Shutdown Notice
Due to the lapse in federal appropriations, this website will not be updated until further notice. Where public access to refuge lands does not require the presence of a federal employee or contractor, activities on refuge lands will be allowed to continue on the same terms as before the appropriations lapse. Any entry onto Refuge System property during this period of federal government shutdown is at the visitor's sole risk. Please read this important updated message about the closure of National Wildlife Refuge System facilities during the shutdown, and refer to alerts posted on individual refuge websites for the status of visitor facilities and previously scheduled events that may still occur during the shutdown.

For more information, please visit the Department of Interior webpage at https://www.doi.gov/shutdown

Of Interest

Welcome Invasives

Ring-necked Pheasant In Flight

In almost every situation, non-native species are not a welcome addition to the landscape, often driving out desired species. But if there was ever a circumstance where non-native species are welcome, it would be with gamebirds. Ring-necked pheasants, Hungarian (gray) partridge and chukars are all introduced species. The only gamebird species on our refuges native to the western United States is the California quail. Yes, it would be better to have species like sage grouse, but given the circumstances, these non-native species are filling a niche without significantly damaging the environment. And they provide recreational activities for hunters and birdwatchers, alike. Everyone loves seeing gaudy ring-necked pheasants, and chukars are the clowns of the bird world. Hunters don't forget that opening weekend of upland game bird hunting requires a permit issued by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

McKay Creek Dam & Refuge History

Dam Illustration

Really like history? This is the page for you. Learn about the making of the McKay Creek NWR and Dam.

History of McKay Creek Refuge & Dam
History of McKay Creek

Watching Wildlife

Deer

Want to see more animals on your trip to McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge? Here are some tips from the "experts."

Watching Wildlife

About the Complex

Mid-Columbia River Refuges

McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge is managed as part of the Mid-Columbia River Refuges.

Read more about the complex
About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

NWRS Logo

The National Wildlife Refuge System, within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, manages a national network of lands and waters set aside to conserve America's fish, wildlife, and plants.

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