Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge

Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area in northwest North Dakota that spans roughly 19,500 acres (7,900 hectares) along Des Lacs Lake. It contains natural lakes and managed wetlands that serve as stopover points for migrating birds.

The refuge was established in 1935 to protect the landscape that had been home to southern Assiniboin tribes for generations. The terrain bears the marks of glacial activity from much earlier periods.

The name Des Lacs comes from French words meaning River of Lakes, reflecting the water landscape that defines this protected area. This French heritage speaks to the region's early exploration history.

The refuge is accessible by U.S. Route 52, and visitors can hike the Munch's Coulee National Recreation Trail to watch birds and wildlife. The straightforward trail makes it easy for most people to explore the grounds.

The refuge contains eight human-made islands that were built in the 1990s to create nesting places for waterfowl. These islands have become key breeding habitats for birds in the region.

Location: North Dakota

Inception: 1935

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

GPS coordinates: 48.84280,-102.09600

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:01