Chase Lake Wilderness, Protected wilderness and bird sanctuary in North Dakota, US.
Chase Lake Wilderness is a protected area in North Dakota encompassing about 4,155 acres of grasslands, wetlands, and a large alkaline lake that occupies more than half the land. The waters create habitat for many bird species including one of North America's most significant nesting colonies.
The area received federal protection in 1908 under President Theodore Roosevelt when only about 50 pelicans inhabited the lake. It became an official Wilderness Area designation in 1975.
This refuge represents North American conservation efforts, supporting one of the continent's largest white pelican colonies with up to 35,000 nesting birds annually.
Visitors can observe wildlife from designated viewing areas near the lake, but overnight camping is not available at this location. The nesting islands remain closed to public access to protect breeding birds.
The land sits on the Missouri Coteau with rolling hills covered in blue grama and green needlegrass interspersed with numerous scattered wetlands. This combination of prairie terrain and water creates an unusual landscape with significant ecological value.
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