The refuge is a major wintering and nesting area for the threatened bald eagle, and an important nesting and migration route for migratory neotropical birds. The National Wildlife Refuge System is working to ensure that facilities and programs are accessible to visitors. Please contact the refuge office for information about accessibility at this unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System. The refuge offers an array of public use activities, including wildlife observation, and interpretation and very large sport fishing and hunting programs. The annual visitation is more than 500,000.
Areas are open daily during daylight hours except during closed seasons marked by signs.
Fishing is permitted year round. Some areas are closed seasonally to provide sanctuary for waterfowl. In early spring, Kentucky Lake is known for some of the best crappie fishing in the nation. Later in the season, bass and catfish provide sport for many. Hunting is permitted for deer, squirrel and turkey on a limited basis.