Refuge Rules and Regulations
Credit: USFWS
Entry only during posted hours. Closing times strictly enforced. Allow time to return to your vehicle and leave the area before posted closing time.
Observe the posted speed limits for your safety and for the safety of wildlife and others.
We enforce federal, state, county, and refuge regulations regarding the possession and consumption of alcohol.
Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on National Wildlife Refuges must comply with all provisions of state and local law. Firearms are prohibited in all buildings. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (50 CFR 27.42 and specific refuge regulations in 50 CFR Part 32).
Buses, RV’s and automobiles may not idle for more than five minutes.
You must have a valid entrance pass (weekly, annual, Golden Eagle, Golden Access, Golden Age and Duck Stamp).
Display pass or placard clearly on the dashboard of your vehicle.
Stay on marked walking trails and roads.
Bikes are allowed only on paved roads. Children under 16 must wear a bike helmet. Park bicycles at racks located at the entrance to the boardwalk, homestead and other hiking trails.
I n-line skates, skateboards, scooters, and/or roller-skates are prohibited.
Pack out any litter you generate and any you find.
Riding on back of pickup trucks is not permitted.
Organized games such as baseball, football, Easter egg hunting etc. are not permitted on the refuge.
Plants, Animals and Artifacts
Disturbing or collecting plants, animals or artifacts is strictly probhibited.
Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than 10 feet at all times. Pets are not permitted in boats, public buildings or on boardwalks.
Do not feed or harass wildlife.
Boating and Fishing
Stay on marked trails.Outboard motors are limited to 10 hp or less.
Everyone in your boat must have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life preserver. Georgia law requires children 9 and under to wear life preservers in boats.
Fishing is allowed if you have a valid Georgia fishing license and follow state laws.
Do not fish with live fish or use trotlines.
Swimming and wading in refuge waters is prohibited, due to danger from alligators.
Pets are not allowed in boats.
Wilderness Canoe Trail System
The canoe permit must be carried by the group leader, who is responsible for the party following all Refuge regulations.
You must complete any additions or changes to your permit before you depart.
Canoe permit fees include required entrance fees.
Special regulations apply to commercial guiding and outfitting. Guiding
You must launch before 10:00 a.m. each day.
Motors of any kind are not permitted on canoe only trails or overnight canoe trips.
You must remain at your designated shelter between sunset and sunrise only for one night.
Campfires are allowed only at Canal Run and Floyds Island. A camp stove is required for cooking at all other shelters. Be aware of restrictions during dry periods.
You must bring a portable toilet with disposable bags. Dispose of waste properly outside of refuge.
Follow exactly the route on your permit. Do not stray from your assigned trail. Only one party per stop is allowed.
All licenses, permits, equipment, and effects, including vehicles and canoes, are subject to inspection by state and federal officers.
You must display parking placard clearly on the dashboard of any vehicle you leave parked overnight at any entrance.
