Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge in Olympia, Washington, is located where the freshwater of the Nisqually River flows into Puget Sound. The mosaic of different habitats found on the River Delta provide optimal conditions for diverse and abundant wildlife.
Special Event for Volunteers

People who have served at the refuge as volunteers, interns, AmeriCorps members, and staff are invited to a special 50th anniversary celebration April 15! Learn more here: /event/past-and-present-volunteer-celebration

Visit Us

Our site is open every day sunrise to sunset, and the visitor center is open Wed.-Sunday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. With easy access off Interstate 5 in Olympia, Washington, Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is the destination to connect with nature. Year-round trails meander through a diversity of habitats, and visitors can experience exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. Exhibits in the Visitor Center provide an overview of the Nisqually River Delta, and volunteers provide updated wildlife sightings. A highlight for your visit is walking the mile-long Nisqually Estuary Boardwalk that extends over the estuary, making each visit different with the fluctuating tide.

Want to bring an educational group for a field trip? Take a look at options on our Education page.

Location and Contact Information

      About Us

      Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1974 to protect the Nisqually River Delta from development for the benefit of fish, wildlife, and plants, especially migratory birds. The diversity of habitats hosts at least 250 species of birds and other wildlife including: insects, fish, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. Habitat management enhances freshwater wetlands to meet migratory bird requirements but also offers exceptional viewing, nature and landscape photography opportunities. The refuge offers activities for visitors to learn the natural and cultural history of the area with guided walks, seasonal lectures, annual festivals, and environmental education for school groups. 

      What We Do

      The National Wildlife Refuge System is a network of lands and waters managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Wildlife conservation is at the heart of the refuge system. It directs our decisions and actions from the purpose of the refuge establishment, to the recreational activities we provide, and the resource management tools we use. The management tools used are aimed at ensuring a balanced conservation approach where both wildlife and people will benefit. 

      Our Organization

      A bright blue sky obstructed by fluffy white clouds reflected off of a stream shot from inside a kayak
      The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages an unparalleled network of public lands and waters called the National Wildlife Refuge System. With more than 570 refuges spanning the country, this system protects iconic species and provides some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities on Earth.

      Our Species

      Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge has become an increasingly important place for wildlife, especially migratory birds. Birds on their north and south migrations use the refuge as a stopover to feed and rest before continuing on their flight. For others, it's the end of their journey and a place to spend winter. Songbirds arriving in the spring find places to nest and raise their young, and for resident birds, it's a year-round home. The refuge has recorded at least 250 species of birds, 95 species of fish, 7 species of amphibians, and 60 insect species. 

      Get Involved

      Whether you want to further conservation, learn more about nature, or share your love of the outdoors, you've come to the right place! The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge needs you: your talents, your enthusiasm, and some of your time. If you enjoy working with people, and appreciate and are concerned about our nation's natural resources, our program may interest you.

      Projects and Research

      The refuge prioritizes projects that contribute to the enhancement, protection, use, preservation, and management of native wildlife populations and their habitats in their natural diversity. Research and studies that provide scientific data upon which decisions regarding management may be based are of value to maximize our efforts for wildlife. Partnerships are essential for shared goals and resources; this was most evident to accomplish the largest estuary restoration project in the Pacific Northwest in 2009.