Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge

Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge is a nature reserve spanning volcanic terrain with elevations between 4,100 and 7,200 feet across the Nevada-Oregon border. The landscape consists mainly of sagebrush steppe ecosystems typical of the Great Basin.

The refuge began in 1931 when the Audubon Society and Boone & Crockett Club purchased about 34,000 acres of Last Chance Ranch to protect antelope herds. This early conservation effort made it a pioneer for wildlife protection in the region.

Northern Paiute, Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla peoples lived here seasonally for generations. Their connection to this land shaped how people today understand and value the region.

This is a remote area where visitors should bring all necessary supplies with them. The nearest gas stations and food stores are located more than 100 miles away.

The area contains the Virgin Valley Opal Mining District where gemstone extraction continues, including black opals and petrified wood. This makes it a rare example of a wildlife refuge that maintains active mining rights.

Location: Lake County

Operator: US Fish and Wildlife Service

GPS coordinates: 41.80671,-119.26655

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:10