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Nevada
66

State of Nevada Parks

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USA Parks
Nevada
Cowboy Country Region
Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge
Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge © Gary OToole
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SHELDON NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
SHELDON NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
The Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge protects more than half a million acres of high desert habitat for large wintering herds of pronghorn antelope, scattered bands of bighorn sheep, and a rich assortment of other wildlife. The landscape is vast, rugged, and punctuated with waterfalls, narrow gorges, and lush springs among rolling hills and expansive tablelands of sagebrush and mountain mahogany.

Although established for the protection of wildlife and habitat, the refuge encompasses other interesting features. The remains of old homesteads and ranches intrigue visitors. The lure of fire opals draws miners and rock collectors to the Virgin Valley mining district. Geothermal hot springs create a refreshing oasis in the heart of the refuge. The refuge's mosaic of resources and public interests generates significant management challenges.
Nature of the Area
Observing and photographing wildlife are the most popular recreational activities on the refuge. Viewing wildlife in its native environment is a richly rewarding activity. Here are some tips that will help you see and enjoy refuge wildlife.

Your car makes an excellent observation blind. Many types of wildlife can be approached more closely in a car than on foot.

Because road access is very limited on the refuge, hiking into more remote areas may provide excellent opportunities to view animals, take in the beautiful scenery and experience the solitude and wildness of the refuge. Hike quietly to improve your odds of wildlife encounters.

Binoculars or spotting scopes are very important for viewing wildlife across the great expanses of refuge habitat.

Wildlife are most active and easiest to spot in the early mornings and late evenings, especially in the heat of the summer.
Boating
Dufurrena Ponds, Big Springs Reservoir, and Catnip Reservoir: Anglers may bank fish, fish by wading, or use nonmotorized boats, boats with electric motors, float tubes and similar flotation devices only. Please contack the refuge manager for descriptions of restricted zones and/or motor and speed regulations prior to your visit. Regulations are subject to change.


Location
Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge is


Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
June 10 Several very good campgrounds, clean. by Lurana
park review stars; one to five Both Fish Springs and Big Springs campgrounds were quiet and well kept. Sorry there were no fish in Big Springs June 2012....maybe next visit.
May 19 great place to relax& watch nature by marymay
park review stars; one to five Very quiet & relaxing place to be
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Directions
Highway 140 provides access into the heart of Sheldon Refuge.

From Lakeview, Oregon, travel 68 miles east on 140. From Denio, Nevada, travel 14 miles west on Highway 40.

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Nevada
66

State of Nevada Parks

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