Mcnary National Wildlife Refuge
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Mcnary National Wildlife Refuge is a wildlife sanctuary located in the state of Oregon, USA.
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Summary
The refuge is situated on the east bank of the Columbia River, in the vicinity of the city of Umatilla. It was established in 1956 to provide a habitat for migratory birds that use the Pacific Flyway.
There are many good reasons to visit Mcnary National Wildlife Refuge. It is an ideal location for birdwatching and observing the local flora and fauna. Visitors can take part in a variety of activities such as hiking, photography, and fishing. The refuge is also a popular destination for educational tours and school field trips.
There are several specific points of interest to see at Mcnary National Wildlife Refuge. The McNary Dam Overlook provides visitors with a panoramic view of the Columbia River and the surrounding landscape. The Pacific Flyway exhibit hall displays information on the migration of birds and their importance to the ecosystem. The wildlife observation platform is an ideal location for viewing migratory birds and other wildlife.
Interesting facts about the area include the fact that the refuge was named after Senator Charles L. McNary. The area was once inhabited by the indigenous tribes of Umatilla, Walla Walla, and Cayuse. The refuge covers an area of 15,000 acres and provides a habitat for 260 species of birds.
The best time of year to visit Mcnary National Wildlife Refuge is during the spring and fall migration seasons. During this time, visitors can observe a wide variety of migratory birds as they pass through the area. The refuge is open year-round, but some parts of it may be closed during the winter months due to weather conditions.
In conclusion, Mcnary National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a unique opportunity to observe migratory birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Visitors can also learn about the importance of conservation and the role of wildlife refuges in preserving the environment.
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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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