About Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge
The first evidence of interest in protecting the mudflat habitat in Bowerman Basin was in 1985, at the International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies Conference. A proposal to establish a Western Hemisphere Sister Reserve System was made to protect shorebird populations. The concept was developed to identify essential migratory shorebird habitats in the western hemisphere, supporting 48 species with an estimated population of 10 to 20 million birds. Bowerman Basin at Grays Harbor, Washington, was among the sites proposed for inclusion in the Sister Reserve System. A grassroots effort, and support from the Port of Grays Harbor who administered Bowerman Basin at the time, resulted in the establishment of Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge in 1988. The first parcel of land was included in 1990. Currently, 1,408 acres of the 1,851 acres within the approved boundary have been acquired.
How to Get There
Grays Harbor Refuge is adjacent to Bowerman Airfield in Hoquiam, Washington.From Hoquiam, drive west on WA 109 and turn left onto Paulson Road (Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge can be seen on the corner). When you get to the end of Paulson Road, turn right onto Airport Way, and travel to the end. There is plenty of parking and the Refuge kiosk provides additional information. The official street address for the Refuge is 1000 Airport Way, Hoquiam, WA, 98550 but the building is not open. From Ocean Shores, drive north on WA 115 to WA 109 until you arrive at Paulson Road. Turn right and drive to the end then turn right onto Airport Way.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Grays Harbor 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 Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1403) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge?
Grays Harbor Refuge is adjacent to Bowerman Airfield in Hoquiam, Washington.From Hoquiam, drive west on WA 109 and turn left onto Paulson Road (Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge can be seen on the corner). When you get to the end of Paulson Road, turn right onto Airport Way, and travel to the end. There is plenty of parking and the Refuge kiosk provides additional information. The official str…
How do I contact Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 360-753-9467 or email: nisqually@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
