About Camas National Wildlife Refuge
Camas National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1937 to manage habitat to benefit nesting waterfowl, and to provide resting and feeding habitat for spring and fall migration of ducks, geese, and other waterfowl. Today, the Refuge provides excellent opportunities to view and photograph wildlife throughout the year. The refuge is named for Camas Creek which winds its way through the refuge, feeding many wetlands and providing vital habitat for wildlife and plants. The established purpose for Camas National Wildlife Refuge is derived from Executive Order 7720….”as a refuge and breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife”.The goals and purposes Camas NWR align with those of the Refuge system:Conserve a diversity of fish, wildlife and plants and their habitats, including species that are endangered or threatened with becoming endangered.Develop and maintain a network of habitats for migratory birds that is strategically distributed and carefully managed to meet important life cycle needs of those species.Conserve those ecosystems, plant communities, wetlands of national or international significance, and landscapes that are unique, rare, declining, or underrepresented in existing protection efforts.
How to Get There
From Interstate 15 take Exit 150 to Hamer, ID. Head east into Hamer and turn left at the stop sign. Travel north on the Old Butte Highway for approximately 3 miles. Turn left and travel west at the overpass. The headquarters is approximately two miles. Signs are posted along this route to guide visitors.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Camas National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Camas 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 Camas National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Camas National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1328) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Camas National Wildlife Refuge?
From Interstate 15 take Exit 150 to Hamer, ID. Head east into Hamer and turn left at the stop sign. Travel north on the Old Butte Highway for approximately 3 miles. Turn left and travel west at the overpass. The headquarters is approximately two miles. Signs are posted along this route to guide visitors.
How do I contact Camas National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 208-662-5423 or email: camasnwr@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
