Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge

I came here hoping for a peaceful wildlife stop, but it ended up being more unsettling than relaxing. 🌅 The Good: • Nevada sunsets here are stunning. The wide open desert sky lights up beautifully. • Plenty of ducks, pelicans, and other birds, which is great if you are into birdwatching. • The open landscape makes for some strong photo opportunities. 🦟 The Not So Good: • The mosquitoes are straight out of a zombie movie. They swarm the car, throw themselves at the windows, and attack in hoards the moment you step out. • Picnic areas are unusable. Bird nests are crammed under the shelters, droppings cover everything, and there are even the occasional dead birds. • Bathrooms are filthy and neglected. • At one of the viewing areas, there was a random creepy pair of scissors just left sitting on a bench, which really added to the bad vibe of the place. • Overall, it feels more run down, gross and eerie than inviting. ⚖️ Overall: If you are a dedicated birder with strong bug spray, you might get something out of it. For everyone else, between the relentless mosquitoes, filthy facilities, and unsettling details, it is not a place you will want to stay long.

Stunning area, you will be delighted with what you come across

Easy hikes - we saw white pelicans, much to our surprise. We did get pictures, There was a large area that 50 - 75 swallows had made nests,, entertaining to watch. There were plenty of ducks and ducklings as well.

There's some wildlife out there barn swallows have taken over the picnic areas that are covered. Very little shade. You can see for miles. I know they call it a wildlife refuge but to me it was more like an Insect Refuge LOL but there are Geese Ducks and White Pelicans I'm sure there's a lot more out there but the insects are off the chart. Maybe bring an umbrella to keep the sun off you and for heaven's sake stay out of the water I'm sure it's loaded with Mercury just like the Lahonton res. You know it's a shame about the Mercury leaching in there out of the old mines in the area.And looks like quicksand to me so maybe tie a rope around yourself and to the car bumper if you do investigate off the road. I mean they do call it the Carson sink.

The Stillwater Refuge is a wild and beautiful place. Lots of wildlife viewing locations. The road is a little rough in places, but that just makes you slow down enough to actually look around. Pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it.