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.


Features

  • Sunset over a calm wetland bordered by green grasses and a deciduous tree on the left bank.

    Wildlife Drive Closed

    The Wildlife Drive west of Mandy Lake is closed to vehicle access for the season. Hiking trails remain open from sunrise to sunset.

  • Friends of Rice Lake Logo Featuring a Ring Necked Duck

    Friends of Rice Lake NWR

    The National Wildlife Refuge System owes its existence to dedicated citizens. See what Rice Lake's dedicated Friends are up to!

    Learn More

  • Blue Goose

    National Wildlife Refuge System

    We are only one of more than 560 refuges in the US. This map shows the network of public land dedicated to protecting habitat for wildlife!

    National Wildlife Refuge System Map

  • Monarch_winter

    Monarchs Cover Firs in Sanctuaries

    Monarch Watch volunteers are visiting Monarch Sanctuaries in search of tagged butterflies.

    Tag Recovery

Refuge Updates

Refuge Trails

Hiking trails and the wildlife drive remain open from sunrise to sunset daily. Note that the Wildlife Drive west of Mandy Lake is closed to vehicles for the season. Get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air while practicing social distancing! Please only visit if you are feeling healthy. We ask you to stay home if you're feeling sick.

More Information

Ski Trail Updates

XC Ski

Are you ready to hit the cross-country ski trails? Trails originating from Mandy Lake were groomed for classic cross-country skiing on Monday, January 10 and they are in good condition. Skis are not available for rent, you must bring your own equipment.

Hiking Trails Map

Hiking Trails Map

The refuge offers almost five miles of hiking trails. Click below for a map and important information to know before you visit!

Hiking Trails Map

Hunting Map

Rice Lake Hunting Map & Regulations

Rice Lake Refuge offers small game, woodcock, snipe and deer hunting during state seasons. Download the map and regulations linked below for detailed information.

Hunting Map & Regulations

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