Mission Creek Preserve

MISSION CREEK PRESERVE

Located in a transition zone between the Sonoran and Mojave deserts, the 4,760-acre Mission Creek Preserve has a rich species composition with flora and fauna representing both deserts. Visitors are surprised to discover the center of the Preserve is a lush wetland with a backdrop of eroded painted hills and Mount San Gorgonio looming in the background. The wetlands are important habitat for the endangered least Bell’s vireo and southwest willow flycatcher. It is a great place to spot colorful summer tanagers and vermillion flycatchers. The Preserve hosts deer, bear, big horn sheep and mountain lions, and has spectacular displays of spring wildflowers in wet years. The trail system leads onto the Pacific Crest Trail, which is two miles from the Stone House Group Campground.

(from the Wildlands Conservancy website)