Columbia National Wildlife Refuge

The Columbia National Wildlife Refuge spans roughly 30,000 acres with cliffs, canyons, lakes, and sagebrush grasslands in the Drumheller Channeled Scablands of central Washington. The terrain shows a striking landscape with waterways, plateaus, and open spaces that can be explored on foot or by car.

The refuge was established in 1944 as part of the Columbia Basin Project, which transformed the region through irrigation development. The reservoirs and water sources that fill the landscape today stem from this major infrastructure effort that reshaped the area.

This protected land is essential for thousands of migratory birds that pass through during spring and fall journeys. The refuge offers visitors chances to see waterfowl, raptors, and other species in their natural setting as they move along ancient migration routes.

Access is available through McManamon Road from Othello, where parking areas and information maps guide exploration of trails and lakes. Visitors should allow time to explore multiple sites and watch for changing weather, as the open terrain offers little shelter.

The Drumheller Channels section displays one of the most extensively eroded landscapes of its size worldwide, earning National Natural Landmark designation in 1986. Visitors can explore this rare geological formation shaped by massive water movement thousands of years ago.

Location: Washington

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

GPS coordinates: 46.85120,-119.53700

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:04