Colusa National Wildlife Refuge

For thousands of years the Sacramento Valley, part of the Pacific Flyway, has provided a winter haven for migratory waterfowl. Today, over 90% of California's wetlands are gone because of development however, the birds continue to crowd into the remaining habitat. In 1937, the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) was established to create and protect the remaining seasonal wetlands. Today the complex is made up of five Refuges, including Colusa, that includes11,000 - acres of seasonal marsh, permanent ponds, and uplands in the heart of the Sacramento Valley

Each refuge offers a range of activities including hiking, auto tours, environmental education programs, and wildlife viewing; accessibility varies at each refuge. A good place to start to get an overview is Sacramento NWR in Willows––headquarters of the complex. There is a visitor center with wildlife exhibits, a bookstore and staff can provide information and direct you to the other units. (closed for remodel until fall 2022)

Colusa has a small Visitor Area with a parking lot, restroom, information kiosk, picnic tables, native plant garden, trailhead, and 2 observation decks with excellent viewing. A 3-mile Auto Tour begins at the observation deck and takes you through wetlands, grasslands, and a riparian area.