Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge is located in the state of Oregon and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
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Summary
There are several good reasons to visit the refuge, including the opportunity to observe and photograph a variety of wildlife species, including migratory birds, fish, and other aquatic animals. Other attractions include hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for fishing and boating.
Specific points of interest at Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge include the Coquille River Lighthouse, which was built in 1896 and is now a popular tourist attraction. There are also several historic buildings and structures on the refuge, including the Bandon Coast Guard Station and the South Slough Estuarine Reserve.
Interesting facts about the area include its designation as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, meaning it is recognized as a critical habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife. Additionally, the refuge is an important site for research and conservation efforts, including efforts to restore wetlands and protect endangered species.
The best time of year to visit Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and there is a high concentration of migratory birds and other wildlife. However, the refuge is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy 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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