Summary
The refuge is known for its diverse habitats, including wetlands, riparian areas, and upland shrublands, which provide habitat for a variety of wildlife species, including elk, moose, river otters, and bald eagles.
There are several reasons to visit Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge, including its scenic beauty, abundance of wildlife, and recreational opportunities. Visitors can hike, fish, hunt, and birdwatch within the refuge. There are also several points of interest, such as the historic Swinging Bridge over the Green River, the Irish Canyon Trail, and the Harper Cabin.
Interesting facts about the area include that Browns Park was once a hideout for notorious outlaws, such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. The refuge is also home to one of the largest migratory elk herds in North America.
The best time of year to visit Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge is during the summer and fall months when the weather is mild and the wildlife is most active. However, visitors should be prepared for hot temperatures during the day and cool temperatures at night.
Weather Forecast
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.
Related References
Gates of Lodore - Dinosaur National Monument
Gates of Lodore Campground
Wade and Curtis River Camp
Crook - Browns Wildlife Area
Pot Creek 1
Pot Creek 2