Coronavirus (COVID-19) Notice
Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, we encourage you to:

  • Check local conditions on this website and call ahead for current information
  • Follow current CDC safe practices by maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
  • Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick


Features

  • Path along the Detroit River at Humbug Marsh_Winnie_Chrzanowski_Photo_Credit

    Keep the Refuge Gateway Beautiful

    You can help keep the scene clean and green! Pro Tips: If you pack it in, pack it out and stay on designated trails and boardwalks.

    Refuge Gateway welcomes public for limited day use

  • monarch_caterpillar

    Monarchs Getting Ready to Migrate

    As fall approaches the migratory generation of monarchs will emerge.

    Report Your Sightings

  • graphic of birds in flight representing Byways to Flyways

    Byways to Flyways

    Habitat and wildlife found along the Detroit River and Western Lake Erie offer world class opportunities for birding enthusiasts!

    Get Started

REFUGE NEWS

Special Agent of Discovery

Ranger possum_with babies on back at_fishing_pier

Hey Kids! Become an Agent of Discovery and explore the Refuge while you complete exciting missions! Download the free AGENTS OF DISCOVERY app to complete interactive mission challenges around the Refuge Gateway.

More about Agents of Discovery

We're Moving our Office - How to Reach Us

Our offices are moving to the new visitor center. All old office phone numbers have been disabled and we cannot retrieve voicemails at this time. Please contact staff via email at the link below.

Contact Us

Refuge Units Open to Public

Canvasback Ducks swimming

A walk in nature is a great way to get some fresh air and spend time with your family, while practicing social distancing. Gibralter Bay, Fix, and Strong Units are open daily, dawn to dusk. Beginning Oct. 1, 2020, the Refuge Gateway and Humbug Marsh are open Thursday through Sunday during daylight hours.

Directions to the Gibralter Bay, Fix, Strong and Humbug Marsh Units
OPENING UPDATE

Opening Update

John D. Dingell Jr. Visitor Center

Beginning October 1, 2020, the Refuge Gateway will be open for access to the 700-foot fishing pier, portions of Humbug Marsh Orange and Green Trails, Humbug Observation deck, Monguagon Boardwalk, picnic tables, bike trails and porta potties.

Refuge Gateway welcomes public for limited day use

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