Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge

Directions: From Cheney, drive 4 miles S on Cheney-Plaza County Road (Badger Lake Road) to entrance sign, then 2 miles E on Smith Road.

Primary Wildlife: As many as 50,000 ducks, geese and other migratory birds can be seen on the refuge in fall. Many species of waterfowl use the area for both nesting and brood rearing. White-tailed deer, elk, coyotes, beaver, badger, muskrats and mink, and numerous other small mammals are found here. Redheads and other diving ducks are the principal nesting species.

Habitat: 15,468 acres of numerous lakes and marshes restored from an attempt to farm the area in the 1890s and early 1900s. The lakes and marshes are interspersed with ponderosa pine forest.

Recreation and Education: Wildlife observation, study, and photography. Environmental education. Five-mile, self-guided auto tour route. Hiking trails and observation points. A 2,200-acre public use area is open daily during daylight hours.

Special Note: Two Research Natural Areas have been established on the refuge. The Turnbull Laboratory for Ecological Studies (operated by Eastern Washington University) is located on the refuge. Office open 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Entrance fee required: $2 per vehicle, seasonally March 1 through October 31.

South 26010 Smith Road
Cheney, WA 99004
(509) 235-4723