The road is paved to within a few yards of the Preserve. The preserve is dedicated to collecting and housing Arizona's Folkmusic, Folklore, Poetry, Legends and Tales. Some of the largest cottonwood trees in the United States grow along its river banks. No hunting, shooting, fishing or trapping is permitted. The area is generally closed to private vehicular traffic, except by special permit.
Parking is available at several public access points.
Hikers and horseback riders are welcome. The San Pedro Riparian Area is administered by the United States Bureau of Land Management and is a short distance east of Sierra Vista. This Canyon, on Fort Huachuca, is probably the most picturesque in the Huachuca Mountains. Access to the Fort is usually easy, although occasionally the canyons are closed for maneuvers. Visitors will need to show proof of insurance, vehicle registration and a drivers license at the main gate off Fry Boulevard in Sierra Vista.