Plan Your Visit
Hours of Operation
The refuge is opened year-round, from 7AM - 5PM October 1- March 31 and 7AM-7PM from April 1 - September 30. A temporary closure of the entire refuge is implemented during any scheduled refuge hunt dates in November and December (call refuge office for further information).
Pets
Pets are allowed on the refuge. Pets must be on a 10ft leash at all times while walking on the trails.
Helpful Health Hints
Too often visitors take home unpleasant memories of their refuge experience because they have not been dressed appropriately or sufficiently protected against insects. For that reason, as well as for health concerns, we stress the importance of sharing the following “Helpful Health Hints”:
- Comfortable walking shoes, long pants, long sleeved shirts, warm jackets, scarves, caps, and gloves are needed during the colder months. In summer, comfortable walking shoes, shorts, and t-shirts are recommended and all clothing should be tolerant of the muddy conditions on the trails after wet weather.
- Insect repellent is recommended while hiking the trails during the months of April through October. Mosquitoes, deer flies, green head flies, and biting gnats can be especially fierce in the wooded and marsh areas.
- Poison Ivy is a common sight on the refuge. It is relished by deer and over sixty pieces of birds eat the berries. All parts of the plant and smoke from burning plants can give people serious rashes during any season. Poison Ivy is distinguished from other plants by its three leaflets per leaf and the alternate leaf arrangement. Also avoid the “hairy” vines during the dormant season.
- The refuge supports ideal habitat for the venomous northern copperhead. Remember that these snakes are more afraid of you than you are of them, and that a snake will seldom strike unless provoked. Stay out of high grass and watch your step, because many snakes wear a protective camouflage.
- Spring and summer are tick seasons. Ticks congregate on low-lying vegetation, so avoid walking through tall grasses by staying on marked trails. A few ticks may carry Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and/or Lime disease, so check yourself and children thoroughly after visiting the refuge. Ticks may be removed with tweezers after rubbing baby oil or alcohol on them. If they become imbedded or if fever occurs, consult a doctor as soon as possible.
- Summers in Virginia can be very hot. When temperatures exceed 90 degrees, individuals should be concerned about heat stress. Bring your own water bottles and drink plenty of water while hiking or engaging in activities around the refuge. Wear sunscreen and loose, layered clothing. Stop and rest frequently. Do not overexert yourselves.
Group Visits
Wildlife dependent recreation activities are allowed on established roads, trails, on habitat, and in buildings that have been designed to accommodate such uses, in areas that are the least sensitive to human intrusion. Self-guided groups of 10 or more will be required to request access and obtain a Special Use Permit (PDF 992 Kb) to visit the Refuge for these activities.
Other Helpful Items to Plan Your Visit
Refuge Brochure
Driving Directions
Visitor Opportunities
List of Birds for the Mason Neck Area (PDF 13Kb)
