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Water Resources (2025 update)

Migratory waterfowl and other birds are at the heart of the Cibola National Wildlife Refuge experience each fall and winter. To support them, we rely on water from the Colorado River to fill wetlands like Hart Mine Marsh, Long Pond, Loafing Pond, and Cibola Lake. These areas are also favorite spots for visitors to enjoy wildlife viewing and hunting.

Providing water isn’t always easy. When river levels drop too low, our pumps can’t operate safely, which limits how much water we can move onto the refuge. In fact, two pumps had to be replaced in 2024, and we now know they can only run when the river is at a safe level.

With drought continuing in the region, keeping enough water on the refuge is a constant challenge. We began filling our moist soil units last week and will do our best to hold water for wildlife and visitors throughout the season. Still, much depends on how high—or low—the river runs.

Below is the water forecast for the river from the Bureau of Reclamation for this upcoming season:

"Fall 2025 Flow Expectations for Arizona National Wildlife Refuges (NWR):

Overall, flows this fall are projected to be similar to what has been seen the last couple years. Reclamation generally anticipates that flows will be slightly higher than they were in fall of 2023 but overall anticipates similar low river flow conditions. From a seasonal perspective, Reclamation anticipates a similar flow pattern this year; the lowest flows will occur during the late fall and early winter months (November through February), with flows declining throughout the fall months."

Website resources:

• Davis and Parker Dam Projected Water Release Schedules: 
• Stream Gauges: 

Visit Us

National wildlife refuges offer us all a chance to unplug from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with our natural surroundings. Visitors have an opportunity to connect with nature in multiple ways. The lower Colorado River and its backwaters provide numerous outdoor recreational opportunities as well as a vital resource: water! 

Driving Directions

If you are coming from Blythe, California or Quartzsite, Arizona:

• Get on I-10 westbound.
• Take the Neighbors Boulevard Exit.
• Turn Left at the stop sign.
• Continue for 17 miles.
• Arrive at the Cibola National Wildlife Refuge visitor center. 

If you are coming from Yuma, Arizona:

• Get on I-8 Westbound
• Take Exit 159 onto Ogilby Road
• Turn Right onto Ogilby Road
• Continue for 25 miles.â€�
• At the Stop sign, turn right onto the Ben Hulse Highway
• Continue for 21 miles.
• Look for a green sign labeled, "Colorado River"
• Turn right at this sign. 

Fees

There is no charge to visit.

Restrooms

Restrooms are available at the refuge headquarters, at the front of the building next to the front entrance. Comfort stations are located at the Nature Trail, Island Unit, and Unit 2 parking areas. 

Points of Interest

Let our staff and volunteers at the visitor center help you plan your visit! This is a great starting point for visitors to become more familiar with the refuge and the wildlife that live here. Visitors can browse nature and wildlife exhibits, and obtain maps and brochures.

What To Do

If you have 15-minutes. 

• Stop by the visitor center to browse the exhibits, pick up brochures, and ask questions.
• View the refuge from the observation platform next to the visitor center. 

If you have one hour. 

• Drive the Auto Tour Loop.
• Hike the Nature Trail and observe wildlife from the observation platform. 

If you have half a day or more. 

• Wildlife observation, hunting, fishing, or boating 

Know Before You Go

Visitors should bring plenty of drinking water, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen, and other necessities. Please dress appropriately for the seasons, summer temperatures can be extreme while winter temperatures are mild to moderate.  

Visitor Tips

Wildlife viewing tips include: 

• Dawn and dusk are the best times to see wildlife.â€�
• In warmer seasons, few animals are moving on hot summer afternoons or on windy days.â€�
• Observe from the sidelines. Leave “abandonedâ€� young animals alone. A parent is probably close by waiting for you to leave.
• Don’t offer snacks to wildlife; your lunch could disrupt wild digestive systems or lead to the animal's premature death.
• For a closer look, bring binoculars.â€�
• Try sitting quietly in one good location. Let wildlife get used to your presence. Many animals that have hidden will reappear once they think you are gone.
• Walk quietly, being aware of sounds and smells. Often you will hear more than you will see.
• Teach children quiet observation. Other wildlife watchers will appreciate your consideration.
• Look for animal signs. Tracks, scat, feathers, and nests left behind often tell interesting stories.â€