James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 7, 2025
The James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge is located on the island of Oahu in the state of Hawaii.
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Summary
The refuge is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and visitors who want to experience the unique flora and fauna of Hawaii. The refuge covers over 1,100 acres of wetlands, marshes, and mudflats, and is home to a variety of endangered and threatened species, including the Hawaiian coot and the Hawaiian duck.
One of the main reasons to visit the James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge is to see the incredible range of wildlife that lives in the area. Visitors can spot a variety of birds, including the endangered Hawaiian stilt and the Hawaiian gallinule, as well as turtles, fish, and other aquatic creatures. The refuge also offers a chance to learn about the history of the area and the efforts to preserve it, with interpretive displays and guided tours available.
One of the most interesting points of interest in the James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge is the ancient Hawaiian fishponds that can be found throughout the area. These fishponds were built hundreds of years ago and were used by ancient Hawaiians to raise fish for food. Today, visitors can see these fishponds and learn about their history and significance.
The best time of year to visit the James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge is between November and March, when the weather is cooler and the migratory birds are in the area. However, the refuge is open year-round and visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of the area no matter when they visit.
In conclusion, the James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge is a unique and fascinating destination in Hawaii that offers visitors the chance to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of the area, learn about its history, and support conservation efforts. Visitors should plan to spend several hours exploring the refuge and taking in all that it has to offer.
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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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