The Candelaria Wetland is located east of the Nature Center and includes two ponds offering five surface acres of water and four more acres of meadow for visiting waterfowl and shorebirds. Planted with 98 species of native aquatic and riparian vegetation, Candelaria Wetland restores a habitat once common in the Albuquerque part of the Rio Grande.

Rio Grande Nature Center State Park has been designated as an Important Bird Area.

Located on the Rio Grande flyway, the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park offers excellent birdwatching opportunities throughout the year.

There are indoor and outdoor wildlife viewing areas overlooking ponds, a native plant garden, and a pollinator garden as well as access to the city-managed trails to the Rio Grande and Bosque. The Visitor Center offers informative displays and a unique Nature Shop. The park is day-use only, no camping. Leashed pets are allowed in the parking area and on the adjacent city trails only.