Baca National Wildlife Refuge

The 93,000 acre Baca National Wildlife Refuge is located in the northeastern part of the San Luis Valley. The Refuge has a diverse combination of shrublands, grasslands, wet meadows, playa wetlands, and riparian corridors. This Refuge was set aside not only as a haven for migratory birds and resident wildlife, but also for its importance in a broader conservation effort to protect the wildlife, habitat, and water of the northern San Luis Valley. The Refuge also contains the rich archeological telling of over 12,000 years of use by humans, including the extensive history of the famed Baca Grant Ranch.

Things To Do

This large open landscape supports hundreds of Rocky Mountain elk. Hunting is permitted in designated areas. Visit 2 in resources for more information about Elk hunting in Baca NWR.

The visitor center Displays, historical stories, wildlife and refuge management information, and an amazing view of 14,000-foot peaks of the Sangre De Cristo Mountains. It us open from Tuesday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Getting Here

The Baca NWR office is located approximately 10.5 miles east of Highway 17 on the south side of County Road T. The gate at the end of the driveway is between two large timbers, with "Luis Maria Baca Grant" in cast iron lettering above it.

Resources

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

is the only agency in the federal government whose primary responsibility is the conservation and management of fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the American people.

We offer a variety of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and our shared natural heritage. And through our work to conserve natural resources, we provide communities with healthier environments, clean water, flood control and a strong economy.