National Wildlife Refuges are great places to see, enjoy, and learn more about wildlife. Waubay NWR is no exception. Opportunities for the public to enjoy the Refuge occur throughout the year, but it's important to remember that the needs of wildlife come first. Some of the activities which you can take part or places you can visit include the following:
Headquarters
Visitors Center - This is a great place to start your visit. The
displays and exhibits focus on the wildlife and history of the Refuge. Refuge
staff can answer questions to make your visit safer and more enjoyable.
Headquarters
Hiking Trails - About 1.5 miles of trails now encircle the island around
Headquarters. Trails vary in length from less than 400 feet to about 1
mile long. They wind through forests of bur oak, basswood, and green ash, pass
wetlands, a restored prairie area and follow the lakeshore. You'll have a chance to see a variety of
songbirds, waterfowl and sometimes deer. The boardwalk and a portion Wood Duck
Way is accessible for visitors with mobility
impairments. The Ed Fromelt Memorial Fund was used to develop trail signs,
maps and interpretive pamphlets.
Observation
Tower - Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930's,
this 110-foot tower offers stunning views of Refuge lakes and the surrounding
area.
Spring
Lake Overlook Trail - This short trail to the overlook offers a panorama
of four different habitats. Prairie wildflowers paint the trail sides with a
constantly changing palette of colors.
Recreation
Area - The stone structure shelter nestled along the shore of
Hillebrand's Lake offers a beautiful place for a short break while birding or an
exciting setting for outdoor classrooms.
Wildlife
Observation - Spring and fall migration are the peak times to observe
large varieties and concentrations of birds. Waubay NWR also offers novice and
experienced birders opportunities to see such species as the red-necked grebe
and other treasures.
Hunting
- Archery, muzzle loader and rifle deer hunting permits are issued for
the Refuge through the South Dakota lottery for special seasons. No other hunting is
allowed on the Refuge.
Fishing - "Walk-in" ice-fishing is allowed from December
(after refuge deer season) to
ice-out with a valid South Dakota fishing license. Walleye, perch, and northern pike are popular game fish.
Please pick up an ice-fishing brochure when you arrive on the refuge.
