National Wildlife Refuges

May I fly a drone on a national wildlife refuge?

No. Launching, landing or disturbing wildlife by aircraft (drones) on national wildlife refuges is prohibited by law – Code of Federal Regulations Title 50 Part 27 Sections 34 and 51 (50 CFR 27.34/51). Drone operators should not rely solely on applications such as AirMap, B4UFly or DJI Go to determine if a location is legal for drone use. Such applications do not always capture accurate locations of public lands where drones are prohibited. Contact the individual refuge’s manager if you have questions.

Is it legal to collect shed antlers on a national wildlife refuge?

No, it is not, unless you have a special permit. Code of Federal Regulations Title 50 Part 27 Section 61 (50 CFR 27.61) prohibits the unauthorized removal of any public property, including natural objects from any … Read More

Why is hunting allowed?

The National Wildlife Refuge Improvement Act of 1997 institutionalized hunting as a priority public use on refuges. This means it is a primary focus in planning and management efforts. Hunting on refuges, carefully regulated, also is used to manage for healthy wildlife populations and habitats. See… Read More

Where can I find information about fees and passes?

Most national wildlife refuges offer free admission, but about 30 refuges do charge a small entry fee. Learn more about various federal recreational lands passes.

Where can I find general visitor information?

Check out our visit us page.

Where can I find contact information for a national wildlife refuge?

Go to the contact us page of any national wildlife refuge… Read More

Is there anything I should know before visiting a national wildlife refuge?

Yes. Be respectful of the land, waters and animals. “It’s kind of like walking into somebody’s house,” says National Wildlife Refuge System Chief Cynthia Martinez. “Think about it as we humans are entering into a place of wildlife.” See How Best to Enjoy a National Wildlife Refuge.

Are all national wildlife refuges open to the public?

More than 75 percent of national wildlife refuges are open to the public. Others are closed to the public for wildlife conservation purposes and/or to protect fragile habitat.

How can I find a national wildlife refuge in my state or territory?

Go to the interactive find a refuge map to search by state, by Zip Code or refuge name.

Permits

Is it legal to collect shed antlers on a national wildlife refuge?

No, it is not, unless you have a special permit. Code of Federal Regulations Title 50 Part 27 Section 61 (50 CFR 27.61) prohibits the unauthorized removal of any public property, including natural objects from any … Read More