About Ouray National Wildlife Refuge
Established as a sanctuary for migratory birds on May 25, 1960, Ouray National Wildlife Refuge is located on the Colorado Plateau within the upper Colorado River drainage area. The Refuge stretches along 16 miles of the Green River, 120 river miles downstream of Flaming Gorge Dam. The area offers great variety, as well as a touch of mystery. Its habitats include lush bottomland areas along the Green River; high elevation upland benches containing grasslands interspersed with low shrubs; barren, highly eroded, clay bluffs on the slopes of upland benches; and alkali flats between the upland terraces and floodplains. The Green River provides a ribbon of life through a desert environment that receives only seven inches of precipitation a year. Temperatures may range from a low of -35 degrees F in winter to over 100 degrees F in summer. Long stretches of dry weather may be broken by monsoon rains or substantial snowfall. The quiet stillness of winter is contrasted by the spring chorus of migrating birds and resident frogs. Amidst surrounding development, the Refuge provides an island of calm and an opportunity to experience the wonders of nature. The Green River and riparian woodlands that occur along its banks provide vital water, food, and shelter for many wildlife species that otherwise could not survive in the harsh surrounding environment. Whether you’re seeking a chance to view numerous wildlife and plant species, an opportunity to hunt and fish, spectacular scenery for photography, or simply a place for a quiet walk in the woods, Ouray National Wildlife Refuge offers all this and more.
How to Get There
To reach Ouray National Wildlife Refuge, drive 14 miles west of Vernal, UT or 13 miles east of Roosevelt, UT on US Hwy 40. Turn south on to State Hwy 88 and drive another 14 miles until you see the Refuge entrance sign on the right side of the road. Turn left onto the gravel Refuge entrance road and drive one mile to the Visitor Center.To find the address using GPS, search for 19001 East Wildlife Refuge Road, Randlett, UT 84063 or Ouray National Wildlife Refuge.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Ouray National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Ouray National Wildlife Refuge? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Ouray National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Ouray National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1548) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Ouray National Wildlife Refuge?
To reach Ouray National Wildlife Refuge, drive 14 miles west of Vernal, UT or 13 miles east of Roosevelt, UT on US Hwy 40. Turn south on to State Hwy 88 and drive another 14 miles until you see the Refuge entrance sign on the right side of the road. Turn left onto the gravel Refuge entrance road and drive one mile to the Visitor Center.To find the address using GPS, search for 19001 East Wildlife …
How do I contact Ouray National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 435-545-2522 or email: ouray@fws.gov .
References & Official Resources
