The lush wildlife habitat, fed by a year round spring, includes a rare willow and cottonwood forest, considered the most endangered forest type in the nation, as well as mesquites and native walnuts. Because the reserve in the midst of ranch land, certain restrictions have been placed on the property. A fence was build around the area to keep cattle from eroding the banks of the stream. A well and windmill were added inside the reserve, feeding to a tank outside the fence. This provides a new source of water for the cattle and proves that ranchers and conservation groups can work together.
Gates allow entrance for people on food, bicycles or horseback.
The New River Reserve is readily accessible from Old Stage Coach Road in New River and open year round during daylight hours.