McNary National Wildlife Refuge - Image 1
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McNary National Wildlife Refuge

4.5
·977 reviews·Burbank, United States

Discover diverse wildlife and scenic beauty on accessible trails at McNary National Wildlife Refuge, a peaceful haven for birdwatchers and nature love...

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Peak wildlife activity

CrowdLow
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McNary National Wildlife Refuge - Image 1

McNary National Wildlife Refuge

Best Time

Early mornings

Peak wildlife activity

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover diverse wildlife and scenic beauty on accessible trails at McNary National Wildlife Refuge, a peaceful haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

4.5
(977 reviews)

"A beautiful place to visit any time of year, full of surprises with amazing wildlife and scenery."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Early Bird Gets the Wildlife

Visit in the early morning for the best chance to see active animals and birds.

👟 Comfortable Footwear Recommended

The main trail is paved and easy, but comfortable shoes are always a good idea for exploring.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Birdwatching Paradise

Birdwatching Paradise

Throughout the refuge

Spot pelicans, geese, ducks, blackbirds, and countless other avian species in their natural habitat.

Paved Walking Trails

Paved Walking Trails

Main trail

Enjoy easy, accessible paths for walking, jogging, or a leisurely stroll amidst scenic views.

Reptile and Amphibian Encounters

Reptile and Amphibian Encounters

Ponds and grassy areas

Keep an eye out for turtles basking in the sun and listen for bullfrogs and gopher snakes.

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Planning Your Visit

Best Time for Wildlife Sightings

Early mornings are your best bet for spotting active wildlife at McNary Refuge. As the day warms up, many creatures seek shade. Consider visiting during spring for abundant birdlife and blooming native plants. Reddit

Navigating the Refuge

McNary Refuge offers paved, easy walking trails perfect for all ages and fitness levels, including stroller-friendly options. While there are restrooms, one reviewer noted only a porta-potty was available. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Peak wildlife activity
Crowd
Low
When
Spring
Why
Abundant birdlife & blooms
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall
Why
Scenic beauty & bird migration
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🫶🏻 #mcnarywildliferefuge #travel #washington #easternwashington #tricities #burbankwashington #wildliferefuge
@emmapaulson
80 likes • 3K views

🎯 Early Bird Gets the Wildlife

Visit in the early morning for the best chance to see active animals and birds. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear Recommended

The main trail is paved and easy, but comfortable shoes are always a good idea for exploring. Reddit

🥳 Happy Birthday National Wildlife Refuge System—Looking good at 122! 🎂 📍Visit the McNary National Wildlife Refuge in Burbank, Walla Walla County 📚 Read Where the Great River Bends, Edited by Robert J. Carson “National wildlife refuges, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, protect thousands of species and provide access to world-class recreation, from fishing and hunting to wildlife wa...
outsidewallawalla
35 likes • 591 views
This gopher snake is slithering onto your timeline to say hello! 🐍 Did you know that gopher snakes will often enter rodent burrows in search of a yummy snack? 📷: Lamont Glass / USFWS at McNary National Wildlife Refuge Keywords: McNary National Wildlife Refuge Hello Jackie America’s Wildlife Refuges #AmericasWildlifeRefuges #NationalWildlifeRefuge #Wildlife #Conservation #McNaryNationalWildlife...
americaswildliferefuges
23 likes • 321 views

📸 Bring Your Camera!

McNary is a fantastic spot for wildlife photography, especially birds and smaller creatures. InstagramReddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Kid-Friendly Exploration

Stroller-friendly paths and an education center make it great for families with young children. Reddit

reddit.com

Any birders here? Where are your favorite places to go to see them?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Early Bird Gets the Wildlife

Visit in the early morning for the best chance to see active animals and birds. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear Recommended

The main trail is paved and easy, but comfortable shoes are always a good idea for exploring. Reddit

📸 Bring Your Camera!

McNary is a fantastic spot for wildlife photography, especially birds and smaller creatures. InstagramReddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Kid-Friendly Exploration

Stroller-friendly paths and an education center make it great for families with young children. Reddit

💧 Pack Water & Snacks

While there are facilities, it's wise to bring your own refreshments for a longer visit. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(977 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise McNary National Wildlife Refuge for its abundant wildlife, particularly birds, and its accessible, paved walking trails suitable for all ages. The natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some note limited restroom facilities and recommend visiting during peak wildlife activity times.

