Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge was on my photography bucket list for years. Literally years. Now that we’re out and about in Sheen’s Bean, this fantastic wildlife and photo spot is now a reality. Deep in to New Mexico, this National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for Sandhill Cranes, Snow Geese and other ‘northern’ birds who travel south for winter.
Instead of going there when it’s crazy crowded with fellow birders and nature photographers, we opted to go in March and April, after the big birds flew north. If you’re thinking about traveling for a great western experience, then this area is a great addition to the itinerary outside of seasonal prime.
With birding camera gear, binoculars and diverse outdoor attire, it’s time to explore, hike and photograph. In March and April, days warm up a bit. At night, it gets chilly pretty quickly.
Why go to Bosque del Apache in the Off Season?
For starters, just because the famous sandhill cranes and other birds fly the coop, there’s plenty of wildlife, nature and landscape left behind.
Migration season for birds is heating up which means new species of birds fly in to join the year round birds. With raw, rugged, sand and grass terrain, April is a great month for landscapes in addition to birds and wildlife.
Exploring the Area: Wildlife and Landscapes
What did we see? Over 50 different species of birds, javelina, deer, turtles, muskrat and a few others. The refuge is easy to access and drive through. With a few, very flat loops meandering through wetlands, grasslands and open fields, wildlife viewing and birding is accessible from your car or on foot.
Bosque del Apache’s Nature Center attracts many bird species in addition to local plants. If you enjoy macro work, bring your close up lens as the cacti, flowers and desert creatures are all around.
Flat hiking trails take you through sandy trails, woods and grasses along wet or dry streams. Additional hiking trails and parking are off the main drive (starting under the railroad track bridges). These sand laden paths lead you into desert and grassy terrain.
Best Time of Day for Photography
Spring days start early here. The golden hour starts before 6 a.m. with the sun rising boldly above the horizon. The desert landscape neutrals dotted with a few spring greens gain a new depth during the morning and late afternoon golden hours. Long open fields carry our eyes into hues of golds and oranges.
Where to Stay in Bosque del Apache?
Since we’re in the off season, finding a camping spot is a breeze. Sheen’s Bean is hanging in Bosque Birdwatchers RV Park, the last RV park before you drive in to the refuge. Driving in, Billy greets you with a big welcome, a lot of good local insight and sends you on your way.
Then it’s across the gravel drive to flat, level camping areas with water, electrical and sewer hookups. As we’re in the off season, plenty of space between campsites. Note: During prime season spaces are in high demand, plan and call well ahead to ensure a camping site.
Pet friendly, there’s a trail that’s great for walking our fur kids – just never let your dogs off leash. We’re in the west and with the west there’s snakes, scorpions, sharp cacti that are not pet friendly.
And the views? Our views are low mountain ranges in the western distance with desert cacti, desert scrub brush and big skies. To the east? Sunrises, flat lands and grasses.
At night, owls, coyotes songs call in the distance. If you’re a medium to light sleeper and you love the sound of the train (which I do!), the GATX line runs across the road. The lonely sound of the train’s whistle calls a couple of times in the night. Heaven!
Where to eat?
While most of our camping meals are one skillet menus, Dave and I are foodies that love southwest fare. And, New Mexico is the spice-lovers place for green chilies. If you haven’t had them yet, so sorry!
When you venture to Bosque del Apache the The Original Owl Bar and Cafe just down the road in San Antonio (New Mexico) is a must. Their green chile cheeseburger totally rocks the house. No wonder they’re called the best green chile cheeseburger in the world. Not kidding. Just make sure you have plenty of napkins.
How good are they? With fresh green chilies, jalapeño, melting cheese, the juicy burgers more than satisfy. They ignite the pallet. No time to take out the camera for this photo, it was a one shot deal before diving in. Definitely worth the many hours of driving from Michigan to get there!
An Escape into Nature in the West
Spending time in the Refuge and the Campground, despite its’ rough and raw terrain, is relaxing and a place we’ll visit again. Until then, the open road for travel is calling and our next destination is on the horizon.
