Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
The Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge is a 10,828-acre wildlife refuge located in the state of New York.
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Summary
It was established in 1958 as a habitat for migratory birds, such as waterfowl, marsh birds, and raptors.
There are many good reasons to visit the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, including its beautiful scenery, diverse wildlife, and educational opportunities. Visitors can hike or bike on the refuge's many trails, which offer stunning views of wetlands, forests, and fields. The refuge also has several observation towers and blinds, where visitors can watch birds and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
One of the most popular points of interest at the refuge is the Kanyoo Trail, which is a 1.5-mile loop trail that features several boardwalks over wetlands. This trail is particularly popular among birdwatchers, as it offers great views of waterfowl, shorebirds, and other birds.
Interesting facts about the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge include that it is home to over 266 species of birds, 42 species of mammals, and 19 species of reptiles and amphibians. Additionally, the refuge is named after the Iroquois Confederacy, a Native American tribe that once inhabited the area.
The best time of year to visit the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge is during the spring and fall, when migratory birds are passing through the area. However, the refuge is open year-round and offers a variety of activities and events throughout the year.
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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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