Facility Rules and Policies

Burrowing owl on hunt sign at Lacreek NWR
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There are lots of fun, interesting, and educational things you can do on Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge. Keep in mind, if an activity is not wildlife related and doesn’t help in the protection or understanding of wildlife or their habitat, there are likely Refuge rules governing this activity. Important regulations include the following:

  • The Refuge is open from sunrise to sunset.
  • Roads throughout the Refuge are graveled and visitors must maintain the posted speed limit of 25 miles per hour.
  • No overnight parking is allowed on the Refuge except for Little White River Recreation Area.
  • The non-wildlife dependent activities of boating, picnicking, and camping are only allowed at the Little White River Recreation Area.
  • Hiking is allowed in all areas open to the public.
  • Wildlife observation and photography are encouraged.
  • Please stay out of closed areas to minimize disturbance to plants and animals.
  • Bicycling and horseback riding is allowed on signed Refuge public access routes open to motor vehicles.
  • Fishing is allowed on all Refuge waters in accordance with state regulations.
  • Sport hunting is permitted on the Refuge in accordance with all state and federal regulations. Hunters should consult the South Dakota state hunting regulations. Special Refuge hunting regulations also apply.
  • Firearms and other weapons are subject to state law. At all times, persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on National Wildlife Refuge System lands must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (50 CFR 27.42 and specific refuge regulations in 50 CFR Part 32), i.e., only during the lawful pursuit of game during legal seasons.
  • Other prohibitions on the Refuge are dogs off-leash; off-road vehicles; alcoholic beverages; and collecting of plants, animals, minerals, antlers and artifacts.
  • Travel by motor vehicle is allowed only on designated roads. 
  • Hunters must park in a designated hunter parking area while participating in hunting activities. Please check with the Refuge manager for further details.