Making Field Trip Reservations 

Advanced reservations are required for all school groups visiting Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Nisqually NWR is a popular place with limited facilities. With reservations we can:

• Schedule classes so they do not use the Refuge at the same time. This will reduce overcrowding of the Refuge facilities, minimize wildlife disturbance, and ensure a better opportunity for wildlife observation.
• Coordinate with volunteers.
• Provide better interpretive and educational programs.
• Determine the number of people participating in Refuge activities. This information can help us obtain funding for future improvements to our programs. 
• To make a reservation, contact the Environmental Education Coordinator Davy Clark, at (360) 753-9467 or davy_clark@fws.gov or download a copy here Field Trip Reservation Packet. 

NOTE: This reservation form is for schools and scouts groups only. 

Reservations are processed on a first come, first served basis from the day the application forms are received at the Refuge office. If you have requested a service provided by Refuge staff and volunteers, allow at least two weeks for your application to be processed. Once the application has been processed, you will receive written notification confirming dates and times for your group's visit. Please bring this confirmation form with you when you visit the Refuge. 

How Many Groups May Come On One Day? 

The number of groups may vary; however, the total number of students is limited to 100 on any given day. This may be five groups of 20 students or two groups of 50. This number is in addition to the public visitors who do not have reservations.

What About the Entrance Fee? 

Field trip groups qualify for a fee waiver only if they are: 

• Visiting the Refuge for educational purposes and 
• Integrating their field trip into a larger course of study that focuses at least partially on the natural environment. 

Groups that qualify for the fee waiver will have "exempt" stamped on their field trip confirmation notice. 

For more information, contact the Education Coordinator at:

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
100 Brown Farm Road
Olympia, WA 98516
Phone: (360) 753-9467
Fax: (360)534-9302