By:
Submission
Willcox Playa is best known for its wintering population of sandhill cranes that migrate to the playa in large numbers, particularly in wet winters. It is not unusual to see several thousand cranes in winter at the power plant ponds viewing area on the southwest side of the playa, or at the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s 600-acre Wildlife Area on the southeast side. The cranes feed and court, but after February migrate to their summer breeding grounds in the northern Great Plains.
Birding is best from mid-October through March, when more than 15 species of birds of prey may also be found here. The annual Wings over Willcox Birding and Nature Festival takes place in nearby Willcox each January and features guided tours.
Camping: Overnight public camping is allowed in designated areas only, for no more than 14 days within a 45-day period. There are no facilities at the Wildlife Area.
Restrictions: Open fires are allowed in designated areas only, Parking area only.
No firewood cutting or gathering.
From Willcox, go east on AZ 186 for 6 miles; turn south on Kansas Settlement Road for 4 miles to the wildlife area. Apache Station Wildlife Area – Take the I-10 exit 331 south for 8.5 miles. Lake Cochise – just south of Willcox on Hwy. 186, turn into Twin Lakes Golf Course and follow signs to birding area.
Amazing place to camp 🏕 while enjoying the wine tastings, music and great food right across the street!
Great place to watch sunset
There is no paved road
From willcox railway station go south west about twenty minutes
The road is no good but you can try, use SUV or truck better avoid small cars and sedans
This is a great area for bird watching and nature hikes. The heat on the playa can be oppressive so always bring water. In the video you can see an area of the playa just a 10 minute walk from the parking area.
No trouble parking our 30 ft RV (plus bike rack)
It's a decent parking area for the selfsustained camper in dry weather. Just off highway parking.
Nice enough for a walk. The lakes looked all dried up and not recently.
