About Sutter National Wildlife Refuge
Sutter NWR was established in 1945 with funds from the Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp Act (today it is known as Federal Duck Stamp) and the Lea Act. It was established to provide feeding and nesting areas for migratory birds and alleviate crop depredation.About 80% of the refuge is located in the Sutter Bypass. During major flood events, the Bypass diverts winter flood water from the Sacramento River, which may cover portions of the refuge with up to 12 feet of water.Waterfowl are present September through April and numbers peak later than most other refuges in the Complex between January and February. Sutter NWR regularly supports wintering peak populations of over 150,000 ducks and 70,000 geese.The mixed riparian forest habitat on the refuge is important for breeding and migrating passerine birds, and supports a large heron/egret rookery. The refuge provides habitat for several Federal and State endangered and threatened species, including giant garter snake, Chinook salmon, yellow-billed cuckoo, and Swainson's hawk.There are limited wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities from Hughes Road, which bisects the refuge.
How to Get There
Check station is approximately 11.2 miles southwest of Yuba CityFrom Hwy 20, Yuba City:from Hwy 20 in Yuba City, head south on Hwy 99go 5 miles south on Hwy 99go 5.5 miles west on Oswaldturn left at Schlag Rd onto gravel road and continue 0.6 miles to Check StationClick here for a map with directions From I-5, at Williams:go 32.5 miles east on Hwy 20 to Yuba Citygo 8 miles south on Hwy 99go 5 miles west on Obaniongo 0.5 miles north on Levee Rd to Parking Area BClick here for a map with directions From I-5, at Sacramento:go 26.5 miles north on Hwy 99 toward Yuba Citygo 5 miles west on Obaniongo 0.5 miles north on Levee Rd to Parking Area BClick here for a map with directions
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Sutter National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Sutter 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 Sutter National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Sutter National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/2258) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Sutter National Wildlife Refuge?
Check station is approximately 11.2 miles southwest of Yuba CityFrom Hwy 20, Yuba City:from Hwy 20 in Yuba City, head south on Hwy 99go 5 miles south on Hwy 99go 5.5 miles west on Oswaldturn left at Schlag Rd onto gravel road and continue 0.6 miles to Check StationClick here for a map with directions From I-5, at Williams:go 32.5 miles east on Hwy 20 to Yuba Citygo 8 miles south on Hwy 99go 5 mile…
How do I contact Sutter National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 530-934-2801 or email: sacramentovalleyrefuges@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
