Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge

Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge


	Courtesy of EatStayPlay.com

Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge is made up or 20,721 acres and extends upstream for 25 miles along the Snake River from Minidoka Dam and includes all of Lake Walcott. The relatively stable waters of Lake Walcott are helpful to the growth of aquatic plants which provide waterfowl food throughout most of the year. An important function of the refuge is to provide a safe molting area for water fowl in the summer. Concentrations of up to 100,000 waterfowl may be seen in the fall. The refuge provides good opportunities to view many other forms of wildlife. Recreational activities in this area include boating, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing.

Up to 100,000 ducks and geese are present in the Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge during spring and fall migrations. Migrating tundra swans can be seen in spring in shallow bays and shores of the lake. Bald eagles, golden eagles, hawks, and owls are frequently seen. Mule deer are year-round residents and pronghorn antelope are occasionally seen.

Facilities: There are no facilities provided at Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge. The nearby Lake Walcott State Park provides camping and picnicking facilities as well as a boat ramp.

Reservations: Reservations are not needed or accepted for Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge.

Best Time To Visit: Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge is open year round. About 1/3 of Lake Walcott is open to boats April 1-September 30.

Fees: No fees are charged for the wildlife refuge. State recreation fees apply for the use of Lake Walcott State Park's facilities.

Accessibility: Unknown

Rules: Unknown

Directions: To reach Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge from Burley, drive about 14.5 miles northeast on Highway 24, turn right on the Minidoka Dam road and follow it to the refuge.

Attractions Near
Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge

Lake Walcott
Lake Walcott State Park

Address

Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge

961 E. Minidoka Dam

Rupert, Idaho 83350

Phone
General: (208) 436-3589
Fax: (208) 436-1570

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