"McNary Refuge! Located in Burbank, Washington.
McNary Refuge is a beautiful place to visit any time of year. The refuge is full of surprises. You will be amazed at the wildlife and the beautiful scenery. The refuge has a great walking trail where you can get your steps in, fresh air, a jog, hike with friends, and enjoy nature. The refuge has an education center, so bring your kids and stop in and learn a little about our wildlife. The refuge had plenty of parking and restrooms."

Gaenor Thompson

"As wildlife areas go, McNary National Wildlife is a great place to see a variety of birds, the occasional larger animals, and turtles in the pond! There are a variety of trails and some exhibits at the headquarters area building. There are planned events from time to time that are great for kids of all ages. There are several parts of the wildlife area to explore."

Dave Riddle

"This is a super lovely spot for wildlife viewing, bird watching, native plants, walking, or just being out in nature.
I have seen cottontail rabbits here, turtles, toads, heard bullfrogs and oh so many different species of lovely birds as well. Early morning is in my experience the best time to go if you want to see living creatures.
The main trail is paved and easy walking. You could absolutely take children here, it's stroller friendly if you need one. My six and four year olds have really enjoyed it and had no trouble."

Kristen Johansen

What People Like

Abundant birdlife
Easy walking trails
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited restroom facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

McNary National Wildlife Refuge is located in Burbank, Washington. It's easily accessible by car, with plenty of parking available. The refuge is situated near the Columbia River, making it a scenic drive. TikTok

Yes, the refuge is generally open year-round for visitors to enjoy its natural beauty and wildlife. Specific hours for the education center may vary, so it's best to check their official schedule. Reddit

From the Tri-Cities area (Richland, Pasco, Kennewick), take Highway 12 West towards Walla Walla. The refuge is well-signed from the highway. TikTok

Public transportation options directly to the refuge are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to access McNary National Wildlife Refuge. Reddit

McNary National Wildlife Refuge is situated in Burbank, Washington, within Walla Walla County, along the Columbia River. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit McNary National Wildlife Refuge, making it an accessible destination for everyone. Reddit

No, advance booking or tickets are not required for general access to McNary National Wildlife Refuge. You can visit anytime during open hours. Reddit

The refuge grounds are typically open from dawn to dusk. The education center may have specific operating hours, so it's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly. Reddit

McNary Refuge occasionally hosts planned events, which can be great for families and learning about wildlife. Check their schedule for any upcoming activities. Reddit

Yes, McNary National Wildlife Refuge is open on weekends. While it can be busier, one reviewer noted seeing only two other people on a Sunday. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see a variety of birds like pelicans, geese, and ducks, as well as occasional deer. Turtles are common in the ponds, and you might spot cottontail rabbits and even gopher snakes. InstagramReddit

Yes, McNary Refuge features easy walking paths, with the main trail being paved and stroller-friendly, making it accessible for most visitors. Reddit

Absolutely! McNary Refuge is renowned for its diverse bird populations, making it an excellent destination for bird watchers. Reddit

The refuge has parking and restrooms. One visitor mentioned a porta-potty being the only restroom available during their visit. Reddit

Yes, McNary Refuge is a fantastic location for wildlife photography, offering opportunities to capture birds, reptiles, and the scenic landscape. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities or restaurants located directly within McNary National Wildlife Refuge. Visitors should plan to eat before or after their visit. Reddit

Picnicking is generally permitted in designated areas, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific regulations. Remember to practice 'Leave No Trace' principles. Reddit

The nearest dining options will be in the nearby towns of Burbank or Walla Walla, offering a range of local eateries and restaurants. Reddit

Yes, it's highly recommended to bring your own water and snacks, especially if you plan to spend a few hours exploring the trails. Reddit

Food vendors are not typically present at McNary Refuge unless specified for a particular large-scale event. It's best to confirm this in advance if attending an event. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The refuge is ideal for wildlife photography, particularly birds like pelicans and geese, as well as turtles, rabbits, and the scenic landscapes. InstagramReddit

