Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge

• Overview
• Reservoirs
• Rivers
• Fishing
• Boat Ramps
• Explore

Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge is located in central North Dakota and is known for its large nesting population of white pelicans. The refuge was established in 1908 and covers an area of 4,385 acres.

One of the main reasons to visit Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge is to see the white pelicans. The refuge is home to one of the largest nesting populations of white pelicans in North America, with over 20,000 birds arriving each spring to breed. Visitors can witness the pelicans in action from a viewing platform or by taking a guided tour.

In addition to the white pelicans, the refuge is also home to a variety of other bird species, including the American avocet, black-necked stilt, and Baird’s sparrow. Visitors can explore the refuge’s hiking trails and observation points to see these birds and other wildlife up close.

Interesting facts about Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge include that the refuge was once the site of a commercial salt mining operation in the early 1900s. The salt mining led to the formation of the lake, which is now an important habitat for wildlife. Additionally, the refuge was the filming location for the 1996 movie “Fly Away Home,” which tells the story of a young girl who helps her father teach a group of orphaned geese to fly south for the winter.

The best time of year to visit Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge is during the summer months, when the white pelicans are nesting and raising their young. However, the refuge is open year-round and visitors can enjoy hiking, bird-watching, and other activities throughout the year.