Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge

Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge is west of the Missouri River in Dunn County. It contains one of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's largest cultural resource deposits. Visitors can learn about prehistoric hunters and gatherers of the plains. Referred to as Paleo-indians, these people used the confluence of Spring Creek and Murphy Creek, which is now inundated by Lake Ilo, as a place to make tools and exchange goods as far back as 11,000 years ago.

Knife River flint is found only in small, dense concentrations in western North Dakota. Prehistoric stone tools made from this material have been found in western New York, central Alberta and in northeastern New Mexico. 

Visitors are reminded that collection of artifacts, including Knife River flint, is not allowed on Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge. 

 Lake Ilo is open to public use between sunrise and sunset.  Fishing, bird watching, and hiking are available, as well as a boat ramp and fishing pier located on the north shore of Lake Ilo. The refuge also maintains a three-acre park with grills and tables. However, no electricity or water is available.