The Willcox Dry Lake or Playa, the largest “dry lake” in Arizona, is a remnant of the pluvial Lake Cochise. Unlike similar dry lakes, the black mud below the surface contains a rich fossil pollen record of the pluvial periods of the Pleistocene epoch, a significant geological period that lasted from approximately 2.58
Maybe — confirm before you go.
This Bureau of Land Management 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 928-348-4400 · BLM_AZ_SFOWEB@blm.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Willcox Playa National Natural Landmark — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — This Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Willcox Playa National Natural Landmark. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Southwest Playa Access Road. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Willcox Playa National Natural Landmark is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Depends Are drones allowed?
Sometimes — often allowed away from wilderness and developed or crowded areas, with rules. Check locally before you fly.
Nearby sites
Indian Bread Rocks Picnic Area
ConfirmedThis site is free — no fee is charged, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
No machine-readable author provided. Bobby~commonswiki assum / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons Bureau of Land Management Dos Cabezas Mountains Wilderness
ConfirmedThis site is free — no fee is charged, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
