The primary purpose of the Cold Springs NWR is to provide for the resting and feeding of a large concentration of Canada geese and ducks during the winter. Pheasants, quail, and mule deer are common.
Recreational uses of the reserve include wildlife observation, study and photography, as well as waterfowl hunting and warmwater fishing for bass, catfish, and crappie.
The reserve is 7 miles east of Hermiston, east on Wall's Road off Highway 207, then south on Tabor Road.
