Facility Rules and Policies
Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge offers many opportunities for public use including hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, photography, environmental education and interpretation. The refuge is open to public use during daylight hours only. Refuge hunting and fishing regulations generally follow applicable Illinois and Missouri state seasons and regulations - some special regulation apply. Contact the refuge headquarters for specific information.
To help meet the primary refuge purpose of providing valuable habitat for migratory waterfowl and other wildlife the Swan Lake Unit of the Calhoun Division is closed from October 16 through December 31. The remaining portion of the Calhoun Division and all of the Batchtown and Gilbert Lake Divisions are open to foot traffic, but are closed to boats and vehicles, except in designated parking areas from October 16 through December 31. Contact the refuge headquarters for specific information.
The refuge allows hunting for migratory birds, upland game and big game (whitetail deer) on the Apple Creek, Batchtown, Clarksville Island, Gilbert Lake, Portage Island and in portions of the Calhoun Divisions - some special regulation apply. Contact the refuge headquarters for specific information.
Other important regulations:
- Off road vehicle use is prohibited
- Bicycling and hiking are allowed on refuge roads unless otherwise posted
- Berry and mushroom gathering are permitted for personal consumption only. These items shall not be used for any commercial use.
- Pets must be on a leash, except when used for the purpose of hunting where hunting is allowed
- Except for authorized hunting on the refuge or visitors possessing a valid Illinois concealed carry permit, firearms are only permitted when being transported in a motor vehicle and must be unloaded and either dismantled or cased in compliance with Illinois and Missouri firearms laws.
- Camping, trapping and the taking of turtles or frogs are prohibited on the refuge