Turtle Bay Exploration Park

06/25/2022 | Eco Garden Network | Garden Joyride

McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens in Redding California

The McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens are on the north side of the Turtle Bay Exploration Park campus and the Sundial Bridge and feature over 200-acres of native and non-native trees and plants.View fullsize

Arboretum

The McConnell Arboretum is over 200 acres of native trees and plants. A one mile walking trail loop surrounds the Arboretum and directly links to the rest of the award-winning Sacramento River Trail.

Botanical Gardens

The McConnell Botanical Gardens is comprised of 25 acres of mediterranean-climate display gardens, a children’s garden, a medicinal garden, and two beautiful and unique water features and a large seasonal pond that is home to many animals.

Children’s Garden

The Children’s Garden is home to Mosaic Oasis, a whimsical and fun water feature that includes a drinking fountain, ornamental fountain, and play structure designed by local mixed media artist Colleen Barry. The Children’s Garden and Picnic Grove areas are full of fun and interesting plants from around the world.

The Sundial Bridge at Turtle Bay crosses the Sacramento River in the heart of Redding, California. Opened July 4, 2004, the bridge links the north and south campuses of Turtle Bay Exploration Park and serves as a new downtown entrance for Redding’s extensive Sacramento River Trail system. Access to the Sundial Bridge and surrounding river trails are free to the public. Paid access areas include Turtle Bay’s Museum, Forest Camp, Wildlife Woods, and Botanical Gardens.