Flagship U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service refuge where the Bear River meets the northeast arm of Great Salt Lake—the largest freshwater wetland component of the lake ecosystem. More than 250 bird species use the marshes; tens of thousands of tundra swans stage in migration, and colonies of American avocets, black-necked stilts, and white-faced ibis nest on dikes and in emergent vegetation. Visitor center trails plus a 12-mile auto tour route make it one of Utah’s premier birding destinations.
Field facts
| Region | Box Elder County, UT |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 41.5097, -112.0694 |
| Agency | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (National Wildlife Refuge System) |
| Species | 250+ birds; major Pacific/Central Flyway stopover; large ibis and shorebird colonies |
| Visitor facilities | Visitor Center (I-15 exit 363 / Forest Street), Wetland Wonders and related trails, 12-mile auto tour |
| Hours | Auto tour and trails sunrise–sunset; visitor center typically Tue–Sat (confirm before visit) |
Nearby locations
Nearby amenities
- Rec areaBear River Migratory Bird Refuge0.2 km away
- Rec areaWillard Bay Reservoir9.9 km away
- Rec areaWillard Bay State Park9.9 km away
- CampgroundBOX ELDER CAMPGROUND10.7 km away
Public recreation data — BLM & Recreation.gov (RIDB). Verify current access, fees, and seasonal closures before traveling.
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