Lake Andes National Wildlife Refuge

If an activity is not wildlife-related and does not help in the protection or understanding of wildlife or their habitat, there are probably refuge rules governing this activity. Please check with the refuge management before participating in an activity that could harm the environment or yourself. 

There are plenty of activities on Lake Andes National Wildlife Refuge for you to enjoy. Please stay out of closed areas to minimize disturbance to plants and animals. Be safe and have fun!

Parking

Parking is allowed in designated parking areas only. No overnight parking or camping is allowed.

Hiking

Foot travel is permitted on the Refuge. Hiking is allowed in all areas open to the public.

Bicycling

Bicycling is allowed only on designated public access routes. It is not allowed on trails or roads closed to public vehicles or horses.

Horses

Horseback riding is allowed on signed refuge public access routes that are open to motor vehicles.

Dogs

Dogs must be controlled and on a leash.

Off-Road Vehicles

Travel in or use of any motorized or other vehicles, including those used on air, water, ice, snow, is prohibited except on designated routes of travel unless used for an approved activity.

Collection

Collecting of plants, animals, minerals, antlers, and artifacts are prohibited.

Fishing

Fishing is allowed as per state regulations on the South and Center Units of Lake Andes. All boats, motor vehicles, fishing equipment, and other personal property, excluding ice houses, must be removed by the end of each day's hunt.

Hunting

Hunting in accordance with all state and federal regulations is permitted on the Center Unit of Lake Andes only. Fishing is allowed on the Center and Southern Unit of Lake Andes. No hunting or fishing is allowed on the North Unit and Owens Bay Unit of Lake Andes.  All boats, decoys, portable blinds, other personal property, and any materials brought onto the area for blind construction must be removed by the end of each day's hunt.

Firearms

Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on National Wildlife Refuge System lands must comply with all provisions of State and local law.  Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (50 CFR Part 27.42 and specific refuge regulations in 50 CFR Part 32).