Havasu National Wildlife Refuge
This refuge was established for the primary purpose of providing migratory bird habitat. Over 205 species of birds have been identified in the refuge including, waterfowl, shorebirds, gulls/terns, egrets/herons, pelican, sparrows, warblers, osprey, hawks and eagles. The refuge is comprised of 37,515 acres along the lower Colorado River in Arizona and California. The refuge protects 30 river miles and encompasses 300 miles of shoreline from Needles, CA to Lake Havasu City, AA. One of the last remaining natural stretches of the lower Colorado River flows through the 20-mile long Topock Gorge. Because of its importance to birds, the refuge is considered one of the Important Bird Areas in the state of Arizona.
Site Information
Region: West Coast
County: La Paz
Directions: The refuge office is located at 317 Mesquite Avenue, Needles, CA 92363. From Interstate 40, exit on J Street and go southwest (uphill) 0.6 miles. Turn right at the refuge entrance sign and follow the signs to the administrative office. On holidays, after hours, and on weekends, a self-serve kiosk with refuge brochures and leaflets can be accessed by visitors in front of the administrative office.
Latitude: 34.781946
Longitude: -114.524832
Operational Hours: Open all year, 24 hours a day
Admission or Fees: None
Best time to visit: May - September
Habitats: Desert, Marsh or Wetland, Lake or Pond, Stream or river
Know Before You Go
Some portions of the refuge are closed during breeding times. Be alert for signage. The refuge can be accessed from many different places, including from the Lower Colorado River via boat and multiple roads. Hunting and fishing are permitted within the refuge.
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: Abert’s Towhee, Canyon Wren, Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Painted Redstart, Ridgway’s Rail
Charismatic: Black-chinned Hummingbird, Gambel’s Quail, Greater Roadrunner, Lesser Goldfinch, Verdin, Western Kingbird, Yellow-headed Blackbird
Contact Information
Havasu National Wildlife Refuge
US Fish & Wildlife Service
317 Mesquite Avenue
Needles, CA 92363-2649
Phone: 760-326-3853
Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/havasu
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L417621
Additional Resources:
Arizona Important Bird Areas
Birdwatching Lake Havasu National Wildlife Refuge
