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Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge wilderness guide
National Wildlife Refuge · ND

Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge

Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge in North Dakota offers a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, showcasing diverse wetland ecosystems and a variety of migratory birds.

National Wildlife Refuge12702+ Trails

Designation

National Wildlife Refuge

Total Wilderness Area

1270

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge

Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge in North Dakota offers a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, showcasing diverse wetland ecosystems and a variety of migratory birds.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge, located in northeastern North Dakota, is an important stopover habitat for migratory birds. The refuge comprises a rich mosaic of wetlands, which provide essential feeding and nesting grounds for a wide range of avian species. Established as a crucial stop on the Central Flyway, it provides habitat for shorebirds, ducks, and geese during migration seasons. While the refuge's primary focus is on habitat conservation, it offers excellent opportunities for wildlife observation and nature photography. The accessible observation platforms and trails allow visitors to immerse themselves in the serene landscape. The area is primarily a flat to gently rolling terrain which historically was shaped by glacial activity, creating the unique wetland habitat. In addition to its ecological importance, the refuge supports activities such as hiking and birdwatching and serves as an educational platform about wetland ecosystems and conservation efforts.

Field Guide · National Wildlife Refuge
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discover Icelandic State Park★ 6.8⌖ 64 miHiking
Icelandic State Park

Discover Icelandic State Park

Explore Icelandic State Park near Cavalier, ND, featuring Lake Renwick. Enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, and cross-country skiing. Ideal for a peaceful family getaway with scenic views and cultural insights. Accessible year-round with peak beauty in spring and fall.

Tetrault Woods: A Natural Sanctuary in Walhalla★ 8.2⌖ 75 miHiking
Tetrault Woods State Forest

Tetrault Woods: A Natural Sanctuary in Walhalla

Explore Tetrault Woods State Forest near Walhalla, ND. Ideal for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching, with trailhead access and serene river views. Best visited in spring or fall, this peaceful spot is a nature lover's retreat and quiet year-round.

Scenic Wonders: Tetrault State Forest Lookout Point★ 7.5⌖ 76 miHiking
Tetrault State Forest Lookout Point

Scenic Wonders: Tetrault State Forest Lookout Point

Experience stunning views at Tetrault State Forest Lookout Point in North Dakota. Perfect for birding and photography, this peaceful spot offers serene vistas with rich biodiversity. A drive-in destination ideal for capturing breathtaking landscapes.

Discover Pembina Gorge's Hidden Wonders★ 6.5⌖ 81 miHiking
Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area

Discover Pembina Gorge's Hidden Wonders

Explore Pembina Gorge's 30 miles of trails through diverse ecosystems in Walhalla, ND. Known for hiking and kayaking, this quiet spot offers scenic views. Best visited in spring and fall, ideal for wildlife observation.

Enchanting Serenity at Devils Lake State Parks★ 8.6⌖ 86 miBoating
Devils Lake State Parks

Enchanting Serenity at Devils Lake State Parks

Visit Devils Lake State Parks in North Dakota. Enjoy activities like boating, fishing, and hiking in a serene setting. This area is tranquil and preferred by nature enthusiasts for bird watching. Best explored during the spring and fall.

Discover Fort Ransom State Park★ 6.5⌖ 101 miHiking
Fort Ransom State Park

Discover Fort Ransom State Park

Fort Ransom State Park in North Dakota offers hiking, fishing, and kayaking with scenic views along the Sheyenne River. Enjoy wildlife viewing and camping in this serene, family-friendly park. Best visited in spring and fall, it's quiet year-round with plenty of nature to explore.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The main observation platform offering panoramic views of the wetlands.✦ Seasonal sightings of the rare American avocet and other migratory birds.✦ The Bloss Slough hiking trail providing easy access to prime birdwatching spots.✦ Winter access for snowshoeing when conditions permit.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees or permits are required for access.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Warren
⌖ 27.69 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Warren, Minnesota

A quiet rural town with access to tranquil outdoor spaces offering fishing, hiking, and seasonal snow activities in northwest Minnesota.

Spring through Fall for water and hiking; Winter for cross-country skiing.Explore Town
Hillsboro
⌖ 36.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hillsboro, North Dakota

A quiet prairie town offering easy access to North Dakota's rolling plains and river landscapes, great for calm outdoor activities and seasonal adventures.

Spring through Fall for water and warm-weather activities; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Thief River Falls
⌖ 49.40 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Thief River Falls, Minnesota

A friendly Midwestern town offering solid year-round outdoor opportunities with scenic riverfronts, expansive trails, and winter sports in a quiet, approachable setting.

Late Spring through Fall for paddling, hiking, fishing; Winter for cross-country skiingExplore Town
Middle River
⌖ 59.79 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Middle River, Minnesota

A quiet, rural town offering access to peaceful natural landscapes and classic Upper Midwest outdoor activities.

Late Spring through Early Fall for hiking and fishing; Winter for snowmobiling and skiingExplore Town
Cavalier
⌖ 62.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cavalier, North Dakota

A peaceful prairie town offering outdoor enthusiasts a gateway to unique nature experiences in North Dakota.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Fosston
⌖ 71.92 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fosston, Minnesota

A peaceful small town offering calm access to Northern Minnesota’s outdoor activities, ideal for visitors seeking fishing, paddling, and quiet hikes.

Late Spring through Fall for water and hiking activities; Winter for snowmobiling and skiingExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.