Summary
The refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, mule deer, turkey, bobcats, and black bears. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing in the refuge.
One of the main points of interest in the refuge is the Mora River, which provides important habitat for many species of fish and aquatic insects. The river is also a popular spot for fly fishing. The refuge also contains several wetlands, which attract a variety of waterfowl and other bird species.
One interesting fact about Rio Mora National Wildlife Refuge is that it was established in 2012, making it one of the newest national wildlife refuges in the United States. The refuge was created through a partnership between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, The Trust for Public Land, and the State of New Mexico.
The best time of year to visit Rio Mora National Wildlife Refuge is in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and wildlife activity is high. Visitors should also be aware that the refuge is closed to the public during the winter months.
Overall, Rio Mora National Wildlife Refuge offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and diversity of northeastern New Mexico. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities while learning about the area's rich wildlife and cultural history.
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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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