Malheur National Wildlife Refuge
Park Vast Oregon refuge protecting wetlands and migratory birds
A large wildlife refuge in eastern Oregon protecting wetlands and seasonal pools; birdwatchers and photographers come for waterfowl concentrations and wildlife drives across the high‑desert landscape.
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Malheur National Wildlife Refuge is a U.S. National Wildlife Refuge in southeastern Oregon that was established in 1908. It protects a large complex of wetlands and high desert habitats important for wildlife conservation.
Extensive marshes, alkali lakes and meadows that provide habitat for migratory birds, waterfowl and shorebirds. Roads and viewing areas give visitors opportunities for wildlife observation and photography across the refuge landscape.
Created in 1908 as part of the federal refuge system, the area has been managed for waterfowl and other wildlife for more than a century. Management has involved wetland protection, seasonal water management and habitat restoration efforts.
Located in Harney County in southeastern Oregon, the refuge occupies a broad basin of wetlands and playa lakes within a high-desert region of the state.
- Founding and purpose: Established as a U.S. National Wildlife Refuge in 1908, it protects extensive wetland and high desert habitats important for migratory birds.
- Best time to visit: Prime birdwatching is typically during spring and fall migration seasons when waterfowl and shorebirds concentrate in the refuge.
How to Get to Malheur National Wildlife Refuge #
The refuge is in southeastern Oregon. The nearest towns with services are Burns and Juntura; access is by regional highways and gravel refuge roads. Visitors should plan drives carefully and carry fuel and supplies for remote travel.
Tips for Visiting Malheur National Wildlife Refuge #
- Bring binoculars for waterfowl and raptor watching-Malheur is famous for birds of prey and migratory concentrations.
- Plan for long drives within the refuge-roads are gravel and distances between viewing sites can be large.
- Check for public safety alerts and road conditions; some areas can be closed for habitat management.
Best Time to Visit Malheur National Wildlife Refuge #
Spring and autumn migrations are the best times for birdwatching; expect remote, open landscapes.
Weather & Climate near Malheur National Wildlife Refuge #
Malheur National Wildlife Refuge's climate is classified as Cold Desert - Cold Desert climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in December). Temperatures range from -6°C to 30°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall.
January
January is freezing with highs of 4°C and lows of -6°C. Light rainfall.
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February
February is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of -5°C. Light rainfall.
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March
March is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of -3°C. Light rainfall.
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April
April is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of -1°C. Light rainfall.
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May
May is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (30 mm).
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June
June is cool with highs of 24°C and lows of 6°C. Light rainfall.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 29°C and lows of 9°C. The driest month with just 11 mm.
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August
August is mild with highs of 30°C and lows of 8°C. Light rainfall.
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September
September is cool with highs of 25°C and lows of 4°C. Light rainfall.
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October
October is cold with highs of 18°C and lows of 0°C. Light rainfall.
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November
November is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -4°C. Moderate rainfall (30 mm).
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December
December is the coldest month with highs of 4°C and lows of -6°C. Light rainfall.
