Ellicott Slough National Wildlife Refuge
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Ellicott Slough National Wildlife Refuge is located in the state of California and encompasses 1,170 acres of wetlands, salt marshes, and upland habitats.
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Summary
The refuge is a popular destination for birdwatchers, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
One of the main reasons to visit Ellicott Slough National Wildlife Refuge is to see the diverse bird population. Over 200 species of birds have been recorded at the refuge, including endangered species such as the California clapper rail and the snowy plover. Visitors may also see other wildlife such as river otters, bobcats, and coyotes.
There are several points of interest to see at the refuge, including the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, a research and education center where visitors can learn about the estuarine ecosystem and the wildlife that inhabits it. Other points of interest include the hiking trails through the wetlands and upland habitats, which offer scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Interesting facts about Ellicott Slough National Wildlife Refuge include that it was established in 1975 to protect and enhance the habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife. The refuge is also home to several rare and endangered species, including the California tiger salamander and the Monterey spineflower.
The best time of year to visit the refuge depends on what visitors want to see. The winter months are a great time to see migratory waterfowl and shorebirds, while the spring and summer months are ideal for observing breeding birds and other wildlife. The refuge is open year-round, but visitors should be aware that some areas may be closed during certain times of the year to protect nesting birds and other wildlife.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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