Formerly the site of the Fort Niobrara Military Reservation, the refuge was established to protect habitat for American bison, elk and Texas longhorns, as well as deer, prairie dogs, small fur-bearing animals and a variety of uplands birds. Near the refuge visitor center, 5 miles east of
Valentine on Hwy 12, such animals can be observed at closed range.
Picnic facilities, an automobile tour route and a scenic nature trail to Fort Falls are available.
