Updated:3/4/2024

Parking, Trails, Boat Launch, and Visitor Center is FREE.

Parking Lots and Restrooms – Opened every day of the week, including holidays, from 9am to 5pm. Because of staff and volunteer shortages, hours may vary slightly. 

Trail Updates Below

River Walk Trail: OPEN!

Wetlands Walk Trail:  OPEN! Please take precautions.

Boardwalk Trail: OPEN!

Please keep in mind that the bridges going over Willow Slough can become very slippery when wet or icy. Please walk slowly and with caution.

All Visitors and volunteers please be advised of road closures in the area. The directions below will provide you with access to the Preserve. The Preserve will remain open during these closures.

Access from Interstate 5

  1. Exit at Thornton Rd. Exit 493.
  2. Go west on Walnut Grove Rd for approximately 1 1/2 miles.
  3. Turn right onto Blossom Rd.
  4. In approximately 3 miles turn right onto Barber Rd. Go under the freeway.
  5. Turn left onto Cameron Rd.
  6. In 2 miles turn left onto Thornton/Franklin Rd. The Visitor Center will be 1 mile north on the right-hand side.

Access from Highway 99

  1. Exit at Stockton Blvd/Twin Cities offramp. Exit 277.
  2. Take Twin Cities Westbound for approximately 7 miles.
  3. Turn left onto Bruceville Rd.
  4. Merge right onto Desmond Rd. Go over the railroad tracks.
  5. Take a left onto Franklin and the Visitor Center will be 1 mile south on the left-hand side.

The Visitor Center is Open on Weekdays 9am-3pm

The Visitor Center is the focal point for the majority of public access and education at the Preserve. It features a 400 square foot deck with permanent interpretive exhibits displayed both inside and outside the building. The Visitor Center deck and outdoor exhibits are open to the public even when the indoor exhibit room is closed.

Exhibit Room
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