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

  • cranes

    Virtual Crane Programming

    This year's in-person crane tours are shifting to virtual. Stay tuned for more information!

    Events Calendar

  • Female teenager leaning against a smooth barked tree, taking a landscape photo with her smart phone

    Youth Photography Contest!

    K-12 students are encouraged to submit a photo that they've taken on the refuge. Due October 9th, multiple prizes awarded in November!

    More Information

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

    Get Outside this Summer!

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

    Just For Kids

  • 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

  • Monarch on Milkweed

    Monarchs Migrate to Mexico

    Would you like to help monitor monarchs? Get involved in citizen science and report your monarch sightings.

    Help Monitor Monarch Butterflies

Refuge Updates

Refuge Lands Open

Refuge lands and trails, including trailhead restrooms 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

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.

Sandhill Crane Viewing Brochure

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

Click below to download a map of the refuge, our trails and important information to know before you visit. The Prairie's Edge Wildlife Drive and Brande Road are open for the season! They will close when winter weather warrants.

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