The Prime Desert Woodland Preserve in Lancaster, California, is one of the best preserved natural areas in the desert. It is a 120-acre scenic reserve with three miles of trails. A wide variety of plants and animals can be found in the preserve. Although not a wilderness area, it is an attractive spot for a day of hiking, biking, or birding. There are restrooms available in the interpretive center.
The Elyze Clifford Interpretive Center is the first public building in California to utilize straw bales. This innovative design has the potential to save on heating and cooling costs while also reducing the impact on the environment. Additionally, the center features a genuine geode. In addition, the exhibit displays several large-scale displays, including a petroglyph wall and a reimagined touch table. Moreover, the museum hosts regular workshops that focus on the landscape around them.
One of the best parts about the Prime Desert Woodland Preserve is the free admission and the opportunity to observe nature in all its glory. This is especially true when a visit includes the Prime Lights event. From December 5 to January 3, 2020, the community will be treated to thousands of lights illuminating the surrounding area. Also, the event will feature a fully decorated Christmas tree, multiple stars, and a walk-through illuminated tunnel. If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the Prime Desert Woodland Preserve is a great place to do just that.
In addition to the plethora of birds and animals in the area, the Elyze Clifford Interpretive Center offers an opportunity to experience advanced telescopes and learn about constellations. Furthermore, a ranger will be on hand for questions or to provide information about the park's history and natural history.
The park is a great example of how a community can come together to preserve a piece of nature. The master plan, developed by the community, balances the needs for access to the preserve with the need to conserve its natural resources. The preserve is managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation. As a result, the Prime Desert Woodland Preserve is now a popular local landmark. Moreover, the museum has a brand new exhibit designed to engage visitors, which is why it's a good idea to visit while you can.
The museum also boasts an impressive collection of exhibits, which include a petroglyph wall, an expanded library, and a new reimagined touch table. The aforementioned new exhibit is a prime example of how the museum has partnered with the community to enhance its visitor experience. Moreover, the museum hosts a series of free workshops that focus on the surrounding landscape. Therefore, a visit to the Prime Desert Woodland Preserve is ideally timed to participate in one of these workshops. Alternatively, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday season by going to the Prime Lights event.
While the Prime Desert Woodland Preserve does have its drawbacks, such as the lack of drinking fountains, the park has a lot to offer visitors. For instance, the new Elyze Clifford Interpretive Center has an impressive display of the best known plants and animals in the region.