Colusa National Wildlife Refuge

Colusa National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area with wetlands, grasslands, and riparian woods in the Sacramento Valley in northern California. The refuge offers maintained trails, observation platforms, and driving routes for visitors to explore.

This refuge was established in 1945 as part of a network of protected lands in the Sacramento region. It was created to preserve important habitats for migrating bird species.

The refuge is a place where people come to watch waterfowl living in their natural habitats and understand how wetlands support wildlife. School groups and bird watchers regularly visit to experience these ecosystems firsthand.

The best time to visit is from September through March when most migrating birds are present. Visitors should arrive early in the morning to see the highest bird activity.

During winter months enormous flocks of waterfowl gather here as many species make a stopover during their migration. This makes the area one of the most important resting grounds for migrating birds across California.

Location: Colusa County

Inception: 1945

Part of: Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/colusa

GPS coordinates: 39.15740,-122.04300

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:07