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Rules and Regulations

Rules and Regulations Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge lands are accessible year round. Acceptable outdoor uses include nature photography, wildlife observation, environmental education, interpretation, and hunting by permit. The refuge trails are open dawn to dusk. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash. Refuge hunting is by permit only, and you apply through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife. The auto tour exit closes at 5:30 p.m., and parking is in designated spots only. Make sure to observe all refuge regulations, posted refuge boundary signs, no hunting zones, and closed areas.

Follow these general rules for recreational activities on refuge lands. Please recognize and respect the rights of other refuge users and neighbors.

These activities are PERMITTED on the refuge:
• Environmental education and interpretation, hiking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, wildlife observation, and nature photography.
• Biking on designated trails.
• Fishing in designated areas according to state and refuge-specific regulations.
• Hunting by permit only in designated areas according to state and refuge-specific regulations.

These activities are PROHIBITED on the refuge:
• Use of motor vehicles unless authorized by the Refuge Manager.
• Snowmobiling, off-road vehicles and horseback riding.
• Canoeing and boating on the Refuge except in designated areas.
• Use or possession of firearms (including air and paintball guns) except during hunting season in designated areas.
• Target shooting.
• Disturbing, destroying, vandalizing, or removing property, including signs.
• Camping or building fires.
• Disposing of waste or abandoning of property.
• Indecency or disorderly conduct.
• Swimming.
• Unleashed pets.
• Artifact hunting, cultural site disturbance, digging, burying, or disturbing the soil.
• Night time activities, unless authorized by the Refuge Manager.

 
Last Updated: Oct 25, 2012
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