Valentine National Wildlife Refuge is located in the U.S. state of Nebraska and includes 19,131 acres (77.42 km2). The refuge protects a portion of the largest remaining area of tall and mid grass prairie remaining in the U.S. Collectively known as the sand hills region of Nebraska, the dunes were the end result of the last ice age known as the Pinedale glaciation. During the Holocene glacial retreat the sand dunes that been deposited in their current location by the vast continental glaciers, were exposed and grasses eventually took over. The refuge is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and along with Fort Niobrara and John and Louise Seier National Wildlife Refuges, they form the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
Numerous lakes and ponds are located on the refuge, fed by underground seeps and springs. 260 species of birds have been identified over the years on the refuge, and during migratory periods in the spring and fall, 150,000 birds pass through the protected area. Coyote, blanding's turtle, prairie grouse, white-tailed and Mule deer are commonly found by visitors in this refuge. Muskrat and beaver inhabit the wetlands and streams. Use our Valentine tour itinerary site to add Valentine National Wildlife Refuge and other attractions to your Valentine vacation plans.
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Valentine National Wildlife Refuge reviews
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This is a great place to see some of Nebraska's nature. There's a nice gravel path for walking on the east side of US-83. On the west side, there's a driving tour of the refuge. If you want to see...
This is a great place to see some of Nebraska's nature. There's a nice gravel path for walking on the east side of US-83. On the west side, there's a driving tour of the refuge. If you want to see... more »
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Very natural settings. Plenty of flora and fauna to see. Not much in the way of amenities, but a good place to explore and photograph.
Very natural settings. Plenty of flora and fauna to see. Not much in the way of amenities, but a good place to explore and photograph. more »
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Best place in the Sandhills♥️
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I just barely experienced it while driving from Valentine to Thedford on Highway 83. The wide variety of waterfowl, the huge snapping turtles, and the general beauty and peacefulness has me wanting to go back and spend more time exploring the other areas of the refuge. I am planning on taking my grand-nephew there in the near future, on a fishing and nature trip!
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