About Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1928 by President Calvin Coolidge “as a preserve and breeding ground for wild birds and animals.” Today it is part of a complex of six National Wildlife Refuges in the Klamath Basin that include Tule Lake, Upper Klamath, Lower Klamath, Klamath Marsh, Bear Valley, and Clear Lake, whose combined mission is to protect what remains of what once was the largest wetlands area west of the Mississippi River. These surviving wetlands remain a highly managed yet critical part of the Pacific Flyway, a place where migrating waterfowl can rest and refuel during their transcontinental spring and fall migrations.
How to Get There
Tule Lake Refuge is in northern California near the small town of Tulelake. Located 25 miles north of the refuge, Klamath Falls, Oregon, is the closest city. The refuge headquarters and visitor center is located on Hill Road., approximately 5 miles west of Tulelake, California. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; weekends and holidays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1649) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Tule Lake Refuge is in northern California near the small town of Tulelake. Located 25 miles north of the refuge, Klamath Falls, Oregon, is the closest city. The refuge headquarters and visitor center is located on Hill Road., approximately 5 miles west of Tulelake, California. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; weekends and holidays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
How do I contact Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 530-667-2231 or email: David_Champine@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
