Facility 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.

Archery demonstrations and lessons may be a part of local site programming. Some refuges and hatcheries permit bow-hunting with other hunting. This activity is typically limited. Check locally for how to apply.
From bald eagles to spoonbills, from condors to puffins, birds abound on national wildlife refuges. Refuges provide places for birds to nest, rest, feed and breed making them world-renown for their birding opportunities.
Many Fish and Wildlife Service sites make great destinations for flatwater canoeing or kayaking. Some sites have concessions that rent canoes or kayaks. Some sites offer scheduled paddle tours. See individual refuge websites for details.

Fishing is permitted in two borrow ponds from May 1–August 31. Non-motorized boats are permitted. Primary species include channel catfish, largemouth bass and sunfish. Ohio state regulations apply.

Located along the western basin of Lake Erie, Cedar Point National Wildlife Refuge draws large concentrations of both dabbling and diving ducks to its extensive marshes and shoreline. Public waterfowl hunting is available along the Lake Erie shoreline below the high-water mark, and access is...

Whether you wield a smartphone or a zoom lens, you’ll find photo-worthy subjects at national wildlife refuges and national fish hatcheries. Wildlife photography is a priority public use on national wildlife refuges, so you’ll find wildlife drives and blinds and overlooks to help you get the images you’re after.
Trapping is carefully managed to ensure safety and the sustainability of wildlife populations. Permitted trapping on refuges typically mirrors state regulations, and trappers who access refuge lands for recreation must possess state licenses and follow state regulations as well as permit stipulations.
Many refuges champion wildlife viewing as a key recreational activity.