More than 250 species of birds have been documented at the Refuge over the years. A bird list is available at the Refuge headquarters.
The Warbler Woodland Watchable Wildlife Area, located on the southeast side of Arrowwood Lake, is a popular wildlife-watching location. Over 20 species of warblers and numerous other songbird species have been observed in this woodland. Warblers are most abundant in May during spring migration. Waterfowl and shorebirds can be observed along the lakeshore in this area.
Two sharp-tailed grouse viewing blinds are available by reservation during their annual spring breeding ritual. To reserve the grouse blind, call the Refuge headquarters during normal business hours.
The Friends of Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge partner with Birding Drives Dakota to host an annual birding festival in east-central North Dakota.