Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge

Facility Rules and Policies

There are lots of fun, interesting, and educational things you can do on the Refuge. Keep in mind, 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 Lee Metcalf NWR for you to enjoy. Be safe and have fun!

PERMITTED Activities

Lee Metcalf has two public use areas on the Refuge: the Wildlife Viewing Area located in the southwest corner of the Refuge between the Bitterroot River and Wildfowl Lane and the Kenai Nature Trail leading north from the Refuge Headquarters. Within these areas wildlife-dependent activities include: wildlife observation, fishing, nature photography, environmental education and interpretation.  

  • Firearms must be unloaded and cased or rendered inoperable during vehicular transport through the Refuge.
  • Dogs must be restrained on a leash and not left unattended. Dogs are restricted to the Wildlife Viewing Area except when used for waterfowl hunting during Refuge hunting seasons. 
  • Hunting is permitted in accordance with state and Refuge regulations in designated areas. You may obtain a Refuge Hunt Brochure at the Visitor Center for more details. 
  • Fishing is subject to state regulations and is permitted only within the Wildlife Viewing Area of the Refuge.
  • Vehicles are permitted only on county roads. Parking is provided in designated parking areas. Vehicles may also be parked alongside open roads in a manner that will not interfere with the normal flow of traffic. 
PROHIBITED Activities

To protect wildlife and visitors, the following activities are prohibited:

  • Camping and overnight parking
  • Open fires
  • Cutting firewood
  • Littering
  • Baiting or feeding wildlife for any reason
  • Trail marking (marking any tree or other feature with flagging, reflectors, paint, or other substance)
  • The removal of any object (including plants and animals)
  • Abandonment of wild or domestic animals
  • Use of Drones or unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)
  • Shed Hunting