Imperial National Wildlife Refuge
The 25,768-acre refuge protects 30 miles of wildlife habitat along the lower Colorado River, near the border with California and Mexico. It serves as an important stopover point for migratory birds on the Pacific Flyway, making it a popular destination for birdwatching and wildlife enthusiasts.
Site Information
Region: West Coast
County: Yuma
Directions: From Yuma/Quartzite: Take Highway 95 (north from Yuma or south from Quartzite) and turn west onto Martinez Lake Road located between mile markers 46 and 47. Continue on Martinez Lake Road for approximately 10 miles. Turn north onto Red Cloud Mine Road. Follow the brown signs for three miles to the refuge and visitor center.
Latitude: 32.99822
Longitude: -114.48663
Operational Hours: Open all year, 24 hours a day
Admission or Fees: None
Habitats: Desert, Stream or river
Know Before You Go
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: Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Mexican Duck
Charismatic: Black-throated Sparrow, Gambel’s Quail, Phainopepla, Western Kingbird, White-winged Dove
Contact Information
Imperial National Wildlife Refuge
US Fish & Wildlife Service
12812 N Wildlife Way
Yuma, AZ 85365
Phone: 928-783-3371
Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/imperial/visit-us
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L417733
Additional Resources:
The Painted Desert Trail, a National Recreation Trail, is a 1.3-mile self-guided trail for an opportunity to see desert plants and wildlife. The trail takes you through a rainbow of colors left by 30,000-year-old volcanic activity and features a panoramic view of the Colorado River valley.
