Bitter Creek National Wildlife Refuge

The Refuge is currently closed to the public and has been since its establishment in 1985 due to the sensitive nature of the California Condor Recovery Program activities, sensitivity of its resources, and rugged terrain.  However, staff and partner-led guided interpretive tours allow for limited opportunities for the public to engage in wildlife viewing and photography. 

Friends of California Condors Wild and Free lead hikes at Bitter Creek NWR for events such as National Wildlife Refuge Week in October each year. Please check the Friends webpage, www.friendsofcondors.org for the latest postings on guided hikes.

The part of the Refuge used for guided hiking must remain a safe viewing distance away from California condors to reduce interaction and contact. A small pull-off along the road allows visitors to safely park along the side of the road near the Refuge sign and engage in passive recreation such as bird watching. The Refuge is marked as closed to entry here, and posted signs continue along the road passing through the Refuge.