Quivira National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1955 to provide and protect vital habitat for migratory waterfowl in the Central Flyway. Its 22,135 acres feature a unique combination of rare inland salt marsh and sand prairie. Quivira is listed as a Wetland of Global Importance. Many opportunities exist for visitors to explore this oasis of the Great Plains.

Quivira National Wildlife Refuge provides ample opportunity to appreciate wildlife and natural environments across mixed-grass prairies, wetland impoundments, and natural salt marshes. Opportunities for visitors include wildlife viewing, photography, fishing, hunting, hiking, biking on public roads, interpretation, and environmental education. Annually, the Refuge is used by over 300 species of migratory and resident bird species, with most migratory species occurring from September to December and March to April as they journey from and to their breeding grounds. In Spring and Summer, Quivira is home to nesting species such as snowy plovers, American avocets, black-necked stilts, interior least terns and blue-winged teal. The Refuge is open from 1-1/2 hours before sunrise to 1-1/2 hours after sunset. While the visitor’s center, located at the Refuge Headquarters building, is currently closed to the public, brochures can be accessed at information kiosks throughout the Refuge.