Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge

About Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge

Today Upper Klamath Refuge comprises 23,098 acres, mostly freshwater hardstem-cattail marsh and open water, along with approximately 30 acres of forested uplands. These habitats serve as excellent nesting and brood rearing areas for waterfowl and colonial nesting birds, including American white pelican and several heron species. Bald eagle and osprey nest nearby and can sometimes be seen fishing in refuge waters. This refuge consists of a naturally occurring cattail-bulrush marsh at the edge of Upper Klamath Lake. Currently a fire management plan is being developed so that marsh management and vegetation can be manipulated by using prescribed burning. Waterfowl densities are monitored during the fall, winter and spring via aerial census. Ongoing research projects include yellow rail and neotropical migrants by refuge cooperators who operate out of the Rocky Point cabin area.

How to Get There

From Klamath Falls, Oregon, take Highway 140 to the Rocky Point Junction. Then travel north approximately 2 miles to the Rocky Point boat launch, or another 3.5 miles to the Malone Springs boat launch.

Plan Your Visit to Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge

Heading to Upper Klamath 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

References & Official Resources

• Official Recreation.gov page
• View on OpenStreetMap
• Driving directions (Google Maps)