Founded in 1935, the Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge provides 21,498 acres of critical habitat for South Dakota wildlife.
Hunting is allowed on Sand Lake NWR, but there are specific refuge rules and regulations in place.
Sand Lake Hunting Regulations
Sand Lake NWR offers fishing at five locations on the refuge.
Fishing Regulations
Check out our refuge photo gallery for an up-close view of Sand lake wildlife
Photo Gallery
Click the link below to read about the spring migration events happening at the refuge.
As of Friday, October 19th 2018, the Sand Lake Auto Tour Route and all Refuge roads will be CLOSED for the season. Spring opening date TBD, pending road conditions. Please contact the Refuge office for more information.
Contact Us
Sand Lake NWR National Wildlife Refuge is managed as part of the Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
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.
Sand Lake NWR provides critical habitat for nesting & feeding waterfowl, like this blue-winged teal, during breeding and migration.