The Bill Williams River provides habitat for fish and wildlife, clean water, forage, and recreational opportunities such as fishing, kayaking, rafting, and hiking. The river is historically unique to this section of the Lower Colorado River as a major tributary that was used as a travel corridor by Native Americans, European explorers, and early settlers.

Six state and federal agencies have worked together since 1992 to manage the Bill Williams River’s outstanding riparian, wildlife, recreational, and fisheries resources. 

The river system provides habitat for both migratory and resident birds as well as local wildlife which includes bighorn sheep, deer, coyotes, javelina, ring-tail cats, foxes, and more. Aquatic life includes macro­invertebrates, amphibians, and fish. Turtles, beavers, muskrats, and raccoons frolic beneath the cottonwood and willow trees along the riverbanks. 

Three segments of the Bill Williams River totaling 21.1 miles have been determined suitable for inclusion in the National Wild & Scenic Rivers System. These segments possess outstandingly remarkable scenic, recreational, fish, and wildlife values.

Explore Nearby

• River Island State Park — State Park in Arizona
• Buckskin Mountain State Park — State Park in Arizona
• Prescott National Forest — National Forest in Arizona