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

  • Check alerts and local conditions on this website and call ahead for current information. Operations vary based on local public health conditions.
  • Consistent with CDC recommendations, all visitors (age 2 and older), who are fully vaccinated are required to wear a mask inside of federal buildings in areas of substantial or high community transmission.. All visitors who are not fully vaccinated must continue to wear masks indoors and in crowded outdoor spaces.
  • Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick and continue to watch for symptoms of COVID-19 and follow CDC guidance on how to protect yourself and others.


News

Refuge proposes changes to hunting program

April 15, 2021

Neches River National Wildlife Refuge is proposing to update the refuge’s hunting program and is seeking public comment on the proposed changes that include drawn hunts for the following species: Waterfowl, White-tailed deer, Feral Hog, Eastern grey and Fox squirrel, Eastern cottontail and Swamp rabbit, Raccoon, Beaver and Coyote.

Learn more and submit comments

Status of Operations

March 27, 2020

In keeping with guidance from the White House and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and acting out of an abundance of caution, we are temporarily suspending operations of the Visitor Contact Center at Neches River National Wildlife Refuge. We are committed to doing our part to slow the spread of COVID-19 and to ensure the health and safety of our employees, volunteers, and you--our friends and neighbors. Therefore, planned Refuge events and programs may not take place as scheduled. Refuge lands, including nature trails and outdoor recreational activities, remain open and accessible to the public. Please visit refuge information kiosks or brochure boxes for visitor information and refuge maps. We apologize for any inconvenience and will provide updates as they become available.

Water Level of the Neches River

Check the water level of the river before you come out to visit the refuge. When the river reaches 14 feet (or over), the entrance road will be flooded and impassable.

National Weather Service Water Gauge
Featured Stories

Habitat for Waterfowl

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The bottomland hardwoods contain important wintering habitat for various waterfowl species, including mallard, as well as vital rearing habitat for wood ducks.

Wildlife & Habitat

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.

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