San Luis National Wildlife Refuge

Grasslands will be our focus for this field day, taking place in a designated RAMSAR site of international importance and the heart of California’s Grasslands Ecology Area.  We are happy to be able to utilize the  San Luis NWR Complex Visitor Center, exhibit hall and classroom educational space as we explore and learn about not only the San Luis Wildlife Refuge, but nearby grasslands areas, including Great Valley Grasslands State Park.  With an eye toward biodiversity and climate resilience, we will meet and hear from expert professionals who are utilizing their energy, knowledge, and skills in communication, engagement, and implementation toward a best possible future.  

Invited for this field day are not only  participants in the Four Rivers Natural History Association Climate Stewards Certification Spring ‘25 course cohort, but other interested California Naturalists, Climate Stewards, or interested others! Updates coming soon include registration and any related fees.  Thanks for checking back!

There are handicapped (concrete) spots available in the parking lot, as well as “fuel-efficient” vehicle/van parking.  The remainder of the parking lot is level asphalt.  The concrete parking lot pathway leading to the wooden bridge and fully accessible Visitors Center beyond,  is wide enough for wheelchairs, and is about 200 feet in distance.

We will utilize the  officially accessible Wetland Trail, across the road from the Visitors Center.  One would cross the asphalt road with the crosswalk marked in hash lines, going from the Visitors Center to the Wetland Trail.  There is a small parking area near the Wetland Trailhead.  At this location there are two accessible picnic tables.  These are the only refuge picnic tables.  There are areas around the Visitors Center (i.e., sitting walls) designed (and favored) for general outdoor seating. 

Other trails are hard-packed gravel/dirt (i.e., “all-weather surfaces”.

The Tule Elk driving tour route may be utilized, with each traveling in their own vehicle. If conditions allow, we will gather at the Tule Elk observation platform which is not formally deemed accessible, as there is a “lip” at the beginning edge of the wooden part of the ramp (marked with warning-black and yellow hash marks).  Parking at the observation deck is on concrete, with at least one designated handicapped space.

For our group visit, accessible restrooms will be available inside the Visitors Center.  Outdoor accessible restrooms are just off (to the right) of the main parking lot.

•  Before traveling, please review, take a screenshot, and/or print directions.  Your GPS may not work when in the area.
• Dress appropriately for a range of weather conditions.  Layered clothing is suggested.  Consider bringing sunscreen, a handkerchief, and a hat.
• Bring water, snacks, and lunch.
• Bring your field/nature journal, writing/journaling tools.
• Feel free to bring binoculars (recommended if you have them, for Tule Elk observation), spotting scopes, and cameras.
• There are no entry or parking fees.
• Note:  WiFi and phone service on the refuge may be limited.

 Coming from the North (Modesto) on Highway 99: 

In Turlock, take the Lander Ave/Highway 165 exit toward Los Banos. Travel south on Hwy 165 through the communities of Hilmar and Stevinson. At the 4-way stop at the intersection of Hwy 165 and Hwy 140, continue southbound (straight) toward Los Banos for 12.5 miles. Turn left on Wolfsen Road. Follow Wolfsen Road approximately 2 miles until the pavement ends at the Refuge entrance. Continue through the gate on the gravel road and follow the signs to the Elk and Waterfowl auto tour routes. The Visitor Center is on the left immediately after passing through main entrance.

Coming from the South (Fresno) on Highway 99: 

Travel on Highway 99 north to Highway 152 westbound. Travel westbound on Hwy 152 to Los Banos. Turn right on Mercey Springs Road (fourth stoplight after entering Los Banos from the east). Continue on Mercey Springs Road (also called Hwy 165) for approximately 6.5 miles to Wolfsen Road. Turn right onto Wolfsen Road. Follow Wolfsen Road approximately 2 miles until the pavement ends at the Refuge entrance. Continue through the gate on the gravel road and follow the signs to the Elk and Waterfowl auto tour routes. The Visitor Center is on the left immediately after passing through main entrance.

From Interstate 5 (north or south): 

Take the Los Banos/Highway 152 east exit. Travel on Highway 152 eastbound into Los Banos. Turn left on Mercey Springs Road. Continue on Mercey Springs Road (also called Hwy 165) for approximately 6.5 miles to Wolfsen Road. Turn right onto Wolfsen Road. Follow Wolfsen Road approximately 2 miles until the pavement ends at the Refuge entrance. Continue through the gate on the gravel road and follow the signs to the Elk and Waterfowl auto tour routes. The Visitor Center is on the left immediately after passing through the main entrance.