Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Archery deer hunting is allowed during the state season. As long as it's legal in state regulations, archery is allowed for other species and seasons. Refer to the hunting brochure for details, including the area of the refuge open to hunting.

The 14-mile Wildlife Drive offers a great way to see wildlife and habitats from the comfort of your vehicle. By using your vehicle as a viewing blind, you can often see more wildlife than you can see on foot. Look and listen for eagles, loons, swans, flocks of ducks, flitting warblers and...

Biking is a good way to see wildlife, learn about habitats and photograph nature. Bicycles are permitted on the Wildlife Drive, North Bog Road and South Trail. Note that they are not allowed on the hiking trails.

Depending on the season, songbirds, raptors, and waterfowl abound throughout the refuge. An early morning hike or drive can provide the the visitor with an enchanting symphony of sounds. Check out the Bird Checklist!

In mid-October, thousands of ducks, geese and swans on Rice Lake can...

Boats with electric motors are permitted on all fishing areas. Gasoline motors are not allowed.

Canoes, kayaks and rowboats are permitted on all fishing areas.

Mandy Lake, CCC Camp and North Bog Trail loops are groomed for classic, in-line skiing in the winter months. Parking is available at Mandy Lake.

Dogs are allowed anywhere that visitors are. Dogs need to be leashed at all times* and owners must pick up and pack out pet waste. Dog training is not allowed at the refuge.

*A dog that's actively assisting a hunter can be off leash, given that they're under the immediate control of...

Fishing is popular and there are easily accessible areas along the Rice River. Locations are posted with "Public Fishing Area" signs, and fishing brochures are available at the refuge office. Refuge fishing areas are open in accordance with Minnesota seasons and dates. While Mandy Lake and Twin...

All hiking trails are open year-round and pass through a mixture of upland and lowland hardwood forest, small grasslands and marsh. Songbirds are the most abundant wildlife seen and heard on the trails. Hikers may occasionally see porcupine, raccoon, owls, hawks, bald eagles, waterfowl, deer,...

Hunters can enjoy a number of opportunities on the refuge. The areas open to hunting include diverse habitats that provide excellent opportunities for deer and small game hunting. These areas are marked with "Public Hunting Area" signs and are denoted on the hunting brochure that's available at...

Painting and sketching in nature is a great way to peacefully take in the landscape around you.

Whether you wield a smartphone or a zoom lens, you’ll find photo-worthy subjects. The refuge provides enhanced opportunities to photograph wildlife in natural habitats by providing platforms, brochures, interpreters, viewing areas and tour routes. Wildlife photography is a high-priority activity...

Picnic tables are available at Refuge Headquarters, South Trail, Mandy Lake and Twin Lakes. Most locations come with a view!

Please leave no trace and pack out any trash.

The refuge offers self-guided hikes and staff or volunteer-led programs throughout the year. Programs include bird banding and bird/bat house building in June, in conjunction with celebrating World Migratory Bird Day, and the Christmas Bird Count in December.

Programs and events are...

Hiking trails, North Bog Road and South Trail offer a variety of running and jogging opportunities. 

Snowshoers are welcome on the Mandy Lake, CCC Camp and North Bog Trail loops. When trails are groomed for classic, in-line skiing, please stay to the side of the trail. Parking is available at Mandy Lake.

Permit required; limited trapping opportunities may exist for management purposes. Contact the refuge office at 218-768-2402 for application information.

The refuge champions wildlife viewing as a key activity. Whether you're interested in insects, birds or wildflowers, the refuge provides a wide array of opportunities to spot wildlife in their element.