Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge

Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge is a protected wildlife area in northwestern Colorado straddling the Green River. The refuge sprawls between Cold Springs and Diamond Mountains and contains wetlands, grasslands, and forests of pinyon pine.

Fort Davy Crockett was built in 1837 within what is now the refuge to shield fur traders from Blackfoot conflicts. The later construction of Flaming Gorge Dam stopped natural river flooding, fundamentally changing the land.

Petroglyphs carved by the Fremont people are visible on rocks throughout the refuge, telling the story of early inhabitants. Trading posts and gathering places drew mountain men and tribal groups to this valley, making it a crossroads for different peoples.

The refuge sits roughly 50 miles northwest of Maybell along State Highway 318 in a remote location. Visitors should stick to designated areas and avoid collecting any plants, animal remains, or natural objects from the grounds.

The refuge operates nine carefully managed marsh areas that draw hundreds of bird species despite the dammed river. These wetland sections were constructed to offset the dam's impact and sustain populations that once relied on natural flooding.

Location: Colorado

Inception: 1965

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

GPS coordinates: 40.82500,-108.95000

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:28