The morning sun was just beginning to paint the desert landscape in those golden hues that photographers like me live for when I loaded my camera gear and drone into the Subaru at Casa Codorniz. Our little slice of paradise overlooking Lake Mohave had been our winter sanctuary for years now, but today called for an adventure beyond our familiar shoreline. The Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge had been beckoning to me for months, and with my drone batteries fully charged and Paulette’s blessing to “go capture some magic,” I set out on what would become one of my most memorable photography expeditions.

At eighty-something years old, you might think I’d be content to sit on the porch and watch the world go by, but that’s never been my way. Growing up on a ranch in the Kansas Flint Hills taught me that the best stories come from getting out there and experiencing the land firsthand. Whether it was chasing cattle across the rolling prairie as a boy or now chasing the perfect shot across the desert Southwest, some things about a man just don’t change.

The drive from our Lake Mohave retreat to the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge is one of those journeys that reminds you why the American Southwest gets into your blood and stays there. Following the Colorado River south, the landscape transforms from the stark beauty of the Mohave Desert to the more lush riparian environment where the Bill Williams River meets Lake Havasu. It’s a transition that never fails to amaze me, even after all these years of wandering these desert paths with my camera.

Discovering the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge

The Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge stretches across 6,055 acres of some of the most diverse habitat you’ll find anywhere in the Colorado River system. Established in 1941, this refuge protects the largest remaining cottonwood-willow forest along the lower Colorado River, and let me tell you, when you’ve spent as much time as I have photographing the harsh beauty of desert landscapes, stumbling into this green oasis feels like discovering a secret garden.

As I pulled into the refuge boundaries, my old photographer’s instincts started tingling. The Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge isn’t just another pretty spot on the map – it’s a critical habitat for over 300 species of birds, including several endangered species. The refuge serves as a vital stopover point along the Pacific Flyway, making it a paradise for wildlife photographers like myself who understand that patience and persistence often yield the most spectacular results.

The morning light was perfect as I began setting up my equipment. After decades of chasing shots from the high country of New Mexico to the desert floors of Arizona, I’ve learned that the quality of light can make or break a photograph. The soft, golden light filtering through the cottonwood canopy created exactly the kind of conditions that make my old photographer’s heart sing.

Taking to the Sky: Drone Photography Over the Refuge

Flying my drone over the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge opened up perspectives that ground-level photography simply can’t capture. From 400 feet above, the intricate patterns of the river meandering through the desert landscape became visible in ways that reminded me of the aerial views I used to get from horseback on the high ridges back in Kansas, except now I could capture and share these views with the world.

The drone footage revealed the true scope of the refuge’s importance. The Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge serves as a green corridor cutting through the desert, connecting Lake Havasu to the upstream watersheds. From above, you can see how this riparian habitat creates a lifeline for wildlife in what would otherwise be an unforgiving desert environment. The contrast between the lush river corridor and the surrounding Sonoran Desert creates some of the most dramatic landscape photography opportunities I’ve encountered in my years behind the lens.

One of the most striking aspects of photographing the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge from the air is seeing how the Colorado River system has shaped this entire region. The refuge sits at the confluence of the Bill Williams River and Lake Havasu, creating a unique ecosystem where desert and riparian habitats meet. This convergence point has been attracting wildlife – and now photographers – for generations.

Lake Havasu: More Than Just a Spring Break Destination

While many folks know Lake Havasu primarily as a recreation destination, particularly Lake Havasu City with its famous London Bridge, the lake itself is a crucial component of the Colorado River system and an integral part of the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge ecosystem. Created by the Parker Dam in 1938, Lake Havasu stretches 45 miles along the Colorado River and serves as both a water storage facility and a recreational paradise.

Photographing Lake Havasu from the refuge perspective gives you a completely different appreciation for this body of water. Yes, it’s a playground for boaters and water sports enthusiasts, but it’s also a vital habitat for waterfowl, shore birds, and fish species. The contrast between the developed areas around Lake Havasu City and the protected wilderness of the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge creates compelling photographic opportunities that tell the story of how humans and nature can coexist in the desert Southwest.

