Facility Activities

Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge provides multiple opportunities for visitors to experience nature through wildlife-dependent activities involving fishing, hunting, wildlife observation, wildlife interpretation, wildlife photography and environmental education.

Birding

At least 264 species of birds have been documented at the refuge complex. Some are resident, while others are stopping through during migration. Each season is marked with an assortment of migrating species, temporary residents and yearlong locals: songbirds in the spring, nesting...

Boating - motorized
February 1 to sunset October 15 the use of motorized boats is allowed at no wake speed on refuge waters. Boat ramps are available for both the North and South pools at the Eagle Bluff Access Point. October 16-January 31, the refuge waters are closed for waterfowl sanctuary. During this time,...
Boating - non-motorized
February 1- October 15 all refuge waters are open for boating from sunrise to sunset. Boat ramps are available for both the North and South pools at the Eagle Bluff Access Point. October 16-Janurary 31 the refuge waters are closed for waterfowl sanctuary. During this time, boat use at no...
Dog walking

All pets must be on a leash unless engaged in hunting, during waterfowl season only.

Fishing

Sportfishing is permitted on any refuges waters. Popular species include bluegill, largemouth bass, crappie and catfish. Please see the Rules and Policy page for more details on regulations.

Please remember to pack your own trash out with you. Discarded fishing line, hooks...

Hunting

More than 100,000 ducks use Chautauqua NWR each fall, which means waterfowl hunters may see a lot of birds. The refuge is open to hunting in the Liverpool Lake area, which is accessed only by boat. While wading the refuge hunting area is possible in places, using a dog makes retrieving...

Hiking

Whether you want a short, easy walk or a challenging hike, you’re likely to find what you want. Some trails are gravel and universally accessible, while others are left primitive and meander atop the bluffs. Some trails include displays on visual arts, local history and culture or environmental...

Painting and drawing
Painting and sketching in nature is possible at nearly all sites open to the public. Sometimes, sites host public displays of artworks created on the refuge.
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.
Picnicking
A few sites allow picnicking at designated areas.
Ranger-led programs

Staff may lead wildlife walks, tours and educational programs at many sites. Events may focus on wildflowers or birds or on seasonal spectacles. 

Wild edible foraging

Chautauqua refuge is filled with tasty treats throughout the seasons. Spring is a great time to hunt for mushroom, like the coveted morel. In summer blackberry, gooseberry, and mulberries are plentiful. In fall, persimmons and many nut varieties are available to harvest.

Nut, berry...

Wildlife watching

With over five miles of hiking trails, over 10 miles of gravel levee roads for walking and biking, observation decks and boat and canoe access, the wildlife watching opportunities at Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge are abundant no matter the time of year.