Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Summer Lake Wildlife Area is located in south-central Oregon along the eastern edge of the Cascade Range, encompassing high desert wetlands, alkali flats, and salt marshes surrounding Summer Lake and the adjacent Goose Lake. Established in 1944 and managed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, the area was created primarily to protect and provide winter habitat for migratory waterfowl and other native wildlife. The landscape features a unique combination of shallow lakes, marshes, and open grasslands, creating one of the state's most important bird habitats. It serves as a major stopover for thousands of migrating birds along the Pacific Flyway, including sandhill cranes, Canada geese, swans, ducks, and numerous shorebird species. Beyond birding, the wildlife area offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, wildlife photography, and limited primitive camping. Key landmarks include the Summer Lake Hot Springs and several observation points that provide excellent views of birds and the surrounding desert scenery. The area's rich history reflects its transition from native homelands to a managed conservation zone supporting biodiversity and sustainable recreation. Summer Lake Wildlife Area appeals especially to nature enthusiasts and birders seeking a quiet, relatively remote destination known for spectacular spring and fall migrations as well as wintering populations of waterfowl.
