Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge

Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge is located in the extreme southwest portion of Montana near the Idaho border. The refuge has one of the most naturally diverse areas in the refuge system. It boasts the largest wetland complex within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem as well as expansive tracts of grassland, sagebrush, steppe habitats and forested areas.

Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1935 to protect wataerfowl and migratory birds. The refuge was also the last known breeding area for trumpeter swans. Through extensive efforts throughout the country trumpeter swans' populations now thrive. Today, the Refuge continues to be one of the most important habitats in North America for these majestic birds.

Here you will find abundant opportunities to hike, fish, take pictures, and observe a variety of wildlife and flowers, but at our 6,700 feet elevation, we recommend sturdy footwear, warm clothing, rain gear, and good binoculars and spotting scope for optimum enjoyment. While visiting the Refuge, feel free to stop by the headquarters in Lakeview and take a look at our impressive Trumpeter Swan display. The Refuge is open year round from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and closed on Federal holidays.

In the evening you can listen to the calls of the majestic trumpeter swan. Although many game animals roam the refuge (moose, sandhill cranes, curlews, peregrine falcons, eagles, hawks and owls, badgers, wolverines, bears, antelope, wolves, Arctic grayling fish and west slope cutthroat trout), this is primarily a bird sanctuary, providing habitat for over 230 species of birds. Bird-watching is prime with 50,000 ducks and geese and up to 2,000 tundra and trumpeter swans gathering in early fall. Springtime provides nesting grounds for the sandhill cranes.

Two primitive campgrounds are maintained within the Refuge. The Upper Lake Campground has trees, toilets, potable spring water, fire rings, and picnic tables and is close to mountain hiking and aspen wildlife viewing. The River Marsh Campground is an open grassland with toilets and fire rings, and is the best place to see water birds. There is no electrical power at either campground.

Wheelchair-accessible facilities and toilets are available at the headquarters and Upper Lake Campground. Camping is permitted for a maximum of 14 consecutive days at both campgrounds. Camping is not permitted outside established campgrounds. Fires are permitted only in campground grates. Firewood is not provided but dead or downed timber can be collected nearby. Chain saws are prohibited. The Refuge does not take reservations; camping is on a 'first come, first serve' basis. Please pack in-pack out your trash.