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Recreation

Boating	Wildlife Observation	Hiking
Fishing	Hunting	Camping and Campfires

 

Boating

Opportunities abound to get out on the water at the Lewis and Clark National Wildlife Refuge. One of the main reasons for getting out on the water, whether in pristine or developed areas, is to get closer to nature. From the cockpit of a kayak or the seat of a canoe, a water-level perspective gets us closer to wildlife and the landscape. Recreating with respect for the landscape, private property, fish and wildlife and cultural resouces is everyone's responsibility.

The Lower Columbia River Water Trail is a 146-mile, bi-state trail spanning the tidally influenced river waters from the Bonneville Dam to the Pacific Ocean. Please check Lower Columbia River Water Trail link at: http://www.lcrep.org/

The islands of the Columbia River estuary are accessible only by boat. Tidal flows and fluctuations, strong winds and wake from ships in the navigation channel can make boating difficult and sometimes dangerous. Deep channels separate most of the islands at high tide, but tide tables and navigation charts should be consulted to avoid grounding and sandbars (consult http://www.saltwatertides.com). If your boat becomes stuck in the mud, wait for the next high tide to float it free. Launch facilities are located at John Day Point and Aldrich Point in Oregon, and at Skamokawa, Washington.

Pack It In, Pack It Out. Please take all your trash home with you. Pick up litter -- yours, and what others may have left behind.

Wildlife Observation

For optimal bird watching and photographic opportunities, plan your visit during the fall migration. One secret to spotting more wildlife is to stand still and look quietly around. Movement and noise scares most animals and birds away. Please help us minimize disturbance to plants and wildlife by moving lightly and quietly through the area. Binoculars and field guide books can help you identify animals you see.

Hiking

Public entry on the refuge islands is limited to foot travel only. All-terrain vehicles (ATVs), bicycles, motorbikes are prohibited.

Fishing

Sport fishing is regulated by the State of Oregon. Visit the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife or call toll free (800) 720-ODFW.

Hunting

Much of the refuge is open to waterfowl hunting in accordance with Oregon and Federal regulations. All other species are protected. Hunters must possess a valid Oregon hunting license, and all waterfowl hunters 14 or older must have a valid Oregon State Waterfowl Validation. Waterfowl hunters 16 or older must possess a signed, valid Federal Duck Stamp. Areas around Tenasillahe Island, Karlson Island, and Miller Sands are closed. Please consult refuge manager for exact boundaries and detailed information. All dikes are closed to hunting. Temporary blinds may be constructed, but such blinds shall be available for use on a first-come, first-serve basis. The refuge is closed to hunting or trapping of all other species including deer and elk.

Visit the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife or call toll free (800) 720-ODFW [6339] for additonal information regarding hunting.

Camping and Campfires

The refuge is closed to all camping. No burning is permitted on refuge lands or beaches. Nearby campgrounds are located at Oregon Department of Fish and WildlifeSkamokawa Vista Park, 13 Vista Pk Rd, Skamokawa, WA 98647, 360-795-8605.