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Plan Your Visit

Driving Directions

The Refuge is open daily from dawn to dusk. Refuge information is available at the the Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge for the Columbian White-tailed Deer. The Refuge is located in Washington on state highway 4 between Cathlamet and Skamokawa. Refuge headquarters hours are 7:30 am – 4 pm Mondays through Fridays, excluding Federal holidays. No dogs are allowed on the refuge except those used while hunting waterfowl.

Quiet craft, such as kayaks or canoes, allow visitors to approach wildlife more easily than motorboats. Although wildlife often disappears when you arrive, they may return if you are still and drift quietly. When birds or animals are not close, binoculars and telephoto lenses will help get a good look or photograph. A field guidebook helps in identifying particular species. Be sure to carry enough drinking water. Neither camping nor fires are permitted on the refuge.

Collecting and removing archeological or historic objects is prohibited, as well as removing any natural material such as plants, rocks, or antlers. Possession of firearms is prohibited except during the waterfowl hunting season in areas open to hunting. In Oregon, there are a few small towns located along state highway 30 and larger lodging and retail facilities available in Astoria. In Washington, gasoline, grocery stores, restaurants, and lodging are located in Cathlamet and Skamokawa

Lewis and Clark National Wildlife is located in lower Columbia River, between Astoria, OR and Cathlamet, WA. The refuge's islands are accessible only by boat.

Boating

The islands of the Columbia River estuary are accessible only by boat. Tidal flows and tide fluctuations, strong winds and wake from ships in the navigation channel can make boating difficult and sometimes dangerous. Deep channels separate most of the islands at high tide, but tide tables and navigation charts should be consulted to avoid grounding on sandbars. If your boat becomes stuck in the mud, waiting for the next high tide to float it free may be your best alternative. In Washington, launch facilities are available at Skamokawa Vista Park, Cathlamet Marina, and a State boat launch between Cathlamet and Skamokawa. Kayaks or canoes can be rented in Skamokawa. In Oregon, boats may be launched at John Day Point or Aldrich Point.

Hiking

Public entry on the refuge islands is limited to foot travel only.