Browns Park
Plan Your Visit
Visiting the Refuge
Due to the remote nature of the Refuge, visitors are encouraged to bring extra supplies including water, food, and fuel in case of emergency. Cell phone coverage is sporadic at best in this area and should not be relied upon in times of emergency. If you are planning on being in this area for an extended time, Refuge staff suggest notifying a friend or family member of your location in case you need to be contacted in an emergency. It is also advisable to check the local weather conditions and forecast before visiting the Refuge.
The Refuge contains accessible facilities at Hog Lake fishing pier and at the Spitzie overlook. There are accessible restrooms at the Swinging Bridge Campgrounds and Crook Campground. Overnight parking is prohibited on the Refuge, unless camping in designated campgrounds.
Recreation
Visitors to Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge will find spectacular scenery in a remote wilderness setting. To maintain this wilderness experience, facilities and commercialism are limited. Recreation off the established roads involves non-motorized or non-mechanical means of transport. This approach provides wildlife and wildland viewing and enjoyment opportunities in an uncrowded setting. Restrictions are also minimized, and visitors may hike cross-country or follow any of numerous trails created by big game. All visitors are encouraged to use good wildlife viewing practices and ethics, especially when viewing species sensitive to human disturbance.
Camping is free and we do not take campsite reservations; all campsites are first-come first-served to all visitors.
Activities
Get Involved
Whether you want to further conservation, learn more about nature or share your love of the outdoors, you’ve come to the right place. National Wildlife Refuges provide many opportunities for you to help your community and fish and wildlife by doing what you love.
Services
The headquarters building contains displays and information about the Refuge. Staff can answer questions regarding Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge, wildlife and conservation, and some of the local history of the area. Staff may provide educational lessons to school and conservation groups if an event is planned in advance.
About
The 12,150-acre Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and is part of a national network of lands set aside for wildlife conservation. Established in 1965, the Refuge provides sanctuary for migratory birds and endangered species while offering wildlife-dependent recreation. It is managed as part of the Lower Green River National Wildlife Refuge Complex, which also includes Ouray National Wildlife Refuge.