Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge was established to develop and manage a system of wetlands and grasslands unique to the Red River Valley of North Dakota. The Refuge contains an intermittent stream and pools of water that flows into the Turtle River, a tributary of the Red River. Located within the intensively farmed Red River Valley, the Refuge serves as an important migration stopover and staging area for shorebirds and waterfowl (ducks, geese, and swans) in an area where there are few options for waterbirds.

Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent place to view migratory and breeding waterbirds. More than 35,000 shorebirds visit the Refuge from April to August. More than 12 species of ducks nest here and 22 species of shorebirds have been sighted on the Refuge, making Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge a birding destination.

Just a short a 15-minute drive from the city of Grand Forks, North Dakota, Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent place to view a variety of shorebirds and waterfowl. The Refuge serves as an important stopover for shorebirds during peak spring and fall migration. In summer, lower water levels create mudflats that attract a diversity of species. In late July and early August, fall shorebird migration peaks, and you can see many species, including American avocet, Wilson's phalarope, willet, marbled godwit, upland and spotted sandpiper.