Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge

When & Where to Find Wildlife

Check out our Watchable Wildlife Brochure

Dawn and dusk are generally the best times to observe wildlife. However, tide levels also have great influence on wildlife behavior and movements around estuaries. The best times around the South...

Humboldt Bay is a photographers playground, with all sorts of fascinating creatures and landscapes to capture with a lense.

Photoblind

Humboldt Bay NWR offers a photo blind just off the Shorebird Loop Trail near the Visitor Center. The best time of year for...

Hunting is a traditional use of renewable natural resources deeply rooted in America’s heritage, and it can be an important wildlife management tool. The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, other laws, and the U...

Fishing is permitted in Humboldt Bay and tidal sloughs year round. The Hookton Slough trail and boat dock are open to fishing; access to other areas is by boat.  A California fishing license is required to fish in Humboldt Bay, from the boat dock and from the Hookton Slough Trail.  ...

There are several miles of hiking trails throughout the Humboldt Bay NWR. Ranging from flat compacted gravel trails adjacent to wetlands to challenging trails that wind up and down through open dunes and forests. There is a path for everyone to explore.

Humboldt Bay tidal sloughs are open to boating. The refuge has one launch area for non-motorized boats only, located at the Hookton Slough Unit. Public boat launches for hunting, clamming, fishing, and exploring are available at Fields Landing, Woodley Island Marina, the Arcata Marsh...

National Wildlife Refuges serve many purposes, and one of our most important roles is as outdoor classrooms. Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge provides unique and exciting outdoor environments that are excellent locations for hands on learning activities.

The habitats and abundant...