As an oasis in the Great Basin Desert in western Utah, Fish Springs serves a variety of species including fish, migratory birds, deer, coyotes, pronghorn, cougars and other native species.

The Fish Springs Range runs north to south and is immediately west of the Wildlife Refuge.

Fish Springs is thought to be the end of a long flowpath of groundwater, starting in the Schell Creek Range and Snake Range area and flowing along permeable bedrock (for example, limestones) or faults toward Fish Springs.

The springs and several wells in the area are monitored by Fish and Wildlife personnel and/or the Utah Geological Survey.

The water of Fish Springs is not suited for human consumption, being warm (~80 °F (27 °C)) and highly saline.