Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge

Stillwater NWR provides recreation opportunities to visitors who enjoy getting away from it all. Activities include viewing the unique geology and desert wildlife, waterfowl hunting, bird watching, and nature photography. Passenger vehicles are fine as long as roads are not wet or wash-boarded. Make sure to pack water, food, a cell phone or other signalling device, and first aid kit just in case. Even when dry, the roads can be tricky with loose rocks and gravel on a hard packed surface, watch your speed especially on turns.

Local Activities include:

Photography
Perhaps the fastest growing activity on national wildlife refuges in the past ten years has been wildlife photography. That’s not surprising – the digital camera technology explosion and cell phones with high quality camera functions and social media apps are increasing the number of nature photographers at a rapid rate. You don’t need to purchase expensive equipment or have any experience to get started. A small camera or basic cell phone will do just fine for most visitors. If you use a cell phone, a telephoto lens is highly recommended.

Interpretation
Refuge System interpretation programs provide opportunities for visitors to make their own connections to the natural world. From self-guided walks to ranger-led programs, many national wildlife refuges help visitors learn more about the wildlife and habitat behind the landscapes.

Environmental Education
National Wildlife Refuges serve many purposes, and one of our most important roles is as outdoor classrooms to teach about wildlife and natural resources. Many refuges offer environmental education programs for a variety of audiences. Refuges provide unique and exciting outdoor environments – excellent locations for hands-on learning activities. Thousands of youth and adult groups visit every year to learn about a specific topic on wildlife, habitat, or ecological processes.

Wildlife Viewing
If you enjoy getting outdoors and looking for wildlife, a visit to your nearest national wildlife refuge offers something for everyone! From birding to viewing speedy pronghorn antelope or slower desert spiny lizards, wildlife observation is the most popular activity for visitors to Stillwater refuge.

Hunting
Both waterfowl and big game hunting is permitted – but strictly regulated. Check website for details. Boat hunting is restricted. Several areas are absolutely Off-Limits to all hunting activities.

Camping
Overnight stays are allowed in two areas within the refuge boundary – on E Division Rd, 3 miles off Hunter Rd., and about 9 miles North on Hunter Rd. The overnight area is just before you cross the canal near the Center Rd intersection. Both sites are near vault toilets, but that’s it for development and comfort – these are primitive sites with no other features! There are no fees for overnight stays, but there is a 7 day limit.