Facility Activities

Things to Do

If you have 15 minutes....

  • Stop by the Refuge Headquarters office for some information and grab an English or Spanish trails brochure. Take a look at the outdoor bird feeders to get an up-close view of the Red-winged blackbirds, Acorn woodpeckers, sparrows, finches, Western Gray Squirrel and more! In the Winter enjoy the view of the seasonal pond behind the Headquarters office to see Wood ducks, a flock of dusky Canada goose, Ring-necked ducks, and other waterfowl.

If you have one hour....

  • Go on a hike or go birding! William L. Finley has over 12 miles of trails and is one of the most popular locations for birders to see migratory birds, especially in the Spring and Winter. 

If you have half a day or more....

  • Drive the auto tour route through the different native habitats on the Refuge and explore the additional trails. You can access the auto tour from Finley Refuge Road or Bruce Road, see the map to plan your adventure!

Recreational Opportunities

With the passage of the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act in 1997, six wildlife-dependent recreational activities are often managed on refuges as long as they are determined to be compatible, legitimate and appropriate public uses of the refuge. Hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, photography, environmental education, and interpretation are often referred to as the "big six". Turnbull offers five of the big six, including environmental education and interpretation programs, great wildlife viewing and photography opportunities, and limited annual hunts for elk, deer, and waterfowl.

Did you know we had a bean goose visit us?  We are a birding hot spot and a must-visit for birders everywhere.  In the winter you will hear the goose and swan noise for miles and miles.  During spring and fall migration the variety of species you will see traveling through is...

William L. Finley NWR is an incredible place to hike!  From the popular 1.1 mile Woodpecker Loop to the Homer Campbell Boardwalk, there is something for everyone and every ability.  Trails traverse various habitat types and offer wonderful views. Some areas are seasonally closed to...

Black-tailed deer

Deer hunting is allowed at William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge and the Snag Boat Bend Unit each year, per Refuge and State hunting regulations. Check here in May for the upcoming Fall and Winter deer hunt information, details and maps.  Click here for the 2025 Deer...

William L. Finley NWR is open to fishing at Snag Boat Bend. 

William L. Finley provides great opportunities to capture wonderful wildlife photos.  Wildlife observation blinds and overlooks are located at the Homer Campbell Memorial Boardwalk Trail, McFadden's Marsh on Bruce Rd., near Cabell Lodge, the Refuge headquarter's building, and at the...

Interpretation

Refuge System interpretation programs provide opportunities for visitors to make their own connections to the natural world. From self-guided walks to refuge- and volunteer-led programs, many national wildlife refuges help visitors learn more about the wildlife and habitat behind...

Environmental Education

National Wildlife Refuges serve many purposes, and one of our most important roles is to serve as an outdoor classroom to teach about wildlife and natural resources. Many refuges offer environmental education programs for a variety of audiences. Refuges provide unique and...