The 2,765-acre refuge was established in 1988 to protect two of the eight native fish species of the Río Yaqui watershed: the Yaqui chub (Gila purpurea) and the Yaqui topminnow (Poeciliopsis sonoriensis). In addition, the refuge protects a unique velvet ash-black walnut-cottonwood forest along Leslie Creek that is impo
Maybe — confirm before you go.
This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 520-364-2104 · bill_radke@fws.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — hiking is one of the listed activities at Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Depends Is hunting allowed?
Yes — hunting is permitted here in season, with the required state license and tags. Check seasons and unit rules.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Often restricted to protect wildlife — many refuges limit or prohibit pets. Check this refuge before you go.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Wildlife Refuge land.
Nearby sites
Baker Canyon Wilderness Study Area
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
C. Lohrengel/USFWS / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
