Facility Rules and Policies

There are lots of fun, interesting, and educational things you can do and enjoy on the North Platte National Wildlife Refuge. For questions regarding rules or regulations regarding a specific activity, please check with the Refuge office before participating in that activity. Be safe and enjoy the outdoors!

General Regulations
  • Off road/trail vehicle use is prohibited. Motor vehicles may be operated on county roads and mowed trails only.
  • Parking is permitted adjacent to open roads or trails (within one vehicle length of the road or trail) or in mowed parking areas only. 
  • Gates must be left as they are found opened or closed.
  • Pets must be confined to vehicles or on a leash.
  • Possession of alcohol is prohibited on North Platte National Wildlife Refuge.
  • Limited hunting is permitted on the Lake Alice Unit.
  • For state fishing regulations, see the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Fishing Guide.
Lake Alice Unit
  • The public is invited to participate in permitted activities between January 15 and October 14 during daylight hours only. From October 15 through January 14, the unit is closed to all public entry in order to provide an undisturbed sanctuary during the critical migration season.  
  • The west half of the unit may be closed to all public entry to provide an undisturbed sanctuary if nesting Bald Eagles are present. 
  • The east half is open to licensed motorized vehicles on authorized trails only. 
  • To view a map of Lake Alice public use opportunities, click here (File size: 91 KB). The map will open in a separate window. 
Lake Minatare Unit
  • This unit is open for permitted activities from January 15 through October 14 during daylight hours. 
  • Adjoining Refuge land is the Lake Minatare State Recreation Area, which is managed by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Information regarding use of the State Recreation Area may be obtained at the park headquarters, which is located on Lighthouse Point Road. 
  • From October 15 through January 14, the entire area is closed to all public entry to provide an undisturbed sanctuary during the fall migration period. 
Winters Creek Lake Unit
  • The northeastern upland sites, along with the north portion of the lake, are closed to all public entry to provide an undisturbed sanctuary of land and water for a variety of wildlife species. The remaining portion of the unit is open for permitted activities from January 15 through October 14 during daylight hours. 
  • Boats may be operated by electric motors or hand power only. 
  • You are responsible for complying with all State fishing regulations. 

While the Winters Creek Unit is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, its fishery is managed cooperatively with Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. To be effective and efficient in managing wildlife resources within our ecosystem, Federal and State agencies are working closely with each other, with non-governmental organizations, and with private individuals “to get the job done!” Winters Creek Lake is a good example of partnership in action. 

Stateline Island Unit
  • Located one mile south of Henry, Nebraska, this unit is open for permitted public use activities year-round during daylight hours only. 
  • National Historic Preservation Act of 1966
  • National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act
  • National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act
  • National Wildlife Refuge Volunteer Improvement Act