Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge, National wildlife refuge in Lake County, Oregon.
Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge is a large wildlife reserve in the high desert featuring steep cliffs, rolling hills, and sagebrush grasslands. The landscape spans across an expansive area with elevations ranging from about 4,470 to 8,017 feet (1,360 to 2,440 meters).
The refuge was established in 1936 to protect pronghorn antelope populations that had declined sharply in this region. Its creation was part of efforts to save threatened wildlife species in the American wilderness.
The refuge serves as a place where visitors observe and learn about high desert wildlife in its natural state. People come here to watch pronghorn antelope and other animals thrive in this dry, open landscape shaped by seasons and weather.
The terrain requires sturdy, high-clearance vehicles since most roads are unpaved and rough. The nearest fuel and supplies are located roughly 25 miles (40 kilometers) west in Plush, so plan accordingly before entering.
The refuge contains natural hot springs at the base of Warner Peak, which emerge surprisingly in this arid location. The area enforces strict rules against livestock grazing to keep wild habitats entirely intact.
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