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Two mule deer standing in a prairie
Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge Hunting Expansion

The Buffalo Lake National Wildlife refuge is proposing to expand public hunting opportunities to include archery deer hunting. Public comment is encouraged as we develop plans to maximize recreational opportunities on the refuge. Current hunting opportunities can be located at https://www.fws.gov/refuge/buffalo-lake/visit-us/activities/hunting  . For comments please reach out to r2_plancomments@fws.gov 

Buffalo Lake was created with the building of Umbarger Dam in 1938 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In 1958, the 7,664 acres were transferred to the Department of Interior and in 1959, Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge was established. Although the lake is dry, visitors can enjoy many wildlife dependent activities such as wildlife watching and photography, environmental interpretation and education, hiking, camping and picnicking.

Visit Us

National wildlife refuges offer us all a chance to unplug from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with our natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy the auto tour road, watching wildlife, hiking, camping and picnicking. 

Location and Contact Information

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    Our Species

    Visitors can see many bird species including neotropical migrants such as warblers, flycatchers, tanagers, orioles, and sparrows that pass through each spring and fall. Black-tailed prairie dog, burrowing owl, Cassin’s and lark sparrows, and bald and golden eagle can be seen on the refuge in the grasslands. Snakes, horned lizards, and ornate box turtles are present.