Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is a 74,000-acre wildlife sanctuary located in the state of Utah.
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Summary
It is one of the most important bird refuges in the western United States and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
The main attraction of the refuge is its diverse bird population. More than 200 species of birds can be seen here throughout the year, including pelicans, ducks, geese, swans, and sandhill cranes. The refuge also supports a variety of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
One of the most popular activities at the refuge is birdwatching. Visitors can take guided tours or explore the refuge on their own. There are several observation points and hiking trails that offer excellent opportunities to see the birds and other wildlife up close.
Other points of interest at the refuge include the auto tour route, which takes visitors through some of the most scenic areas of the refuge, and the visitor center, which offers educational displays and interactive exhibits about the refuge and its inhabitants.
The best time to visit Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is during the spring and fall migrations, when the highest numbers of birds can be seen. The refuge is open year-round, but some areas may be closed during certain times of the year to protect nesting birds.
Overall, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in birdwatching or wildlife photography. Its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife make it a unique and unforgettable experience.
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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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