Coronavirus (COVID-19) Notice
Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, we ask that you recreate responsibly.

  • Check alerts and local conditions on this website and call ahead for current information. Operations vary based on local public health conditions.
  • Consistent with CDC recommendations, all visitors (age 2 and older), who are fully vaccinated are required to wear a mask inside of federal buildings in areas of substantial or high community transmission.. All visitors who are not fully vaccinated must continue to wear masks indoors and in crowded outdoor spaces.
  • Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick and continue to watch for symptoms of COVID-19 and follow CDC guidance on how to protect yourself and others.


Visitor Information

Hunting and Fishing Update

Hunting and fishing opportunities were expanded on nine national wildlife refuges across the country in 2021. Please review our current hunting and fishing brochure at the link below for information and regulations associated with these activities.

2021 Audubon NWR Hunting and Ice Fishing Information

Hours of Use and Contact Information

Exhibit Hall 61x61 by Brian Rotert/USFWS

The office and visitor center are open Monday - Friday from 8:00am - 4:30pm year round, except Federal holidays. On the weekday prior to a Federal holiday, we may be closed early. Phone: 701/442-5474, Fax: 701/442-5546, Email: audubon@fws.gov Website: http://www.fws.gov/refuge/audubon

South Shore Auto Tour Route

Auto Tour Route 150x118 by USFWS

The 8-mile gravel tour route begins near the visitor center and winds along the scenic south shoreline of Lake Audubon. Highlights include views of the lake, prairie wetlands, grasslands, and opportunities to observe many species of birds, mammals, and plants. Spring and fall migration are peak times to observe large concentrations of birds on Lake Audubon and in adjacent wetlands. An auto tour route brochure interprets signs along the way.

Learn More

Hunting and Ice Fishing

Deer Hunters 61x61 by USFWS

Deer hunting (archery, rifle, and muzzleloader), and a late-season upland bird hunt for pheasant, grouse, and partridge are held on the refuge each year. Anglers may ice fish when ice covers the water. There is no open-water fishing on Audubon Refuge. Special regulations apply for the hunting and ice fishing programs. Please consult the Hunting and Ice Fishing Information and Regulations Brochure.

Hunting and Ice Fishing Information and Regulations Brochure
Watching Wildlife

Wildlife Observation Opportunities

American Avocet 61x61 by Craig Bihrle

Prairie wetlands and grasslands provide habitat for diverse wildlife species, including 246 birds, 34 mammals, 5 reptiles, 4 amphibians, and 37 fish species. Birdwatching enthusiasts seek out the elusive prairie grassland sparrows, the graceful shorebirds, and a variety of nesting or migrating waterfowl that can be observed on the refuge.

Wildlife Checklist Brochure

About the Complex

Audubon National Wildlife Refuge Complex

Audubon National Wildlife Refuge is managed as part of the Audubon National Wildlife Refuge Complex.

Read more about the complex
About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

NWRS Logo

The National Wildlife Refuge System, within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, manages a national network of lands and waters set aside to conserve America's fish, wildlife, and plants.

Learn more about the NWRS
Follow NWRS Online