Hutton Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Hutton Lake National Wildlife Refuge is located in the state of Colorado and was established in 1932 to provide a habitat for migratory birds.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
It is a popular destination for birdwatchers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts.
One of the main reasons to visit Hutton Lake National Wildlife Refuge is to experience the natural beauty of the area. The refuge is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 200 species of birds, elk, deer, and other animals. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Some of the specific points of interest to see at Hutton Lake National Wildlife Refuge include the Hutton Lake Reservoir, which is a popular spot for fishing, and the Grasshopper Pueblo archaeological site, which features ancient Native American ruins.
Interesting facts about the area include that the refuge was named after Charles Hutton, who was an early settler in the region. Additionally, the refuge was established to protect and preserve the wetlands and grasslands of the area, which are important habitats for a variety of wildlife.
The best time of year to visit Hutton Lake National Wildlife Refuge is in the spring and summer, when the weather is mild and many migratory birds are present. However, the refuge is open year-round and offers a variety of activities and experiences throughout the year.
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
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Meeboer Lake Access Area - WGF
|
||
Twin Buttes Reservoir Public Access - WGF
|
||
Lake Hattie Public Access Area - WGF
|
Leazenby Lake
Gelatt Lake
Sodergreen Lake
Lake Hattie