Des Lacs
Kenmare, ND 58746
Plan Your Visit
The Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge headquarters features a small visitor center with wildlife exhibits, including bird mounts, antler sheds, furs, and interactive displays. Just outside, an observation deck equipped with binoculars offers excellent views of waterfowl and other wildlife, as well as a great vantage point for photography.
The refuge supports five of the six priority public uses identified in the National Wildlife Refuge Improvement Act of 1997: wildlife observation, photography, environmental education, interpretation, and hunting. Fishing is not offered, as the refuge does not support a sustainable fishery.
Before you go
Visit our Rules and Policies page for important guidance.
Questions?
Call our office: (701) 385-4046
The Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge headquarters is located 1 mile west of Kenmare, North Dakota, off Ward County Road 1. A large entrance sign is situated at the junction of County Roads 1 and 1A. Kenmare is located 50 miles northwest of Minot on U.S. Highway 52.
Activities
More Activities
Get Involved
Discover for yourself what tens of thousands of volunteers have learned - volunteering for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is fun and rewarding in many ways. Master new skills. Meet new friends. Enjoy a sense of accomplishment from doing your part to further wildlife conservation.
Services
Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge provides the following services:
- Issuance of Special Use Permits for certain activities allowed on National Wildlife Refuges such as grazing, haying, commercial photography, research, group events, and more.
- Educational brochures.
- Visitor center with wildlife displays featuring bird mounts, antler sheds, furs, and interactive displays.
- Observation deck equipped with binoculars for viewing migratory birds and other wildlife.
- Auto tour route and trails.
- Environmental education programs for local schools and groups.
- Administration of cooperative agriculture programs.
- Project reviews related to energy development when U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service interests are involved.
About
The Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1935 to protect migratory birds and local wildlife along the Des Lacs River. The area holds significant cultural history, having been used for trade and hunting by several Native American tribes and later by French trappers. Today, the refuge serves as a critical nesting ground for waterfowl and a resting place during migrations.