Grays Lake
Wayan, ID 83285-5006
Plan Your Visit
National wildlife refuges offer us all a chance to unplug from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with our natural surroundings.
Refuge Access
Visitors are welcome at Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge. At times, however, large portions of the refuge are closed to public entry to minimize wildlife disturbance. Grays Lake is open from sunrise to sunset. No overnight parking is allowed on the refuge. Daily accessible self-serve indoor and outdoor exhibits at the Refuge Headquarters provide information about the refuge and its wildlife from April 1 – November 15.
Things to Do...
The overlook above the Refuge Headquarters provides an expansive view of the Refuge. Wildlife observation and photography are encouraged, but seasonal closures are enacted to protect nesting wildlife. Hiking is allowed on the Bear Island trail and in the public hunting area to the north of Bear Island from September 20-March 31.
Tips for Visiting
Grays Lake is a considerable distance from most amenities and visitors should plan accordingly. The nearest fuel is in the communities of Soda Springs ID and Thayne WY.
Activities
More Activities
Get Involved
National wildlife refuges provide many opportunities for you to help your community by doing what you love. National wildlife refuges partner with volunteers, youth groups, landowners, neighbors and residents of urban and coastal communities to make a lasting difference.
Services
About
Grays Lake NWR was created in 1965 to protect a portion of the historic Grays Lake marsh and provide habitat for migrating waterfowl. It is a well-known breeding site for Sandhill cranes and attracts almost 250 species of birds. The refuge offers wildlife-dependent recreation such as observation, photography, and waterfowl hunting. It is managed as part of the Southeast Idaho NWR Complex.