143 Wildlife Sanctuaries to Explore in United States

The Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge covers 11,169 acres of high desert uplands and riparian wetlands in the San Luis Valley.The site consists of wet meadows, river oxbows and riparian corridor primarily within the flood plain of the Rio Grande, and dry uplands vegetated with greasewood and saltbush.It is considered to be more wild and less intensely managed than the nearby Monte Vista refuge.

The Altamaha Wildlife Management Area is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Spanning across 43,200 acres of land and 688 acres of water, the area is a hotspot for numerous species of fish, birds and mammals. Here you can find Marsh Wrens, American White Pelicans and Ospreys nesting among its giant Oak and Bald Cypress trees. Fishing opportunities abound thanks to its interesting topography – from hundreds of acres in shallow or submerged areas to deep depression ponds.

Welcome to Arc Dome Wilderness, located in Nye County, Nevada. This outdoor paradise spans over 115,000 acres, providing a rugged and remote escape from city life. As someone who has explored this area extensively, I can attest to the stunning vistas, thrilling hiking trails, and breathtaking natural beauty. What I love most about Arc Dome Wilderness is the feeling of being completely disconnected from technology and civilization.

Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge in Nye County, Nevada is a gem of a destination that will surely tickle your fancy. Covering over 23,000 acres of land, this refuge is home to a plethora of endemic species that attract nature enthusiasts from all over the world. From the beautiful and elusive Ash Meadows Amargosa pupfish, to the majestic southwestern willow flycatchers, this refuge is a veritable haven for wildlife.

Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary offers visitors an incredible opportunity to explore some of the most pristine natural areas in the state. Home to some of the oldest Bald Cypress trees in existence, a 13-mile boardwalk stretching through the swamp, and a variety of wildlife species and plants. It is also home to research facilities conducted by various universities, as well as local artist studios where visitors can join classes to channel their creative energies.

The Basha Kill Wildlife Refuge is a picturesque and ecologically significant conservation area located in Sullivan County, New York, USA. Situated in the Shawangunk Ridge region, this vast wetland preserve covers approximately 3,000 acres and is home to diverse and unique plant and animal species.The refuge is centered around the Basha Kill, a large and shallow wetland that provides essential habitat for various migratory birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife.

Big Gum Swamp Wilderness is a protected natural wonder situated in Baker County, Florida. Spanning over 20,000 acres of lush and breathtaking scenery, visitors are offered an adventurous outdoor experience. The area is home to an abundance of native wildlife including alligators, turtles, bald eagles and other birds-of-prey. As part of the Osceola National Forest, Big Gum Swamp Wilderness offers a wide variety of activities such as hiking, canoeing and camping.

Black Point Wildlife Drive is one of the most beautiful and unique nature spots in the area. This six-mile loop located in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge features breathtaking views of a variety of landscapes and animals. Visitors can spot numerous species including alligators, herons, ospreys, bald eagles and many more. The boardwalk also provides opportunities to explore local marshes up close without disturbing the fragile environment.

Blood Mountain Wilderness, located in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, is a haven for anyone seeking a tranquil and unique outdoors experience. This 4,461 acre area features rolling mountain ridges along with tranquility and beauty. Additionally, Blood Mountain Wilderness boasts an abundance of cascading waterfalls that add to the picturesque landscape as well as diverse ecosystems.

A beautiful and wild 123-acre wildlife refuge and environmental education center in Denver, Colorado, located along Sand Creek on the eastern edge of the former Stapleton International Airport. It consists of a variety of native habitats including wetlands, short-grass prairie, a riparian zone and wetland woodland. it is free and open to the public, serving a role as unplanned open space for children and families in the nearby neighborhoods.

Welcome to the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, a coastal haven of natural beauty, wildlife preservation, and outdoor adventure located in Baldwin County, Alabama! This pristine refuge, whose name means "Safe Harbor" in French, is a sanctuary for both wildlife and visitors seeking a peaceful escape into the heart of nature along the Gulf of Mexico.

Bond Swamp National Wildlife Refuge offers a landscape like no other. Established in 2000, it's comprised of more than 4,400 acres covering swampland, streams and upland forests. Visitors enjoy multiple trails for hiking and bird watching, as well as nature programs for children and adults alike. The swamp itself is home to several species of native wildlife including river otters, deer and turkey, while the uplands offer sightings of various birds and reptiles.

The beautiful Broad River Wildlife Management is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Located between the main stem of the Broad River and two oxbow lakes, the area provides plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, hunting, hiking and other outdoor activities. It consists mostly of mature hardwood forests with some small clearing for native grasslands and wetlands. The scrub pine flatwoods along the rivers also provide habitats for many plant and animal species.

Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area in Moffat County, Colorado. The refuge was established in 1980 to provide habitat for wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and black-footed ferrets. The refuge also protects the historic Brown's Park Ute Indian Reservation. The park is home to a variety of landscapes, including sagebrush steppe, riverine forest, and marshes. There are also numerous hiking trails and camping sites.

Buford Mountain Conservation Area in Iron County, Missouri is a hidden gem for nature lovers. With over 3,000 acres of land to explore, you'll never run out of hiking trails to wander on. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as deer, turkey, and even the elusive black bear. And let's not forget about the breathtaking views from the top of Buford Mountain itself, which can be reached via a steep but rewarding trek.

The Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge, is a natural wonderland and a critical sanctuary for the preservation of biodiversity in the heart of the Deep South. Spanning over 3,800 acres along the winding banks of the Cahaba River, this refuge is a haven for wildlife, native plants, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. It plays a pivotal role in protecting one of Alabama's most ecologically significant river systems and offers visitors an opportunity to connect with the pristine beauty of the region.

Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge, located in Chesterfield County, South Carolina, is a natural sanctuary and conservation area that protects a unique ecosystem known as the Sandhills. This refuge offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of this distinctive landscape, observe diverse wildlife, and engage in outdoor recreation while supporting conservation efforts.

Cedar Point National Wildlife Refuge, located in Lucas County, Ohio, is a protected natural area that plays a vital role in conserving and preserving critical habitats for wildlife and providing opportunities for outdoor recreation and education.This refuge encompasses a variety of ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and grasslands, making it an essential habitat for numerous bird species and other wildlife.

This Wildlife Center, offers a unique opportunity to experience the nature and wildlife of this beautiful area. The center provides access to nearly 10,000 acres of managed wildlife habitats, ranging from upland hardwoods to wetlands. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities from fishing, biking and bird-watching to photography and archery. There are also educational programs centered around conservation, sustainability and appreciation for the environment for all ages.

The Chestatee Wildlife Management Area, is a picturesque refuge for both wildlife and visitors to enjoy. Here natural habitats are protected and managed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources in order to ensure wildlife diversity and health. Its landscapes range from pristine woodland forests to riverfront farmlands, providing suitable habitat for numerous species of birds, mammals and reptiles. Enjoy hunting and fishing in designated areas.