Visit Us

National wildlife refuges offer us all a chance to unplug from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with our natural surroundings. The fishing access offers a relaxing location to spend time relaxing while trying to catch bass, bluegill or catfish. From the shore, fishing is from a dike along a borrow pit, so caution should be used as the bank is very steep. Additional fishing is available north of the parking lot along the right side of the road. Non-motorized watercraft may be used in the borrow pit. This is a delightful way to spend some time fishing, birding or just enjoying the scenery.

The small parking area is one of the best birdwatching spots on the refuge during spring migration. The trees surrounding the area are often full of warblers, sparrows and other songbirds. Bald eagles nest near the parking area and are frequently seen soaring over the fishing areas.

While access to the majority of the refuge is closed, the small area that is open provides many opportunities in a less busy setting.

Driving Directions

Cedar Point National Wildlife Refuge is located in Lucas County in northwest Ohio. To reach the refuge fishing access point, travel three miles east of Oregon, Ohio, or nine miles east of I-280, on State Route 2. Turn north on Yondota Road off of State Route 2. Travel two miles north from St. Rt. 2 on Yondota. The fishing access point is at the end of an approximately 0.5 mile entrance road that turns to the left off of Yondota Road.

Fees

There is no charge to visit.

Restrooms

There are no restrooms available.

What To Do

If you have 15 minutes

  • During spring migration, a 15 minute stop in the parking lot could add a dozen bird species to your list for the day

If you have one hour

  • A lazy paddle around the borrow pit is a great way to spend an hour in nature, whether you cast a line or prefer to catch images on your camera this beautiful little pond won’t disappoint

Know Before You Go

Bank fishing in this location is done in a borrow pit from a high dike with very steep banks. Life jackets are recommended even when fishing from shore. Visitors should come prepared with drinking water and insect repellent. Remember that along the lake, the weather can be very different from a few miles away. Prepare for temperatures that may be colder than they are in other locations.

Visitor Tips

There are no facilities available at this location. Take all trash with you when you leave.

Activities

Fishing, wildlife watching, birding, photography and non-motorized boating are all available from the parking lot on Yondota Road. Hunting for white-tailed deer is through a lottery system, apply through the Division of Wildlife system in July. Waterfowl hunting is available via boat along the shore of Lake Erie.

Other Facilities in the Complex

This refuge is managed along with Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge and West Sister Island National Wildlife Refuge. Most of the wading birds, great blue herons, great egrets and double-crested cormorants that you see in the marshes nest on West Sister Island. These birds must travel nine miles to shore to feed in the shallow waters of the marshes.

Rules and Policies

Welcome to your national wildlife refuge national wildlife refuge
A national wildlife refuge is typically a contiguous area of land and water managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service  for the conservation and, where appropriate, restoration of fish, wildlife and plant resources and their habitats for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.

Learn more about national wildlife refuge
! Discover new places to hunt, fish, take pictures, watch wildlife, walk, kayak and canoe. Enjoy spending time outdoors alone or with friends and family. Please consult the refuge manager at 419-898-0014 if you have questions. We may post additional site-specific regulations below or at kiosks on site.

To ensure your safety and protect wildlife and habitat, please be aware of these regulations.

Locations

Cedar Point National Wildlife Refuge
14000 West State Route 2Oak Harbor,OH43449-9485
Hours
Fishing and Paddling Access, Parking Area Hours
May 1 - August 31
Open during daylight hours for approved activities
Headquarters Office Hours (located at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge)
Monday - Friday, except federal holidays
8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.