Hours and Guidelines

Welcome!

Watson Woods Riparian Preserve is part of the City of Prescott’s Park system. Managed by Prescott Creeks Preservation Association through a long-term lease with the City, the Preserve is open for public use.

A quiet visitor might encounter a green-backed heron fishing the pond, a Mexican vole scurrying along runways under the grasses, or a common kingsnake winding its way through the branches of a toppled cottonwood.

It’s a special place. Thanks for visiting!

Hours of Operation

The Preserve is open for public visitation during all daylight hours, 365 days per year.

Preserve Guidelines

Watson Woods Riparian Preserve is managed to protect wildlife and wetland communities. Please follow these guidelines, and enjoy!

Please Do:

  • Please make a $2 donation to Prescott Creeks for each Preserve visitor for each visit. 
    Prescott Creeks is a not-for-profit organization that depends on community donations and grants. You can MAKE A DIFFERENCE by contributing to the improvement of this unique area.
  • Groups of 10 or more must make prior arrangements with Prescott Creeks.  Contact us by email or call (928) 445-5669.
  • Trails are designed for hiking, wildlife viewing, and educational programs for all ages. Please stay on designated trails. Do not use trails when wet or muddy.
  • Leave no trace! Pack it in, pack it out. There are no waste receptacles within the Preserve. Visitors must remove all trash generated during their visit.
  • Respect wildlife and their habitat. Keep a discreet distance and do not feed animals.
    (Binoculars or a spotting scope are great ways to get a good view of wildlife from afar.)

The following are PROHIBITED in the Preserve (unless specifically authorized in writing):

  • Bicycles and motorized vehicles
  • Domestic animals, including dogs and horses
  • Camping
  • Hunting, fishing, and/or collecting plants or animals
  • Smoking and other fires
  • The use and/or possession of weapons and firearms

Exercising plenty of common sense should produce good results for all.

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