San Diego National Wildlife Refuge

San Diego National Wildlife Refuge is a 12,300 acre protected area with grasslands, riverside zones, and oak forests in southern California. The refuge comprises various sections that together create diverse habitats supporting different animal species.

The refuge was established in 1996 as part of a regional conservation initiative in San Diego. It emerged from efforts to protect habitats for threatened species while accommodating development in the surrounding area.

The refuge serves as a learning space where rangers introduce visitors to local species and conservation approaches. These programs help people understand how wildlife and human communities can coexist in the region.

Multiple trails crisscross the refuge and allow for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding at various difficulty levels. The administrative office at Highway 94 in Jamul serves as a starting point for first-time visits.

The refuge operates a specialized monitoring program for threatened species, including rare birds and small mammals. These protection measures run alongside human settlement projects in the immediate surroundings.

Location: California

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

GPS coordinates: 32.60250,-117.11472

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:02