Starting Wednesday, July 29, 2020, bosque access at Valle de Oro is scheduled to be reopened (barring any construction delays with our partners at AMAFCA). In addition, Valle de Oro will move forward with limiting access to the interior of the refuge to pedestrian, equestrian and bicycle access only. Visitors to the refuge in vehicles will be asked to park in designated parking areas at the Welcome Center (the tan house with the green roof) and then access the interior of the refuge by walking, jogging, hiking, bicycling or horseback riding. Dogs on leash of 6 feet or less will continue to be allowed. Driving on the refuge will be limited to approved vehicles only, including those for conducting maintenance, research, and education/interpretive programs. 

This decision reflects our final vision for the refuge, our 2017 Environmental Assessment planning document, which was created based on community input. This change in access will allow us to protect wildlife and their new habitat as it is being restored at the refuge while also accommodating recreation.

Our staff are exploring ways we can provide accommodations to support visitors with disabilities. 

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to Valle de Oro staff at vdolistens@fws.gov

We appreciate your support and understanding as our refuge takes the steps to transform into the place we have envisioned together. 

------------------- 

As of July 29, 2020, access to Valle de Oro NWR and the adjacent bosque is scheduled to be open 6am to 6pm daily. However, due to COVID-19, Welcome Center operations are currently suspended. Please check the kiosk at the entrance to the refuge or our refuge website (fws.gov/refuge/valle_de_oro) for maps and updated refuge information.