About Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Grays Lake NWR, created in 1965, is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) to protect a portion of the historic Grays Lake marsh and provide resting and feeding habitat for migrating waterfowl.The large expansive wetland habitats within this montane marsh attract numerous bird species, including waterfowl, shorebirds, and wading birds, including the largest breeding concentration of Sandhill cranes in North America. The Service has documented almost 250 species of birds on the Refuge, of which approximately 100 species known to nest within its boundaries. The Refuge provides significant habitat for breeding waterfowl in the late spring and early summer, and nesting habitat for colonial birds, including a large mixed colony of white-faced ibis and Franklin’s gulls.The Refuge provides opportunities for wildlife-dependent recreation including wildlife observation, wildlife photography and waterfowl hunting. Visitation is estimated at less than 5,000 per year.
How to Get There
Grays Lake Refuge is north of Soda Springs, off Highway 34. The turnoff is about 27 miles north of Soda Springs, and 21 miles from Freedom, Wyoming. The turnoff is signed. From the intersection it is about 3 miles north to the refuge office, visitor center, and overlook.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Heading to Grays 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 Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
No central reservation system listed for Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1404) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
Grays Lake Refuge is north of Soda Springs, off Highway 34. The turnoff is about 27 miles north of Soda Springs, and 21 miles from Freedom, Wyoming. The turnoff is signed. From the intersection it is about 3 miles north to the refuge office, visitor center, and overlook.
How do I contact Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
You can reach the park at phone: 208-574-2755 or email: William_Smith@fws.gov.
References & Official Resources
