San Andres National Wildlife Refuge

San Andres National Wildlife Refuge is a nature reserve in the southern San Andres Mountains within New Mexico's Chihuahuan Desert. The area spans thousands of acres of mountainous terrain interspersed with natural water sources and vegetated valleys.

This refuge was established in 1941 specifically to protect a small population of desert bighorn sheep. Over the decades it has grown into an important sanctuary for this vulnerable species.

This place draws naturalists and researchers who come to study desert wildlife in its native setting. Visitors experience how the refuge functions as a living classroom for understanding desert ecology.

The area sits within a military installation and requires advance permission to visit. Prospective visitors must contact staff ahead of time and follow entry procedures.

The refuge contains ten natural springs that create pockets of lush vegetation with cottonwoods and willows. These water sources form unexpected green oases in otherwise arid terrain.

Location: Doña Ana County

Operator: US Fish & Wildlife Service

GPS coordinates: 32.68000,-106.53506

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:05