Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge

Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge is a nature reserve in the Channeled Scablands landscape, featuring basalt outcrops, canyons, ponderosa pine forests, and numerous wetland areas spread across the property. The terrain combines rocky formations with forested sections and water bodies that create different habitats throughout the site.

The refuge was established in 1937 as a protected area for migratory waterfowl, with focus on saving certain duck species that were declining across North America. This creation responded to concerns about shrinking bird populations that affected many regions at that time.

The landscape of ponderosa pine forests and rocky canyons creates the setting that visitors walk through today. This combination of water, rock, and forest shapes how people experience the refuge when they visit.

The site has marked hiking trails for visitors to follow, with some paths designed to be easy to walk and a boardwalk by the lake accessible to most people. The best time to visit is from May through October when weather is pleasant and trails are in good condition.

The site contains extensive wetlands that serve as breeding grounds for waterfowl species facing population pressures across much of North America. These wetlands function as refuge areas where certain bird species find conditions needed for reproduction and survival.

Location: Spokane County

Operator: US Fish and Wildlife Service

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

GPS coordinates: 47.42310,-117.56600

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:41