Destination Recreation: Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge

 Destination Recreation

Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge

By Karl Klein, NOS Associate Director

As someone who loves the great outdoors, I have to say that there's nowhere quite like Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Ruby Valley, Nevada. It's the kind of place that's so beautiful, you almost forget that you're sweating through your shirt and your feet are covered in blisters from all the hiking you've been doing. Almost.

But seriously, folks, Ruby Lake is one of my favorite places to go when I need to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There's just something about the combination of pristine wilderness and total isolation that really speaks to me. Of course, it doesn't hurt that the scenery is absolutely breathtaking.

Now, some people might say that the best part of Ruby Lake is the wildlife. And don't get me wrong, I love seeing all the different creatures that call this place home. From the graceful mule deer to the speedy pronghorn antelope, to all the many species of waterfowl, there's always something exciting to spot. But let's be real for a second: the real stars of the show are the mosquitoes.

I mean, have you ever seen anything more persistent? These little buggers will follow you around for miles, buzzing in your ear and biting you at every opportunity. It's like they have a personal vendetta against humans. But hey, at least they keep things interesting, right?

Despite the mosquito situation, there's something really special about spending time in a place like Ruby Lake. It's a reminder that even in our hyper-connected world, there are still pockets of pure, unadulterated wilderness out there waiting to be explored. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a herd of pronghorn antelope or a group of mule deer.

But there's more to Ruby Lake than just the wildlife. The fishing here is top-notch, with state record rainbow and tiger trout lurking in the depths of the Collection Ditch. And if you're looking for something a little more exciting, the bass fishing in the marsh units is hard to beat. Just be sure to bring your A-game, because these fish don't go down without a fight.

Before traveling to Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First of all, the refuge is located in a remote area, so you should be prepared for limited cell phone service and spotty internet connectivity. It's also important to remember that you are entering a fragile ecosystem, so please do your part to minimize your impact on the environment. This means packing out all your trash, being mindful of where you hike and camp, and respecting the wildlife.

As for facilities, Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge has a visitor center with exhibits and information about the refuge. There are also several hiking trails and observation decks, as well as picnic areas for visitors to enjoy. However, it's important to note that there are no lodging or food options within the refuge, so you should plan on bringing your own supplies.

There is no entry fee to visit Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge, but there may be fees for some services, such as fishing permits. Camping is available nearby at the Ruby Lake Campground, which has both tent and RV sites available. 

Pets are allowed in the refuge, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. There is limited parking available at the refuge, so it's a good idea to arrive early or carpool if possible. Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) are restricted within the refuge, so be sure to leave them at home.

Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge is generally less crowded during the week and in the off-season, which runs from October to March. However, it's important to note that hunting is allowed in certain areas of the refuge during certain times of the year, which can affect the number of visitors.

The history of Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge dates back to the early 20th century, when the area was used for cattle grazing and hunting. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps began building dams and creating marshes in the area, which attracted a wide variety of waterfowl and other wildlife. The refuge was officially established in 1969 and has since become an important habitat for many species of birds and other animals.

To keep Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge healthy and open for current and future use, it's important to choose your activities wisely. Stick to designated trails and campsites, avoid disturbing wildlife, and always pack out your trash. By doing your part to protect this beautiful area, you'll ensure that it remains a destination for generations to come.

To get to Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge, take US-93 south from Elko, NV, for approximately 60 miles. Turn right on State Route 229 and continue for 22 miles until you reach the refuge entrance. Look for the large "Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge" sign on the left side of the road. If you're coming from Spring Creek, NV, you can take the scenic route through Jiggs, NV and over Harrison Pass. However, it's important to note that Harrison Pass is not maintained during the winter and is closed for traffic until the snowpack melts. So, if you're planning to visit Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge during the winter months, it's best to stick to the more direct route on US-93. Once inside the refuge, follow the signs to the visitor center and other points of interest. And remember, cell phone service may be limited in this area, so be sure to bring a map and any other necessary navigation tools.

So if you're looking for a destination that's equal parts beautiful and challenging, I highly recommend giving Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge a try. Just make sure you bring plenty of bug spray. And maybe a hazmat suit.