Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge

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The Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge is located in the Sonoran Desert in southwestern Arizona in the United States. The refuge, established in 1939 to protect bighorn sheep, is located along 56 miles of the U.S.-Mexican border, and covers 860,010 acres—larger than the land area of the state of Rhode Island. 803,418 acres were preserved in 1990 as the Cabeza Prieta Refuge Wilderness. The refuge may be temporarily closed for training exercises on the Barry M. Goldwater Air Force Range. It is the third largest national wildlife refuge in the lower 48 states.

Spanish for "dark head," the refuge's name comes from a mountain in its northwest corner.

1 Featured species include
2 Visiting
3 Visitor safety
4 Source
5 References

[edit] Featured species include

[edit] Visiting

The most popular time to visit the refuge is between November and March. A free permit is required to visit the refuge; obtain at the refuge office in Ajo, Arizona or by mail. A local organization gives evening presentations on the history, flora, and fauna during these months. Only lawfully-killed game may be taken from the area.

The historic Camino del Diablo 4WD road crosses the south part of the refuge, near the Mexican border.

[edit] Visitor safety

Visiting the refuge is a serious endeavor.

It is strongly recommended that visitors not attempt to drive through the refuge after a rain as the road, El Camino del Diablo, can be damaged when wet. Locals say it can be impassable after rains.
Four wheel drive is required to visit the central refuge and refuge staff say that bringing two spare tires, and/or other replacement parts, is necessary.
There are group trips, which can reduce the risks of visiting this remote area, several times a year.
The area has been used for aerial bombing. Do not disturb unexploded bombs (ordnance) found on the refuge.
Two gallons of water, sunscreen, all food, and toilet items must be brought with you. You must pack all non-biodegradable materials out when you leave.