Franz Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a 1,776-acre wildlife sanctuary located in southern Oregon. The refuge was established in 1965 to provide a habitat for migratory waterfowl and other wildlife. It is open year-round and offers numerous activities for visitors, including wildlife observation, fishing, hiking, and hunting.

One of the main reasons to visit Franz Lake National Wildlife Refuge is to see the diversity of wildlife that lives there. The refuge is home to a variety of bird species, including waterfowl, herons, and shorebirds. Visitors can also spot mammals such as black-tailed deer, river otters, and beavers.

Some specific points of interest to see at Franz Lake National Wildlife Refuge include the Franz Lake Dam, the Klamath River, and the Klamath Basin Birding Trail. The dam was built in 1913 and creates a reservoir that provides water to the refuge and surrounding areas. The Klamath River runs through the refuge and is an important habitat for salmon and steelhead. The Klamath Basin Birding Trail is a 100-mile driving route that takes visitors through some of the best birding areas in the region.

Interesting facts about the area include that the refuge is one of the few remaining wetland habitats in the Klamath Basin and it is part of the Pacific Flyway, a migratory route for birds that stretches from Alaska to Patagonia. Additionally, the refuge was named after August Franz, a German immigrant who settled in the area in the late 1800s.

The best time of year to visit Franz Lake National Wildlife Refuge depends on the activities you want to participate in. Spring and fall are popular times for birdwatching, while summer is a good time for fishing and hiking. Hunting is allowed in the fall and winter months.

Overall, Franz Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful and diverse natural area that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a birder, fisherman, hiker, or hunter, you are sure to enjoy your visit to this unique wildlife sanctuary.