The bass fishing on Lake Havasu is legendary, and I’ve spent many mornings watching anglers work the waters where the Bill Williams River enters the lake. There’s something almost meditative about watching a skilled angler work the structure along the shoreline, especially when you’re capturing it through the lens of a camera. The early morning light on the water, combined with the anticipation of both angler and photographer, creates moments that exemplify why I fell in love with this part of the country.

The Colorado River: Lifeline of the Desert

The Colorado River runs through the heart of the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge, and photographing this historic waterway never gets old. This river has been the lifeline of the American Southwest for thousands of years, supporting Native American civilizations, pioneer settlements, and now modern communities throughout the region. From a photographer’s perspective, the Colorado River offers endless opportunities to capture the intersection of human history and natural beauty.

Standing along the Colorado River within the refuge boundaries, I’m always struck by the contrast between the river’s gentle flow here and the dramatic canyons it has carved upstream. The river’s journey from the Rocky Mountains of Colorado to the Gulf of California tells the story of the American West, and the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge represents one of the most important chapters in that ongoing narrative.

The riparian habitat along the Colorado River within the refuge supports an incredible diversity of wildlife. During my visit, I photographed great blue herons, various species of ducks, and even caught a glimpse of a river otter – a sight that would have been impossible just a few decades ago before conservation efforts helped restore populations in the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge.

Wildlife Photography in the Refuge

The Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge offers some of the most diverse wildlife photography opportunities in the lower Colorado River region. The refuge’s 6,055 acres encompass everything from desert uplands to marsh areas, creating habitats that support an amazing variety of species. As someone who has spent decades photographing wildlife from the high country of New Mexico to the desert floors of Arizona, I can say with confidence that the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge ranks among the premier wildlife photography destinations in the Southwest.

The bird life in the refuge is particularly spectacular. Over 300 species have been recorded here, including several that are listed as endangered or threatened. The refuge’s location along the Pacific Flyway makes it a critical stopover point for migrating birds, creating photography opportunities that change with the seasons. During my visit, I was able to photograph everything from tiny hummingbirds to magnificent great blue herons, each species adapted to its particular niche within the refuge ecosystem.

The mammal population of the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge includes mule deer, coyotes, bobcats, and even the occasional mountain lion. While the larger predators are rarely seen during daylight hours, the evidence of their presence – tracks in the sand, scat along the trails – reminds you that this is still wild country despite being just a short drive from the recreational areas of Lake Havasu City.

Capturing the Refuge Through the Seasons

One of the things I’ve learned during my years of photographing the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge is that each season brings its own unique opportunities and challenges. Spring brings the desert wildflowers and migrating birds, creating photography conditions that can take your breath away. Summer, while hot, offers the chance to capture the refuge’s wildlife during their most active periods – early morning and late evening when the temperatures are more bearable.

Fall migration through the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge is particularly spectacular for bird photography. The refuge serves as a crucial stopover point for species making their way south for the winter, and the concentration of birds during peak migration periods creates opportunities that exist nowhere else in the region. The autumn light, combined with the changing colors of the cottonwood trees, creates a photographer’s paradise.

Winter photography in the refuge offers its own rewards. While the deciduous trees are bare, the structure of the landscape becomes more visible, and the winter light has a quality that brings out the textures and patterns in the desert environment. Plus, winter is when Paulette and I are in residence at Casa Codorniz, making it convenient to make multiple trips to the refuge as conditions and wildlife activity dictate.

Conservation and the Future

The Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge represents one of the success stories of American conservation efforts. When the refuge was established in 1941, much of the riparian habitat along the Colorado River had already been lost to development and agriculture. The refuge has worked to restore and protect what remained, creating a model for how we can balance human needs with wildlife conservation.

