[4] The wildlife area covers the northern half of the island of 24,000 acres (9,700 ha), which lies at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia rivers.

About 300 species of wildlife, including bald eagles, pintails, red-tailed hawks, American kestrels, and many others, frequent the island.

[5] Wetlands and bodies of water, including 21 lakes as well as sloughs, connecting channels, and streams such as the Gilbert River, abound in the wildlife area.

Sandy Columbia River beaches, including one that is clothing-optional, draw large numbers of people to the area's northern edge.

[5] In 1940, the state bought 5 acres (2.0 ha) on Sauvie Island to protect waterfowl that winter on Sturgeon Lake.