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U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Return to Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

Rules and Policies

Updated November 9, 2026

The refuge is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Visitors are encouraged to respect wildlife and habitat at all times, remembering that they are guests in the animals' home.

The following activities are prohibited on the refuge, including but not limited to:

  • Exceeding the posted speed limit of 25 mph.
  • Camping, except at Adolph Thomae Jr. County Park.
  • Possession or use of alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs.
  • Possession of dogs that are not under leash control.
  • Use of motorized or electric ATVs, UTVs, golf carts, scooters, or dirt bikes.
  • Collecting, taking, injuring, or destroying any plant or animal species.
  • Distributing bait or hunting over bait.
  • Hunting without a valid refuge hunt permit.
  • Use of flagging, markers, or other unauthorized trail markers.
  • Operating or launching drones or other aircraft.
  • Using artificial lights, including vehicle headlights, infrared devices, thermal imaging equipment, night-vision devices, or game cameras, to locate, observe, or take wildlife.
  • Building fires, littering, or engaging in target shooting.
  • Commercial guiding without a valid Special Use Permit.
  • Disturbing, harassing, molesting, or interfering with any person engaged in an authorized refuge activity.

Alcohol

Visitors may not possess or be under the influence of alcohol on the refuge. Violators will be prosecuted.  

Pack In / Pack Out

Littering is strictly prohibited. Recycling is encouraged. Leave the areas BETTER then you found it for others to enjoy.  

Permits

Commercial groups (birding and photography) or researchers require special use permits and fees.  

Firearms

Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on National Wildlife Refuges must comply with all provisions of state and local law. Firearms are prohibited in all buildings. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (50 CFR27.42 and specific refuge regulations in 50 CFR Part 32).  

Pets

Pets are permitted on the refuge but must be on leash at all times.

Entry / Exit

  • The refuge is open from sunrise to sunset. Entrance fees or passes are required for all vehicles.
  • Overnight parking is prohibited.  
  • Visitors must remain on designated trails at all times.

Wildlife Observation, Photography, and Hiking 

Check in at the visitor center before your hike. Stay on designated trails and always hike with a partner. Please bring water, sunscreen, hat, bug spray, and appropriate clothing for the weather.

Respect Wildlife

Disturbing or collecting plants, animals and artifacts is strictly prohibited. The refuge has a no-take policy. Recording wildlife calls and the use of playback tapes are prohibited. Please help keep the wildlife healthy and safe by not feeding or harassing them.  

Refuge Signs

Please be aware of signs. Signs help guide and inform visitors and protect refuge plants and animals.  

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