Facility Activities

Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge is one of a special set of federal lands set aside for fish and wildlife as a primary purpose.  The six wildlife dependent activities allowed on Refuge lands are described in detail below. All refuge property is open to the public from an hour before sunrise to an hour after sunset.

Wildlife watching

Wildlife viewing includes activities such as birding, kayaking, and hiking or just exploring the refuge's many islands and trails. Any place on the refuge is good for Wildlife Viewing - all the islands are open to public visitation by boat, but if you are limited to car some good...

Hunting

Many islands on the Ohio River were once small farms and have long since been abandoned. Today, the former agricultural fields sprout tree saplings and brush, providing perfect habitat for white-tailed deer. The Ohio River Islands NWR offers hunters long seasons to pursue deer on 20 of the 22...

Fishing

Refuge islands are dispersed along 362 miles of the Ohio River. Boat-launching facilities are located within several miles of each island. Available species include smallmouth and largemouth bass, sauger, walleye, channel and flathead catfish, among others. The refuge permits fishing from shore...

Photography

The Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge and the adjacent backchannels and embayments offer great opportunities for photographers. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, opportunities to capture beautiful shots of wildlife or the landscape can be found every day.

Some popular...

Ranger-led programs

Resource interpretation refers to educational programs designed to enhance a visit to the refuge. These free programs, based on a variety of topics and themes describing what's here, what we do, and why it matters, are scheduled throughout the year. These include small-scale events like weekly...

Education programs

An ever-increasing body of scientific data points to the importance of kids spending quality time in nature. Teachers of all kinds are encouraged to use the refuge as an educational resource. To plan an environmental education program at the refuge, be sure to visit the For Educators ...

Boating - non-motorized

Have you dreamed of exploring the Ohio River and its islands? This is your chance! Each of the 22 islands that make up the refuge have unique characteristics and history. Nothing brings this to life like actually visiting the islands! While a motorboat may seem desirable because it is quick and...