Summary
It was established in 1985 to protect and manage the natural diversity of the region. The refuge covers approximately 118,000 acres of grasslands, wetlands, and desert habitats, providing a home for various species of plants and animals.
One of the best reasons to visit the refuge is to experience its unique wildlife and natural beauty. Visitors can see over 300 species of birds, including the endangered masked bobwhite quail and the peregrine falcon. Additionally, the area is home to larger animals such as deer, coyotes, and javelina. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, camping, and wildlife photography in the refuge.
Some of the most popular points of interest in Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge include the Cienega Creek Natural Preserve, the Arivaca Cienega Trail, and the Sasabe Border Patrol Checkpoint Overlook. The Cienega Creek Natural Preserve is a riparian area that provides habitat for various wildlife, including beavers and river otters. The Arivaca Cienega Trail is a popular hiking spot that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Sasabe Border Patrol Checkpoint Overlook provides visitors with a chance to see border enforcement efforts and observe the flow of traffic between the US and Mexico.
Interesting facts about the refuge include that it was established to protect the endangered masked bobwhite quail, which has since been reintroduced into the area. Additionally, the refuge has been used as a filming location for several Hollywood movies, including "The Magnificent Seven" and "Tombstone."
The best time of year to visit Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge is during the fall and winter months when the weather is cooler, and wildlife is more active. However, visitors should be aware that summer temperatures can be extremely hot and dry, and monsoon season, which occurs in July and August, can bring flash floods to the area.
Overall, Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the unique landscape and wildlife of southern Arizona.
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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.
Related References