Early mornings offer the best light and the highest chance of seeing active wildlife, making it ideal for photographers. Reddit

For general personal photography, no special permit is usually required. However, commercial photography or large-scale film shoots might need authorization. Reddit

The areas around the ponds are great for spotting turtles and waterfowl, while the open fields and trails offer chances to see ground-dwelling animals and birds. Reddit

Birdwatching photography is very popular, capturing the diverse species that inhabit the refuge. Reptiles like turtles are also common subjects. InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

McNary National Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic outing for families. The paved, stroller-friendly trails make it easy for even the youngest explorers to navigate. Reddit The education center provides engaging learning opportunities about local wildlife, making the visit both fun and informative. Reddit

Kids will love spotting turtles in the ponds, listening for bullfrogs, and observing the many bird species. Early mornings are best for seeing active animals. Remember to bring snacks and water, and encourage your children to practice 'Leave No Trace' principles to foster a love for nature.

📸 Wildlife Photographers

For photographers, McNary Refuge offers a rewarding experience with its diverse wildlife. Early mornings provide the best light and the highest chance of capturing active animals, from pelicans and geese to turtles and rabbits. InstagramReddit The accessible trails allow photographers to move around easily to find the perfect shot. Reddit

Bring your telephoto lenses to capture birds in flight or smaller creatures in their habitat. The scenic landscapes also provide beautiful backdrops for your wildlife photography endeavors. Remember to be patient and respectful of the animals' space.

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walkers & Casual Visitors

If you're looking for a peaceful escape and a chance to enjoy nature, McNary National Wildlife Refuge is ideal. The easy, paved walking paths are perfect for a relaxing stroll or a light jog. Reddit You can enjoy the fresh air, scenic views, and the calming presence of nature without strenuous effort. Reddit

Even a short visit can be rewarding, with opportunities to see various birds and other small wildlife. It’s a great spot to decompress and appreciate the local environment. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid potential crowds.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Wildlife Wonders of McNary Refuge

McNary National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for diverse wildlife, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the abundance of species, including pelicans, geese, and various types of ducks. Keep your eyes peeled for occasional deer sightings in the more open areas. Reddit

The refuge's ponds and marshy areas are prime spots for observing turtles basking in the sun. You might also encounter smaller mammals like cottontail rabbits, and if you're lucky, you could spot a gopher snake slithering through the grass. InstagramReddit The best time to witness this wildlife activity is during the early morning hours when animals are most active. Reddit

Remember to practice responsible wildlife viewing: maintain a safe distance, avoid feeding the animals, and always follow the 'Leave No Trace' principles to help preserve this valuable ecosystem for future generations. Reddit

Exploring the Trails and Accessibility

The refuge boasts well-maintained, easy walking trails, with the main path being paved and suitable for strollers. This makes McNary National Wildlife Refuge an excellent destination for families with young children, individuals using wheelchairs, or anyone who prefers a smooth, accessible surface for their walk. Reddit

These trails offer a pleasant way to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings, whether you're looking for a brisk jog, a leisurely hike with friends, or simply a peaceful stroll to enjoy the fresh air and scenery. The paths wind through various habitats, providing diverse views and opportunities for wildlife observation. Reddit

While the trails are generally well-kept, it's always a good idea to wear comfortable footwear. Visitors should also be aware that restroom facilities might be limited, with one reviewer noting the presence of only a porta-potty. Planning ahead with water and snacks is also recommended for a comfortable experience. Reddit

Educational Opportunities at McNary

McNary National Wildlife Refuge isn't just about observing nature; it's also a place for learning. The refuge features an education center designed to inform visitors about the local wildlife and the importance of conservation efforts. Reddit

This center is particularly beneficial for families, offering engaging exhibits that can spark curiosity and a deeper appreciation for the natural world in children. It's a great way to supplement your visit with valuable insights into the ecosystems and species that call McNary home. Reddit

Beyond the education center, the refuge itself serves as a living classroom. Observing the various animals in their natural habitat, understanding their behaviors, and appreciating the delicate balance of the ecosystem are all part of the educational experience. Reddit

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