The Wildlands Conservancy purchased an additional 3,200 acres in the Whitewater corridor that were donated to the Bureau of Land Management. These donated lands include sand dunes that are home to the endangered fringe-toed lizard at Windy Point, which lies at the confluence of the Whitewater and San Gorgonio Rivers.
Surrounded by the Bureau of Land Management's San Gorgonio Wilderness lies the Whitewater Preserve. A home to a wide variety of desert plant and animal life, the preserve is fed year round by the Whitewater River, which originates from Mount San Gorgonio and flows through the San Bernardino Mountains into the Coachella Valley. Encompassing 2,851 acres, it presents a habitat for several species of birds in their migratory journeys, as well as safe haven for the endangered southwestern willow flycatcher. Larger animals known to frequent the preserve include big horn sheep, deer and bears.
Whitewater is part of the Wildlands Conservancy, a California based non-profit that aims to preserve the beauty of nature so that children may experience the wonder and joy of nature.
Within the Preserve are hiking trails that allow you to explore its wonderful beauty. The trails are Easy to Moderate in difficulty. Dogs are welcome as long as they are on a leash.
Permits for camping, backcountry-trip parking, and after-hours hiking are available at the Whitewater Preserve Visitor Center and Ranger Station.
Protect and respect the environment. Observe animals from a distance and try not to disturb them. Leave the park as you found it. Please remove anything you bring into the park - including any and all trash. Take pictures only. Please do not remove any animals, plants or rocks.