Fuyot Springs National Park

Fuyot Springs Overview

Fuyot Springs National Park, known in Filipino as Pambansang Liwasan ng Fuyot Springs, is a serene and ecologically diverse protected area located in the municipality of Ilagan, within the province of Isabela in northern Luzon, Philippines.

Spanning approximately 0.8 square miles (2 square kilometers), the park lies on the western foothills of the Sierra Madre mountain range and forms part of the larger Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park buffer zone. Though modest in size, it plays a key role in preserving biodiversity, offering recreational access to nature, and protecting the headwaters that support surrounding communities.

The terrain of Fuyot Springs National Park is gently mountainous and forested, with rolling hills, narrow valleys, and freshwater springs that feed into the Ilagan River system. Lush greenery covers much of the area, featuring secondary growth dipterocarp forest, bamboo groves, and various fruit-bearing trees.

Several natural springs and streams flow through the park, providing clear, cool water that nourishes both plant life and the local population. Limestone formations, shallow caves, and elevated viewing spots add natural interest to the landscape, while pockets of grassland open into scenic picnic and camping areas.

Wildlife within the park is representative of the broader Sierra Madre biodiversity corridor. Visitors may encounter Philippine macaques, monitor lizards, civet cats, and native squirrels in the forested areas.

Bird species such as the Philippine coucal, kingfisher, and barbet are frequently seen and heard along wooded trails and near water sources. While the park is not large enough to host many large mammals, it remains an important sanctuary for local species, particularly birds, reptiles, and amphibians that depend on its undisturbed habitats and fresh water.

Fuyot Springs National Park is popular for its natural springs, waterfalls, and peaceful environment. The park’s main attraction is its namesake—Fuyot Springs—which features clean, flowing water ideal for bathing, swimming, and picnicking. Nearby attractions include the Ilagan Japanese Tunnel, a World War II-era structure that offers a brief glimpse into the area’s wartime history.

The park is also adjacent to the Ilagan Sanctuary, a nature-based recreation and conservation site that includes a mini-zoo, butterfly garden, and additional trails leading deeper into the forested foothills.

Visitors engage with the park through nature walks, swimming, birdwatching, camping, and educational visits. Designated trails allow hikers to explore the forest and reach scenic lookouts, while spring-fed pools and shaded rest areas provide spots for relaxation and family outings.

Environmental programs and youth activities are occasionally held within the park, promoting awareness about forest conservation and the value of clean water resources.

Conservation efforts in Fuyot Springs National Park focus on protecting its freshwater systems, forest cover, and wildlife from the impacts of tourism and nearby development. Threats include unregulated visitor activity, occasional illegal logging, and erosion.

However, partnerships between the local government of Ilagan, environmental groups, and local schools have supported reforestation, waste management, and environmental education. These efforts have helped maintain the park’s health and ensure that it continues to serve as both a local retreat and a gateway to the broader Sierra Madre ecosystem.

Park Map

Fuyot Springs National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Fuyot Springs National Park, located in Ilagan City, Isabela Province in northeastern Luzon, lies at the foot of the Sierra Madre mountain range. This protected area is known for its forested hills, natural springs, caves, and proximity to the Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park. Its diverse lowland dipterocarp and foothill forests support a mix of native and endemic mammals and reptiles that thrive in its cool streams, rocky outcrops, and shaded canopies.

Philippine Warty Pig
A forest-dwelling wild pig endemic to Luzon, it roots through soil and leaf litter in search of fruit, roots, and insects. It plays a crucial role in soil turnover and seed dispersal within the park.

Philippine Deer (Luzon Brown Deer)
This shy and nocturnal deer browses in forest glades and along trails for young leaves, grasses, and fruits. It relies on dense cover for protection from predators and human activity.

Philippine Long-tailed Macaque
Highly adaptable and intelligent, this monkey lives in social groups and is often seen near streams and open areas, foraging for fruit, shellfish, insects, and leaves.

Common Palm Civet (Musang)
This nocturnal omnivore uses the park’s trees and underbrush for shelter. It feeds on fruit, small animals, and insects, helping to disperse seeds across the forest.

Northern Luzon Cloud Rat (possible presence)
Endemic to Luzon, this large, tree-dwelling rodent is nocturnal and feeds on leaves and fruit. It is rarely seen but plays a role in maintaining forest health.

Philippine Forest Rat
Active at night, this native rodent scours the forest floor for seeds, fruit, and invertebrates. It is an important prey species for local snakes, civets, and owls.

Tokay Gecko
A large, vividly colored gecko that clings to trees and cave walls, feeding on insects and small lizards. Its loud “to-kay” call is a recognizable sound in the park after sunset.

Water Monitor Lizard
Often seen basking near streams or creeks, this powerful reptile feeds on fish, amphibians, eggs, and carrion. It is an excellent swimmer and climber in the park’s forested waterways.

Skinks (Various endemic species)
These quick, shiny reptiles are common along forest trails and rocky areas. They feed on insects and small invertebrates and thrive in the warm, dappled forest light.

Reticulated Python (possible presence)
This large, non-venomous constrictor may inhabit denser parts of the forest near rivers. It preys on rodents, birds, and small deer and is rarely seen due to its stealthy habits.

Birds

Fuyot Springs National Park also supports a vibrant mix of forest birds, especially species endemic to Luzon and those that depend on lowland forest and riverine habitats for nesting and foraging.

Philippine Bulbul
A common and cheerful songbird of forest edges and mid-canopy, the Philippine bulbul feeds on fruit and insects. Its bubbly calls are a constant sound in the park’s forest trails.

White-eared Brown Dove
Foraging on the forest floor for seeds and fallen fruit, this endemic dove prefers quiet, shaded areas. Its soft, repetitive cooing is often heard in the early morning.

Philippine Coucal
A secretive bird with glossy black feathers and chestnut wings, it stalks insects, frogs, and lizards in undergrowth. Its deep, booming call adds mystery to the forest soundscape.

Tarictic Hornbill (Luzon subspecies)
Endemic and frugivorous, this large hornbill nests in tree cavities and helps spread seeds across the forest. It travels in small flocks and is best located by its distinctive honking calls.

Guaiabero
A small green parrot, also endemic to Luzon, it flits among flowering and fruiting trees in the mid-canopy, often seen in pairs or small groups and heard through high-pitched chatter.

Philippine Pygmy Woodpecker
This tiny woodpecker hops along trunks and branches in search of insects. It is often heard drumming on bark and is a regular member of mixed-species bird flocks.

Philippine Serpent Eagle
This sharp-eyed raptor glides over the canopy, hunting reptiles, small mammals, and birds. Its whistled call is frequently heard during sunny, mid-morning hours.

Lowland White-eye
These small, active birds travel in noisy flocks, feeding on nectar, fruits, and insects. Their green plumage and white eye-ring make them easy to identify in the forest mid-story.

Barn Swallow
Common in open areas near the park’s entrances or rivers, this aerial insectivore swoops gracefully through the air in search of flying insects and may nest on nearby structures.

Collared Kingfisher
Found along rivers, forest edges, and springs, this striking blue-and-white bird perches quietly before diving to catch fish, frogs, or insects. Its harsh call is often heard near water.

Fuyot Springs National Park is a living green corridor at the edge of the Sierra Madre—where forest, cave, and stream meet to create a haven for Luzon’s diverse wildlife, offering vital refuge for both common and endemic species in northern Luzon’s lowland and foothill ecosystems.