Visit Us
Change is constant at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. Seasons, life cycles, and migrating animals make each visit to the refuge a new experience. There are a multitude of opportunities to connect with nature at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. Visitors are welcome to recreate on the refuge during daylight hours.
Related Documents
Thousands of people come to Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge each year to enjoy various wildlife recreational activities. We encourage visitors to utilize the resources below to help prepare for their visit.
Other Facilities in the Complex
Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is managed as part of the Wheeler Complex.
Locations
VISITOR CENTER FACILITIES - OPERATING STATUS:
The Wildlife Observation Building, Wildlife Photography Blind, and Visitor Center Grounds/Trails will operate 7 days/week from 9:00-5:00. The Visitor Center building itself will remain closed through the winter as work will continue in the interior of those buildings. Portable toilets will be available outside.
The Visitor Center building will be closed for renovations through Spring 2023 (estimated). For your own safety, do not enter active construction sites on the refuge. Refuge information, maps, hunt permits, and trail guides will be available at the information kiosk outside of the visitor center front gate. Visitors needing further assistance should call (256) 350-6639 Monday-Friday, 9:00-4:00. Please leave a message if we are unable to take your call and we will call you back.
Those wanting to purchase an Interagency Park Pass should call (256) 250-6639 ahead of time to make an appointment and arrangements to buy the pass on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
ALL VISITOR CENTER FACILITIES AND GROUNDS ARE CLOSED ON THE FOLLOWING DAYS FOR THE 2022 HOLIDAY SEASON: Christmas Eve (Saturday 12/24), Christmas Day (Sunday 12/25), New Years Eve (Saturday 12/31), and New Years Day (Sunday 1/1).