The Salt Plains were originally a favorite hunting ground of the early American Indians who dwelt in the area. In March 26, 1930, the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge was established in the area under the order of President Herbert Hoover. The refuge includes more than 32,000 acres of land and was designed to be a breeding ground for some 312 species of birds that rest in the plains during fall or spring.

Aside from the migratory birds, the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge is also popular because of selenite crystals found in the area. At least 11,000 acres of salt flats in the ground has gypsum content with concentration strong enough to produce the crystals. During the months of April thru October, visitors from all over the world can come to dig and collect them. Besides hunting for crystals, visitors can also go hiking and fishing in the refuge.