The McLean Game Refuge

The McLean Game Refuge is a pristine wildlife sanctuary spanning 4,400 acres across Granby, Simsbury, and Canton, CT. This vast expanse of protected wildlands is dedicated to preserving the natural environment for future generations. Within its boundaries, we safeguard hundreds of animal species, fostering an environment where native wildlife can
flourish in their natural habitats.

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Conservation

In 1932, Senator George McLean mandated that the Trustees of the newly established McLean Game Refuge manage the land to protect and preserve wildlife, forests, and water sources. This conservation mandate guides all management decisions for the Refuge.

Our Conservation

Visiting McLean

Since 1932, the McLean Game Refuge has invited visitors to enjoy passive recreation in our forests and meadows. Today, we honor his wishes with over twenty miles of hiking trails and forest roads,
welcoming 20,000 visitors annually.

visiting mclean

The McLean Mission

Our mission is to honor the legacy of George P. McLean and follow the careful instructions, left in his will, to protect wild plants and animals, conserve natural ecosystems, and provide opportunities for our community to find peace of mind and body in nature as he did.

Our Legacy

Senator George P. McLean founded the McLean Game Refuge in 1932 to preserve over 3,000 acres of meadows and forests from the threats of development and resource exploitation. Thanks to Senator McLean’s visionary efforts, our protected lands have expanded, continuing his legacy of conservation and ensuring these vital ecosystems remain vibrant and diverse.

What led to the McLean Game Refuge was Senator McLean’s achievement championing the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, one of the nation’s first and most critical wildlife conservation laws. This groundbreaking legislation, still effective today, has saved billions of birds from needless killing and likely averted the extinction of numerous species.

Bird enthusiasts everywhere owe a great debt to Senator McLean. His early 20th-century advocacy for wildlife significantly contributed to the protection of countless bird species from widespread extinction.

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From the Will of Senator McLean

“I want the game refuge to be a place where some of the things God made may be seen by those who love them, as I loved them, and who may find in them the peace of mind and body that I have found.”