Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge

Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge is managed for mixed stands of coniferous and deciduous trees in various classes. These mixed-age stands offer various habitat conditions favorable for ruffed grouse. Upland bird hunters know Minnesota is one of the finest destinations in the country for this...

Fishing is permitted according to state, federal and White Earth Reservation regulations. Available species include walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, crappie and bluegill. Boat access are primitive and do not have docks. Lakes open to summer fishing include North Tamarac Lake, Waboose...

Tamarac Refuge is a premier bird watching location with 258 species recorded. It is known for trumpeter swans, golden-winged warblers, American woodcock, common loon, bald eagles, and more. The diversity of habitat from conifer forest to open meadows along with lakes, rivers and vernal ponds...

Motorized boats are allowed on the lakes open to summer fishing: North Tamarac Lake, Waboose Lake, Two Island Lake, and Lost Lake.  Blackbird Lake is open to electric motor use only. Boat launches are primitive with no docks or restrooms. See the fishing regulation brochure or page for more...

Non-motorized boats (canoes, kayaks) are allowed on lakes open to summer fishing: North Tamarac Lake, Blackbird Lake, Lost Lake, Two Island Lake, and Waboose Lake. There is no river boating or paddling on the refuge. See the summer fishing brochure or page with rules and policies for more...

Most of the refuge trails and service roads are open to snowshoeing. Recommended places include Chippewa Picnic Area (1/4 mile trail and restrooms), Bear Paw Trail (1 1/2 miles), and the Old Indian Trail (2 1/4 miles trail).  Please do not snowshoe on the groomed cross-country ski trails of...

Tamarac Refuge has over 8 miles of classic cross-country ski trails. Pine Lake loop is 6 miles and the Tamarac Lake loop is 2 miles. Both can be accessed at the Pine Lake parking area. A kiosk there has maps and detailed information. Volunteers from the Detroit Lakes Area Nordic Ski Club groom...

Walking the trails with dogs is allowed on the refuge. Tamarac Refuge can be a wonderful place to visit with your furry companion as long as you visit responsibly to protect your pet, wildlife, habitat, and other visitors. Pets must be kept on a leash or under control at all times.  Please...

Rangers, volunteers, and subject experts lead wildlife walks, tours and educational programs. Events may focus on wildflowers or birds or even paddling experiences. Some programs may be limited in size or require advance registration. See events on this websites for details or check the Tamarac...

Explore the world of nature with your child during this hour long adventure geared for 3-6 yr olds.

Join Us For Wild Wednesday

Nature photography has quickly become one of the most popular activities at the refuge. No matter if you're using a smartphone or a camera with a long lens, you’ll find countless stunning photo opportunities—sometimes it’s simply about being in the right spot at the perfect moment. The wildlife...

Only nuts, berries, and mushrooms can be collected on the refuge. There is no plant collection allowed. Foraging for nuts, berries, and mushrooms is allowed in areas and time frames that are open to trespassing. Refer to the refuge map that indicates year-round closed areas. The map also shows...