Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve
Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve is one of several must-stops for birders visiting the area. Listed as an Audubon Important Bird Area, the Preserve is home to stretches of Sonoita Creek, one of the few waterways in south Arizona offering perennial surface water. The lush mature cottonwood canopies create a riparian corridor that is a superhighway for birds, especially during migration periods. The 873-acre Preserve is operated by the Nature Conservancy and offers a charming visitor’s center and two miles of trails.
Site Information
Region: Tucson and Southern
County: Santa Cruz
Directions: The road to the Preserve is found in the town of Patagonia. From AZ 82, turn north on 4th Ave. After 0.1 miles turn left onto Pennsylvania Ave. This soon turns into Blue Heaven Road. Follow this for 1.5 miles to the Preserve entrance.
Latitude: 31.528021
Longitude: -110.775776
Operational Hours: Other
Other Operational Hours: Open Wednesday through Sunday, with hours varying slightly with season
Admission or Fees: $8 per person
Best time to visit: Year round
Habitats: Marsh or Wetland, Stream or river
Know Before You Go
Nature walks and other events are held occasionally. Access to the preserve can be difficult following heavy rain events.
Safety First! Arizona has many beautiful places to explore and we’d like to help you make it a safe and enjoyable experience. Check out our recommendations for hiking precautions.
Species Highlights
Speciality: Gray Hawk, Lucy’s Warbler, Mexican Jay, Northern Beardless Tyrannulet, Yellow-billed Cuckoo
Charismatic: Vermilion Flycatcher
Contact Information
The Nature Conservancy
150 Blue Heaven Rd.
Patagonia, AZ
Phone: 520-394-2400
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L129052
Additional Resources:
Town of Patagonia
Important Bird Areas
