Colusa NWR was established in 1945 as a refuge and breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife and to reduce damage of agricultural crops caused by waterfowl. The refuge lies in the Colusa Basin and is bisected by the Colusa Basin Drain, which drains the basin southeast to the Sacramento River. The low topog
Maybe — confirm before you go.
This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 530-934-2801 · sacramentovalleyrefuges@fws.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Colusa National Wildlife Refuge — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Colusa National Wildlife Refuge?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Colusa National Wildlife Refuge. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Levee Foot Path, Nature Trail. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Colusa National Wildlife Refuge is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Often restricted to protect wildlife — many refuges limit or prohibit pets. Check this refuge before you go.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Wildlife Refuge land.
Nearby sites
Butte Sink Wildlife Management Area
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Lora Haller/USFWS / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Delevan National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
