Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge

Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge is located in the northern Sacramento Valley of California, covering over 10,700 acres of managed wetlands, grasslands, and riparian areas. Established in 1945, it was one of the first refuges in the Sacramento Basin created to provide wintering habitat for waterfowl along the Pacific Flyway. The Refuge’s varied habitats support a wide range of species, including migratory ducks, geese, shorebirds, and other native wildlife such as tule elk and giant garter snakes. The area is characterized by seasonal wetlands that attract tens of thousands of waterfowl during winter months, while upland grasslands and riparian corridors provide habitat for songbirds and other wildlife year-round.

Visitors can explore several auto tour routes and walking trails with interpretive signs that highlight the Refuge's natural and cultural history. Wildlife viewing blinds and observation decks offer excellent opportunities for photography and birdwatching. The Refuge also plays an important role in education and conservation, providing habitat management and environmental research in coordination with local partners. With easy access from the nearby city of Willows, California, Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge is an attractive destination for those interested in birding, photography, and experiencing tranquil natural landscapes of the Central Valley.