Merced National Wildlife Refuge

Seasonal gatherings of waterfowl and cranes are a major draw, with an auto-tour route and nature trails offering different ways to observe the landscape.

Check the refuge’s current map, gate hours and seasonal notices before setting out. Bird numbers depend on migration and conditions; the photograph shows a flock during a particular visit. Bring binoculars if you have them, remain on designated routes and avoid disturbing feeding or resting birds. Guided programs and special events have separate schedules.

Visitor details reviewed October 18, 2026. Check official visitor information for current access, admission, and operating arrangements. View on OpenStreetMap.

Image credit: Lee Eastman of Pacific Southwest Region U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service from Sacramento, US / Wikimedia Commons. Original source. CC BY 2.0. Resized and converted to WebP; may be cropped for display.