The large open landscape of the Baca National Wildlife Refuge supports hundreds of Rocky Mountain elk. Situated at the base of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range in south-central Colorado and under the shadow of four majestic 14,000-foot peaks, the iconic Western landscape of the Refuge contains a variety of habitats, including vast uplands, wet meadows and riparian riparian
Definition of riparian habitat or riparian areas.
Learn more about riparian corridors. To protect these sensitive habitats from the pressures of growing elk herds, as well as to provide a high quality wildlife dependent recreational opportunity, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has implemented an elk hunting program. The program includes archery, muzzleloader and rifle hunting during six seasons each fall. Nearly 45,000 acres are available for elk hunting on the Refuge. Baca Refuge Hunt Brochure - May 2025
New for 2025 - Limited Elk hunting is allowed on the Refuge through a Refuge Access Permit. To be entered into the draw, potential hunters must submit a Refuge Access Permit application to the Colorado Parks & Wildlife Monte Vista Office via email: [email protected]
Please refer to page 35 of the CPW Big Game Hunting Brochure for details.
Special access for disabled hunters is accommodated (contact the Refuge Manager for details at 719-256-5527). Baca National Wildlife Refuge is in Saguache County, Colorado Parks and Wildlife Hunt Unit 82.