Summary
The refuge spans over 11,000 acres and was established in 1960 to provide habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife.
Visitors to Ouray National Wildlife Refuge can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including wildlife viewing, bird watching, hiking, and fishing. Some of the most popular areas to explore include the Wetlands Boardwalk Trail, Big Spring Creek, and the Wildlife Drive, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
One of the most interesting aspects of Ouray National Wildlife Refuge is its unique geology. The refuge is situated on the edge of the Uinta Basin, which is known for its oil and gas reserves. As a result, the landscape is characterized by rugged hills, deep canyons, and expansive wetlands.
The best time of year to visit Ouray National Wildlife Refuge depends on your interests and goals. Spring is a popular time for bird watching as many species migrate through the area. Summer is a great time to explore the wetlands and enjoy outdoor activities. Fall offers stunning foliage and opportunities to see wildlife preparing for winter.
Overall, Ouray National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife, natural beauty, and outdoor recreation.
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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.
Related References
Pelican Lake
Uinta River
Brough Reservoir