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Big Springs Gardens

32613 Highway 49
530-862-1333

About Us

For this special place to have been enhanced and developed as a naturalized garden seems almost pre-destined. There is a super abundance of water, a rich but rocky soil, and it is situated on a gentle sunny southern slope. From a 5,000 foot elevation and in less than three miles the majestic Sierra Buttes soar to 8,600 feet, thus providing the undisputed focal point of the garden. What more could a gardener wish for.

The Wild Garden
The higher elevation of this 118 acre property is precipitous, but lower down on the mountain the slopes become gentler and inviting. It is in this area the 30 acre naturalized garden is to be found. The upper portion of this comprising some 23 acres is referred to as the Wild Garden. Here you will find well groomed and graveled trails, steps of indigenous stone and easy walking that takes into account the slope of the land and the opportunity to share exquisite vistas. Some 40 varieties of wild flowers can be enjoyed amid moss covered boulders, huge old growth trees, and a wild cascading spring fed stream. The trails were planned with an eye to providing the best views of these gardens rooms.

The Inner Garden
The heart of the Inner Garden is the water feature, a deep one acre body of water know as "Spirit Pond" with Its Japanese style "Bridge of Dreams".

Its depth provides a mystic beauty and it is home to a large population of rainbow trout that beg to be fed as you approach the shore. Fishing privileges are the unique prerogative of an ample number of osprey and bald eagles that visit frequently. Many guests are treated to the sight of watching these magnificent birds swoop down, catch their prey and return to their nests to feed their offspring.