Plan Your Visit

Opportunities for recreation at the Cold Springs National Wildlife Refuge include hiking, wildlife observation, bicycling, horseback-riding, fishing, boating and hunting. The refuge is open from sunrise to sunset. The entrance gates close automatically 1/2 hour after sunset. Access difficulty varies by area. Most areas of the Refuge are very remote with no restroom or drinking water facilities. Refuge visitors should plan their trips accordingly. Contact the Mid-Columbia River NWR Complex Office for suggestions using the area safely, (509) 546-8300.

Visitors access the refuge via the Loop Road. Roads throughout the refuge are graveled and visitors must maintain the posted speed limit of 25 miles per hour. Parking is allowed in designated parking areas only. No overnight parking is allowed on the refuge.

Hiking is allowed in all areas open to the public. Wildlife observation and photography are encouraged. Please stay out of closed areas to minimize disturbance to plants and animals. Bicycling is allowed only on designated public access routes. It is not allowed on trails or roads closed to public vehicles or horses. Horseback riding is allowed on signed refuge public access routes open to motor vehicles.

Fishing is allowed as per State regulations March 1 through September 30. Bank fishing is permitted in a designated area near Parking Area B, October 1 through February 28/29.

Only non-motorized boats and boats with electric motors are permitted. Gasoline or other internal combustion engines are prohibited. If these types of motors are permanently affixed or built into the boat, they must be temporarily rendered inoperable by removing gas tanks, batteries, etc.

Sport hunting is permitted on the refuge in accordance with all State and Federal regulations. Hunters should consult the Oregon State hunting regulations. Special refuge hunting regulations also apply.

Firearms and other weapons are subject to state law. At all times, persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on the refuge must comply with all provisions of state law. Firearms may only be discharged in accordance with refuge hunting regulations, i.e., only during the lawful pursuit of game during legal seasons.

Other prohibitions on the refuge are dogs off-leash; off-road vehicles; and collecting of plants, animals, minerals, antlers and artifacts.

Lodging is available in Hermiston, Oregon. Listings are available through the Hermiston Chamber of Commerce at (541) 567-6151. Telephones, gas and supplies are available year-round in Hermiston.

For driving directions, please visit our "Directions" page.