There are an estimated 22 remaining drainages in Southern California and Baja California, Mexico in which the toads survive. Arroyo toads live in southern California and northwestern Baja California, Mexico. Most populations are found on public and private lands near San Diego and Los Angeles. Arroyo toads breed in slow-flowing rivers with shallow, gravelly pools.
Adults feed and hide in upland habitats of sandy scrubland and wooded terraces.
The primary threat facing arroyo toads is habitat destruction and degradation caused by urbanization, development, and dam construction. Predation by exotic fish and bullfrogs is also a threat. Colored to blend with desert soil and rocks, this toad prefers the banks and upland foraging lands along riparian areas. Wiped out across much of its range, the species may now survive in only 22 drainage areas. Most of its strongholds in the United States are on public land.