Originally known as the Malheur Migratory Bird Refuge when it was first established in 1908, the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge is a refuge for birds. It welcomes to at least 320 bird and 58 mammal species in its 187,000 acre area.

The Malheur National Wildlife Refuge is flanked by the Malheur Lake and the Harney Lake. It has a very diverse ecology, with grasslands, rimrock, wetlands, and deserts. Best known for its migrant birds, the site is a popular spot to folks who are huge fans of bird watching and wildlife viewing.

The Malheur National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most wide-ranging fresh water marsh ecosystems in the region. It is open most of the year, although, most experts suggest that the days of early fall and late spring are the best times to visit the area.