Sweetwater Wetlands
The marshes, recharge basins, and surrounding Sonoran Desert make Sweetwater Wetlands one of the best urban birding sites in the U.S. Over 300 species of birds have been recorded at the site, giving it the highest total of any site in Pima County. The well-manicured dirt paths offer viewing of numerous ponds and recharge basins that offer habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds, rails, songbirds, and more.
Site Information
Region: Tucson and Southern
County: Pima
Directions: Located just west of I-10 near the Prince Road exit. There are two parking areas, one on each side of Sweetwater Dr.
Latitude: 32.279623
Longitude: -111.020904
Operational Hours: Other
Other Operational Hours: 6am - 7pm daily, except Mondays when the hours are 9am - 7pm
Admission or Fees: None
Best time to visit: Winter for waterfowl and rails, otherwise is great all year
Habitats: Desert, Marsh or Wetland, Lake or Pond, Urban or Suburban park
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
Rare: Ruddy Ground Dove
Speciality: Abert’s Towhee, Lucy’s Warbler, Mexican Duck
Charismatic: Greater Roadrunner, Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Contact Information
Tucson Water
City of Tucson
2511 W Sweetwater Drive
Tucson, AZ 85705
Phone: 520-791-4331
Website: https://www.tucsonaz.gov/water/sweetwater-wetlands
Email: pico@tucsonaz.gov
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L208918
