Visitor Activities

  • Hunting

    Hunting check - Brett Billings/USFWS.

    Many of the Silvio O. Conte National Fish & Wildlife Refuge divisions and units offer hunting in accordance with state regulations. Visit our hunting page to learn more about where to hunt on the refuge.

    Hunting Page

  • Fishing

    Fishing derby - USFWS.

    Many of the Silvio O. Conte National Fish & Wildlife Refuge divisions and units offer fishing in accordance with state regulations. Visit our fishing page to learn more about where to fish on the refuge.

    Fishing Page

  • Hiking, Wildlife Viewing & Photography

    Wildlife Viewing

    The refuge offers many opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, photography and other types of outdoor recreation. The divisions and units throughout the Connecticut River Watershed provide a diversity of habitats, terrain, and climates to enjoy the outdoors year round. 

    Learn more about where you can spend time outdoors at the refuge.

  • Interpretation

    Nature talk - Brett Billings/USFWS.

    National wildlife refuges across the country provide opportunities for visitors to make their own connections to the natural world. Self-guided hikes and staff-led programs help visitors learn more about the wildlife and habitats behind the landscapes. The Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge provides a variety of public programs throughout the year. Programs and events are free, geared for youth and adults and provide a range of opportunities that maximize first-hand experiences. For current programs, visit our Events Calendar.

  • Environmental Education

    Environmental education on the refuge - USFWS.

    The Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge offers a wide diversity of environmental education opportunities for schools, teachers, youth groups, and families. For more information, visit the For Educators page.

  • Access to the Paddlers Trail

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    Connecticut River Paddlers Trail Campsite at Fannie Stebbins Unit 

    The Refuge is an active partner in the Connecticut River Paddlers Trial. A primitive campsite is now located at Fannie Stebbins Unit in Longmeadow, Massachusetts. For questions about the Paddlers Trail and to see an interactive map visit their website.

     

  • Biking

    Lower Black Branch Bridge

    Bicycles are allowed on gravel roads at the Nulhegan Basin Division and at the Presidential Recreation trail at Pondicherry Division. Please call ahead for information about road conditions.