The Napa River Ecological Reserve, consisting of 73-acres, is one of the few places where visitors can experience Valley Oak woodland and riparian habitat that once defined the Napa Valley.  A short walk takes you to the river, and when the water level is low you can cross the river and stroll along a quiet, 1/2 mile trail that loops through majestic oaks and other native plants.  The Reserve is a great place for bird observation.  Even on the hottest days of summer, the air is cool and fresh along the banks of the Napa River. The Reserve is owned by the State of California under the auspices of the Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) and in 2008 the Napa County Regional Park and Open Space District entered into an agreement with DFW to help steward this gem of the valley.