This national refuge in the northeast corner of South Dakota provides more than 21,000 acres of habitat for migrating waterfowl and a variety of other fish, reptiles, and amphibians. The refuge, designated as a Wetlands of International Importance, is home to 155,000 pairs of Franklin's Gulls, the largest reported nesting colony in the world. A 108-foot observation tower at the visitor center offers visitors a 'birds-eye' view of the refuge. A variety of year-round recreation is offered here; birdwatching, photography, hunting and fishing, and educational programs are popular at the refuge. The Columbia Recreation Area, situated one mile from Refuge Headquarters, features a 3/4-mile hiking trail, interpretive kiosks, and picnic facilities. A 15-mile driving tour can be made between April and mid-September, depending on road conditions. The refuge is open during daylight hours only; visitor center open Monday-Friday. Admission to the refuge is free.
Location:
39650 Sand Lake Drive, Columbia South Dakota 57433
Telephone
605-885-6320 Fax 401
Other Wildlife Viewing nearby:
(Aberdeen) Blue Sky Hunting Farms
(Britton) Coteau des Prairie Outdoors
(Aberdeen) Pheasant Finders
(Columbia) Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge
(Cayuga) Tewaukon National Wildlife Refuge
(Waubay) Waubay National Wildlife Refuge
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01/10 Coming to The Columbia area
South Dakota BBQ Championships Huron SD May31-June1 Anyone can compete in the backyard BBQ Competition. Meat is provided so you don't need to bring any.
Antique Power Show Huron SD June15-17 Experience the days of antique tractors, cars, steam and stationary gas engines. 150 exhibits and displays, entertainment, demonstrations, flea market, parade and tractor and car games.
Scandinavian Hjemkomst and Midwest Viking Festivals Moorhead MN June28-29 The Midwest Viking Festival is an outdoor gathering of craftsmen, musicians and living history enthusiasts, from throughout the upper Midwest, who specialize in bringing the Viking Age back to life.
Sully County Fair Onida SD August9-12 kicking off the fair with a parade through Onida on Thursday, at 6:27 p.m. The parade will end up at the fairgrounds where we will be having cake, refreshments and music.
Brown County Fair Aberdeen SD August12-18 The Brown County Fair has been providing entertainment and promoting family unity since the 1880s. Enjoy the Dacotah Stampede Rodeo and the demolition derby.
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