Overview
Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge lies roughly 6 miles south of Cheney, Washington, within the ancient lava-carved terrain known as the Channeled Scablands. Established in 1937, the refuge covers approximately 16,000 acres and was created primarily to protect and restore wetland habitats for migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway — one of North America's major bird migration corridors.
The landscape is a patchwork of shallow lakes, marshes, sedge meadows, and ponderosa pine woodlands interspersed with the distinctive basalt outcroppings that define the Scablands region. This mosaic creates exceptional habitat diversity, supporting more than 200 recorded bird species as well as resident mammals including white-tailed deer, muskrat, and American beaver.
The refuge is managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and is primarily a wildlife conservation area, though a designated portion — the Pine Lakes Auto Tour and associated trail system — is open to the public for wildlife observation, photography, and quiet recreation. Visitors should expect a peaceful, unhurried experience more akin to a nature sanctuary than a developed recreation site.
Before You Go
Entry and Access
Turnbull is a federal wildlife refuge. A portion of the refuge is open to the public; much of the acreage is a closed management zone. Entry fees and passes are applicable — as of general knowledge, the refuge participates in the America the Beautiful (Federal Lands) pass program, but verify current fees and pass acceptance on the official U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service site or contact the refuge directly before visiting.
The public use area typically operates during daylight hours, but seasonal closures and adjusted access are common, particularly during sensitive nesting periods in spring. Always confirm current hours and any road or trail closures before your visit.
What to Bring
- Binoculars and a spotting scope if you have one — the wetlands reward patience and magnification
- Field guide to Pacific Northwest birds
- Sturdy, waterproof footwear; trails can be muddy in spring and early summer
- Sunscreen and water; there are no food or drink vendors on site
- Insect repellent, especially May through July
- Camera with a telephoto lens for wildlife photography
Pets
Pets are generally not permitted in the public use area of Turnbull. Confirm current regulations on the official site, as rules can change seasonally.
Getting There
By Car
Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge is most practically reached by private vehicle. From Cheney, Washington, head south on Cheney-Plaza Road for approximately 6 miles; the refuge entrance is clearly signed. From Spokane, the drive is roughly 20–25 miles southwest via US-195 or I-90 to Cheney. Road conditions on the gravel sections inside the refuge can vary; a standard car is usually sufficient in dry conditions, but a higher-clearance vehicle is helpful in wet or winter conditions.
By Public Transit
Cheney is served by STA (Spokane Transit Authority) bus routes from Spokane. However, there is no public transit connecting Cheney to the refuge itself — a car or rideshare is necessary for the final 6 miles. Verify current STA routes and schedules at the STA website.
Nearest Airports
Spokane International Airport (GEG) is the closest commercial airport, approximately 30 miles from the refuge. Major rental car agencies operate at GEG, making it the most practical arrival point for visitors coming from outside the region.
Getting Around
Within the public use area, the Pine Lakes Auto Tour Route is a paved and gravel loop road of approximately 5.5 miles that allows visitors to observe wetlands and wildlife from their vehicle — an accessible option for those with limited mobility. Interpretive signage is placed along the route.
Several short hiking trails branch off from the auto tour, ranging from easy, flat boardwalk paths over wetlands to slightly longer loops through pine forest. Distances are modest — most trails are under 2 miles. Trail maps are typically available at the entrance kiosk; download one in advance from the refuge's official page as a backup.
Bicycling is permitted on the auto tour route; verify current regulations for specific trails before bringing a bike. The terrain is largely flat, making it suitable for casual cyclists.
Things to See & Do
Bird Watching
This is the primary draw. Turnbull sits directly on the Pacific Flyway, making it exceptional for observing waterfowl — including multiple species of ducks, Canada geese, tundra swans, and occasionally trumpeter swans — during spring and fall migrations. Year-round residents include great blue herons, red-tailed hawks, bald eagles, and numerous songbirds. The closed potholes and marsh areas concentrate birds in remarkable numbers during peak migration.
Wildlife Photography
The auto tour route and wetland boardwalks place visitors within close, unobtrusive range of wildlife. Early morning light over the cattail marshes and ponderosa pines creates strong photographic conditions. Mammals including white-tailed deer, beaver, muskrat, and porcupine are regularly seen by patient visitors.
Hiking and Nature Walking
The trail network is unhurried and interpretive rather than strenuous. The Blackhorse Lake Trail and the boardwalk sections over Kepple Lake are often highlighted by regular visitors as particularly productive for wildlife observation. Trails are well-marked but carry a map.
Seasonal Events
- Spring (April–May): Peak migration, courtship displays on the water, wildflowers including balsam root and lupine in the pine uplands
- Summer (June–August): Nesting activity, goslings, fawns, quiet but productive for resident species
- Fall (September–November): Return migration of waterfowl, brilliant colors, hunting seasons active in some zones — check current hunting schedules
- Winter (December–March): Much of the public area may have limited access; confirm conditions before visiting
Practical Information
Facilities
Facilities at Turnbull are minimal by design. An entrance kiosk, restrooms at the trailhead parking area, and informational signage are typically available in the public use zone. There are no restaurants, gift shops, or fuel on site.
Nearest Services
Cheney, Washington (approximately 6 miles north) has gas stations, grocery stores, fast food, and casual dining. Spokane, roughly 20–25 miles northeast, offers the full range of urban amenities including hotels, hospitals, and shopping.
Connectivity
Cell phone coverage inside the refuge is unreliable. Download maps, bird checklists, and the refuge brochure before you arrive. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service maintains a refuge page; search for "Turnbull NWR" on fws.gov to find current information.
Hunting and Fishing
Portions of Turnbull outside the public use area are open to regulated hunting during specific seasons, primarily for waterfowl and upland birds. This is managed separately from the wildlife viewing area. Contact the refuge directly or consult Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife for current season information.
Safety
Turnbull is a low-risk destination for most visitors, but standard outdoor precautions apply. The Columbia Plateau experiences temperature extremes — summer afternoons can be hot and dry, while early spring and fall mornings are cold; dress in layers. Lightning is a hazard during summer afternoon thunderstorms; seek shelter in your vehicle if a storm approaches.
Wildlife should be observed from a distance. Do not approach deer, waterfowl nests, or any wildlife. Rattlesnakes are present in the region and can be encountered on dry, rocky sections of trails, particularly in summer. Watch where you step and where you place your hands.
The refuge has no on-site ranger station with permanent staff during all hours. In a genuine emergency, call 911. Cell coverage is spotty, so inform someone of your plans before entering the refuge.
