The 7,021-acre Modoc NWR is located along the South Fork of the Pit River in Modoc County, southeast of the town of Alturas, in extreme northeastern California. The refuge is located on the western edge of the Great Basin, a high elevation, cold desert environment. The refuge consists of wetland, reservoir, riparian, s
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 530-233-3572 · modoc@fws.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Modoc 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 Modoc 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 Modoc 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 High Street, Nagle Street, 6th Street, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Modoc National Wildlife Refuge is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Depends Is hunting allowed?
Yes — hunting is permitted here in season, with the required state license and tags. Check seasons and unit rules.
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
Jim Gumm / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Forest Service Modoc National Forest
CheckThis Forest Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
North Barber Creek Trail
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.