Las Cienegas National Conservation Area
Today, more than 45,000 acres of rolling grasslands and woodlands in southeastern Arizona are protected under the Las Cienegas National Conservation Area (NCA). The region’s oak-studded hills connect several "sky island" mountain ranges and lush riparian corridors. With its perennial flow, Cienega Creek forms the lifeblood of the NCA and supports a diverse plant and animal community. It is also rich in historic and cultural resources.
Thanks to the efforts of local governments, elected officials and the public, the Empire and Cienega ranches, along with portions of the adjacent Rose Tree and Vera Earl ranches, are now under public ownership and managed by Bureau of Land Management (BLM) under the principles of multiple-use and ecosystem management for future generations to use and enjoy. The BLM has formed a partnership with the nonprofit Empire Ranch Foundation, which is dedicated to preserving the historic buildings and surrounding landscapes.
Directions
Las Cienegas is located 45 miles southeast of Tucson, Arizona. From Tucson, drive southeast on Interstate 10 to exit 281. Head south on Arizona Route 83. Near milepost 40, turn east into the ranch entrance.
Visitor Activities
Wildlife viewing, birdwatching, primitive camping, picnicking, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, historic site, hunting, photography and scenic drives.
Special Features
Unique and rare vegetative communities including five of the rarest habitat types in the American Southwest: cienegas (marshlands), cottonwood-willow riparian forests, sacaton grasslands, mesquite bosques, and semi-desert grasslands. The Las Cienegas NCA could also be a Mecca to fans of classic films about the old west. John Wayne, Barbara Stanwick, Charlton Heston, Paul Newman, Lee Marvin, Kirk Douglas, William Holden, Burt Lancaster, Shelley Winters, Jennifer Jones, Steve McQueen, Gregory Peck, Spencer Tracy, Jimmy Stewart and others have made such classic films as “Red River,” “Duel in the Sun,” “Hombre,” “Winchester 73,” “The Big Country” and many others on or near the Empire Ranch. The historic Empire Ranch remains a working cattle ranch, complete with enchanting old headquarters, now operates under an innovative rangeland management style unique to the area.
Permits, Fee, Limitations
You do not need a permit to visit the national conservation area. However, commercial, competitive, and large organized group events require a special recreation permit. Vehicles must remain on designated routes. Hazards include poisonous snakes, africanized bees, and potential encounters with illegal users of public lands. Recreational activities on state trust land require a permit from the State of Arizona.
Accessibility
Some of the rooms at the historic Empire Ranch headquarters are wheelchair accessible through the front breezeway entrance.
The Heritage Discovery Trail is located along Empire Gulch in the Empire Ranch headquarters area in the Las Cienegas National Conservation Area. Visitors can learn about the history of the “Hired Man’s House” and the “New Ranch House” while exploring this half-mile long Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant interpretive path. Visitors will also find ADA-compliant parking spaces and restrooms at the site.
Camping and Lodging
Primitive camping is allowed on existing sites only. Camping may not exceed 14 consecutive days. You must camp at least 0.25 mile from cattle and wildlife water holes. You will need to bring your own water and firewood. The nearest lodging is available in Sonoita, 5 miles south on Highway 83, and in Patagonia. Campfires are allowed, except during periods of extreme fire danger.
Food and Supplies
A gas station and a variety of restaurants and services are located in the town of Sonoita, Arizona.
First Aid
First aid is available at the Santa Cruz Sheriff’s office in Sonoita. The nearest hospitals are located in Sierra Vista, about 40 miles southeast or Tucson, approximately 50 miles northwest.
Additional Information
The national conservation area includes a working cattle ranch. Please leave all gates as you find them. There is no trash pick up; you will need to pack up all trash. A Land Use Plan completed in 2003 calls for an interpretive trail and program at the historic ranch headquarters. The area is a travel corridor for undocumented immigrants traveling from Mexico. Please report all suspected illegal activities to BLM or local law enforcement authorities. Stay safe by avoiding contact with persons exhibiting suspicious behavior or engaged in dangerous activities.
