Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge is located in the fertile Willamette Valley of northwestern Oregon, 12 miles (19 km) south of Salem.

In some low-lying areas of the refuge, wetlands that were drained or channelized by previous owners have been restored to increase diversity and desirability of habitat for wildlife.

By resting in undisturbed areas on the refuges, wintering geese regain energy reserves required for migration and nesting.

Because of their need for a quiet resting area, waterfowl habitat is closed to public entry while the geese are in residence in order to minimize human disturbance.

Ankeny NWR also provides habitat for a wide variety of other bird species, as well as mammals, reptiles and amphibians.

Wildlife and wild-lands observation, photography, hiking, and environmental education and interpretation are the major public use activities allowed on the refuge.