Hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities generally follow statewide regulations including seasons and bag limits established by Kansas Wildlife and Parks. Other regulations specific to Marais des Cygnes Refuge are as follows.
Motorized Vehicles - Motor vehicles are restricted to public roads and parking lots. Do not park in front of gates or access roads. ATV's are prohibited.
Boating - Outboard motor use is restricted to the westernmost 5½ mile section of the Marais des Cygnes River. Non-motorized boats and electric trolling motors may be used on all open portions of the refuge including the eastern 4 mile section of the Marais des Cygnes River. Property boundaries are located at the center of the river. Therefore, where sections of the river border private property, only the half of the river adjacent to public property is open to public use.
Camping - Overnight camping and building of fires is prohibited.
Fishing - Fishing is allowed in accordance with statewide seasons and creel limits.
Firearms
Firearms are prohibited except when used for appropriate hunting seasons.
Center-fire and rim-fire rifles and pistols are prohibited at all times.
Nontoxic shot is required for all shotguns.
Hunting
Deer and spring turkey hunting open only to those possessing a valid Refuge Access Permit. Contact the Refuge office for information on how to apply for a permit.
Hunting, running dogs, and trapping for furbearers and coyotes is prohibited.
Blinds, tree stands, and steps may not be fastened with any device which is inserted into trees, including screws. Construction and hunting from illegal blinds is a violation.
Distribution of bait is prohibited.
Decoys and blinks must be removed each day.
No discharge of firearms within 150 yards of any residence or other occupied building.
Pets - Pets must be leashed except when used for hunting during appropriate hunting seasons.
Personal Conduct
"Closed Areas" are closed to all public entry unless specifically opened for a special event.
Disorderly conduct and leaving of any refuse on the land or water is prohibited.
Use of open portion of refuge for nature observation and other related activities is allowed.
Animals and Plants
Spotlighting deer on the Refuge is prohibited.
Molesting or injuring any animal or plant, except fish and game taken in season, is prohibited.
Harvest of berries, nuts, and mushrooms for non-commercial use, is allowed.
Artifacts and Historic Items - Artifacts and historic items are protected on Refuge lands by Federal law. It is unlawful to search for, excavate or remove these objects from the Refuge.
