Become immersed in the wonders of Wapato Lake National Wildlife Refuge, as the surrounding sounds disappear, and all that remains is a sense of wonder and calm.

Latest News

An adult and child read a sign at Wapato Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
For Parents and Educators
Community Celebrates New Public Access at Wapato Lake National Wildlife Refuge
In a changing Oregon, protected lands and waters are essential for the future of fish, wildlife, and plants. In Gaston, Wapato Lake National Wildlife Refuge was established in 2013 to ensure a future for those native, natural resources that have long defined the area. Almost 200 people gathered at...
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Visit Us

Adjacent to the city of Gaston, near Portland, Oregon, Wapato Lake National Wildlife Refuge offers visitors a chance to overlook vast wetlands or immerse themselves in other habitats and wildlife. Our walking trails are great ways to enjoy the refuge, and visitors can get involved in visitor services or biology work through our volunteer program.

The refuge will open to the public on October 1st, 2022. Go here for further information on the final public access plan, what public access at the refuge will look like, and response to public comments.

Hunting on the refuge 2022-23 season

The application period for this year's hunt will be open from October 15 - November 15; go to our hunting page for more information on our hunt program and application process.

Location and Contact Information

      About Us

      White swans and brown pintail ducks in open water, with sparse browned vegetation
      Image Details

      Wapato Lake National Wildlife Refuge was officially established in 2013 as part of the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge Complex. With over 900 acres of continuous protected area, Wapato Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic place for a variety of wildlife, including the many migratory waterfowl that stop-over in the winter. The refuge is amazing year-round though; the changing seasons are reflected in the fluctuations of landscape and the wildlife who inhabit it.  

      What We Do

      Staff person in brown jacket and hat, wearing camouflage and holding wood walking stake; staff person walking in waste deep water, with browned vegetation in spots; in distance is beaver dam and osprey nest on utility pole
      Image Details

      The National Wildlife Refuge System is a network of public lands and waters managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The System was established for the purpose of wildlife conservation, and directs all refuge actions and decisions. Utilizing the right management tools helps to further conservation and restoration of wildlife and their habitats.

      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 560 refuges spanning the country, this system protects iconic species and provides some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities on Earth.
      Program
      Washington, DC
      A bison grazing in the foreground with mountains and a city and electrical infrastructure in the background
      The Urban Wildlife Conservation Program improves lives by expanding access to green space, education and outdoor recreation for Americans living in and around cities. Program members work to clear social and historical barriers and foster new connections that advance conservation and strengthen...
      Program

      Our Species

      Juvenile bald eagle with mostly brown feathers and a few spots of white feathers, perches on top of a wood post next to a large nest made of woody debris
      Image Details

      Through ongoing restoration projects, public outreach and education, Wapato Lake National Wildlife Refuge is able to further conservation efforts, including the protection and restoration for specific key federally and state recognized species. 

      In addition to endangered and threatened species, the refuge hosts an abundance of more commonly found species, such as black-tailed deer, coyotes, bald eagles, and red-tailed hawks. Many migrating waterfowl also call the refuge home for the winter, including tundra swans, canvasbacks, and dusky Canada geese. 

      Get Involved

      National wildlife refuges partner with volunteers, youth groups, landowners, neighbors and local community members to make a lasting difference. Getting involved at Wapato Lake NWR is a great opportunity to learn new skills and help to conserve our public lands. With a variety of opportunities in a wide range of programs, anything from visitor services to habitat management, there is a place for everyone.