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

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

    Get Outside this Summer!

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

    Just For Kids

  • Female teenager leaning against a smooth barked tree, taking a landscape photo with her smart phone

    Youth Photography Contest!

    K-12 students are encouraged to submit a photo that they've taken on the refuge. Due October 9th, multiple prizes awarded in November!

    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

  • Monarch_Caterpillar_June

    The Monarchs Have Arrived

    The northern states started logging reports of adult monarchs in late May. Watch you milkweeds for caterpillars & report your sightings!

    Report Your Milkweed, Monarch, Egg, and Caterpillar Sightings

  • National Wildlife Refuge System Logo

    National Wildlife Refuge System

    We are only one of more than 560 refuges in the US. This map shows the network of public land dedicated to protecting habitat for wildlife!

    National Wildlife Refuge System Map

Refuge Updates

Refuge Trails and Drive

Hiking trails, Wildlife Drive and trailhead restrooms remain open 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset daily. 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

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

Not Issuing Passes

Senior Pass

In-person sales of America the Beautiful Passes are suspended while Refuge Headquarters is closed to the public. These federal lands passes include the Senior Annual and Lifetime, Annual, Military, Access and Every Kid Outdoors passes.

More Information and To Order Online
Refuge Map, Trails & Regulations

Refuge Regulations and Map

The refuge offers a variety of recreational opportunities. The Prairie's Edge Wildlife Drive is open for the season! Brande Road is closed to vehicle traffic for the season and will reopen on September 1st. Reference the brochure for important information to know before you visit.

Public Use Regulations & Map Brochure

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