Arlington Wildlife Area
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Arlington Wildlife Area is a popular destination for nature lovers in Arizona.
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Summary
Located in the southwest portion of the state, the area covers over 1,000 acres of diverse wildlife habitats, including riparian, mesquite, and desert shrub ecosystems.
One of the main reasons to visit Arlington Wildlife Area is to see the many species of birds that inhabit the area. Over 200 species have been observed in the area, including the American kestrel, great horned owl, and red-tailed hawk. Other wildlife in the area includes coyotes, bobcats, and various reptiles.
Visitors to Arlington Wildlife Area can explore a variety of hiking trails and picnic areas, as well as a shooting range. The area is also home to historic Hohokam ruins, which offer a glimpse into the area's ancient past.
Interesting facts about Arlington Wildlife Area include the fact that it was once a dairy farm before being converted to a wildlife area in the 1970s. In addition, the area is managed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department, which works to preserve and protect the area's wildlife habitats.
The best time of year to visit Arlington Wildlife Area is in the spring and fall, when temperatures are mild and wildlife is most active. However, visitors should be aware that the area can become very hot in the summer months, and that there are restrictions on hunting and other activities during certain times of year.
Overall, Arlington Wildlife Area is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the natural beauty of Arizona and its diverse wildlife.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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