The Preserve at District56

Natural Features

The Preserve is home to a thoughtfully executed habitat restoration project where wetlands, native grasslands, and a native oak forest come together to create a touch of California's natural heritage. It's a quiet spot where you can take a break from city life and experience something of the environment that once covered this region.

At the center of it all lies a 4.3-acre pond that does double duty as both a serene focal point and a thriving wetland habitat. Keep your eyes peeled for the pond's residents - ducks and geese are regular fixtures, and if you're patient, you might catch glimpses of turtles gliding beneath the surface.

Historical Elements

Elk Grove's agricultural roots aren't forgotten here. The park includes elements of local history, including a historic silo that reminds visitors of the area's farming past. There's also a pistachio orchard that adds both historical context and visual interest to the landscape.

Recreational Opportunities

The Preserve offers plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Meander along the walking trails that curve through the restored habitats - they're meant for morning exercise or leisurely weekend wandering, with new natural scenes unfolding around each bend.

When you're ready to take a break, you can find benches and picnic tables scattered throughout the grounds. The shaded picnic areas with multiple tables provide good spots for family gatherings or a quiet lunch amid nature.

If you're looking to mix fitness with fresh air, check out the outdoor exercise area with equipment suitable for various fitness levels - no gym membership required.

Playground

Kids will enjoy the modern playground that caters to different age groups. A highlight is the large hill with a long slide - children can either climb straight up or tackle the rope wall for an added challenge.

There's a separate play zone just for the little ones next to the main structure. Adding to the fun are rope circle swings and percussion instruments that let kids create their own outdoor symphony.

Wildlife

The Preserve functions as both a park and a habitat. Look closely and you might spot owls making their homes in burrows, bats hanging out in their specially designed boxes, or various birds establishing nests on the pond's islands. In springtime, the preserve transforms as wildflowers paint the landscape with vibrant colors.

Tree enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse species selected for the park, including Sawleaf Zelkova, California Sycamore, Valley and Interior Live Oak, Big Leaf Maple, Box Elder, Oregon Ash, Fremont Cottonwood, and Red and Arroyo Willows - each chosen to support the local ecosystem.

Park Overview

Spanning 28 acres of passive park space, The Preserve at District56 is woven into the larger 56-acre District56 complex in Elk Grove. It combines modern amenities with natural spaces focused on both art and the environment.

Just adjacent to the preserve, you can find an Aquatic Center complete with swimming pools and water slides for those hot California days. There are also community event buildings with spaces available to rent for your special occasions.

Art lovers will appreciate the various art installations, including sculptures and murals that add creative flair to your visit. When you need some open space, a large grassy field provides plenty of room for impromptu sports or simply sprawling out on a blanket.

The Preserve is accessible to visitors of all ages and abilities, offering a chance to spend time in nature without leaving the city limits of Elk Grove.