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Hassayampa River Preserve: An Oasis in the Desert

Discover a verdant oasis in the Arizona desert: the Hassayampa River Preserve, a haven for wildlife and a window into the region's rich history.

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The Hassayampa River Preserve, near Wickenburg, Arizona, is a lush 770-acre riparian habitat in the arid Sonoran Desert. Fed by the underground Hassayampa River, it's a haven for diverse wildlife, especially birds, and offers a glimpse into Arizona's natural and cultural history.

A brief summary to Hassayampa River Preserve

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or fall migration for the best birdwatching opportunities.
  • Bring binoculars and a bird guide to enhance your wildlife viewing experience.
  • Wear sturdy shoes, a hat, and sunscreen, and bring plenty of water, as the desert climate can be harsh.
  • Note that pets are not allowed in the preserve to protect the delicate ecosystem.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Wickenburg, head southeast on US 60/89 for approximately 2 miles. The entrance to the Hassayampa River Preserve will be on your right, just before milepost 114. From Phoenix, take Carefree Highway (AZ-74) west to US-60, then turn right and travel approximately 6.2 miles. The preserve entrance is on the left. Look for the wildlife viewing signs. Parking is available at the preserve's main lot. There is a $5 entry fee per person; children 12 and under are free.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to the Hassayampa River Preserve, you can take a bus to Wickenburg and then a taxi or rideshare service to the preserve, which is about 2 miles southeast of town. Taxi/ride-share fare would be approximately $15-$25. Entry to the preserve is $5 per person.

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Discover more about Hassayampa River Preserve

The Hassayampa River Preserve is a surprising sanctuary of green nestled in the arid landscape of the Sonoran Desert. This 770-acre preserve owes its existence to the Hassayampa River, a waterway that flows mostly underground but surfaces here, creating a vibrant riparian ecosystem. The name 'Hassayampa' itself, derived from the Yavapai language, means 'upside-down river,' a testament to its unique hydrological character. For centuries, this area has been a vital resource. In the mid-1860s, the site began as a stagecoach stop. Later, it transformed into Brill's Ranch, a productive farm supplying food to nearby settlements and the Vulture Mine. In 1913, it briefly became the 'Garden of Allah,' one of Arizona's first guest ranches, offering visitors a taste of the Wild West. Today, the preserve is managed by Maricopa County Parks and Recreation. It features a visitor center with interactive exhibits, several miles of self-guided trails, and the spring-fed Palm Lake. The trails meander through cottonwood-willow forests and mesquite bosques, habitats that support an incredible array of wildlife. Birdwatchers will be in paradise, as nearly 300 species have been recorded here. Keep an eye out for waterfowl, raptors, and various neotropical migrants. The Hassayampa River Preserve is more than just a scenic spot; it's a crucial refuge for biodiversity. It protects one of the rarest and most threatened riparian environments in the Southwest, providing a home for countless plant and animal species.

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