Visit Us
Due to the sensitive nature of the habitat, the refuge is closed to the public.
Location and Contact Information
About Us
The refuge was established in 1980 to protect plants and insects federally listed as endangered: Lange's metalmark butterfly (Apodemia mormo langei), Contra Costa wallflower (Erysimum capitatum var. angustatum), and Antioch Dunes evening primrose (Oenothera deltoides var. howellii). The refuge is the only known location in the world where the Lange's metalmark butterfly is found. Once part of an extended riverine sand dune ecosystem, the dunes of the refuge hosted a variety of endemic plants and insects. During the last 150 years, the dune ecosystem was seriously degraded by sand mining (removal), invasive plants, and other threats. Today, the refuge represents one of the last remaining riverine sand dune environments in the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta.
Tours
Due to lack of resources and safety issues, our free docent-led tours are being paused for the remainder of 2024 and 2025.
What We Do
Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge was established to protect endangered plants and insects. All activities allowed on the refuge must be evaluated to ensure each activity is compatible with the purpose of the refuge.
