February - September

2016 marks the nineth year of these organized volunteer service days. The day is divided into two parts: “Work” and “Play.” The “Work” portion activities include clearing trails and general garden maintenance, and will end at noon. Afterwards a light lunch is provided by the Friends of Louisiana Wildlife Refuges. The “Play” starts after lunch and consists of a facilitated canoe outing on Bayou Lacombe. These organized volunteer days are a perfect opportunity to get outdoors and meet new people. All equipment is provided and new volunteers are always needed.

Upcoming Work/Play Days 2016:  Jan 23rd, Feb 13th, Mar 24th, Apr 9th

For reservations or for more information call (985) 882-2025 or write to southeastlouisianarefuges@fws.gov, or Jim Schmidt at jasbjs@aol.com.

Spring and Fall

February 20, 2016

The annual Open House showcases some of the restored gardens while in full bloom. From 1935 through 1956 the headquarters property operated as a horticulture attraction called Bayou Gardens. In its prime, it contained over 400 varieties of camellias and many other exotic plants. The open house is a collaborative effort between with local area Camellia Societies. Free garden tours and presentations are provided by local experts and refreshments are provided by Friends of Louisiana Wildlife Refuges. 

April 16, 2016

The festival in Franklin, Louisiana, serves to educate local residents about the native Louisiana black bear. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Friends group members help sponsor the youth education area that has been a highlight of festival activities. Exhibitors feature educational material and programs relating to bears, natural resources, and habitat found in south Louisiana. Today the festival features both great music and food. 

 May 7, 2016 

Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge cosponsors Step Outside Day with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This annual event is a big draw for kids and promotes youth outdoor education and stewardship. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, along with the Friends Group host pontoon boat tours, paddling, bird house building and other environmental education activities.

 June 4, 2016 

The 23nd Annual Youth Fishing Event is held at the Pearl River Turnaround on Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge. Over 175 young people between the ages of 4 and 12 learn the skills and fun of fishing. Registration is required for this event and opens up in April, space is limited to the first 150 kids.

Click here to download a Fishing Event Registration Form

March 28th - April 1st, 2016

How did you spend your summer vacation? 

Refuge Ranger Summer Camp returns to promote outdoor skills and stewardship through exploration and discovery. We offer canoeing, hiking, birding, forestry, biology, orienteering, firefighting and much more. 

Learn more

 September 19, 2016 

 October 15, 2016 

Now in its 19th year, Wild Things is among the largest U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service outreach events nationwide. Held at the headquarters in Lacombe, Louisiana, this family event includes the Youth Wildlife Art Competition, photography, canoe and pontoon boat tours, wildflower walks, over 40 guest exhibitors, live animals, hayride, casting pond, kids activity tent, bird house building, food, and live music. Admission, parking, tours and music are all FREE.

December 10, 2016

Each year Santa and Mrs. Claus make a special visit to the Southeast Louisiana National Wildlife Refuges Visitor Center. Kids of all ages are invited for story time, cookies, and hot cocoa. To mark this special occasion, photos with Santa are provided at no cost. 

For more information call (985) 882-2025 or write to:
southeastlouisianarefuges@fws.gov.