Photographing the refuge over the years has given me a front-row seat to watch these conservation efforts in action. The restoration of native plant communities, the reintroduction of species like the river otter, and the careful management of water resources all contribute to making the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge a premier example of ecosystem restoration in the American Southwest.

The refuge also serves an important educational function, helping visitors understand the complex relationships between water, wildlife, and human communities in the desert Southwest. Through my photography, I hope to contribute to this educational mission by showing people the beauty and importance of places like the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge.

Technical Considerations for Desert Photography

Photographing in the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge presents unique technical challenges that I’ve learned to navigate over the years. The intense desert sun can create harsh shadows and blown-out highlights, requiring careful attention to exposure settings and timing. The best light for photography in the refuge typically occurs during the first and last hours of daylight, when the sun is low on the horizon and the light has that warm, golden quality that makes desert landscapes come alive.

Dust is another constant concern when photographing in the refuge. The fine desert dust can work its way into camera equipment, affecting both performance and image quality. I’ve learned to keep my gear sealed when not in use and to clean my lenses frequently during shooting sessions.

The extreme temperatures can also affect both equipment and photographer. Summer temperatures in the refuge can exceed 110 degrees Fahrenheit, while winter mornings can dip below freezing. Battery life suffers in extreme temperatures, and condensation can form on equipment when moving between air-conditioned vehicles and the outdoor environment.

The Journey Home

As I packed up my equipment at the end of my photography session in the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge, I couldn’t help but reflect on how fortunate I am to be able to pursue my passion for photography in such spectacular surroundings. The drive back to Casa Codorniz gave me time to process the images I’d captured and to plan my next visit to this remarkable place.

The Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge had once again provided me with the kind of photographic opportunities that make all the planning, travel, and technical challenges worthwhile. From the aerial perspectives captured by my drone to the intimate wildlife portraits shot from ground level, the refuge had yielded a collection of images that tell the story of one of the American Southwest’s most important conservation success stories.

Back at Casa Codorniz, with Lake Mohave stretching out below our windows, I began the process of editing and organizing the day’s photographs. Each image represents not just a moment captured in time, but a small piece of the larger story of how places like the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge contribute to the incredible diversity and beauty of the American Southwest.

Conclusion: A Photographer’s Paradise

The Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge stands as a testament to what’s possible when we commit to protecting and restoring our natural heritage. For photographers like me who are passionate about capturing the beauty of the American Southwest, the refuge offers opportunities that exist nowhere else in the region. From the diverse wildlife populations to the stunning landscapes where desert and riparian habitats meet, the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge provides endless inspiration for those willing to venture beyond the beaten path.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer looking for new challenges or someone just beginning to explore the world of wildlife and landscape photography, the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge deserves a place on your must-visit list. The refuge’s location at the confluence of the Bill Williams River and Lake Havasu creates a unique ecosystem that supports an incredible diversity of life, all within easy reach of the recreational amenities of Lake Havasu City.

As I sit here at Casa Codorniz, watching the sun set over Lake Mohave and planning my next photographic adventure, I’m reminded once again of why Paulette and I chose to spend our winters in this part of the country. Places like the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge make every day an opportunity for discovery, whether you’re armed with a camera or simply willing to open your eyes to the wonders of the natural world.

The refuge will continue to be a regular destination for my photography expeditions, and I encourage anyone with an appreciation for wildlife, conservation, and the stunning landscapes of the American Southwest to make their own journey to the Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge. It’s a place where the past and present converge, where conservation meets recreation, and where every visit offers the possibility of capturing something truly magical.

About the Author spent his early years working his family’s cattle ranch in Kansas before pursuing a career in wildlife photography. Now retired and living in Santa Fe, New Mexico but wintering at Lake Mohave, Arizona he dedicates his time to documenting the wilderness and wildlife of the American Southwest, with a particular focus on the Mountains and Deserts of Arizona, Utah, Colorado and New Mexico. His work has been featured in New Mexico Outdoor Sports Guide blog and hundreds of NMOSG YouTube video publications, the Texas
SportsGuide and Black Bass magazines.