Refuge Closures
The refuge will be closed to all public entry Nov 6-7, Dec 4-5, 2021 and Jan 8-9, 2022 for a youth event. Contact the refuge for more information.
Whats Happening?
In keeping with guidance from the White House and the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and acting out of an abundance of caution, we are temporarily suspending operations of the Visitor Center and Campground at Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Walking, Jogging, and Biking is allowed on the main roads and hiking on the hiking trails. The Prairie Dog Unit (accessible from hwy 168) will remain open. We are committed to doing our part to slow the spread of COVID-19 and to ensure the health and safety of our employees, volunteers and you --our friends and neighbors. Therefore, planned Refuge events and programs may not take place as scheduled. Refuge lands, including camping and the auto tour will be closed to the public. We apologize for any inconvenience and will provide updates as they become available
In 1903 President Theodore Roosevelt established the Pelican Island Bird Reservation, the first of 53 federal reserves he would create during his time in office and the roots of what is today known as the National Wildlife Refuge System. The 26th president was a dedicated naturalist throughout his life and is considered by many to have been the country’s “Conservationist President.” It was in the infancy of the Refuge System when President Roosevelt said, “There are no words that can tell the hidden spirit of the wilderness, that can reveal its mystery, its melancholy, and its charm.”
The National Wildlife Refuge System