Around the Refuge

Know Before You Go

Sunset at the refuge - USFWS.

Make sure you come prepared when visiting the refuge - from April to October biting insects and ticks are prevalent, so bring bug spray! Also, keep an eye out for poison ivy and northern copperhead snakes. Learn more on our Plan Your Visit page.

Plan Your Visit

Visitor Activities

Visitor Activities Promo

There are activities year round at Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge including wildlife viewing, photography and hunting. Learn more on our Visitor Activities page.

Visitor Activities

Welcome, Trainers, to E. H. Mason Neck Refuge!

Pokemon (83x110)

Look around, and take pictures. Pokemon aren’t the only creatures you’ll see! Refuge hours are 7am to 5pm. Please, respect wildlife by staying on trails and out of closed areas.

Bald Eagles

American Bald Eagle

American bald eagle - USFWS.

At the time of the refuge's establishment in 1969, the number of nesting bald eagles pairs had plummeted to less than 500 in the lower 48 states.

Wildlife & Habitat

About the Complex

Potomac River NWR Complex

Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge is managed as part of the Potomac River NWR Complex.

Read more about the complex
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