Facility Rules and Policies
Refuge Regulations
The refuge grounds are open sunrise to sunset, except when participating in scheduled, refuge authorized activities. During winter months, the trails are not cleared of snow.
From March 1st-September 30th, please stay on designated trails, overlooks, Feeder Road, Oak Orchard Creek and designated fishing areas. All other areas are closed to public access (except by Special Use Permit) to minimize disturbance to nesting and resting wildlife.
Check the specific activities pages for regulations and permitting information regarding hunting, trapping, and fishing.
Vehicles must stay on established roads marked open for vehicular travel. Vehicles must be parked off the lane of travel and not blocking gates or other access points.
Non-motorized boats such as canoes or kayaks may only be used on Oak Orchard Creek, between Knowlesville Road to Route 63. You may launch boats from Route 63, Sour Springs Road and Knowlesville Road.
The Refuge is "carry in -- carry out" and has no picnic facilities. Please take all of your litter with you to dispose of properly.
Pets must be kept under your physical control and on a leash no longer than 10 feet. As a courtesy to other visitors, please clean up after your pet.
Prohibited Activities
Overnight parking, camping, open fires, and grills.
Use of ATV's and snowmobiles
Wading or use of float devices such as inner tubes or inflatable rafts
Collecting or releasing live bait
Collecting, removing, or damaging vegetation
Geo-caching
Use of drones
Horses and horseback riding
If You See Something, Say Something
Please call our main office at 585-948-5445 to report suspicious activity or anyone that may not be following the refuge's rules and regulations.