The refuge was established in 1948 to provide habitat for migratory birds. It consists of uplands dominated by salt desert scrub and shallow marsh which varies from fresh water to salt water. The 81,322 acre refuge was designated an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society and as a site of hemispheric import
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 775-423-5128 · stillwater@fws.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Stillwater 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 Stillwater 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 Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Freeman Lane, Fitz Lane, Souza Place, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Stillwater 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.
Nearby sites
Grimes Point/Hidden Cave Archaeological Site
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Susan Sawyer/USFWS / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Fallon National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.