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.

Draft Recreation Business Plan Fee Proposal

To continue providing a quality recreational experience on public lands, the Bureau of Land Management has issued a draft business plan fee proposal for this site, in addition to other BLM-managed recreation sites across Arizona. The BLM wants to hear from you about these draft business plans. Visit the Recreation Business Plan webpage or our announcement for more information about how to share your input by October 21. 

Adventure is at Your Fingertips

Flickr Album

Las Cienegas National Conservation Area

Activities

Iconograph of a person on horseback
HORSEBACK RIDING
Iconograph of two people wearing backpacks and using walking sticks
HIKING

Geographic Coordinates

31.758, -110.673

Directions

From Tucson, go east on Interstate 10 and then south on state Route 83 to the wildlife area turnoff near milepost 40.

Fees

None

Quicklinks