Malheur Lake, Lake in Harney County, Oregon, United States

Malheur Lake is a large, shallow lake in Harney County, Oregon, within the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. It sits at an elevation of about 4,100 feet (1,250 meters) and its size changes with the seasons, from a broad sheet of water to exposed mudflats.

The lake formed in a closed basin and has long been a stopping point for migratory birds. In the early 20th century, it was included in the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, established to protect waterfowl and other wildlife.

The lake is central to the identity of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, and its name comes from the French word for misfortune, given by early trappers. Today, visitors come to watch birds and to learn about the lake's role in the refuge at the visitor center.

The lake is best reached by car via unpaved roads that can become muddy after rain, so check conditions before setting out. There are few facilities, and the best views are from the auto tour route or observation points along the refuge.

The lake's water level can rise and fall dramatically, sometimes flooding nearby fields and sometimes leaving the lakebed dry. This cycle creates a changing landscape that supports different plants and animals each year.