Summary
It was established in 1966 to protect and manage migratory birds and their habitats.
One of the main reasons to visit the refuge is for birdwatching. The area is home to a variety of bird species, including waterfowl, shorebirds, and songbirds. Visitors may also spot pronghorn antelope, mule deer, and coyotes.
The refuge has several points of interest to see, including the Coulee Loop Auto Tour, which is a 20-mile scenic drive that takes visitors through various habitats and offers breathtaking views of the Missouri River. Visitors can also hike on the 2.5-mile Prairie Dog Town Trail, which leads to a prairie dog colony.
Interesting facts about the area include that it was once home to a historic bison herd, and the refuge is still working to restore the population to the area. The refuge also participates in a sage-grouse conservation program, which aims to protect and restore the bird's habitat.
The best time to visit the refuge is during the spring and fall, as this is when the area sees the most bird activity. The refuge is open year-round, but some areas may be closed during the winter months due to snow and ice.
Overall, Creedman Coulee National Wildlife Refuge offers visitors the opportunity to experience Montana's natural beauty and wildlife. It is a great destination for birdwatching, hiking, and exploring the area's rich history and conservation efforts.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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