Rules and Regulations

USFWS Boundary posting

There are lots of fun, interesting, and educational things you can do on the Refuge.  Keep in mind, if an activity is not wildlife related and doesn’t help in the protection or understanding of wildlife or their habitat, there are probably refuge rules governing this activity.  Please check with the refuge management before participating in an activity that could harm the environment or yourself.  There are plenty of activities at Bear River for you to enjoy, such as birding, wildlife observation & photography, hunting, fishing and more. Be safe and have fun!


Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is one in over 560 refuges in the National Wildlife Refuge System - a system of lands set aside to conserve wildlife and habitat for people to enjoy today and for generations to come. For your safety, please observe all of the Refuge rules and regulations, and if you are unsure if an activity is allowed, please contact the Refuge by calling 435-723-5887 or emailing us at bearriver@fws.gov.

General Refuge Regulations

  • The Auto Tour Route is open from sunrise to sunset, 365 days of the year, unless road conditions cause a closure.
  • Only legally licensed vehicles are allowed on Refuge roads open to the public. Unlicensed off-highway vehicles (OHVs) such as motorcycles or all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) may not be used on the Refuge.
  • Fires and camping are prohibited on the Refuge.                                               
  • Overnight RV parking is prohibited
  • Parking is permitted in designated parking areas only and is strictly enforced.
  • Please pack out ALL trash you bring in. Littering is prohibited and against the law.
  • Hunting and Fishing are allowed only in designated areas and during designated seasons WITH a valid Utah hunting or fishing license and duck stamp.  For more on specific Hunting/Fishing rules, see our hunting or fishing pages.