Facility Rules and Policies

There are many interesting things to do and see during your visit to Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge, but it is our number one job to ensure wildlife and the habitat they call "home" is protected. Below are a few guidelines for visitors to help keep both you and the wildlife safe. 

Refuge property is marked on the outside boundary with yellow paint hash marks and blue goose boundary signs. Landowners adjacent to the refuge may mark their boundary with blue paint hash marks and no trespassing signs. Trespassing on posted or unmarked private property is a violation of Kentucky state law.

  • The Refuge is only open to the public from sunrise to sunset, with the exception of permitted hunting seasons. 
  • There is no camping allowed on the Refuge; campfires are also not permitted
  • Refuge signs define refuge boundaries. “Area closed” signs are erected to minimize disturbance to wildlife and for public safety. 
  • Pets on a leash are permitted. 
  • Bicycling is permitted on established roads.
  • Horseback riding is permitted on established roadways or trails.
  • Firearms are permitted on the refuge in accordance with state and local law.
  • Searching for and removal of objects of antiquity is prohibited.
  • Disturbing or feeding wildlife or collecting plants is not allowed.
  • ATV’s are prohibited.
  • Use of artificial lights, including vehicle lights, to observe wildlife is not allowed.
  • The Refuge is open during daylight hours.
  • To have a special event, conduct research, etc., a Special Use Permit must be issued before participation in such activity.

For hunting and fishing regulations, please refer to our hunting brochure.

Environmental Education and Recreation Area Specific Regulations

The EERA is open to the public as well as schools, scout troops, and other groups. Appointments are not necessary, but if you would like to reserve the education pavilion please contact the refuge office. Because this area was designed specifically for friends, families, and groups to enjoy wildlife-dependent recreation, there are some area specific regulations that apply to ensure everyone's safety.

All general refuge regulations apply.

  • Daylight use only
  • Pets not on a leash are prohibited
  • Hunting is prohibited
  • The use of any unlicensed vehicle is prohibited on ALL refuge property.
  • Portions of the EERA are closed to ALL entry from November 1 to March 31
  • Littering is prohibited
  • Fires are prohibited 
  • Possession or use of alcoholic beverages is prohibited
  • Area is pole fishing only with a limit of 1 pole per person
  • Use of any watercraft is prohibited
  • Horseback riding is prohibited
  • Bicycles are permitted while engaged in wildlife related activities on refuge graveled roads
  • Use of live fish for bait is prohibited
  • Introduction or stocking of fish is prohibited
  • Swimming is prohibited
  • Hunting or harvesting of frogs is prohibited
  • To have a special event at the pavilion, a Special Use Permit must be issued.

Creel Limits

SpeciesSize LimitCreel Limit
BluegillNone10

Channel Catfish

Largemouth Bass

12"5 Combined
All other species12"*follow statewide regulations*