Las Cienegas National Conservation Area

• Overview
• Reservoirs
• Rivers
• Fishing
• Boat Ramps
• Explore

Las Cienegas National Conservation Area is a protected area covering 45,000 acres of grasslands and wetlands in southeastern Arizona. The site is home to several endangered species, including the Mexican long-nosed bat and the black-tailed prairie dog. The area is also known for its unique geology, including exposed rock formations and ancient lava flows.

There are many reasons to visit Las Cienegas National Conservation Area, including its natural beauty, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding on trails that wind through the grasslands and wetlands. The area is also popular for camping and picnicking.

Some of the points of interest in Las Cienegas National Conservation Area include the Empire Ranch, a historic cattle ranch that has been preserved as a museum, and the ruins of a Hohokam village that dates back over 1,000 years. The site also features several natural springs, including Cienega Creek and Sonoita Creek, which provide important habitat for a variety of plants and animals.

One interesting fact about Las Cienegas National Conservation Area is that it is one of only two sites in the world where the masked bobwhite quail can be found. This rare bird was once thought to be extinct, but a small population was discovered in the grasslands of the conservation area in the 1960s.

The best time of year to visit Las Cienegas National Conservation Area is in the spring, when the wildflowers are in bloom and the weather is mild. However, visitors should be prepared for hot temperatures in the summer and cold temperatures in the winter.