Willapa National Wildlife Refuge

The refuge encompases 11,200 acres of marshland, upland forests, pastures, dunes, sand beaches, and tidal estuary.

Forested Long Island has a virgin stand of 1,000-year-old red cedars and tidal marshes that support deer, bear, elk, coyotes, beavers and smaller animals and birds.

More then 180 species of migratory birds have been sighted among the salt marshes and the shifting dunes of the Leadbetter Point Unit at the tip of Long Beach Peninsula.

Also part of the refuge are the adjoining tidal flats at the southern tip of Willapa Bay.

Camping is permitted on the Long Island Unit but is accessible by private boat only. Part of the refuge is open to waterfowl hunting.

Location: HC 1 Box 910, Ilwaco Washington 98624 Telephone 360-484-3482

See more Wildlife Viewing.

The Most Anticipated Upcoming Washington Events Are: Christmas Lighting Festival Leavenworth December 18 thru December 20 Christmas in the Gorge 2009 Stevenson December 4 thru December 6 Christmas Ships Parade Vancouver December 5 thru December 17 Holiday Barrel Tasting Walla Walla December 4 thru December 6 Red Wine and Chocolate Port Angeles and Port Townsend February 6 thru February 7

Other upcoming events include: Fall Wreath and Barrel Tasting Wenatchee November 27 thru November 29 Christmas Ships Parade Vancouver December 5 thru December 17 Holiday Festival of the Arts Bellingham November 20 thru December 4 Celebrate Thanksgiving in Washington Wine Country Yakima Valley November 27 thru November 29 Bed & Breakfast Holiday Open House Peninsula December 12 thru December 13