San Diego National Wildlife Refuge is not only a haven for wildlife but also a natural retreat for nearby communities. Established in 1996, the refuge spans more than 12,445 acres from the city of Jamul to neighborhoods in Spring Valley and eastern Chula Vista. It represents the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s contrib
Maybe — confirm before you go.
This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 619-468-9245
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for San Diego National Wildlife Refuge — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at San Diego National Wildlife Refuge?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Jeep Trail, San Miguel Mountain Trail, Sweetwater Park Trail, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — San Diego National Wildlife Refuge is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Often restricted to protect wildlife — many refuges limit or prohibit pets. Check this refuge before you go.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Wildlife Refuge land.
Nearby sites
Pacific Southwest Region USFWS from Sacramento, US / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
RightCowLeftCoast / CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons Bureau of Land Management Otay Mountain Wilderness
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
