Bear Valley National Wildlife Refuge

Bear Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area in Oregon comprising 4,200 acres of forest dominated by old-growth ponderosa pine, incense cedar, white fir, and Douglas fir trees. The terrain consists of connected woodland that provides roosting habitat during the winter months.

The refuge was established in 1978 by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to protect critical night roosting areas for wintering bald eagles. Its creation responded to the need to secure habitats where this species could rest during their winter stays.

The refuge is part of the Klamath Basin Wildlife Refuge Complex and serves as a vital stopover for migratory birds traveling across North America. Visitors can witness how this landscape supports populations that depend on stopping here during their journeys.

Access to the refuge is limited before November 1 to minimize disturbance to the eagles, with the exception of walk-in deer hunters. Visitors planning to explore should plan their visit for after this closure period.

Up to 300 bald eagles gather here at night during winter, making this one of the largest eagle wintering sites in the contiguous United States. This seasonal congregation happens reliably each year and creates a remarkable spectacle for those watching.