Although the Refuge is in a rural setting, the area is well-known in the birding community and visited often by birders from throughout western Washington. Most visitation occurs during a three-week period in the spring when shorebirds migrate through the area. The Refuge is close to U.S. Highway 101's Pacific Coast Scenic Byway and is adjacent to State Highway 109, which is the main highway for visitors along the Washington coast. This route was designated the Hidden Coast Scenic Byway. Other wildlife can be seen from the trails, including deer, coyote, and small mammals. Songbirds are abundant in the alder and cottonwood forest. During April and May, the Refuge offers field trips for classes participating in the environmental education program so they can witness the wildlife and ecological connections learned in the classroom.

A majority of the Refuge is intertidal flats and salt marsh salt marsh
Salt marshes are found in tidal areas near the coast, where freshwater mixes with saltwater.

Learn more about salt marsh that is crucial habitat for shorebirds to build reserves for their long migration. Human disturbances can have detrimental effects on their ability to rest and feed. For this reason, fishing, clamming, and hunting are not permitted within the Refuge.