Bitter Creek National Wildlife Refuge

The 14,097-acre Bitter Creek National Wildlife Refuge spans across the eastern foothills of the Coast Ranges, featuring diverse elevations from 1,600 to 4,680 feet.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service acquired 800 acres of Hudson Ranch in 1985 to protect endangered species after development plans threatened the natural habitat.

The refuge protects Native American archaeological sites and contains remnants of nineteenth-century homesteads within its boundaries.

While public access remains restricted, visitors can observe California condors from designated viewing points along Cerro Noroeste Road and Highway 166.

The San Andreas Fault bisects the refuge, creating exposed rock cliffs in Bitter Creek Canyon that provide essential roosting spots for California condors.

Location: Ventura County

Operator: US Fish and Wildlife Service

GPS coordinates: 34.93649,-119.35988

Latest update: March 11, 2025 12:23