Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge

Wildlife Viewing & Birding in Nampa

Activities

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Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge is one of the oldest refuges in the National Wildlife Refuge System. It was established in 1909 to designate the new irrigation reservoir as a refuge and breeding grounds for migratory birds and other wildlife. The refuge now serves as an urban oasis for both wildlife and Treasure Valley residents and visitors.

Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge has two units–-Lake Lowell and the Snake River Islands. The Lake Lowell Unit encompasses over 10,500 acres, including the almost 9,000-acre Lake Lowell and surrounding lands. The Snake River Islands Unit contains over 1000 acres on 104 islands. Refuge islands are distributed along 113 river miles from the Canyon-Ada County Line in Idaho, to Farewell Bend in Oregon.

Stop by the visitor center to browse nature and wildlife exhibits, view wildlife from the observation room, enjoy hands-on activities in the KidSpace area, borrow binoculars for some wildlife watching, and pick up a refuge brochure and map.

Resources

Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge

Things to Know

Experience the refuge from different perspectives and wander through different habitats on our over 10 miles of hiking trails.
Cast a line, enjoy the breeze, listen to the waves and the wildlife and maybe even catch a fish!
Visit the Lower Dam Recreation Area or the east end of the Upper Dam to enjoy picnicking, barbecues, swimming, boating and more with family and friends. This area is open annually from April 15 through September 30.
Enjoy views of almost the entire Lake Lowell Unit from the viewing platform along the Observation Hill Trail.
There are different ways to enjoy the land and water from hiking, boating, fishing, hunting, cycling, dog walking, horseback riding and more!
Disabled visitors can contact deerflat@fws.gov or 208-467-9278 for suggestions about visiting safely.
The Refuge is open daily during daylight hours. The Visitor Center is typically open weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except on Federal holidays.