Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Chase Lake is a national wildlife refuge in North Dakota featuring grassland prairies and alkaline lake waters situated in a distinct geological region. The landscape combines open water, grassland habitat, and natural wetlands that support diverse wildlife communities.

The refuge was established in 1908 to protect a bird species that faced extinction in the region. This early conservation effort marked an important step in safeguarding wildlife habitats across North America.

The refuge serves as a gathering place where visitors can watch birds in their natural habitat, especially during breeding season when the landscape comes alive with activity. The open waters and grasslands create a space where people connect with nature and witness wildlife behaviors rarely seen elsewhere.

Visitors can observe wildlife from adjacent county roads, especially when main access routes are closed due to weather. Bringing binoculars or a spotting scope enhances the viewing experience from these roadside vantage points.

The refuge hosts one of North America's most significant bird colonies, with thousands of birds congregating during breeding months. This extraordinary concentration makes it a key location for researchers studying this species' behavior and population dynamics.