Facility Rules and Policies

In addition to these provisions, all State laws, County codes, and Title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations apply on the Refuge. If you have any questions about the legality of any activity, please contact the Refuge Manager.

General Regulations

  • The Refuge is open during daylight hours only (1/2 -hour before sunrise to 1/2 -hour after sunset).
  • Camping, open fires, feeding or baiting of wildlife, swimming in Refuge canals, or entering any area posted with “Area Closed” signs is prohibited.
  • All domestic pets (dogs, cats, horses, etc.) must be properly confined, leashed (10-foot maximum), or haltered and under owner control at all times.
  • Littering or dumping of garbage, refuse, sewage, debris, or other wastes or poisons is prohibited.
  • The use of a spotlight, automotive headlight, or other artificial light to spot, observe, locate, or take any animal is prohibited.
  • Taking, possessing, injuring, disturbing, damaging, destroying, or collecting any plant or animal (or attempting these actions) is prohibited.
  • Destroying, defacing, damaging, disturbing, or removing any private or public property, including any natural object or artifact, is prohibited. The use or possession of metal detectors or similar devices is prohibited.
  • Disturbing, molesting, or interfering with any person engaged in an authorized activity is prohibited. Engaging in any act of indecency or disorderly conduct (as defined by State or local laws) is prohibited.
  • Entering or remaining on the Refuge when under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance is prohibited.
  • Begging or soliciting in any form or conducting a commercial enterprise on the Refuge is prohibited unless authorized by a Commercial Special Use Permit.
  • Refuge visitors are reminded that the Wildlife Drive is adjacent to several hunting areas. Please be aware that hunting is allowed during specific seasons, and be cautious and courteous when visiting areas shared with other refuge users.

Vehicles/Roads/Trails

  • The speed limit on all Refuge roads, unless otherwise posted, is 35 miles per hour. State traffic laws that govern the use and operation of vehicles apply on the Refuge.
  • Motorized vehicles are allowed only on designated roads.
  • Refuge roads closed to motorized vehicles are open for walking and bicycle riding, unless posted as closed to all entry. Horseback riding is allowed only on roads open to motorized vehicles. Groups of 6 or more horses must have a Refuge Special Use Permit.
  • Operating any vehicle or boat that does not bear valid license plates or identification numbers and that is not properly lighted, certified, registered, or inspected according to State laws is prohibited. ATV/UTVs (3-wheelers, 4-wheelers, dirt bikes, etc.) are prohibited.
  • Stopping or parking a vehicle (either attended or unattended) on a road, trail, or firelane such that it blocks the free movement of other vehicles is prohibited.