Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) was established to develop and manage a system of wetlands and grasslands that is unique to the Red River valley. The Refuge supports a diversity of wetland and grassland wildlife, while providing for wildlife-dependent recreation, interpretation, and education. Kellys Slough NWR is located in the heart of the Red River valley. The Refuge contains an intermittent stream that flows into the Turtle River, a tributary of the Red River.

Kellys Slough NWR covers portions of Blooming, Lakeville and Rye Townships of Grand Forks County. The main parking area is 8 miles west and 3 miles north of Grand Forks, North Dakota. Signs on U.S. Highway 2 direct visitors to the Refuge, where there is a parking area, an elevated viewing platform, several informational signs, and two walking trails.