Facility Activities

Group of 5 red canoes boating down the Nashua River
Image Details

Whether you explore the miles of trails on foot or kayak down the Nashua River, there are several ways to take advantage of the refuge. These scenic backdrops make for wondrous nature photography. Visitors can discover various wildlife and plants species throughout all seasons of the year. Don’t miss out when winter comes around, grab snowshoes or cross-country skis to enjoy breathtaking winter moments. Other enjoyable recreation uses are hunting various species like white-tailed deer or fishing on the Nashua River. Refuge staff and a friends group host several events and programs throughout the year for further educate and raise awareness for conservation. 

Hunting

Hunting is an important wildlife management tool that we recognize as a healthy, traditional outdoor pastime, deeply rooted in America’s heritage. Hunting can instill a unique understanding and appreciate of wildlife, their behavior, and their habitat needs. 

 To purchase a permit visit...

Fishing

Fishing is allowed on the Nashua River and along its banks within the refuge. The northern boat launch is located at the Bill Ashe Visitor Facility in Devens MA. The southern boat launch is located at our Still River Depot Road entrance in Harvard MA. All refuges, hatcheries...

Wildlife watching

During the spring and summer months, visitors are likely to see amphibians and/or reptiles. The trails south of Route 2 follow the Nashua River and there are many vernal pools along Turnpike trail where you are likely to see frogs and/or snakes, like the American toad or the common garter snake...

Birding

The three refuges, Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge, and Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge, are composed of approximately 7,000 acres of diverse habitat, including open water, marshes, and uplands. The wetland portions receive heavy use by waterfowl...

Photography

Each season brings a unique change to the landscape and what wildlife you’re able to see. The river showcases a variety of species to capture, like American beaver, great blue herons, and wood ducks. The forests provide opportunities to snap a shot of ...

Hiking

Public use of designated trails within the southern unit of the refuge is permitted from sunrise to sunset. The section of the refuge north of Route 2 is currently closed to public access. Visitors are required to stay on designated paths and trails. No picking or disturbing wildlife or...

Snowshoeing

When snow is available, snow shoeing is permitted on all trails. Snow shoers, please have winter etiquette while on trails and do not step on ski tracks; walkalong aside when available. Be on the lookout for tracks in the winter months!

Boating - non-motorized

Seeing the refuge via boat is a unique experience visitors have at Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge. Boaters have two boat launches for nonmotorized boats such as canoes and kayaks to utilize on the Nashua River. The...

Cross-country skiing

When snow is available, cross-country skiing is permitted on all trails. Be on the lookout for tracks in the winter months!