Imperial National Wildlife Refuge

Explore this wetland habitat and watch the waterfowl and other wildlife.

The Imperial National Wildlife Refuge protects wildlife along 30 miles of the Lower Colorado River on the Arizona/California border. The area is a federally designated 15,056-acre wilderness area. All of the backwater lakes and wetlands from the Colorado River are surrounded by desert mountains. The wilderness is protected and encompasses the Picacho State Recreation Area. A popular place to go boating, hiking, fishing, camping, exploring, and wildlife watching.

Wildlife is most abundant here during the winter. Common species to look for in the winter include cinnamon teal and northern pintail. In the summer, you will often see egrets in the area. The Colorado River is the only water source for many miles, and small mammals also call the refuge home. Keep your eyes peeled for black-tailed jackrabbits, western whiptail lizard, desert bighorn sheep, and mule deer.

This place has two established trails (Painted Desert Trail or Meer's Point Trail) and four overlook points visitors can drive to. There is an overlook tower and a picnic area nearby too. With over 200 species of migratory birds, bring your binoculars to get a close-up view during your visit. Nature lovers of all ages will have a good time at the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge in Yuma, Arizona.