Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 7, 2025
Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is located in the state of New Mexico and is a great destination for nature lovers.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
There are several good reasons to visit this area, including the opportunity to see a diverse range of wildlife. Visitors can see thousands of sandhill cranes, snow geese, and other birds during the winter months. The refuge is also home to several species of mammals, including coyotes, mule deer, and bobcats.
There are several points of interest to see at the Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, including the Visitor Center, which offers educational exhibits and interactive displays. The refuge also has several hiking trails and scenic drives, which provide visitors with the opportunity to explore the area's natural beauty.
Interesting facts about the Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge include its designation as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. The refuge covers more than 57,000 acres and is home to over 377 bird species. The area was originally established in 1939 as a haven for migratory birds.
The best time of year to visit the Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is during the winter months, between November and February when the birds are present in the area. However, visitors can also enjoy the refuge during other seasons, as there are several events and activities that take place throughout the year, including bird walks, photography workshops, and wildlife festivals.
Overall, the Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and anyone interested in experiencing the natural beauty of New Mexico.
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
Wilderness Area San Pasqual
Wilderness Area Indian Well
Wilderness Area Chupadera