The majority of the public use roads on the Pungo Unit are open for vehicles weighing 8,000 pounds or less. Almost all refuge roads, especially those on the Pungo Unit, are dirt and may be muddy during periods of wet weather. Please check the weather and use caution when roads are wet.
The refuge speed limit is 25mph unless otherwise posted.
The descriptions below summarize current road status as of May 11, 2026. For road condition updates, please call 252-796-3004, extension 225.
Notices
D-Canal Road and West Lake Road
D-Canal Road is currently closed to all entry between the north end of the Davis Impoundment (where gravel ends, approximately 1 mile north of photo blind) and the intersection with West Lake Road. Vehicles entering the refuge from Pat's Road will not be able to proceed beyond the Davis Impoundment.
To enable access to North Lake Road, West Lake Road has been temporarily reopened to vehicle traffic. Vehicles can take South Pungo Road to Hyde Park Road and South Lake Road and connect through West Lake Road to reach North Lake Road.
North Lake Road
North Lake Road is currently open to walking. Please note that bikes are not allowed on North Lake Road from November - July.
Due to the D-Canal Closure, North Lake Road is currently only accessible via South Lake Road and West Lake Road.
The refuge continues to provide safe wildlife observation opportunities while limiting the amount of disturbance to wildlife and sensitive habitats. Bikes are allowed on other refuge roads open to the public.
Harold's Road
Harold’s Rd has been reopened to traffic. 4-wheel drive is recommended. During wet periods, the road may be impassable even to 4WD.
Evans Road
Evans Rd is closed to all public entry from Harvester Road south to County Line Road. Connector roads to Evans from DeHoag Rd between Harvester and County Line Roads are also closed to all public entry.
Clayton Road
Clayton Rd is closed from the intersection ½ mile south of County Line Road to a point 1 mile north of Harold’s Rd. In addition, the crossroad 1 mile south of County Line Road is closed between Clayton and DeHoog Rd. All public entry is prohibited.
South Lake Road
Please use caution when driving and passing on South Lake Road as some shoulders may have steep drop-offs.
