James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge

The James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area on Oahu comprising two units named Punamano and Kii, featuring wetlands, ponds, and coastal environments. Together these sections span about 1,100 acres and form important habitat for birds and other wildlife.

The refuge was established in 1976 and initially operated under a 55-year lease agreement with the James Campbell Estate. In 2005, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service purchased portions of the property.

The refuge protects four native Hawaiian waterbirds: the alae kea, koloa maoli, alae ula, and aeo. Seeing these birds in their natural wetland home connects visitors to the living heritage of the islands.

Visiting requires advance registration for guided tours offered twice weekly from October through February. This schedule protects nesting birds and means planning ahead is necessary for a visit.

The wetlands serve as a critical stopover for migrating birds traveling between Alaska, New Zealand, and Asia. More than 100 bird species have been documented here since the refuge began.

Location: Honolulu County

Inception: 1976

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/james_campbell

GPS coordinates: 21.69000,-157.95600

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:00