Facility Rules and Policies
The regulations below apply to War Horse NWR, Hailstone NWR and Lake Mason NWR. Grass Lake NWR and the north half of the Lake Mason Unit of Lake Mason NWR are closed to any public uses.
Hunting for big game, waterfowl and upland game birds in compliance with all applicable State hunting regulations is permitted.
All other wildlife species are protected; this includes but is not limited to, prairie dogs, coyotes, jackrabbits, cottontail rabbits, badgers, and bobcats.
Blinds
Portable blinds for wildlife observation, photography or hunting are permitted but must be removed each day.
Non-toxic Shot
Steel or other non-toxic shot must be used to harvest waterfowl and upland game birds. Possession of lead shot in the field is prohibited.
Firearms
Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on National Wildlife Refuge Systems lands must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with a legal hunt. Firearms or bows, when legal for the species pursued, may be removed from a vehicle ONLY in conjunction with a legal hunt for which the hunter is licensed. Firearms or bows may not be discharged at any other time.
Target shooting is prohibited.
Trapping is prohibited.
Fishing is allowed. Yellow Water Reservoir on War Horse NWR is the only unit with fish.
A boat launching site for small craft is available adjacent to the Yellow Water Unit of War Horse National Wildlife Refuge.
Non-motorized boats are allowed on the south half of Lake Mason where a primitive boat launch is available. Due to fluctuating water levels, use of vehicles to launch boats is prohibited. Boat access is by portage only.
Camping is prohibited except in the designated camping area on the North Unit of Lake Mason NWR.
Hiking is allowed throughout all open refuges.
Fires are prohibited.
Collecting any wildlife species is prohibited; this includes but is not limited to, snakes, lizards, turtles and their eggs.
Collection of shed antlers, skulls or any natural items is prohibited.
Do not remove cultural items or artifacts.