Nestled in the Little San Bernardino Mountains, the desert oasis at Big Morongo Canyon is one of the 10 largest cottonwood and willow riparian (stream) habitats in California. Water draining from the surrounding mountains flows into a river through the canyon, and ground water rises up along the Morongo fault to form the marsh habitat, which is a great attractor for wildlife.
The Preserve is an internationally-recognized birding site. Several rare or unusual species are known to nest here, and many other species are abundant during the spring and fall migration seasons. The Preserve has been designated as one of the United States’ Important Bird Areas.
At 31,000 acres with elevations ranging from 600 feet on the canyon floor to 3000 feet at the top of the ridge, this diverse landscape is an important part of the Morongo Basin’s natural and cultural history, and in 2016 was incorporated into the Sand to Snow National Monument.
Mission Statement: Friends of Big Morongo Canyon Preserve is dedicated to the exploration, preservation, and stewardship of the Preserve by protecting and managing its resources, and by providing educational programs, access for wildlife viewing, and recreational opportunities for the enjoyment of its visitors.
The Preserve is open daily from 7:30 am until sunset.