Fort Niobrara
Valentine, NE 69201
Plan Your Visit
Welcome to Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge! Located just 5 miles east of Valentine NE on HWY 12. Come take a drive, hike or float through the refuge to take escape the daily grind and unwind with all the native plants and wildlife that the Refuge has to offer. While you are at the Refuge you have the potential to spot our herd of 350 bison, deer, coyotes, eagles, grassland birds, and prairie wildflowers. The best part, it's free for daily use. Fort Niobrara provides numerous recreational opportunities to thousands of visitors every year. During your visit, you can view the unique geology and diverse plants and wildlife whether driving, hiking, and especially river floating. Nine miles of the Niobrara National Scenic River wind through the Refuge. Below the Cornell Dam, 5 of those miles are open to the public to launch their own kayak, canoe, or tube. Floating the river is one of the best ways to experience Fort Niobrara's wilderness area . The wilderness area is just shy of 5,000 acres of untrammeled land where only the plants and animals live.
All River users must purchase a wristband at the kiosk located at the Refuge launch area.
From Valentine NE, head east on State Highway 12. Drive approximately 5 miles. Turn right onto Berry Bridge Road and cross Cornell Bridge. Follow the posted Refuge signs to the entrance.
Activities
Get Involved
The Refuge routinely partners with state agencies, universities, and non-governmental organizations to complete projects. We welcome volunteers!
Working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.
About
Established in 1912, Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge encompasses 19,131 acres along the Niobrara River in the Nebraska Sandhills. The refuge features a diverse mix of ecosystems, including mixed-grass prairie, coniferous forests, and deciduous woodlands, supporting a rich variety of wildlife such as bison, elk, and native birds. It contains Nebraska's first designated Wilderness Area and segments of the Niobrara National Scenic River.
