KOFA National Wildlife Refuge - King Valley Road

Camping at Kofa National Wildlife Refuge is free and permitted at established sites only, which are marked by fire rings and cleared areas. Campers must practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days. Vehicles must remain on designated roads, and cross-country travel is prohibited to protect the fragile desert ecosystem. Campfires are allowed in existing fire rings when fire danger is low, but visitors should bring their own firewood rather than collecting it from the refuge. Always check current regulations with the US Fish and Wildlife Service before your visit.

The best time to visit Kofa National Wildlife Refuge is during the cooler months from late fall through early spring (October to April). Winter brings mild daytime temperatures ideal for hiking and exploring, though nights can be quite cold. Spring may offer wildflower blooms depending on winter rainfall. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, making camping uncomfortable and potentially dangerous without proper preparation. The refuge's low elevation desert environment means extreme heat dominates the summer months, so planning a visit during cooler seasons will provide a much more enjoyable experience.

Kofa National Wildlife Refuge offers dispersed camping along King Valley Road with numerous spacious sites located far apart from one another. The first two miles from the main road are on BLM land, after which you enter the refuge proper. Camp areas are clearly marked with fire pits and site indicators. Many campers stay within the first 6 miles (around marker 60), though you can venture further in if desired. Sites provide ample space with neighbors typically 400+ yards away, offering privacy and stunning desert views in all directions.

Visitors to Kofa National Wildlife Refuge can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, stargazing, and mountain biking on dirt roads. A notable attraction is Palm Canyon, located just 3.5 miles from the camping areas, which features the only native palm trees in Arizona. The refuge offers excellent opportunities for desert landscape exploration, with stunning sunsets and sunrise views. The wide-open spaces and varied terrain make it ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking solitude and natural beauty in a pristine desert environment.