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Plan Your Visit

Driving Directions

When?

Plan your visit according to the season and time of day. Wildlife is generally more active in mornings and early evenings than in the afternoon.

Late spring, summer and fall provide the best viewing opportunities. Tall plant growth in mid-summer hinders visibility somewhat. During late summer and fall you may see larger groups of birds as they gather for migration. Watch for flocks of cranes and geese in refuge grainfields.

Winter viewing is more limited and November-March you may wish to phone the refuge for an update on road conditions.

Where?

Drive the roads that circle the refuge. Stop and view from elevated vantage points such as the headquarters overlook and the roadside overlook on the southeast side. Beavertail Point and the northwest corner of the refuge off Grays Lake Road afford views of open water areas.

How?

Your car is an excellent observation and photographic blind. Staying in your car will often avoid scaring wildlife and provide you with better viewing opportunities.

Use binoculars and spotting scopes to bring animals “closer” to you without disturbing them.

Binoculars, camera, bird identification books, insect repellant, water and a lunch will contribute to a pleasant visit.

Vehicles and Parking

Use of any motorized vehicle or bicycle is permitted only on the roads designated on the map in this brochure. Permission should be obtained from landowners before crossing private land to enter open portions of the refuge. Please park    in a manner that does not obstruct gates or traffic. The public roads which encircle the refuge provide good vantage points for viewing wildlife on the refuge and on adjacent lands. May, June and September are best for viewing aquatic birds.

Pets

Pets are allowed if on a leash or under close control.

Weapons

Unloaded weapons that are dismantled or cased may be transported by vehicle on refuge roads.

Prohibited Activities

No camping, overnight parking, fire, fishing or collecting items of antiquity, including Indian artifacts.

Hunting

Hunting Areas

Hunting is permitted only in those areas designated on the map in this brochure as Open to Entry.

Temporary Closures

Refuge grainfields are subject to temporary closure. Watch for closure signs.

Licenses

All hunters must carry a valid State hunting license and all required State and Federal stamps, validations and permits.

Seasons

Dates, hunting hours and bag limits for species listed below correspond to the State regulations.

Species

Ducks, geese, coots and mergansers may be hunted. All other species of wildlife are protected and may not be killed.

Boats

Although non-motorized boats are permitted, a boat is not necessary for waterfowl hunting on the refuge. There are no launching ramps and the marsh is suitable for car-top type boats only.

Blinds

Temporary blinds of natural vegetation may be constructed, but such blinds shall be available for general use on a first-come, first-served basis. Construction of permanent blinds is prohibited.

Personal Property

All personal property including boats and decoys must be removed from the refuge at the end of each day.

Alcohol

The use or possession of alcoholic beverages while hunting is prohibited.