Las Cienegas National Conservation Area
In a state where desert arroyos, washes, and many streambeds remain bone-dry most of the time, the year-round flow of Cienega Creek makes it a highly valuable resource. A lush green ribbon of vegetation defines one of the most significant riparian zones in southern Arizona. Cienega Creek gets its name from the cienegas, or marshes, which occur along its length. This rare vegetation community has nearly disappeared in the Southwest.
If you are interested, you can now access an audio tour of the Cienega Watershed. Just download the free TravelStorys app to your phone at https://travelstorys.com/.
The national conservation area includes a working cattle ranch. Visitors are asked to leave all gates as they are found. There is no trash pick up, so visitors need to pack up all trash.
The area is a travel corridor for undocumented immigrants traveling from Mexico. Report all suspected illegal activities to BLM or local law enforcement authorities. Stay safe by avoiding contact with people who are exhibiting suspicious behavior or engaged in dangerous activities.
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
Some of the rooms at the historic Empire Ranch headquarters are wheelchair accessible through the front breezeway entrance.
The Heritage Discovery Trail is located along Empire Gulch in the Empire Ranch headquarters area in the Las Cienegas National Conservation Area. Visitors can learn about the history of the “Hired Man’s House” and the “New Ranch House” while exploring this half-mile long Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant interpretive path. Visitors will also find ADA-compliant parking spaces and restrooms at the site.
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Activities
Geographic Coordinates
Directions
From Tucson, go east on Interstate 10 and then south on state Route 83 to the wildlife area turnoff near milepost 40.
Fees
You do not need a permit to visit the national conservation area. However, commercial, competitive, and large organized group events require a special recreation permit.