| Description: 23,000 acres of wetlands within the channeled scablands, a scenic mixture of rugged cliffs, canyons, lakes, & arid sagebrush grasslands. The lakes attract over 100,000 migrating & wintering mallard ducks, Canada geese, & other waterfowl, including tundra swans. Other birds also take advantage of the mild climate, such as songbirds, hawks, & owls. The northern half of the refuge south of Potholes Reservoir is a rugged jumble of cliffs, canyons, lakes, & remnants of lava flows. This part of the Scablands, called the Drumheller Channels, was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1986.
A developed campground is at Soda Lake. Boating & fishing in Corral Lake, Soda Lake, Blythe Lake, Hutchinson Lake, Teal Lake, & the Lower Hampton Lakes. Nature trails offer some about the geology & natural history of the Coumbia River basin & the channeled scablands. Deer, game, & waterfowl hunting is permitted in season. A scenic loop drive tours the refuge.
Location: From Othello, Washington, go five miles northwest on McManamon Road, then take a right turn north on Morgan Lake Road, the main road through the refuge.
Season: year round.
Fee: yes.
Reservations: for school groups. |
Campground: Columbia National Wildlife Refuge in Othello Washington *