Laws and Regulations

Permitted activities:  

  • Pets are allowed if on a leash and under control of the owner at all times. 
  • Fishing with a valid State of Texas or Lake Texoma fishing license. 
  • Motorized Boating, from March 15 to October 1 only. 
  • Canoeing and kayaking (with no motor on board), year-round in Big Mineral Creek from L Pad Road southwest. 

Prohibited activities: 

  • Driving off-road including in refuge farm fields. 
  • Camping, open fires, fireworks. 
  • Littering or leaving household trash on the refuge. 
  • Entry into refuge impoundments along Wildlife Drive. 
  • Access after sunset without written authorization for a special purpose. 
  • Use of ATV or UTVs, non-licensed motorcycles, horses. 
  • Disturbing or collecting any plant or animal without a research or collection permit. 
  • Playing radios or other sounds in a manner loud enough to disturb others or wildlife. 
  • Looking for or collecting artifacts or historic items. 
  • Discharge of any firearm for a reason other than permitted hunting. 
  • Swimming. 
  • Use of airboats, personal watercraft (i.e., jet ski). 
  • Water skiing or tubing. 

Activities requiring a permit: 

  • Collection of downed wood for personal use as firewood. A free permit is available for this purpose. 
  • Special regulations are in effect for some activities. If you are uncertain if an activity is allowed or has special rules, please contact the refuge headquarters at 903-786-2826.