Facility Activities

Kids view wildlife using binoculars at Modoc NWR.
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Each February — while snow is still on the ground — Modoc National Wildlife Refuge welcomes families of sandhill cranes, followed by crane-loving visitors with binoculars. Below you will find more information about the recreational opportunities at the Modoc NWR.

Hunting

There are many fine public duck hunting opportunities on national wildlife refuges nationwide, but certain hunting units at Modoc National Wildlife Refuge have some of the highest success rates on public marshes anywhere. In the high desert country of northeastern California, the refuge offers...

Fishing

Refuge waters include Dorris Reservoir (approximately 1,000 acres, when at full capacity), which is open to fishing February-September 30. Walk-in access only is available February 1-March 31. Boat access is open April 1-September 30. Available species include largemouth bass, catfish, sunfish...

Photography

The refuge offers a great opportunity for wildlife viewing and photography from the auto tour route and photography blind in the refuge closed zone. The blind offers multiple slots for a 360 degree viewing window, and is located in one of our most popular wetland units. The blind can be...

Wildlife watching

The best opportunity to observe the greatest diversity of wildlife on Modoc NWR is from April through May and September through October during morning or evening hours. Binoculars or a spotting scope can greatly help you in observing wildlife by minimizing disturbance to the animals. Your car...

Auto tour

The three mile auto tour route wraps around the Teal Pond and is an excellent place to see a variety of birds and mammals year round. Near the end of the tour route there is a parking space and paved walking trail which is a great place to get out and stretch your legs while walking in a wetland...

Education programs

The refuge invites educational classes to join us for field trips in the spring and fall. Refuge staff may also make trips to local schools to give lessons about the refuge and it's flora and fauna. Contact us at (530) 233-3572 to learn more about our environmental education program.