Facility Activities

There are all sorts of ways you can explore Windom Wetland Management District. While some waterfowl production areas within the district have parking areas, mowed trails and interpretive information, we suggest that you bring everything you need for the day, including sunscreen, water, insect repellant, proper footwear, etc. Remember to take home any trash.

Archery
Archery demonstrations and lessons may be a part of local site programming. Some refuges and hatcheries permit bow-hunting with other hunting. This activity is typically limited. Check locally for how to apply.
Biking
Biking is a good way to see wildlife, learn about habitats and photograph nature. Yield to pedestrians; many refuge routes are multi-use trails. Biking may be permitted at sites where it is consistent with a refuge’s statutory purpose. E-bikes are permitted on any refuge roads and trails where traditional bicycle use is allowed, if it is consistent with a refuge’s statutory purpose and the refuge manager determines it to be a compatible use.
Birding
From bald eagles to spoonbills, from condors to puffins, birds abound on national wildlife refuges. Refuges provide places for birds to nest, rest, feed and breed making them world-renown for their birding opportunities.
Boating - non-motorized
Many Fish and Wildlife Service sites make great destinations for flatwater canoeing or kayaking. Some sites have concessions that rent canoes or kayaks. Some sites offer scheduled paddle tours. See individual refuge websites for details.
Cross-country skiing
Many refuges in the country's northern tier have backcountry trails that can be used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in season. Some refuges lend gear or rent it at low cost.
Dog walking

Dogs must be on leash unless actively hunting.

Fishing

 Fishing opportunities on Windom Wetland Management District are very limited due to the seasonal water levels in this prairie region.

Hiking
Take your pick of 2,100 miles of refreshing trails and boardwalks. Whether you want a short, easy walk or a challenging hike, you’re likely to find what you want. Some trails are paved and universally accessible. Some trails include displays on visual arts, local history and culture or environmental education.
Hunting

Protecting habitat in a 12-county area of southwestern Minnesota historically known for large concentrations of waterfowl, Windom WMD also offers a variety of hunting experiences on its wetlands and grasslands. Sixty-seven waterfowl production areas (WPAs) totaling 13,700 acres are open to...

Photography
Whether you wield a smartphone or a zoom lens, you’ll find photo-worthy subjects at national wildlife refuges and national fish hatcheries. Wildlife photography is a priority public use on national wildlife refuges, so you’ll find wildlife drives and blinds and overlooks to help you get the images you’re after.
Ranger-led programs
Rangers lead wildlife walks, tours and educational programs at many sites. Events may focus on wildflowers or birds or on seasonal spectacles, such as elk bugling or sea turtle nesting. Some programs may be limited in size or require advance registration. See individual websites for details.
Running
Many multi-purpose trails are open to runners and joggers as well as walkers and, in some cases, bicyclists. Some sites host annual fun runs. Check individual refuge websites for details.
Shed antler collection
Removing shed antlers from refuges is generally illegal. An exception has been made for Wyoming's National Elk Refuge, where the local Jackson District Boy Scouts help refuge staff collect antlers for auction each year through a special use permit.
Snowshoeing
Many refuges in the country's northern tier have backcountry trails that can be used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in season. Some refuges loan out gear or rent it at low cost.
Trapping
Trapping is carefully managed to ensure safety and the sustainability of wildlife populations. Permitted trapping on refuges typically mirrors state regulations, and trappers who access refuge lands for recreation must possess state licenses and follow state regulations as well as permit stipulations.
Wild edible foraging
Some refuges allow people to forage in designated areas for seasonal nuts, berries and mushrooms.
Wildlife watching
Many refuges champion wildlife viewing as a key recreational activity.