The University of California, Riverside is home to some 40 acres worth of botanical gardens that contain more than 3,000 plant species from all around the world. The campus, located in eastern foothills Box Springs Mountain, has stunning views and provides ample space for students’ outdoor adventures as well!
Visitors are welcome to come visit the gardens, relax on a bench and take in the beauty of the gardens, or wander over the four miles of scenic trails offered. There is no charge to visit the UC Riverside Botanic Gardens; however they do accept donations of any amount. The average donation is $5 per adult and there is a donation box you’ll find on the Gatehouse near the entrance to the Gardens or you can donate online.
There are also public events held at the Gardens that one might be interested in and you’ll need to become a member of the Friends of the UCR Botanic Gardens to attend any ‘Members Only’ events. You can find a list of events on their website, Facebook page, or by phone because not all events are listed on the calendar.
The Gardens is home to many different collections, including themed and horticultural; iris, lilac, herb, and butterfly gardens, and also a rose and Native American plants garden. There are a wide variety of plants in their geographical collections. Among them include plants native to Australia’s Mediterranean climate zone, California lilac and other native sclerophyllous shrubs, California brittlebush and sagebrush, and even plants from Latin America, among many others.
There is a wide variety of beautiful nature for visitors to enjoy while visiting. The perimeter around the garden is 1.5 miles, but there is also more than 4 miles of trails throughout the Botanic Gardens. The Alder Canyon is nice, cool and shady, featuring riparian trees native to California. In addition you’ll find a Dome that houses a nice special collection of subtropical plants, and even a Turtle Pond that is secluded and shaded; home to fish and turtles and beautiful foliage growing around the edges.
If you’re more interested in learning while visiting the UC Riverside Botanic Gardens, consider signing up for a tour. They offer a variety of tours for individuals, schools, groups and more.
Hours for the Botanic Gardens can be obtained by visiting their website or giving them a call. Looking for more outdoor fun to be had in Riverside? If you love movies then check out this popular drive-in located in Riverside and when funds run low, just check us out.