, Arizona, 86301, US
- +1928-445-5669
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing, especially for birdwatching.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the trails are mostly flat but can be muddy in places.
- Consider bringing a donation for Prescott Creeks to support their conservation efforts.
- Visit during spring or summer to see the preserve in full bloom and experience the most wildlife activity.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Prescott, take Gurley Street east to State Route 89 and turn north. Continue on Highway 89 for approximately 2.2 miles. Turn right onto Prescott Lakes Parkway, then left onto Sundog Ranch Road. Turn left again into the parking area shared with the Prescott Peavine Trail. From the parking area, walk along the paved Peavine entrance trail for about 100 meters, past the picnic ramada, and turn left once you reach the cindered portion of the trail. The Preserve walk-in gate and kiosk are west of the large walnut tree. Parking is limited and a $3 fee may be required at the Peavine Trailhead.
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Public Transport
Take a local bus or shuttle to Prescott. From the bus station, use a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to reach Watson Woods Riparian Preserve at 1626 Sundog Ranch Rd, Prescott, AZ 86301. Taxi fares vary, so check rates in advance. A short taxi ride from downtown Prescott to Watson Woods costs approximately $10-$15.
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Walking
From the intersection of Highway 89 and Rosser Street, walk northeast along the highway. Turn right onto Sundog Ranch Road and continue to the parking area shared with the Prescott Peavine Trail. Follow the paved Peavine entrance trail for about 100 meters, past the picnic ramada, and turn left once you reach the cindered portion of the trail. The Preserve walk-in gate and kiosk are west of the large walnut tree.
Discover more about Watson Woods Riparian Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Boulder Creek Trail
0.3 km
Discover Prescott's natural beauty on Boulder Creek Trail, a scenic hiking destination within the captivating Granite Dells.
Prescott Peavine Trailhead
0.4 km
Explore Prescott's Peavine Trail: Hike, bike, and discover the beauty of Watson Lake and the Granite Dells on this historic rail-trail.
Experience Prescott Arizona
3.1 km
Explore Prescott, Arizona: A charming blend of history, art, and outdoor adventures in the heart of the American West.
Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe
3.8 km
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Prescott P
3.8 km
Explore Prescott P, a historical landmark in Prescott, Arizona, where rich heritage meets stunning natural beauty, perfect for history enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.
Veteran's Memorial Island
4.0 km
A serene memorial in Prescott, Arizona, honoring the dedication and sacrifice of U.S. veterans. Open daily, 7 am to 10 pm.
Prescott Center for the Arts
4.8 km
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Peregrine Book Company
4.8 km
Prescott's largest independent bookstore, offering new & used books, author events, local gifts, and a haven for curious minds.
Camp Grounds Tea and Coffee
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Hassayampa Inn
5.0 km
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Cortez Street Emporium
5.0 km
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Ogg's Hogan
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Prescott Elks Theater
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Prescott Downtown Partnership
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The Elks Opera House Guild
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Unmissable attractions to see
Watson Lake
1.8 km
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3101 Watson Lake Park Rd
2.0 km
Explore the natural beauty and recreational opportunities at Watson Lake Park in Prescott, Arizona, a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Watson Lake Park
2.0 km
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Dragon Fly Cove
2.1 km
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Vista Park
2.3 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Vista Park in Prescott, Arizona - a perfect escape for nature lovers and families alike.
Easter Island Trail
2.5 km
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Bucky's Casino
3.0 km
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Northwest Passage Trail
3.1 km
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Flume and Watson Dam Trailhead
3.2 km
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Fort Whipple Museum
3.3 km
Discover the fascinating military history of Prescott at Fort Whipple Museum, where artifacts and stories come alive in an engaging atmosphere.
Willow lake
3.7 km
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Granite Gardens Park
3.8 km
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Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary
4.3 km
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Museum of Indigenous People
4.4 km
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Heritage Park
4.4 km
Discover the wonders of wildlife and conservation at Heritage Park Zoo in Prescott, Arizona, a perfect destination for nature lovers and families.
Essential places to dine
Fujiyama Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar
3.1 km
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Icha Maajoh
3.1 km
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Zeke's Eatin' Place
3.2 km
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Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
3.3 km
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The FINN Restaurant
3.5 km
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Wildflower
3.6 km
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WZ Poke and Ramen
3.9 km
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Prescott Junction
4.0 km
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State 48 Hometown BBQ
4.3 km
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Waffle Iron
4.4 km
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Uncle Bud's Place
4.7 km
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Two Mamas' Gourmet Pizzeria
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Murphy's Restaurant
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Triple Creek Kitchen and Spirits
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Red White and Brew
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ross Dress for Less
2.9 km
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Frontier Village Center
3.0 km
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Willow Lake - Goodwill - Retail Store and Donation Center
3.4 km
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The Old Farmstead Gifts & More
3.7 km
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The Shops at Prescott Gateway
3.8 km
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Prescott Gift Shop
4.4 km
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Prescott Antiques
4.4 km
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The Honeyman
4.5 km
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Sprouts Farmers Market
4.6 km
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SugarPine Home Furnishings and Lifestyle Boutique
4.7 km
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The Lookout & Hallmark - Formerly Jay's Bird Barn
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Toyful
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Lost In Sports Antiques Off Square
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Luxe 133
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Mid-Century Madness
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pudge and Asti's Sports Grill
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The Final Score
3.9 km
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Prescott Night Out
4.1 km
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Gurley Street Sports Pub
4.5 km
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Sam's Bar
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Lyzzard's Lounge
5.0 km
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Coopers Pub
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The Point Bar and Lounge
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Prescott Public House
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Matt's Saloon
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Jersey Lilly Saloon
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1881 Spirits
5.3 km
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Bird Cage Saloon
5.3 km
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Back Alley Wine Bar
5.3 km
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Whiskey River Tavern
5.4 km
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