The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking public input on the implementation of a hunt fee for Patuxent Research Refuge (the refuge). This is in accordance with the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act of 2004.
The refuge has collected fees for hunts in the past, however, it had not been formally added to the agency’s recreation fee program. This proposal fixes that administrative issue and officially brings the refuge into the program.
The proposed fees match the total fees collected over the past several years but will now be broken out more clearly:
· $90 for the full hunting season, covering all species and all open seasons on the refuge, including several lottery-based hunting opportunities (Turkey hunting is by lottery-only).
· A $10 transaction fee collected at the time of purchase through a third party.
This fee program would support visitor services projects at the refuge, including replacing refuge signs and gates, provide information for hunters, and maintaining public facilities such as trails and parking areas. The refuge anticipates collecting the new fee starting in the Fall 2027.
The public is encouraged to provide feedback on the proposed fee. The public comment period will last from July 2, 2026, through July 17, 2026. You may submit your comments by one of the following methods:
· Email: PRR_Refuge_Admin@fws.gov with the subject line: Proposed recreation fee program, or
· Hard copy by U.S. mail to: Patuxent Research Refuge, 10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop, Laurel, MD 20708-4036
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.
Visit Us
Whether walking trails or fishing the lake, the sounds and sights of Patuxent’s woods lend serenity to the soul. Please note that there are two areas of the refuge open to the visitation. Each area has different operating hours and recreational opportunities. Please note that no food or drink is available on the refuge.
Activities
South Tract, also known as the Dan Ashe Division, hosts five miles of walking trails, two scenic lakes and the National Wildlife Visitor Center.
National Wildlife Visitor Center hours are Wednesday through Saturday 10am to 4pm. The Visitor Center is closed on federal holidays.
The Visitor Center offers interpretive displays, educational films and public programs. The Visitor Center also houses a small bookstore and nature shop, set up by the Friends of Patuxent. More information about Visitor Center resources is here. South Tract’s grounds are open from sunrise to sunset except on Tuesdays, ST grounds will close at 4pm. Fishing on Cash Lake and hunting are available seasonally with a permit/license. Patuxent Fishing Regulations 2026.
North Tract offers 15 miles of trails for walking, biking and horseback riding. With fewer visitors than South Tract, it offers a quiet atmosphere for those seeking respite from the busy world.
North Tract will be open from 8 AM to 4 PM every Sunday.
Due to active nearby gun ranges and the risk of unexploded ordnance, visitors MUST stay on roads and trails. North Tract closes for federal holidays and occasionally for scheduled hunts. See brochure and map for details.
Trails
Trails
On the refuge over 20 miles of trail may be explored. Some trails are open to biking and horses. Others are only available to pedestrians on foot.Please see below for maps.
Related Documents
Rules and Policies
Rules and Policies
- Stay on marked trails- for your safety and the safety of the refuge’s wildlife. Be mindful that many trails are restricted to walking only. See our trail maps. (The North Tract property contains active firing ranges and unexploded ordnance. It is critical to safety that all visitors stay on roads and trails.)
- Pets- Leash all pets. While your pet may be very behaved, please keep their leash to 6’ or shorter and in hand at all times. Remember to pick up their waste. This regulation is strictly enforced for the protection of the visiting public, the protection of animal and plant habitat, and to prevent the spread of diseases between animals.
- Fishing- is permitted in designated areas only. Please observe Maryland State regulations.
- Swimming- nor wading is permitted on the refuge. Streams and other wet environments are protected homes for wildlife.
- Ice Skating - is NOT permitted on the refuge regardless of ice thickness.
- Boating- is not permitted on the refuge. (Anglers may use boats under 14’ on Cash Lake.)
- Collecting wildlife, plants, or artifacts- is prohibited. Releasing of wildlife or plants to the refuge is prohibited due to the risk of disease transmission.
- Feeding wildlife is prohibited - This regulation is strictly enforced for the protection of the visiting public, the protection of animal and plant habitat, and to prevent the spread of diseases.
- Fires- are not permitted on the refuge.
- Drones- Please do not fly drones on the refuge due to their disturbance to wildlife and visitors.
- Consumption of alcohol- is not permitted on the refuge.
- Gas motorized vehicles- must be street legal and may not travel on trails.
Remember! Refuges are different from parks. Refuges are set aside for wildlife first. Please help protect them and visitors by respecting refuge rules.
Locations
South Tract, also known as the Dan Ashe Division, hosts 5 miles of walking trails and two scenic lakes. It is also the site of the National Wildlife Visitor Center.
National Wildlife Visitor Center hours are Wednesday through Saturday 10am to 4pm.
The Visitor Center is closed on federal holidays. The grounds are open sunrise to sunset except on Tuesdays, ST grounds will close at 4pm. Fishing and hunting is available seasonally.
South Tract & Visitor Center Entrance
10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop
Laurel, MD 20708
From Washington, D.C.: Take Baltimore/Washington Parkway (Route 295) North, Exit 22 to Powder Mill Road-Beltsville exit. Turn right (east) onto Powder Mill Road and go 2.0 miles. Turn right into Visitor Center entrance (Scarlet Tanager Loop). Go 1.4 miles to Visitor Center Parking area.
From Baltimore, MD: Take Baltimore/Washington Parkway (Route 295) south to Powder Mill Road-Beltsville Exit. Turn left onto Powder Mill Road (East). Go 2.0 miles and turn right into Visitor Center entrance (Scarlet Tanager Loop). Go 1.4 miles to Visitor Center Parking area.
North Tract offers 25 miles of trail for walking, biking, and horseback riding. With less visitation than South Tract, North Tract offers a quiet atmosphere for those seeking solitude.
North Tract will be open from 8 AM to 4 PM every Sunday.
North Tract Entrance
230 Bald Eagle Drive
Laurel, MD 20724
From Washington, D.C.: Take the Baltimore-Washington Parkway/Route 295 North. Exit onto MD-Route 198 East, toward Fort Meade. Travel on 198 E/Fort Meade Road for almost 2 miles. Then turn right at the Patuxent Research Refuge North Tract sign, onto Bald Eagle Drive (just before the ball fields). Travel 1 mile to the North Tract Visitor Information Station. Visitors must sign in at the Visitor Information Station.
From Baltimore: Take the Baltimore-Washington Parkway/Route 295 South. Exit onto MD-Route 198 East, toward Fort Meade. Keep left at the fork; follow signs for MD-198 E/Fort Meade. Turn left onto Route 198 East; travel about 2 miles. Turn right at the Patuxent Research Refuge North Tract sign (just before the ball fields) onto Bald Eagle Drive. Travel 1 mile to the North Tract Visitor Information Station. Visitors must sign in at the Visitor Information Station.