Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer

This refuge spans roughly 2,400 hectares of pastures, forested tidal swamps, marshes, and sloughs distributed across the border between Washington and Oregon along the Columbia River. The landscape supports a mix of open fields and wooded wetlands that create diverse habitats.

The refuge was established in 1972 to protect a rare deer species from extinction, then renamed in 1990 to honor former Representative Julia Butler Hansen. Its creation marked an important step in preserving this population along the Columbia River.

The refuge is named after Julia Butler Hansen, a former member of Congress from Washington who championed protection of this rare deer species. Visitors can experience how conservation efforts shape the land and learn about the importance of preserving local wildlife.

The Center Road Trail provides an easy walk through the refuge, usually open from June through September when wildlife viewing is best. Come early in the day and wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your visit.

The white-tailed deer population here is critically small and represents only a fraction of what once existed in the region. The refuge works with neighboring private landowners to expand protected habitat and give this species room to recover.

Location: Washington

Location: Oregon

Inception: 1972

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

GPS coordinates: 46.24733,-123.41374

Latest update: December 12, 2025 08:01