Fort Niobrara is a 19,000 acre refuge managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The refuge was established in 1912 by executive order for the conservation of native birds. Fort Niobrara consists of riparian forests, wooded canyons and sandhill grasslands. The refuge has two hiking trails including the Fort Falls trail is an arduous 1 mile loop, with great views of a waterfall and the Niobrara National Scenic River. The second trail is the Buffalo Bridge trail which is an out and back trail (2 miles total). The trail ends at buffalo bridge above the Niobrara River. Beyond the bridge, visitors enter a wilderness area. The Wilderness has no trails but you are welcome to experience the solitude while self exploring - just be cognizant of hunting season. River access to float or paddle is available for a small fee at the canoe launch area. The refuge also has a scenic overlook off HWY 12 with two separate viewing platforms. Wildlife observations are not guaranteed.Camping is not allowed.

Fort Niobrara NWR is located about 5 miles east of Valentine, Nebraska, on U.S. Highway 12. The visitor center is about 1э miles from the Refuge entrance. Various directional signs are located along the route.