Coronavirus (COVID-19) Notice
Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, we encourage you to:

  • Check local conditions on this website and call ahead for current information
  • Follow current CDC safe practices by maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
  • Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick


Features

  • Friends of Crane Meadows Logo

    Friends of Crane Meadows NWR

    The National Wildlife Refuge System owes its existence to committed citizens. See what Crane Meadow's dedicated Friends are up to!

    Learn More

  • Lead Free

    Why Switch Ammunition?

    Lead exposure and poisoning occurs at high percentages in bald eagles found dead in the Midwest.

    Learn more about hunting with non-lead

  • NWRS Blue Goose

    National Wildlife Refuge System

    We are only one of more than 560 refuges in the US. This map shows the network of public land dedicated to protecting habitat for wildlife!

    National Wildlife Refuge System Map

  • Monarch on Milkweed

    Monarchs Migrate to Mexico

    Would you like to help monitor monarchs? Get involved in citizen science and report your monarch sightings.

    Help Monitor Monarch Butterflies

Refuge Updates

Ski Trail Updates

XC Ski

Are you ready to hit the cross-country ski trails? The Platte River Trail was packed on Wednesday, December 30, and is in poor condition. We welcome hikers and snowshoers to use the trail and ask that you please stay to the sides of the groomed tracks and trail. Skis are not available for rent.

Refuge Trails

The Platte River Trail and trailhead portable restroom remain open from 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset daily. Get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air while maintaining social distancing! Please only visit if you are feeling healthy. We ask you to stay home if you're feeling sick.

More Information

Recent Sightings

Are you wondering what birds you could see while visiting Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge? Check our Recent Sightings page to see sightings recorded by staff and visitors using eBird.

Recent Sightings
Refuge Map, Trails and Regulations

Refuge Map and Regulations

A map of the refuge, our trails and important information to know before you visit are included in the PDF below. Click on the link to download.

Refuge Map & Regulations

Refuge Hunting Map and Regulations

Hunting Regulations and Map

The refuge offers waterfowl, small game, turkey and deer hunting during state seasons. Click below to download the hunting regulations and map for details.

Hunting Regulations & Map

About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

NWRS Logo

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
Follow NWRS Online