Coronavirus (COVID-19) Notice
Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy, we encourage you to:

  • Check local conditions on this website and call ahead for current information
  • Follow current CDC safe practices by maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
  • Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick


Features

  • Photo of the Prairie's Edge Wildlife Drive entrance sign with fall prairie grasses and blue sky behind it.

    Closed for the Season

    The Wildlife Drive is closed to vehicles until spring. It will reopen when road conditions allow. Hiking/biking is still allowed!

  • Child with curly hair and a black sweatshirt with light pink camo hood nature journaling on a clipboard

    Get Outside this Fall and Winter!

    Check out the Just for Kids page for scavenger hunts and other activities for your backyard or the refuge.

    Just For Kids

  • Photography_218x116

    Sherburne Photography Club

    Interested in sharing your work and learning more about photography? They welcome you to join them on the second Wednesday of every month!

    More Information

  • Friends Logo

    Friends of Sherburne NWR

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

    Learn More

  • National Wildlife Refuge System Logo

    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

Refuge Updates

Fall Sandhill Crane Migration

In late September, migrating flocks begin to arrive at the refuge from their northern breeding area. By the middle of October, the refuge hosts thousands of cranes as they roost at night in refuge wetlands, and then fly out to area croplands to forage during the day. Reference the map below to find more information about the best crane viewing areas at, and near, the refuge. CRANE COUNTS 10/14: 8,617. 10/21: 9,485. 10/29: 11,244. 11/5: 6,277.

Sandhill Crane Viewing Brochure

Refuge Lands

Refuge lands and hiking trails remain open 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset daily. Get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air while maintaining social distancing! Please visit only if you are feeling healthy. We ask you to stay home if you're feeling sick.

More Information

Recent Sightings and Guides

Are you wondering what you will see while visiting? Check our Recent Sightings and Guides page to see sightings recorded by staff and visitors using eBird or iNaturalist. Electronic field guides specific to the refuge can also be found there.

Recent Sightings and Guides
Refuge Map, Trails & Regulations

Refuge Regulations and Map

A map of the refuge, our trails and important information to know before you visit are included on the PDF below. The Prairie's Edge Wildlife Drive is closed to vehicle access for the season and will reopen in spring 2021, as road conditions allow. Brande Rd. remains open to vehicles at this time.

Public Use Regulations and Map

Hunting Regulations & Map

Hunting Regulations & Map

The refuge offers waterfowl, small game and deer hunting during state seasons. Brande Rd. off Sherburne County Road 9 opens Sept. 1 until winter closure warrants closure. Brande Rd. will be maintained for vehicle access to Long Pool through firearms deer season.

Hunting Regulations & Map Brochure

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