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The Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area encompasses a 15-mile segment of Bonita Creek and 23 miles of the Gila River. Bonita Creek, popular for birding and picnicking, is lined with large cottonwoods, sycamores, and willows. The Gila River section, known as the Gila Box, is comprised of patchy mesquite woodlands, mature cottonwood trees, sandy beaches, and grand buff colored cliffs. Cliff dwellings, historic homesteads, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, and over 200 species of birds make this cool year-round desert oasis worth the short drive from Safford. Activities include river floating by inflatable kayak, canoe, or raft, fishing, wildlife viewing, backpacking, and camping.
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