The Rattlesnake Wildlife Refuge is a privately owned sanctuary spanning ~80 acres of virgin land in the Klickitat River canyon, with sweeping views of the Klickitat River, the WDFW Klickitat Wildlife Area, and the Klickitat Trail.

Named for the rattlesnake—an honored resident here—we strive to provide a safe haven for all the creatures that call this place home.

We are in the process of applying to become a 401 (c) 3 non-profit.

Nearby attractions...

Klickitat River

The Klickitat River winds through the rugged canyons and rolling plateaus of south-central Washington, carving one of the most dramatic landscapes in the Columbia River Basin. Fed by glaciers on Mount Adams, its cold, swift waters support runs of salmon and steelhead, making it one of the state’s longest undammed rivers. Beyond its ecological richness, the river has deep cultural significance for the Klickitat people, who have fished its waters for generations. Today, the Klickitat remains a place of wild beauty—where basalt cliffs, white oak savannas, and abundant wildlife meet along a river that still feels untamed.

WDFW Klickitat Wildlife Area

The WDFW Klickitat Wildlife Area stretches across thousands of acres of oak and pine forests, basalt canyons, and rolling shrub-steppe in south-central Washington. Managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, it provides critical habitat for deer, elk, wild turkeys, and a wide array of native birds, pollinators, and reptiles. Beyond its ecological importance, the area offers visitors opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, hunting, and fishing, while preserving the natural beauty of the Klickitat River basin for generations to come.

Klickitat Trail

The Klickitat Trail follows the path of a former railroad, winding for more than 30 miles through canyons, forests, and open plateaus in south-central Washington. Beginning along the Klickitat River and stretching to the pine woodlands near Goldendale, the trail offers a unique way to experience the region’s rugged landscapes and diverse wildlife. Hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders alike can explore its mix of basalt cliffs, wildflower meadows, and oak savannas, making it a year-round destination for outdoor adventure and discovery.