National Wildlife Refuge Events

Youngsters transplant native plants at Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge in California during a celebration of National Wildlife Refuge
Credit: Lisa A. Cox/USFWS

Bring on the Festive Season at a National Wildlife Refuge

There’s a chill in the air and a winter holiday mood to enjoy at a national wildlife refuge near you. Breathe in the brisk fresh air and see what natural wonders lie in store: great flocks of waterfowl heading south for the winter, the crunch of dried leaves underfoot, the rustle of small animals preparing for the cold ahead. Attend a refuge open house or other seasonal refuge event, and learn more.
Stimulate your mind and body with a nature walk in a season of flux. Visit a refuge and see what all the excitement is about.
February 2013 Events
March 2013 Events
April 2013 Events

Regional Events

Wapanocca NWR, about 25 minutes from Memphis, Tenn. in east central Arkansas, was established in 1961 as a sanctuary for migratory birds. It covers more than 5,600 acres. Waterfowl numbers peak at roughly 150,000 ducks and geese each year.
Credit - USFWS/Southeast

Did you know there are over 70 National Fish Hatcheries and more than 550 National Wildlife Refuges, many

within a 1- hour drive from your house? No matter where you live, there is a natural area close by to visit, whether it is a community park, state park or your national wildlife refuge or hatchery. These areas often have trails, waterways, campgrounds, gardens and events to enjoy.  Pack up the family and get to know each place together. Go back often so you really can enjoy and learn about what they have to offer. Check to see if they give tours, learn about their history, and make your own adventure.  Make sure to bring a nature journal to record all the different types of wildlife you see. Wildlife is EVERYWHERE. For ideas, use the web sites below to explore online; then explore them in person – with your friends and family.
Nature Rocks
Naturefind, National Wildlife Federation

Local Events

Little Girl at Kenai National Wildlife Refuge
Credit - USFWS/Steve Hillebrand

Getting your family outdoors can be as simple as opening the door to the backyard or as exciting as going camping.  And as your children grow bigger and more capable, adventures outdoors can grow in complexity with them.  The important thing is to begin when they are young – as soon as they can crawl – to let them experience the wonders of nature. The web sites below will give you ideas about outdoor family fun.
Your Guide to Hunting on National Wildlife Refuges, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Your Guide to Fishing on National Wildlife Refuges, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Find Activities, Nature Rocks
Nature Clubs for Families, Nature Rocks
Great American Backyard Campout, National Wildlife Federation

Playful Pathways: Changing the Way Families Play

Pathways for Play helps communities create networks of shared use pathways, infused with play pockets, and usable by all for healthy recreation and non-motorized transportation to connect meaningful destinations.