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

  • cranes

    Virtual Crane Programming

    Tune into our two-part Sandhills at Sherburne series! Hosted at 7 pm on Thursdays Oct 22 and 29.

    Events Calendar

  • Child with curly hair and a black sweatshirt with light pink camo hood nature journaling on a clipboard

    Get Outside this Fall and Winter!

    Check out the Just for Kids page for scavenger hunts and other activities for your backyard or the refuge.

    Just For Kids

  • Lead Free

    Why Switch Ammunition?

    Lead exposure and poisoning occurs at high percentages in bald eagles found dead in the Midwest.

    Learn more about hunting with non-lead

  • 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

  • Friends Logo

    Friends of Sherburne NWR

    The National Wildlife Refuge System owes its existence to committed citizens. See what Sherburne's dedicated Friends are up to!

    Learn More

Refuge Updates

Fall Sandhill Crane Migration

In late September, migrating flocks begin to arrive at the refuge from their northern breeding area. By the middle of October, the refuge hosts thousands of cranes as they roost at night in refuge wetlands, and then fly out to area croplands to forage during the day. Reference the map below to find more information about the best crane viewing areas at, and near, the refuge. CRANE COUNTS 10/14: 8,617. 10/21: 9,485.

Sandhill Crane Viewing Brochure

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 and Map

Click below to download a map of the refuge, our trails and important information to know before you visit. The Prairie's Edge Wildlife Drive and Brande Road are open for the season! They will close when winter weather warrants.

Public Use Regulations and Map

Hunting Regulations & Map

Hunting Regulations & Map

The refuge offers waterfowl, small game 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