The three mile Upper Lake Trail encircles the lake and provides an excellent opportunity to see waterfowl throughout the year. Running between the Upper Lake Trail and the refuge’s headquarters, the Davenport Trail climbs into drier desert habitat of the refuge and offers several scenic overlooks. Hiking is also available on roads throughout the refuge.  Download Maps
 

The abundance of wetlands on the refuge supports a large and diverse population of wildlife. As one of the most popular birding locations in southern Nevada, visitors can expect to see several species of waterfowl and songbirds throughout the year.  Hikers exploring during the early morning or evening hours often see some of the refuge’s many mule deer.  To view pictures of the refuge's wildlife please see the multimedia gallery.  A listing of Pahranagat birds is also available.

Hunting of geese, ducks, coots, moorhens, quail, snipes and rabbits is permitted on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday during the official hunting season.  Dove hunting is permitted daily during the regular hunting season (typically September).  Hunting of big game, coyotes, crows and swans is prohibited.   The public hunting area begins just North of Dove Dike and ends near the southern  shore of Lower Lake.  Boundaries are posted.  All Nevada Department of Wildlife regulations are applicable.   For more information on hunting please download the Pahranagat NWR Hunting, Boating & Fishing Regulations brochure.

Catfish, carp, and largemouth bass may be found in the Upper Lake as well as many other areas of the refuge. Fish can also be found in a pond just north of Whin Dike. The North Marsh is closed to fishing from the first of October to the first of February. All Nevada Department of Wildlife regulations are applicable.

Only non-motorized boats or boats with electric motors are permitted on Upper Lake, Middle Marsh Unit and Lower Lake throughout the year.  The use of boats, rubber rafts or other flotation devices is not permitted on the North Marsh at any time.  Trailer launching is not permitted.  To prevent the spread of invasive species, only car-top watercraft are permitted.  State law requires a wearable Personal Flotation Device on board for each person.  Also, all boat passengers under twelve years old must wear a life jacket while in a boat that is underway.

Fourteen primitive lakeside campsites are available free of charge along Upper Pahranagat Lake on the refuge. Sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis (no reservations). A few sites can accommodate multiple tents, camping trailers or RVs. No electrical, water or waste treatment facilities are available. Vault toilets (no flush) are provided. Visitors may stay for a maximum of fourteen days.  Campground Map