Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area
The Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area (RNCA) offers some of the best scenery in Southeast Arizona. This 23,000-acre site is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and hosts several spots worth exploring for birds. The heart of the RNCA is a canyon with towering cliffs, cottonwood galleries, and patches of mesquite. In these riparian habitats you’ll often find great Arizona raptors, such as gray hawk, common black hawk, and zone-tailed hawk. The RNCA has a little bit of everything for everybody, too, from developed campgrounds and day-use areas to rugged backcountry primitive roads for the more adventurous types. With the right water levels, the RNCA also offers opportunities to float the river.
Site Information
Region: Tucson and Southern
County: Graham
Directions: From Safford go about five miles east on U.S. Highway 70 towards Solomon. At Solomon, turn left onto Sanchez Road and follow the road to the end of the pavement. Turn left onto Bonita Camp Rd. and follow to the entry monument.
Latitude: 32.941675
Longitude: -109.463646
Operational Hours: Open all year, 24 hours a day
Admission or Fees: Fees charged at two developed campgrounds; all other activities (hiking, fishing, driving) are free of charge
Best time to visit: Spring, Summer, Fall
Habitats: Desert, Marsh or Wetland, Stream or river
Know Before You Go
In general much of the RNCA is accessible by car but some areas might have limited accessibility during periods of flooding.
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: Common Black Hawk, Gray Hawk, Zone-tailed Hawk
Charismatic: Black-chinned Hummingbird, Cactus Wren, Vermilion Flycatcher
Contact Information
Bureau of Land Management
711 14th Ave.
Safford, Arizona 85546
Phone: 928-348-4400
Website: https://www.blm.gov/national-conservation-lands/arizona/gilabox
Email: blm_az_sfoweb@blm.gov
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L357432
Additional Resources:
BLM - Safford Field Office
