Imperial National Wildlife Refuge

A scenic desert drive (approx. 90-120 minutes) heading north of Yuma, Arizona, on Highway 95, the 26,000 acre Imperial National Wildlife Refuge sits adjacent to Lake Martinez. Established in 1941, the refuge protects a 30 mile stretch of the lower Colorado River, as well as 15,000 acres of designated wilderness area. Located within the northern range of the Sonoran desert, the refuge encompasses upland desert habitat, marshes, and the Colorado River backwaters. The river waterways and wetland habitats create a vibrant green oasis, beautifully surrounded by rugged desert mountains.

From marsh birds to waterfowl and even wintering bald eagles, the Imperial NWR wetland areas are important resting, feeding, and nesting habitats for a variety of migratory birds and wildlife species, including desert big horn sheep, mule deer, black-tailed jack rabbits and muskrat. Refuge activities include bird and wildlife watching and photography, fishing and boating, hiking, kayaking and canoeing. checklists. The visitor center is staffed by volunteers and the hours vary by season. Please call in advance at (928) 783-3371, and visit https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Imperial/.