Summary
It was established in 1976 to protect the island of Desecheo and its surrounding waters, which are home to a diverse array of marine and terrestrial species.
One of the best reasons to visit Refugio Nacional De Vida Silvestre Desecheo is for its pristine natural beauty. The island is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing.
Some of the specific points of interest to see at Refugio Nacional De Vida Silvestre Desecheo include the island's famous lighthouse, which dates back to the late 1800s, and the numerous species of birds and sea turtles that inhabit the area. The waters surrounding the island are also home to colorful coral reefs and a variety of fish, making it a popular spot for diving and snorkeling.
Interesting facts about the area include that it is home to the largest known breeding population of brown boobies in the Caribbean, as well as a variety of endangered sea turtle species, such as the hawksbill and green turtles. The island of Desecheo was also used as a bombing range by the US Navy between 1943 and 1952, and visitors can still see remnants of the military installations today.
The best time of year to visit Refugio Nacional De Vida Silvestre Desecheo is during the winter months, when the weather is mild and the waters are calm. Visitors should be aware, however, that access to the island is restricted and they must obtain a permit from the US Fish and Wildlife Service to visit.
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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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