The 23,000 acre refuge is located in the famous Channeled Scablands of the Columbia River Basin with many small lakes surrounded by sagebrush and grasslands.

The surrounding irrigated croplands, generally mild winters, and protection in the refuge attracts large numbers of migrating and wintering mallard ducks, Canada geese, and other waterfowl, including tundra swans.

The refuge provides sanctuary for Wildlife of Many Kinds, providing many opportunities for Wildlife Viewing. The thousands of visitors who enjoy the refuge every year have many of opportunities, provided they follow a few simple Regulations.