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The Valentine National Wildlife Refuge is nestled in the heart of the vast Sandhills, which stretch across north-central Nebraska.
The Sandhills region is the largest tract of mid- and tall-grass prairie in North America.
The many wetlands, small lakes, meadows, and large expanses of native prairie attract more than 260 species of birds and provide an ideal setting for bird- and wildlife- watching.
May, September, and October are the best times for bird-watching. During spring, observation blinds allow visitors to watch prairie chickens and sharp-tailed grouse during their elaborate courtship rituals.
An old fire tower is a good place to watch grassland sparrows and yields a spectacular view of the Sandhills.
The Marsh Lakes are excellent for watching waterfowl and shore birds, including grebes, waterfowl, herons, and egrets, and Duck Lake is an oasis for songbirds such as warblers, blue and black-headed grosbeaks, Lazuli buntings and eastern bluebirds.
Excellent fishing for bass, yellow perch, bluegill, and northern pike is found on the nine refuge lakes open to sport fishing year round. The refuge is most noted for fast-paced pike fishing. Many master angler pike and bluegills are caught each year, and the world record for bluegill ice fishing was set at Pelican Lake.
Boat ramps are mostly unimproved. Gas motors are prohibited on the refuge. A small boat or float tube is needed to fish most areas. Wheelchair-accessible fishing and boat docks are located on Watts and Dewey lakes.
Hunting of ducks and geese, deer (archery, muzzle loader and rifle), sharp-tailed grouse and prairie chickens, pheasants, doves, and coyotes (free coyote hunting permit required) is permitted on portions of the refuge. The refuge is most noted for its excellent prairie grouse hunting with a chance to see both species in their native habitat, the open prairie.
Roads and trails on the refuge, including those to the lakes, can be rough and four-wheel drive is recommended. Most of the refuge, including service trails, are open to hiking.
To reach the eastern portion of the refuge from the town of Valentine, go 30 miles south on US Hwy 83. To reach the western portions of the refuge, go 17 miles south on US Hwy 83 then 13 miles west on State Spur 16B.
Outdoor Activities |
