Refuge Regulations

Special regulations are necessary to protect wildlife and habitat. Please familiarize yourself with the refuge regulations and respect the privileges of other visitors. Your understanding of regulations will make your visit a safe and enjoyable one.

Hours

The refuge is open daily from sunrise to sunset. After sunset, public activity is limited to the Swinging Bridge and Crook campgrounds. The office and visitor center are open from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday, and are closed for Federal holidays.

Access

To protect wildlife from disturbance and minimize habitat damage, vechicles and bicycles must stay on developed roads. The speed limit on all Refuge roads is 25 mph unless posted otherwise.

Parking

Vehicles must park in pullouts or within 10 feet of the road. Overnight parking is not permitted unless camping in the designated campgrounds.

Camping

Camping is permitted only in designated campgrounds and is limited to 14 days. To protect the solitude of the Refuge, the use of generators is prohibited. Please pack out all your trash to keep the Refuge beautiful. Developed Bureau of Land Management campgrounds are available nearby at Irish Canyon, Indian Crossing, and Taylor Flats.

Horses

Horseback riding is permitted only on developed roads. Use of certified weed-free hay is required to minimize further introduction of invasive plants. Horses are not permitted in campgrounds.

Accessible Facilities

An accessible waterfowl hunting blind and fishing pier are located near Hog Lake.

Firearms, Explosives, and Other Weapons

Carrying, possessing, or discharging firearms, including archery equipment, on the Refuge is prohibited except when using legal firearms during hunting seasons, as prescribed and approved by the State of Colorado. Firearms must be unloaded (no ammunition in either the chamber or the magazine) and cased when transported in a vehicle. Carrying, possessing, or discharging explosives, including fireworks, is strictly prohibited. Target shooting is prohibited.

Animal and Plant Life

Collecting, possessing, or destroying any plant or animal or part thereof (alive or dead) is prohibited (except legally taken game).

Introduction of Plants and Animals

Plants and animals, or their parts, may not be introduced or placed on the Refuge.

Historical Artifacts and Other Valued Objects

Searching for, removing, or damaging historic items, Native American artifacts, or fossils is prohibited. No person shall search for or remove rocks, stones, or mineral specimens. Possession and use of metal detectors are prohibited.

Pets

Pets are permitted only if they are confined or leashed (except hunting dogs when participating in a legal hunt).

Disposal of Waste

Dumping of litter, sewage, liquid wastes, or any other material on the Refuge is prohibited.