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Location
and hours
Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge is 19,131 acres in
size and is located in north-central Nebraska along the Niobrara
River. The refuge, once a frontier military fort, supports
an exceptional diversity of plants and wildlife. A visitor
center, with informative displays and exhibits, a bookstore,
and staff to answer questions, is open from 8:00am –
4:30 pm daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and Monday
through Friday during the rest of the year (except Federal
holidays).
Driving
Directions
Fort Niobrara NWR is located about five miles east of Valentine,
Nebraska on US Hwy 12. The visitor center is about one and
one-half miles from the Refuge entrance. Various directional
signs are located along the route. See
Map
Hunting
There is no hunting on Fort Niobrara NWR.
Fishing
Fishing is allowed on the Minnechaduza Creek and along the
Niobrara River downstream from Cornell Dam.
Wildlife
Observation
Over 230 species of birds are attracted to Fort Niobrara NWR
for resting, feeding, or nesting. The rich bird life results
from the diverse habitats found here. Many song bird
species, such as the golden-winged warbler, stop on the Refuge
during their migration between wintering and breeding grounds.
Others, such as wood ducks and grasshopper sparrows come here
to breed. Sharp-tailed grouse and greater prairie chickens
are year-round residents of Fort Niobrara NWR. Approximately
350 bison and 100 elk are managed at Fort Niobrara NWR to
conserve herds representative of those that once roamed the
Great Plains. In addition to the wildlife already mentioned,
48 other mammal species, 24 reptile and amphibian species,
and several fish species are found on the refuge.
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Auto
tour route,Nature Trail and Floating the Niobrara River
Fort Niobrara – A 3.5 mile, self-guided auto tour route
starts near the visitor center and provides the opportunity
to view bison, elk, prairie dogs, and other natural and historic
points of interest. At stop number 13, and accessible
observation deck overlooks the scenic Niobrara River corridor.
An arduous ¾ mile nature trail descends from the overlook
to the base of Fort Falls, and then continues to the river
before circling back up to the top of the canyon.
The
more adventurous visitor can enjoy the Fort Niobrara Wilderness
Area on foot or by floating the Niobrara River. Allow
2-4 hours for a float trip through the Refuge. A small
fee is charged per person launching on Fort Niobrara NWR.
Private outfitters in the area rent watercraft and provide
shuttle services.
Environmental
Education
Visitor Center, wildlife trails, A refuge orientation, slide
program, as well as an environmental packets are available
to organized school, civic, and professional groups. Advance
reservations are required for all programs and may be made
by phoning the refuge headquarters.
Special
Activities
Visitors can “experience” refuge management
each fall by watching the Bison roundup and auction.
Special activities for children include Kid’s Fishing
Day and the Junior Ranger Program. Refuge can be contacted
for exact dates and times for these activities.
Refuge
brochure (pdf)
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