Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located southeast of Bend, Oregon, Three Rivers Wildlife Area encompasses over 3,700 acres of prime wildlife habitat at the confluence of the Deschutes, Crooked, and Metolius Rivers. The area features a diverse landscape including riverside woodlands, open marshes, grasslands, and shrub-steppe, which supports a wide array of wildlife species. Managed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Three Rivers Wildlife Area is especially important for migratory birds such as waterfowl, shorebirds, and songbirds, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. The extensive riparian zones along the three rivers provide critical spawning grounds for fish including trout and salmon. Visitors can enjoy hiking several miles of trails that cross through wetland boardwalks and riparian corridors, along with opportunities for wildlife photography and nature study. Hunting is also permitted in designated seasons, focused primarily on waterfowl and upland game birds. The area’s proximity to Bend and Sunriver provides convenient access while maintaining a tranquil outdoor experience. The wildlife area’s history is marked by efforts to restore and conserve critical habitats that had been affected by past agricultural and development pressures in the region. It remains a key component of Central Oregon's regional planning for wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation. The mix of water, wetlands, grassland, and adjacent forests offers a habitat mosaic that supports a rich biodiversity worth exploring through walking, birding, and fishing activities.
