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

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Increasing access for fishing

Refuge manager Oscar Reed on what increasing access means for the refuge and visitors.

Watch the video on YouTube

Around the Refuge

2021-2022 Season Hunt Partial Road Closure Dates

Muzzleloader: Regular Area Hunt (October 11, 13, 15) Shotgun: Regular Area Hunt (November 12, 13, 17; Antlerless December 13, 16; January 21) Back part of refuge closed: Bear Swamp, Finis Pool. Headquarters Area Hunt (November 15, 19; Antlerless December 15) Front part of refuge closed: Raymond and Shearness – Enter Refuge on Rt. 9 at Dutch Neck Road.

Refuge Prepares Habitat Management Plan

Bombay Hook NWR recently sought public review and comment on its Draft Habitat Management Plan (HMP) and Environmental Assessment. Once finalized, this HMP will provide a long-term vision and specific guidance on managing the refuge’s habitats over the next 15 years (2020 to 2035). The 30-day public comment period closed on September 26, 2020. To request more information, contact the refuge at 302-653-9345 or email at IR1_BombayHook@fws.gov.

For Educators

For Educators Promo

Bombay Hook offers hands on nature studies for grades one through twelve, allowing students to experience the several habitats on the refuge – from tidal salt marsh to freshwater impoundments, upland fields, and forests. Learn more on our For Educators page.

For Educators
Plan Your Visit

Plan Your Visit

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The refuge is open 1/2 before sunrise until 1/2 hour after sunset. The Visitor Center and office are open Monday -Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and open on spring and fall weekends from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The refuge offers visitors a 12-mile wildlife drive, five walking trails (2 handicapped accessible), three observation towers, wildlife photography, hunting opportunities, a variety of nature and educational programs, and interpretative displays. Cash or check is required to purchase permits and passes.

Plan Your Visit

About the Complex

Coastal Delaware Complex

Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is managed as part of the Coastal Delaware Complex.

Read more about the complex
About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

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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
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