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

  • Check local conditions on this website and call ahead for current information. Operations vary based on local public health conditions.
  • Face masks are required in all federal buildings and on all federal lands.
  • Maintain 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


Around the Refuge

Bald Eagle Sculpture in for Repairs

Bald Eagle Sculpture

Recent high winds in the area caused damage to one wing of the refuge's bald eagle sculpture (located along the Wildlife Drive and seen from the New York State Thruway). Refuge staff brought the sculpture to the shop where it will be repaired by the original artist. There is no solid date for when the eagle will re-land on its perch on the Wildlife Drive.

2020 Hunting Regulations

Black Lab

Hunting regulations for the 2020-2021 Seasons will be posted as they become available. Follow the link below to the Visitor Activities Page to find hunting regulations.

Visitor Activities: Hunting
What's Happening

Hours & Trail Openings/Closings

Fishing on the refuge - USFWS.

Outdoor facility hours are 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset. The Wildlife Drive is open April 1, weather-permitting, through November 30. Visitor Center and Public Restrooms open April 1. Visitor Center hours are weekdays from 10 am - 3 pm. Weekend hours vary, with closure on most weekend days, due to a lack of volunteer help. Walking and bicycling on the Drive is only permitted from May 25 through August 15. Open viewing and walking areas are: Seneca Trail, including Viewing Tower North Spring Pool South Spring Pool Trail Esker Brook Trails Tschache Pool Viewing Tower May's Point Viewing Platform Knox-Marsellus Overlook Sandhill Crane Unit from Van Dyne Spoor Road Dog-walking is only permitted on the Seneca Trail. Jogging/running is not permitted anywhere on the refuge. Please do your part to keep your refuge clean and safe for the wildlife and for other visitors. Follow Leave No Trace and Carry in/Carry out practices as best as you can! Check out our Visitor Activities Page for more information!

Visitor Activities

About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

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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
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