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.


Features

  • Photo of the Prairie's Edge Wildlife Drive entrance sign with fall prairie grasses and blue sky behind it.

    Closed for the Season

    The Wildlife Drive is closed to vehicles until spring. It will reopen when road conditions allow. Hiking/biking is still allowed!

  • Junior Ranger Keychain

    Calling all Junior Refuge Rangers!

    Become a Jr Refuge Ranger by picking up or downloading the booklet and completing five exploratory-based activities!

    More Information

  • Eagle's Nest Nature Store

    Nature Store

    Shop for souvenirs, winter hats, field guides and gifts at the online Eagle's Nest Nature Store!

    Eagle's Nest Nature Store

  • Photography_218x116

    Sherburne Photography Club

    Interested in sharing your work and learning more about photography? They welcome you to join them on the second Wednesday of every month!

    More Information

  • Monarch Butterflies Migrating

    Butterfly Wings Fill The Sky

    The monarchs are arriving in the Mexican sanctuaries.

    Massive Arrival at the Sanctuaries

Refuge Updates

Recreate Responsibly

Refuge lands, trails and restrooms are open daily from 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset. This includes Blue Hill, Mahnomen and OSLC hiking trails, fishing access points and designated canoe route. The Wildlife Drive and Brande Road are closed to vehicles for the season and remain open to hiking and winter activities. Get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air while maintaining social distancing! Please visit only if you are feeling healthy. We ask you to stay home if you're feeling sick.

More Information

America the Beautiful Passes

Senior Pass

Senior Annual and Lifetime, Annual, Military, Access, and Every Kid Outdoors (4th Grade) passes are available at Refuge Headquarters.

More Information

Recent Sightings and Guides

Are you wondering what you will see while visiting? Check our Recent Sightings and Guides page to see sightings recorded by staff and visitors using eBird or iNaturalist. Electronic field guides specific to the refuge can also be found there.

Recent Sightings and Guides
Refuge Map, Trails & Regulations

Refuge Regulations & Map

A map of the refuge, hiking trails and important information to know before you visit are included in the brochure linked below. The Prairie's Edge Wildlife Drive and Brande Road are closed to vehicle traffic for the season and will reopen in spring 2022 and on September 1st, respectively.

Public Use Regulations & Map

Hunting Regulations & Map

Hunting Regulations & Map

The refuge offers waterfowl, small game, fall turkey and deer hunting during state seasons. Brande Rd. off Sherburne County Road 9 opens Sept. 1 until winter closure warrants closure. Brande Rd. will be maintained for vehicle access to Long Pool through firearms deer season.

Hunting Regulations & Map Brochure

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