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

  • Hunting Reg

    Hunting Regulations

    Hunting is allowed on Sand Lake NWR, but there are specific refuge rules and regulations in place.

    Sand Lake Hunting Regulations

  • CCP1

    Fishing Regulations

    Sand Lake NWR offers fishing at five locations on the refuge.

    Fishing Regulations

  • Refuge Gallary

    Refuge Gallery

    Check out our refuge photo gallery for an up-close view of Sand lake wildlife

    Photo Gallery

On the Refuge

Fall Migration Reports

Wildlife and Habitat3

Click the link below to read about current fall migration events at Sand Lake.

Fall 2021 Migration Reports

Attention Hunters: Mud Lake Construction Project

Construction will be occurring along the Wildlife Drive Auto Tour Route north of SD Hwy 10 beginning October 11th. Please see link below or contact the Refuge office for more information.

Click Here for More Information

Refuge Roads Closed

Effective November 13th, 2021 all Refuge Roads are CLOSED for the winter season. The roads will reopen in the spring as soon as weather and road conditions allow. Please contact the Refuge office for more information.

Contact Us
Refuge News

Visitor's Center Closed

"As a public heath precaution, the Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge Visitor's Center and public restrooms are temporarily closed for the safety of staff and visitors. Please contact the staff at sandlake@fws.gov for more information."

About the Complex

Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge Complex

Sand Lake NWR National Wildlife Refuge is managed as part of the Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge Complex.

Read more about the complex
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
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