Hollenbeck Canyon Wildlife Area, Wildlife refuge in San Diego County, United States.
Hollenbeck Canyon Wildlife Area is a 6,100-acre (2,500-hectare) refuge in San Diego County featuring multiple habitat types including coastal sage scrub, chaparral, oak woodlands, riparian forests, freshwater marshes, and grasslands. Elevation varies from roughly 750 to 2,100 feet (230 to 640 meters) throughout the property, creating diverse ecological zones.
The property was originally part of Rancho Jamul, granted in 1831, and passed through various owners before becoming a wildlife refuge in 2001. This designation helped protect the landscape for species movement and conservation.
This refuge serves as a vital corridor for wildlife movement between surrounding mountain ranges. Visitors can observe diverse plant and animal species thriving in their natural habitats throughout the seasons.
Visitors over 16 years old need a CDFW Lands Pass, but valid California hunting or fishing licenses exempt you from this requirement. Come prepared for varied terrain and changing elevation depending on your chosen activity.
This refuge permits hunting, horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking alongside dog training on marked trails. This combination of recreational activities within a protected refuge is relatively uncommon.
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