Birds are sensitive during the nesting season. Vegetation clearing, ground disturbance, heavy wake near shorelines and other site construction and recreational activities can destroy eggs or nestlings or cause nest abandonment. If you encounter an active nest, leave it be and give it space until young hatch and depart the area. Do not destroy eggs, chicks, or adults of wild bird species. Learn about the laws that govern migratory birds in Alaska including possible exceptions for subsistence gathering. More information on avoiding waterbird harassment and timing recommendations for construction activities to minimize impacts to nesting birds.
Visit Us
The northern boundary of Tetlin Refuge extends 65 miles along the Alaska Highway, providing foot access from the Canada border at Mile 1221.5 to Mile 12. From scenic overlooks you can view a variety of habitat including wetlands, boreal forest, and alpine. On behalf of the refuge staff and the community of Tok, we hope that you will come and visit us at the Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge. It’s a special place we can all share.
Three public use cabins are available on a reservation basis in the refuge. Wellesley Lake and Jatahmund Lake Cabins are accessible only by float plane. Nabesna River Cabin is accessible by boat on the Nabesna River. The refuge also has two campgrounds along the Alaska Highway. At Mile 1249.3 is Deadman Lake Campground with 15 campsites in the spruce forest along with fire rings, picnic tables, and a boat ramp. Also at the campground is Taiga Trail, a quarter-mile interpretive walk to an observation deck on Deadman Lake and a photo blind that offers visitors an opportunity to photograph waterfowl and moose in a wetland setting. At Mile 1256.7 is Lakeview Campground with 11 campsites along with tables, fire rings, and a boat launch on Yarger Lake. The Seaton Recreation Area in the refuge has a pavilion, primitive camping sites, and two spur trails for visitors to explore the wetlands. Camping is only allowed on the designated areas along the trail.
Activities
There are a diversity of opportunities to connect with the lands and waters, and fish and wildlife of Tetlin Refuge. Click each activity below to learn more and also check out these essentials for travelling in Alaska's bear country.
Related Documents
Familiarize yourself with Essentials for Travelling in Alaska's Bear Country.
Rules and Policies
Applicable regulations are posted in the campgrounds and on trailheads located on the Refuge. In order to keep the Refuge experience enjoyable for everyone, please follow all appropriate regulations.
Answers to some of the more common questions that help preserve the Refuge for the enjoyment of all are below.
- No All Terrain Vehicle/Off Road Vehicle use is permitted on the Refuge. Snowmachine use is permitted when snow cover is sufficient, as determined by the Refuge Manager.
- Campground camping is limited to 14 days in a 28 day period.
- Quiet hours in the campgrounds are from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am.
- Discharge of firearms is prohibited within 1/4 mile of campground per state law.
- Please maintain control of pets at all times.
- Only collection of dead standing and downed wood is permitted for campfires.
- Never leave a campfire unattended.
- Fireworks are prohibited in campgrounds.
Overnight camping is allowed in highway pullouts throughout the state of Alaska unless otherwise noted.
Locations
This log-cabin style Visitor Center has a viewing deck, wildlife displays, and great bathrooms. We have knowledgeable staff from the area who are happy to greet you and answer any questions you may have to assist in you planning or adventure needs.
The Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center is located 8 miles from the Canada border at Mile 1229 of the Alaska Highway.