Your Guide to Birding in Southern Arizona

Patagonia, Arizona, is known for its spectacular scenery—but there’s more to this popular desert getaway than just the sightseeing. Tucked away in the Sky Islands of southeastern Arizona, this little town might just be the best-kept secret in the bird-watching world. 

Whether you’re a seasoned birding expert or a newbie just getting started, Patagonia is a rare paradise with more aviary variety than almost anywhere else in the US. Grab your binoculars, throw on some sturdy hiking shoes, and get ready for the birding adventure of a lifetime.



Guided Tours: Let the Experts Lead the Way

If you’re new to birding and appreciate a little help finding the elusive bird varieties of the desert, Patagonia has some fantastic guided tours to show you the ropes. Here are our favorites:

Adventure Birding Company

Ever wish you had a birding buddy who knows all the best spots? That’s exactly what you get with Adventure Birding Company. These folks will craft a tour just for you, based on what birds you’re hoping to see.

• Custom Adventures: Whether you're chasing the rare Elegant Trogon or just want to soak in the scenery, they’ve got you covered.
• Birding Gurus: Their guides are total pros who know the region inside and out.
• Small and Personal: It’s all about quality over quantity here, with intimate group sizes for a more personal experience.
  

Borderland Tours

For those who love a deep dive into nature, Borderland Tours should be your go-to. Their tours take you beyond birding and offer a full-on nature experience.

• Intimate Group Sizes: Smaller groups mean more personal attention and a richer experience.
• Nature Nerds: Your guides are experts on the desert and all the wild things that live here, not just the birds.
• Holistic Approach: Expect a well-rounded tour that touches on the natural history and ecology of the area as well.

Arizona Birding

Looking for flexibility in your birding schedule? Arizona Birding offers both half-day and full-day tours, letting you pick what works best for your plans.

• Schedule-Friendly: Whether you’re an early bird or a late riser, they’ve got tours to fit your timetable.
• Species Sleuths: If you’re hunting for something specific, like that Violet-crowned Hummingbird, these guides know exactly where to look.
• Experienced Guides: With years of birding under their belts, these guides will help you tick off those rare species.

Tucson Audubon Society

If you want to learn while you bird (and meet some fellow bird nerds), the Tucson Audubon Society is the perfect spot. They offer field trips to Patagonia that are perfect for birders who love a little education with their exploration.

• Learning Focused: Expect to come away with a whole lot more than bird photos—these tours are gold for those who appreciate knowledge.
• Birding Community: You’ll get to meet other birders and maybe even make some new friends along the way.
• Regular Adventures: They’re always organizing new trips, so there’s something fresh to explore each season.



Best Birdwatching Locations: Private and Peaceful

Prefer to tackle your bird watching excursion on your own? Patagonia is packed with birding hotspots. Here are the top spots where you’re most likely to have some amazing encounters.

Paton Center for Hummingbirds

While not technically a secluded spot, this place is legendary and had to be included. Originally the home of Wally and Marion Paton, the Paton Center for Hummingbirds is now a haven managed by the Tucson Audubon Society.



• Hummingbird Heaven: From the flashy Violet-crowned Hummingbird to dozens of other buzzing beauties, this is where you’ll get your hummingbird fix.
• Feeder Fun: With feeders galore, you’ll get up-close views of these tiny wonders—and some great photo ops, too.
• Birding Buzz: It’s a gathering spot for birders from around the globe, so there’s always someone to chat with and share sightings.
  

Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve

Looking for a spot that’s full of life? The Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve is a lush, green sanctuary managed by The Nature Conservancy, and it’s teeming with birdlife.

• Riparian Riches: The creekside habitat attracts a wide variety of aviary species.
• Warbler Wonderland: During migration, you’ll encounter all kinds of warblers—don’t forget your checklist!
• Easy Trails: The trails are gentle and accessible, making it a relaxing spot for birders of all levels.

Patagonia Lake State Park

If you’re into water birds or just want to mix things up, head to Patagonia Lake State Park. This man-made lake is surrounded by mesquite trees and open grasslands, making it a prime birding destination.

• Waterfowl and Shorebirds: Expect to see everything from Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks to Neotropic Cormorants.
• Trogon Territory: Keep your eyes peeled for the rare Elegant Trogon—this park is one of its hangouts.
• Year-Round Action: No matter when you visit, there’s always something to see, from summer hummers to winter waterfowl.

Harshaw Creek Road

For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, take a drive along Harshaw Creek Road. This scenic route is more than just a beautiful drive; it’s a birding bonanza.

• Habitat Variety: The road takes you through oak woodlands, riparian zones, and grasslands, each offering different species.
• Quail Quest: Keep an eye out for the Montezuma Quail—these elusive birds are rare and a real treat if you can spot one.
• Peaceful Setting: It’s a bit quieter here, making for a more relaxed and peaceful birding experience.

Birding Tips: Make the Most of Your Birding Adventure

Ready to hit the trails? Here are some tips to help you have the best birding experience possible during your time in Patagonia:

• Best Time to Visit: Birding in Patagonia is great year-round, but the best times are during the spring and fall migrations when the biggest variety of species are passing through.
• Early Bird: Birds love the morning, and you should, too! The early bird catches the best sightings.
• Pack the Essentials: Don’t forget your binoculars, camera, and maybe a birding app or book to help with IDs.
• Dress for Success: Layer up! Mornings can be chilly, but it warms up fast. Good shoes are a must for those trails.
• Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Remember that Arizona is a desert, so keep that water bottle handy.
• Go with a Guide: If you’re new to the area, a guided tour can really amp up your birding game—and your chances of seeing those rare species.

Stay at Patagonia RV Park

So there you have it—Patagonia, Arizona, is a birder’s dream come true. Whether you’re exploring solo or with one of the excellent guided tours, the mix of habitats and bird species here is sure to blow your mind. 

While you’re in the area, come book a stay with Patagonia RV park. Our Premier location features full hookups, plenty of open space, and all the modern conveniences you expect. We’re located within a short distance from every location on this list, and have plenty of tips on the best things to do in Patagonia.