This refuge was established as a refuge and breeding ground for birds and wild animals. Located in the Lahontan Valley of western Nevada, approximately 20 miles northeast of Fallon, the refuge comprises 17,901 acres of alternating sections of playa habitat in the Carson Sink and includes Pelican Island and the terminus of the Carson River. In years of high water-flow down the Carson River, refuge is important for migratory shorebirds and waterfowl. However, due to diversions, in most years there is insufficient water-flow down the Carson River to enter the refuge.
Facilities in this USDI Fish and Wildlife National Refuge includes; wildlife viewing, bird watching, nature study, viewing historical sites, scenic viewing, camping, picnicking, walking and geology.
From Reno take highway 50 east.